Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)
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East Hartford (closed)
800 Connecticut Boulevard
East Hartford, CT 06108
860-282-8510
Farmington
2 BATTERSON PARK ROAD
Farmington, CT 06032
(844 467 3483)
Hartford
100 RETREAT AVE
Hartford, CT 06106
(860) 525 8283
New London
4 SHAWS COVE
New London, CT 06320
(877) 860 8044
Southington (closed)
1115 West Street
Southington, CT 06489
860-679-2792
Storrs (closed)
One Royce Circle
Storrs, CT 06268
860-487-9200
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63 assessments
10
8
Age
25 - 28
Treated
2016 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
6 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
10
8
Definitely be your own advocate [with Dr. DiLuigi]...Without doing my own research for hours on end as far as discovering what things to add to my protocol and so on, I don’t think I would have my son today...We used very traditional protocols. I had to push for my own tests & treatments after unfortunately spending a lot of money and enduring a lot of heartache. I think it would be helpful to get to the root of problems before prescribing the standard one size fits all approach to patients with “unexplained infertility.” However, I know there’s still a lot of unknowns in this field, and I’m sure some patients do get lucky here and there with the standard protocols.
Monitoring appointments [at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] ran efficiently. The weekends in Farmington can get pretty busy and could have a long wait time...I think they have a strong lab and run an efficient, organized center. The weaknesses are that they don’t “think outside the box.” They stick to very traditional/conventional protocols, which may not work out for everyone. Testing, treatment, etc. was all done after I did research & pushed for it myself after either having failed cycles/miscarriages. I did conceive my son from a fresh transfer with them, and I will be forever grateful for that. I’m hoping to be able to give him a sibling and then be able to close this chapter of my life.
Age
25 - 28
Treated
2016 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
6 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
10
8
How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I definitely trust her opinions and think she is very smart. I would love to be able to interact with her more instead of always having to communicate to nurses as a middle person. I felt that she always genuinely cared about me, and I always felt like she answered all my questions when I actually got to speak with her. I always felt hopeful after speaking with her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Definitely be your own advocate. Doctors want to help, but in the end, you have to be the one to sort of figure things out on your own. Without doing my own research for hours on end as far as discovering what things to add to my protocol and so on, I don’t think I would have my son today.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I felt she did genuinely care about me as a patient and wanted to do her best to help.
Describe the protocols Andrea DiLuigi used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
We used very traditional protocols. I had to push for my own tests & treatments after unfortunately spending a lot of money and enduring a lot of heartache. I think it would be helpful to get to the root of problems before prescribing the standard one size fits all approach to patients with “unexplained infertility.” However, I know there’s still a lot of unknowns in this field, and I’m sure some patients do get lucky here and there with the standard protocols.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Toni)
I often felt alone during this process because I felt that the nurse would try to answer my questions without getting the opinion of the doctor before advising me. When you’re spending a ton of money and have so much on the line, you want to make sure your questions and voice are being heard by your doctor, and I almost felt like I wasn’t “allowed” to speak with her. There was major confusion on certain topics because you’re playing the telephone game. For example, I would ask the nurse to ask the doctor something only to get a response like “it’s up to you” back. I am not the doctor so how would I know what to do? I’m asking so that I can do what the doctor wants me to do. She does always call me back the same day after leaving a voice message or to call me with results, and the nurses are all nice, so I guess that’s a plus. I just wish I could talk to my doctor more as I definitely respect her opinions and advice. The nurses sometimes give contradicting or insufficient advice/info, which is why I said to be your own advocate. I do really like Chelsea, the IUI nurse, but don’t deal with her since I’m doing IVF.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I think they have a strong lab and run an efficient, organized center. The weaknesses are that they don’t “think outside the box.” They stick to very traditional/conventional protocols, which may not work out for everyone. Testing, treatment, etc. was all done after I did research & pushed for it myself after either having failed cycles/miscarriages. I did conceive my son from a fresh transfer with them, and I will be forever grateful for that. I’m hoping to be able to give him a sibling and then be able to close this chapter of my life.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Monitoring appointments ran efficiently. The weekends in Farmington can get pretty busy and could have a long wait time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I had limited insurance coverage and will be paying out of pocket for further IVF cycles and FET’s. I have probably spent over 30,000 in out of pocket costs even with insurance with co-pays and things the insurance didn’t cover. I think the center’s costs are similar to what it would cost at any other clinic.
Describe Andrea DiLuigi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
She basically left it up to me, but since I am young, we thought it’d be smart to just transfer 1.
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9
10
Age
31 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2020
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
4 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
9
10
Dr. B[enadiva] is quieter and comes off more serious and not as conversational. As you get to know him and spend time with him that changes a bit. His quieter nature is appreciated sometimes as I know his priority is the end result and taking care of his patients. He has always been a very nice person and pleasant to be around...He will provide the information that is important for him to provide but will answer all questions and provide more information if you need it...IUI with Letrozole was used in my first pregnancy, I have an irregular cycle, had been trying for a year after a miscarriage and Clomid did not work. I luckily got pregnant on the first try that cycle/pregnancy. My second pregnancy, IUI/Letrozole did not work and we were successful with IUI. 3 cycles were tried as is recommended by CARS and by insurance before proceeding to IVF. IVF cycle was the next option because I had no issues carrying my first child once pregnant.
