Therapeutic Phlebotomy: The Blood Drawing Therapy
Therapeutic phlebotomy is a controlled medical procedure that removes 450-500 mL of blood to treat conditions with excess iron (hemochromatosis) or red blood cells (polycythemia vera, porphyria cutanea tarda). The procedure takes 20-30 minutes and is typically performed in clinical settings. The complete service, including check-in, assessment, the procedure itself, and brief recovery time, usually takes about 45-60 minutes total.
This cost-effective treatment reduces ferritin levels by 30-50 ng/mL per session, improving fatigue, joint pain, and skin discoloration while preventing serious complications like liver cirrhosis and heart failure. Side effects are typically mild, including temporary dizziness, bruising at the venipuncture site, or mild fatigue. Most patients require a series of weekly treatments initially, followed by maintenance sessions every 2-4 months.
Who Needs Therapeutic Phlebotomy?
Eligibility Assessment
Patients with hemochromatosis, polycythemia vera, porphyria cutanea tarda, or sideroblastic anemia should consult with a hematologist to confirm eligibility.
Diagnostic Blood Tests
Ferritin levels over 300 ng/mL for men or 200 ng/mL for women, or hematocrit above 48% may indicate need for treatment. Tests are typically performed every 2-3 months.
Personalized Treatment Protocol
Initial therapy may require weekly phlebotomy of 500mL until iron levels normalize, followed by maintenance sessions 2-4 times per year based on your specific condition.
Insurance Verification
Medicare and most private insurers cover therapeutic phlebotomy for diagnosed hemochromatosis. Self-pay rates average $250-350 per session at our clinic.
Benefits & Special Offers
Health Benefits
  • Reduces iron levels by 30-50% in hemochromatosis patients
  • Prevents liver cirrhosis, heart failure, and diabetes complications
  • Alleviates joint pain and fatigue within 2-3 treatments
  • Extends lifespan by up to 10 years with regular maintenance
Post-treatment care: Rest for 30 minutes, drink 16oz of water, and enjoy our complimentary iron-appropriate snack pack.
Special Offers
First-time patients save 25% on initial consultation and treatment with code: NEWBLOOD25
Wellness Membership ($49/month): Includes bi-weekly priority scheduling, 15% off all treatments, and quarterly iron panel tests.
We accept Medicare, Medicaid, and most PPO insurance plans for hereditary hemochromatosis, polycythemia vera, and porphyria cutanea tarda.