By now, you’ve probably heard about how stem cells derived from umbilical cord blood are being used to treat more than 80 diseases and illnesses. You may also know that clinical trials are currently underway to determine if these stem cells can be used to treat syndromes like autism or diabetes in the future.
You may even be aware that stem cells are stored in both private and public cord blood banks. What you may never have learned, however, is how a person would go about accessing stem cells from stored umbilical cord blood if there is a need, for themselves or a family member.
Accessing Cord Blood Stem Cells When You Need Them
Umbilical cord blood stored in the public banks is donated and the donors give up their rights to those cells at the time of donation. Storage is free at public cord blood banks, however there is a hefty fee associated with actually accessing stem cells when the need arises. It’s important to note that you will not be able to retrieve your own cells after donation to a public bank. There is also no guarantee that you will be able to access matching stem cells when you need them. If you are able to find a match, it may cost tens of thousands of dollars for each retrieval.
The Private Cord Blood Bank Difference
With private cord blood banking, only you can access your own cord blood and/or tissue. There is an upfront processing fee for safe, quick, and painless collection. You will also incur storage costs for the amount of time you store your stem cells in our new state-of-the-art facility. Still, these expenses are far less than the costs of accessing stem cells from a public bank. More importantly, you’ll know that you have easy access to your own stem cells in the future. Should you need to use the cells from your stored cord blood, we will arrange for safe transportation. New England Cord Blood Bank guarantees that your cord blood will be safe and available whenever you may need it.
Do you have questions about cord blood banking or need help deciding if this makes sense for your family? Contact an adviser today, we’re happy to help!