CARS staff recommend single embryo transfer, we agreed as risks and other factors come into play with multiples...Efficient, friendly staff. Everyone is helpful, everyone is nice. From the front desk, to the financial coordinators and the Dr's. If you are not picky about who you'd like to see and want to be seen sooner, you can ask to see another doctor. They do book up especially for first time patients...IUI with Letrozole was used in my first pregnancy, I have an irregular cycle, had been trying for a year after a miscarriage and Clomid did not work. I luckily got pregnant on the first try that cycle/pregnancy. My second pregnancy, IUI/Letrozole did not work and we were successful with IUI. 3 cycles were tried as is recommended by CARS and by insurance before proceeding to IVF. IVF cycle was the next option because I had no issues carrying my first child once pregnant.
Age
31 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2020
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Marketer or PR
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
4 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
9
10
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. B is quieter and comes off more serious and not as conversational. As you get to know him and spend time with him that changes a bit. His quieter nature is appreciated sometimes as I know his priority is the end result and taking care of his patients. He has always been a very nice person and pleasant to be around.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Don't be afraid to ask detailed questions. He will provide the information that is important for him to provide but will answer all questions and provide more information if you need it.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Benediva always provides detailed and accurate information. He cares about his patients and he helps. While I have had two successes, both on different paths, he has gotten me there on his knowledge and best treatment. He is not as conversational but conversation is productive when talking about treatment and we find common topics to talk about. He is a very nice person.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
IUI with Letrozole was used in my first pregnancy, I have an irregular cycle, had been trying for a year after a miscarriage and Clomid did not work. I luckily got pregnant on the first try that cycle/pregnancy.
My second pregnancy, IUI/Letrozole did not work and we were successful with IUI. 3 cycles were tried as is recommended by CARS and by insurance before proceeding to IVF. IVF cycle was the next option because I had no issues carrying my first child once pregnant.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Debbie)
My primary nurse was wonderful, personable and great to talk to. She answered all of my questions as they came up. I had some difficulty in communicating - I think her interpretation of the question and my explanation but always worked out. The nursing staff is all wonderful. I had a mixup with my treatment plan at the very beginning, I advise all patients to understand their treatment and ask questions to make sure you understand. The nurse I saw on the first day of my treatment was not my primary nurse and there are different treatment plans followed for different reasons.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Efficient, friendly staff. Everyone is helpful, everyone is nice.
From the front desk, to the financial coordinators and the Dr's. If you are not picky about who you'd like to see and want to be seen sooner, you can ask to see another doctor. They do book up especially for first time patients.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I went through insurance. IUI process was not very expensive. IVF is very expensive due to medications and the procedure to retrieve eggs as well as transfer. The standard checkups, ultrasounds, etc. are not very expensive.
Describe Claudio Benadiva's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Dr. B and the CARS staff recommend single embryo transfer, we agreed as risks and other factors come into play with multiples.
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Provided conflicting information
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5
6
Age
36
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
6 Eggs Frozen
Treatment
1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
—
5
6
If you're using him for egg freezing, be very clear with him how many rounds you are planning/can afford to do. ... I found Dr. Engmann to be a bit passive. I needed someone to guide me through and ensure I was getting the best possible outcome. I felt like I was just enrolled and and going through the motions. I didn't respond as quickly as I thought I would to the treatment and aside from adding days on to the cycle there wasn't much other adjustment made. I felt it was assumed I would do a second round. I didn't feel as though he was invested in my outcome.
... for straight egg-freezing I don't think you're treated with the same level of care/compassion since your time with the clinic [Uconn Health] is short. All of the training videos they make you watch are for IVF so nothing is tailored to just the women freezing their eggs. ... If you are doing elective egg freezing you have to pay for everything up front yourself. The wait times in the morning could be very long, especially if you're doing a round before the holidays.
Age
36
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
6 Eggs Frozen
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
—
Occupation
Marketer or PR
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
—
5
6
How was your experience with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I found Dr. Engmann to be a bit passive. I needed someone to guide me through and ensure I was getting the best possible outcome. I felt like I was just enrolled and and going through the motions. I didn't respond as quickly as I thought I would to the treatment and aside from adding days on to the cycle there wasn't much other adjustment made. I felt it was assumed I would do a second round. I didn't feel as though he was invested in my outcome.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
If you're using him for egg freezing, be very clear with him how many rounds you are planning/can afford to do.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I felt as though egg freezing patients were not treated the same as other patients trying to conceive. As a single female in her late 30s, deciding to freeze my eggs was a big deal to me. I felt like I didn't know what was going on at the beginning of the process and I was disappointed at the outcome. The doctors assume you will do multiple rounds but who at $12K a cycle who has money for that? I wanted the best possible result at cycle 1.
Describe the protocols Lawrence Engmann used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
Gonal Fe 300 mg, Menopure 150, Ganirelix with a Lupron trigger shot
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Amanda)
Nursing staff across the board was nice and kind. They were amazing and would email with you if you had questions.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
They are known to be one of the best in the state. One area I didn't find fair was that they only offer payment plans to patients who already are covered by insurance (couples). If you are doing elective egg freezing you have to pay for everything up front yourself. The wait times in the morning could be very long, especially if you're doing a round before the holidays. It's up to you to manage your medications and amounts if your cycle extends and the only injection/medication mixing training they give you is a series of videos to watch. People seem to love them for fertility issues but for straight egg-freezing I don't think you're treated with the same level of care/compassion since your time with the clinic is short. All of the training videos they make you watch are for IVF so nothing is tailored to just the women freezing their eggs.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
You were given a specific window of time and then people were called on a first-come first-serve basis. Sometimes the waits were very long. However, the team was very efficient once you were in.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
$12,000 (all in with medications)
Describe Lawrence Engmann's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Due to my age he stated he would prefer to transfer 2 embryos if I used my eggs.
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Provided conflicting information
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
9
9
Age
45
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality
9
9
Dr. Nulsen will explain everything to his patients. In my case he responded to emails & phone calls. He evaluates each retrieval & discusses what went right & what went wrong. When I had my second retrieval he did not make any changes to my protocol because of the high amount of blasts I produced the first time...He was still honest in saying we would most likely have all abnormal embryos but he was much more optimistic. My second retrieval produced 6 blasts & unfortunately 5 were abnormal & 1 was a mosaic that is not recommended for transfer.
The first retrieval [at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] was supposed to be covered by insurance. Devon, Dr. Nulsen’s financial person verified this ahead of time. However I keep getting bills...she is working on getting these paid but it’s unsettling because it’s not yet resolved & I could possibly still owe upwards of $3k. My second retrieval was self pay & cost $10k. We had to also pay $1,500 for biopsy & then $1900 for PGS testing through CooperGenomics.
Age
45
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality
9
9
How was your experience with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Nulsen will explain everything to his patients. In my case he responded to emails & phone calls. He evaluates each retrieval & discusses what went right & what went wrong. When I had my second retrieval he did not make any changes to my protocol because of the high amount of blasts I produced the first time.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
That’s hard to say. In a clinic of this size you only see your doctor a few times. I don’t have any experience with any other clinics to compare.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
At first I felt like a number partly due to my age. Dr. Nulsen is honest but I felt like he was borderline pessimistic & made it sound like I really had no chance of success. However, after my first retrieval which yielded 5 blasts (all abnormal), he said he was shocked at how well I responded to the stims & believed I had a chance for success. He was still honest in saying we would most likely have all abnormal embryos but he was much more optimistic. My second retrieval produced 6 blasts & unfortunately 5 were abnormal & 1 was a mosaic that is not recommended for transfer.
Describe the protocols John Nulsen used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
He prescribed gonal-f 300 units, 2 vials of menopur, ganerelix & 50 units of Omnitrope (HGH). I asked for the Omnitrope because I’d heard people my age had success with it. We used an HCG trigger. We used the same protocol for my second retrieval due to the high amount of blasts that were produced. All blasts were PGA tested & a total of 10 were abnormal & 1 was mosaic.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Robin (1st retrieval) Erin (second retrieval))
Robin was a temporary/contract nurse. She was great. Then when her contract was up the position was filled temporarily by a retired nurse who had worked with Dr. Nulsen for many years. She was very responsive. By the time of my 2nd retrieval, the position had been filled by Erin Hastings. She is fantastic. Responsive, compassionate...top notch. The nurses that cared for me on retrieval day were also great.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
It’s a very busy clinic. You are likely to see different ultrasound techs for each visit. I know some people who switched to a smaller clinic where 1 doctor performs all procedures & ultrasounds & they prefer that approach. Seeing different MDs and ultrasound techs did not bother me. But if you are looking for 1 on 1 care, CARS may not be for you.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Monitoring is done daily from 7-9 AM. You must come during that time. It’s done on a first come - first served basis. Sometimes there are somewhat long waits. Not sure there’s anything that can be done to avoid that.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The first retrieval was supposed to be covered by insurance. Devon, Dr. Nulsen’s financial person verified this ahead of time. However I keep getting bills...she is working on getting these paid but it’s unsettling because it’s not yet resolved & I could possibly still owe upwards of $3k. My second retrieval was self pay & cost $10k. We had to also pay $1,500 for biopsy & then $1900 for PGS testing through CooperGenomics.
Describe John Nulsen's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Not applicable
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10
10
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
5 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Tubal Blockage
10
10
I have always felt that Dr. Benadiva has been considerate of our time and concerns. He takes the time to make sure that we understand everything that is happening and works to get things done in a timely manner...We have always left our appointments with a plan that we understand and trusting that we are in good hands on this journey. Dr. Benadiva has been proactive about treating the cause of infertility so that we finally have an explanation and plan to make our dreams of expanding our family come true.
She [nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] is compassionate, professional, and thoughtful. She always puts us at ease and does a great job. She is also always available to answer questions, and make sure we have everything that we need...The clinic is clean the staff is friendly. I have never had an issue getting an appointment or resolving any issues, including questions about insurance or billing. I also feel confident that my private health information and confidentiality is protected. I appreciate that members of the staff and care team treat us with respect and consideration.
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
5 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Tubal Blockage
10
10
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Benadiva has always been professional, thoughtful, and considerate. We have always left our appointments with a plan that we understand and trusting that we are in good hands on this journey. Dr. Benadiva has been proactive about treating the cause of infertility so that we finally have an explanation and plan to make our dreams of expanding our family come true.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
If Dr. Benadiva is recommending something, it is probably important.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I have always felt that Dr. Benadiva has been considerate of our time and concerns. He takes the time to make sure that we understand everything that is happening and works to get things done in a timely manner. He, along with his staff, follow through consistently and have even conducted after hours phone calls in various occasions.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
We went to Dr. Benadiva after several years of trying to conceive as well as early pregnancy loss. After unsuccessful attempts at timed intercourse and cycles with both clomid and letrozole with another provider, we started seeing Dr. Benadiva who performed a hysterosalpingogram and subsequently sent me to a surgeon for a bilateral salpingectomy after discovering bilateral hydrosalpinx. The next step will be to start IVF.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Helen)
Helen, the nurse that works with Dr. Benadiva, is wonderful. She is compassionate, professional, and thoughtful. She always puts us at ease and does a great job. She is also always available to answer questions, and make sure we have everything that we need. Anytime I have ever called her with questions or concerns, she is always very timely in returning my call and helping to resolve any issues. She is an integral part of the team.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The clinic is clean the staff is friendly. I have never had an issue getting an appointment or resolving any issues, including questions about insurance or billing. I also feel confident that my private health information and confidentiality is protected. I appreciate that members of the staff and care team treat us with respect and consideration.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
When I first started seeing Dr. Benadiva, I did not have insurance coverage for anything fertility related. I had a consultation and ultrasound for which we paid a few hundred dollars, out of pocket. Luckily, my current insurance coverage does include fertility benefits, so my costs are related to my deductible.
Describe Claudio Benadiva's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I have not yet reached this stage in my treatment.
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10
9
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
9
He [Dr. Nulsen] always takes the time to personally call me with news/updates (and is pretty good at delivering dismal news). I really appreciate how much he cares about me as a patient. I don't feel like any question is "stupid" or that I'm ever being rushed...is so intelligent and so well-trained. I trust him fully and even after a really poor response to my first round of IVF, I trust his adjustment wholeheartedly. I really don't have any weaknesses to share, aside from the fact that I pray our second round of IVF will lead to more embryos and hopefully one will be PGS normal!
Unfortunately, my PGS results [from Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] came in on a Tuesday and I did not learn of the results until that Friday. This was heartwrenching for me, but the only mistake in over 8 months of being a patient...It [monitoring] was a well-efficient, well-oiled machine. As long as you get there before 7:30, you are seen within 30 minutes or so. The MAs are great and you're often seen by an MD for ultrasounds.
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
—
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
9
How was your experience with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
As I stated earlier, Dr. Nulsen is so intelligent and so well-trained. I trust him fully and even after a really poor response to my first round of IVF, I trust his adjustment wholeheartedly. I really don't have any weaknesses to share, aside from the fact that I pray our second round of IVF will lead to more embryos and hopefully one will be PGS normal!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I highly recommend that you come prepared with a list of questions. Time with Dr. Nulsen is sacred, so please make the most of it!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Even though Dr. Nulsen is incredibly scientific in his presentation and philosophy (always relies on textbooks and peer-reviewed studies/literature, which I certainly appreciate!), he always treats me like a human; I am also good at reminding him that I am a human and not a number ;). He always takes the time to personally call me with news/updates (and is pretty good at delivering dismal news). I really appreciate how much he cares about me as a patient. I don't feel like any question is "stupid" or that I'm ever being rushed.
Describe the protocols John Nulsen used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
I started with an agonist protocol (Gonal F 375 IU for 10 days; Ganirelix for 7 days and I was triggered with just Lupron). This produced 8 eggs (expected for my age, I guess), but only one fertilized and then made it to blast. This embryo was PGS abnormal, and I was told I have "very poor egg quality." I'm not sure I fully believe this, as I have a healthy, perfect 3.5 year old. I'm currently on the MDL flare protocol (starting BCPs tonight for 18 days) and then I'll be on Gonal F pen (300 IU PM), microdose leuprolide (10 IU 2x/day), Menopur (150 IU PM), and HCG.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Vicki Hauptmann)
Aside from being a little "all over the place," Vicki truly cares so much about her patients. She is very smart, and can take a mile a minute, but is okay when you ask her to pause or slow down. I know she's rooting SO hard for me, which I truly appreciate. All of the other nurses I've encountered are amazing, too.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
CARS is amazing. I walked in as a terrified new patient (who wants to be on this journey?!) and now feel like a seasoned pro. I love all of the staff members (lab people, front desk people, MAs, nurses, and my doctor. I recommend coming prepared with all necessary documents and questions when you come for your appointments). I also love the Resolve support group that is hosted there once a month. Their community outreach (thank you, Ami!) is amazing!
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
It was a well-efficient, well-oiled machine. As long as you get there before 7:30, you are seen within 30 minutes or so. The MAs are great and you're often seen by an MD for ultrasounds.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I wish I knew more, but since insurance covered 100% I don't know. I think with meds included my first round of IVF was around $30,000.
Describe John Nulsen's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
If we get there, especially since we are doing PGS, he highly recommends I only transfer one embryo.
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Failed to call with results
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10
10
Age
34
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
10 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Other
10
10
Dr. Grow has a calm and friendly nature. He speaks calmly while providing patients with needed information. His happy and optimistic nature rubs off on patients. He is honest and provides suggestions in a non-threatening and reassuring manner....When with Dr. Grow, I was part of a double blind research study. Some of the information I was not privy to during the study. But, in consultation, Dr. Grow made it clear that he was hopeful to get some eggs for retrieval.
The clinic [Ctr for Advanced Reproductive Services] was easily accessible off of a major highway. It was clean, welcoming, bathrooms easily accessible, a coffee/tea bar, and bloodwork lab/patient suites organized downstairs from monitoring.... The nurses were excellent. So kind. My primary nurses Shannon and Glorimar were fabulous. They were understanding, honest, compassionate, knowledgeable, eased my worries, informative, and were accessible through the entire process.
Age
34
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
10 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Other
10
10
How was your experience with Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Grow has a calm and friendly nature. He speaks calmly while providing patients with needed information. His happy and optimistic nature rubs off on patients. He is honest and provides suggestions in a non-threatening and reassuring manner.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Do not be scared to ask questions :-)
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Grow is extremely calm and welcoming. He has a nurturing demeanor. He was honest yet optimistic in his discussions with us.
Describe the protocols Daniel Grow used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
When with Dr. Grow, I was part of a double blind research study. Some of the information I was not privy to during the study. But, in consultation, Dr. Grow made it clear that he was hopeful to get some eggs for retrieval. Once I began my cycle I was monitored just as must or even more so than a regular patient. Even before beginning the Study I had a consultation with Dr. Grow, a physical, two ultrasounds, internal exam, and multiple panels of blood work. I went in on day three, received an ultrasound, and was given the injectible study medication to take, I began with 12 mcg. I went back on day five and had more blood work and an ultrasound and was put on Ganirelix. I was also upped to 15 mcg of the injectible. I continued Ganirelix and the injectible, coming in on days 7, 8, and 9 for ultrasound and more bloodwork. On day 9 I took Novarel as a trigger. I retrieved on day 11 and began Endometrin tablets the following day.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Shannon Brown, Glorimar Diaz)
The nurses were excellent. So kind. My primary nurses Shannon and Glorimar were fabulous. They were understanding, honest, compassionate, knowledgeable, eased my worries, informative, and were accessible through the entire process.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The clinic was easily accessible off of a major highway. It was clean, welcoming, bathrooms easily accessible, a coffee/tea bar, and bloodwork lab/patient suites organized downstairs from monitoring.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I did have to go in at a certain window, especially as part of a study, but most times I did not have to wait terrible long. And, staff were so kind and supportive.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
For the workup I paid copays. Once in the study the costs were covered.
Describe Daniel Grow's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
As part of the study my husband and I agreed to a single embryo transfer.
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9
9
Age
43
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Male Factor, Uterine Fibroids
9
9
He [Dr. Lawrence Engmann] took the time to review my medical record transferred from my Gynecologist. He differed in opinion with my Gynecologist and proceeded to request his own examination. He was eager and very proactive in finding out my true medical condition. He also took into account my partners infertility issues. He provided recommendations as well for my boyfriend to follow up with with his own primary care doctor.
Caring, compassionate and welcoming was exactly how I felt in the waiting room [at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services]. The financial counselor provided a brief overview but we would have liked for her to provide us with other information or grant options out there verdes just providing us a pamphlet on how to secure a loan to pay for IVF treatments...She [nurse] was outstanding and prompt returning my calls when I had added questions.
Age
43
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Latino
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Male Factor, Uterine Fibroids
9
9
How was your experience with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr Engmann showed compassion when sharing with me my exam results. He made sure I understood right away what everything meant in his findings. He took the time to review my medical record transferred from my Gynecologist. He differed in opinion with my Gynecologist and proceeded to request his own examination. He was eager and very proactive in finding out my true medical condition. He also took into account my partners infertility issues. He provided recommendations as well for my boyfriend to follow up with with his own primary care doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr Engmann is very busy and give yourself enough time to gather all your questions prior to your visit with him so that you have a very thorough consultation. Do not assume he can take you right in for an appointment.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr Lawrence Engmann, M.D. was candid and got straight to the point. He chatted with me alone, a second consultation included my boyfriend who resides in a different state. He provided us with viable options on how to proceed in our conceiving journey.
Describe the protocols Lawrence Engmann used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
Due to my advanced age and my boyfriends fertility complications he recommended to start IVF as soon as possible. Also to have my uterine fibroids removed prior to starting the IVF process to help ensure a safer pregnancy.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Mary Kate Malloy)
She was outstanding and prompt returning my calls when I had added questions.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Caring, compassionate and welcoming was exactly how I felt in the waiting room.
The financial counselor provided a brief overview but we would have liked for her to provide us with other information or grant options out there verdes just providing us a pamphlet on how to secure a loan to pay for IVF treatments.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Genetic testing; blood lab work, freezing of my partners sperm, consultation fee & physical exams
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10
10
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Unexplained
10
10
During each cycle, Dr. Engmann radiated empathy and compassion when we would get negative results. During the care after the chemical pregnancy/miscarriage, he was very comforting and spent extra time talking my husband and I through our grief and options moving forward.... Dr. Engmann has been an excellent communicator and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand. He has been patient with our questions and nervousness as related to the cost of treatment.
The financial advisors [Ctr for Advanced Repro Med] don’t necessarily see your records prior to talking to you. This can be frustrating when you’re grieving a negative result or trying to figure out how to move forward under incredible stress and THEN getting a call about balance owed or insurance approval processes.... My initial nurse, Mary kate, ended up going on maternity leave shortly after we began treatment. I’ve mostly worked with Peggy
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Engmann has been an excellent communicator and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand. He has been patient with our questions and nervousness as related to the cost of treatment. His kindness while we grieved our loss was so genuine and I’m very grateful to be his patient.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Don’t hesitate to ask a question even if it seems “stupid” as the doctor is more than happy to take his time to explain anything that you might be confused about.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
During each cycle, Dr. Engmann radiated empathy and compassion when we would get negative results. During the care after the chemical pregnancy/miscarriage, he was very comforting and spent extra time talking my husband and I through our grief and options moving forward.
Describe the protocols Lawrence Engmann used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
We first did (I believe) 3 cycles of provera to induce my period and have timed intercourse. When this didn’t result in pregnancy, we moved onto 2 unsuccessful IUI cycles with 5 mg of letrozole to induce ovulation. Our third IUI cycle, I was prescribed 7.5 mg of letrozole and had a positive pregnancy test (urine & blood confirmed). At almost 6 weeks, we found out that I was miscarrying — a chemical pregnancy. After a lot of bloodwork and an endometrial biopsy and several ultrasounds, we determined it was not an ectopic pregnancy and I would not need a D&C. We’re currently not pursuing another IUI or beginning IVF as our budget will not allow for that for quite awhile. We’re going to attempt a cycle (or several) with provera and letrozole and timed intercourse while we lay down our balance.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Mary Kate & Peggy)
My initial nurse, Mary kate, ended up going on maternity leave shortly after we began treatment. I’ve mostly worked with Peggy and I absolutely adore her. Both women are very clear in their communication and answer all of my questions and provide an incredible amount of emotional support. There have been a couple of other nurses (whom I don’t know and could not name based on one interaction) who have called to tell me of a negative result with a very chipper and misleading tone. I never had this problem with Mary Kate or Peggy and am so grateful for my interactions with them.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The financial advisors don’t necessarily see your records prior to talking to you. This can be frustrating when you’re grieving a negative result or trying to figure out how to move forward under incredible stress and THEN getting a call about balance owed or insurance approval processes.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
We have pretty good insurance, but have still had pretty sizable costs over the last 10 months. It’s always helpful after we meet our deductible. We’ve spent north of $5000 on our treatment thus far.
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9
10
Age
37 - 38
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
9
10
Doctor Grow is kind and clearly knowledgeable about his field. At our early visits he took the time to listen to me and my husband. He provided me with additional information when requested and was honest (but gentle) about expectations. ... We started with screening for both me and partner which included full blood work (for both), sperm analysis, and genetic screening. Once these results were in, we met to discuss and create our stim protocol. Dr. Grow used SQ injections of menopur, ganirelex, and gonal-f to stimulate my ovaries.
Strengths include cutting-edge technology, informative staff, and integrative approaches to fertility. The major weakness of this clinic [Ctr for Adv Repro Svcs] is their finance team. I never felt like I could get a straight answer from our finance coordinator . ... The monitoring appointments were a well-oiled machine. Patients coming in for bloodwork only were seen downstairs in the lab. When I needed both an ultrasound and bloodwork both were done upstairs. I appreciate that no matter what I was having done, it was done in one location.
Age
37 - 38
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
9
10
How was your experience with Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Doctor Grow is kind and clearly knowledgeable about his field. At our early visits he took the time to listen to me and my husband. He provided me with additional information when requested and was honest (but gentle) about expectations. While our first attempt did not result in a live birth, I am hopeful that with Dr. Grow's care our next transfer will work.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
After experiencing a chemical pregnancy, I think he should have been the one to call me with the news, not his nurse.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
While Doctor Grow has been very kind and helpful, what really improved my experience was his nurse. She has been extremely helpful, knowledgable, and accessible.
Describe the protocols Daniel Grow used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
We started with screening for both me and partner which included full blood work (for both), sperm analysis, and genetic screening. Once these results were in, we met to discuss and create our stim protocol. Dr. Grow used SQ injections of menopur, ganirelex, and gonal-f to stimulate my ovaries. My trigger shot was done via SQ hcg. My eggs were then retrieved and fertilized via ICSI due to my husband's sperm motility. Five day blastocysts were transferred and received assisted hatching. I was started on crinone before and after transfer. I transferred two blastocycsts and got a positive pregnancy test. My hcg levels continued to rise, as evidenced by blood work, but my blood work one and a half weeks after indicated a chemical pregnancy. All medications other than vitamins have been stopped at this time. I will start my frozen transfer at my next period and will also begin crinone at that time.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Shannon Brown)
Shannon has been an absolute integral part of this journey. From day one I felt like I could ask her anything. She was always timely in her communication with me and her calm demeanor always put me at ease. She is a true asset to the team.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Strengths include cutting-edge technology, informative staff, and integrative approaches to fertility. The major weakness of this clinic is their finance team. I never felt like I could get a straight answer from our finance coordinator .
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The monitoring appointments were a well-oiled machine. Patients coming in for bloodwork only were seen downstairs in the lab. When I needed both an ultrasound and bloodwork both were done upstairs. I appreciate that no matter what I was having done, it was done in one location. My wait times were never excessive and everyone I worked with were professional and efficient.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
To date, we have spent 15, 100.
Describe Daniel Grow's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Dr. Grow gave us information regarding the pros and cons of single vs multiple embryo transfer. We ultimately decided to transfer two,
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Failed to call with results
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5
7
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Uterine Fibroids
5
7
We met with him [Dr. Lawrence Engmann] for a few of our appointments. He relies heavily on a large staff of nurses to provide him with the daily data. Every bloodwork and US was reviewed by him even if I didn't speak with him directly. He was open to hearing our goals and matching treatment to them. He also fully explained the likely causes, and possible courses to take early on.... The initial plan was 3 cycles on letrozole with timed intercourse, because letrozole is a more conservative choice than clomid with fewer side effects.
It's a very large clinic [Ctr for Advanced Repro Services] but the nursing staff is very organized and you have one POC for your whole treatment plan. Depending on who is there that day you will see different Drs and nursing staff. All of the Drs I've interacted with are friendly and direct. The auxiliary staff is not quite as organized and compassionate, to them you are just patients.... She was very responsive and entertained any questions I had. She always deferred to Dr Engman for decisions but would talk to me about "hypothetical" outcomes before Dr Engman had reviewed my chart, and would then follow up that he had come to the same conclusion.
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Uterine Fibroids
5
7
How was your experience with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
We met with him for a few of our appointments. He relies heavily on a large staff of nurses to provide him with the daily data. Every bloodwork and US was reviewed by him even if I didn't speak with him directly. He was open to hearing our goals and matching treatment to them. He also fully explained the likely causes, and possible courses to take early on.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Trust in the process and don't try to be more of a doctor than he is. The clinic has a method and it can be frustratingly slow but they proceed with treatment in the order they do for a reason. Treatment begins pretty conservatively but is open to changes if you make it known you'd like to be more aggressive.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He's very direct but also kind and uses some slight humor. This is a big practice and my nurse was more up to speed with my day today treatment.
Describe the protocols Lawrence Engmann used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
The initial plan was 3 cycles on letrozole with timed intercourse, because letrozole is a more conservative choice than clomid with fewer side effects. After that the plan was 3 IUI cycles with letrozole but after 2 IUIs we were given the option to proceed to IVF if we were getting frustrated. We're starting IVF shortly.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Mary Kate Malloy)
She was very responsive and entertained any questions I had. She always deferred to Dr Engman for decisions but would talk to me about "hypothetical" outcomes before Dr Engman had reviewed my chart, and would then follow up that he had come to the same conclusion.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
It's a very large clinic but the nursing staff is very organized and you have one POC for your whole treatment plan. Depending on who is there that day you will see different Drs and nursing staff. All of the Drs I've interacted with are friendly and direct. The auxiliary staff is not quite as organized and compassionate, to them you are just patients.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I have an insurance benefit that covers everything for me. SAs for my husband was $230
Describe Lawrence Engmann's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Dr Engman advises only one embryo transferred at a time.
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Failed to call with results
- Read less
Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
9
9
Age
36
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
4 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Male Factor, PCOS, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
9
9
He [Dr. Benadiva] is generally very patient and takes the time to explain things to patients. When we were waiting to see if a pregnancy would end in miscarriage or not he was very realistic without pessimism. He always made sure to look over our chart to remind himself of the details and avoided any missteps like that. ...Our first visit he did an ultrasound to verify my PCOS. He also had a semen analysis done on my husband which hadn't been mentioned by my OBGYN.
[UCONN Ctr Adv Repro Svcs] Lots of compassion, organized, you don't feel like a number. I don't like continually being told to speak to our financial counselor. I know what we can and can't afford and what options I deem irresponsible financially. Even at a great clinic be prepared to speak up for yourselves. If we hadn't done that the varicocele contributing to our Male factor issues would not have been resolved.
Age
36
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
4 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Male Factor, PCOS, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
9
9
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He is generally very patient and takes the time to explain things to patients. When we were waiting to see if a pregnancy would end in miscarriage or not he was very realistic without pessimism. He always made sure to look over our chart to remind himself of the details and avoided any missteps like that.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Read all the handouts he gives you and feel free to call with questions if you have them!! They really do not mind. He's also happy to answer questions during appointments.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He always looked at my chart and would explain why he wanted to go by whatever course of action. He's also always taken time to answer any and all questions.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
Our first visit he did an ultrasound to verify my PCOS. He also had a semen analysis done on my husband which hadn't been mentioned by my OBGYN. When discussing the idea of letrozole he gave me copies of articles discussing studies that showed it tended go work better than Clomid for PCOS. He also gave me information on IUI in case we needed to move to that. When he wanted to do the HSG and saline ultrasound he explained why. My 4th round of letrozole and timed intercourse resulted in miscarriage and the IUI with injectables resulted in a chemical. After our 2nd loss (we had 1 prior to starting at the Center) he had genetic testing done on my husband and me as well as on that baby to get answers for us. After the chemical he said we should move to IVF with PGS testing as a way to avoid more losses.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Helen)
Our nurse is amazing. She always calls back or has someone on the team contact me on her behalf. She answers our questions and finds the answer elsewhere if she doesn't know.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Lots of compassion, organized, you don't feel like a number.
I don't like continually being told to speak to our financial counselor. I know what we can and can't afford and what options I deem irresponsible financially.
Even at a great clinic be prepared to speak up for yourselves. If we hadn't done that the varicocele contributing to our Male factor issues would not have been resolved.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
$400 per regular IUI. It was about $4200 total, including medications, for the injectable cycle. For our income bracket IVF would be 12.5K before medications
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10
10
Age
36 - 38
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI, 3 IVF
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
10
10
I like Dr. Engmann because he gives all of the info. The good, the bad, everything. The only downfall is that I wish that he would say, “This is what we are doing.” Because he’s the doctor. I don’t want to choose. ... He can come across as stand offish, but he’s not. He’s really smart and really cares for his patients. ... I was allowed to grieve my loss, and when freaking out after transfer 2 failed he called to check on me.
Hartford [Center for Adv Repro Svcs] is small and so they know everybody. ... They aren’t open on weekends, and all procedures are done in Farmington. That can be awkward because any of the doctors can/will perform procedures. ... The doors open at 7am, and I arrive at 630. Bloodwork starts at 715 and ultrasounds start at 745. Some days getting to work on time is tough even on just bloodwork days, other days it’s empty.
Age
36 - 38
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European, Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 3 IVF
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I like Dr. Engmann because he gives all of the info. The good, the bad, everything. The only downfall is that I wish that he would say, “This is what we are doing.” Because he’s the doctor. I don’t want to choose.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He can come across as stand offish, but he’s not. He’s really smart and really cares for his patients.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I was always explained everything and allowed to choose. I was allowed to grieve my loss, and when freaking out after transfer 2 failed he called to check on me.
Describe the protocols Lawrence Engmann used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
IVF- Antagonist protocol w/ Cetrotide. 3 retrievals w/ different amounts of Gonal and Menapur
Natural transfer-I ovulate
Medicated transfer w/ Lovenox-never does the same thing twice
Afyer 2 failed transfers for no reason
Fertilome
Immunology
karyotype
ERA
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Amanda Czilak)
I wouldn’t get through this without her. She and all the staff in Hartford are amazing. So much better than Farmington.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Hartford is small and so they know everybody. Only Dr Engmann and Dr diLiugi practice in Hartford. They aren’t open on weekends, and all procedures are done in Farmington. That can be awkward because any of the doctors can/will perform procedures. Most people I know prefer the Hartford office because there are less patients and so morning cycling goes faster than farmington-even though it opens later.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The doors open at 7am, and I arrive at 630. Bloodwork starts at 715 and ultrasounds start at 745. Some days getting to work on time is tough even on just bloodwork days, other days it’s empty.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Living in CT, we are a mandate state. However, we have exhausted our benefits. In additon, we are now moving to treatments/testing that wouldn’t be covered regardless.
In addition to what insurance covered we’re paid:
3220 - crypto fees
800-ERA
4000-deductible
150-Fertilome
Describe Lawrence Engmann's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I kind of wish we could do 2 PGS tested next time, but I don’t want to waste embryos either.
We do have 4 untested frozen, and if we use those we will transfer 2.
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10
10
Age
38 - 39
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IVF, 3 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
—
10
10
I have completed three IVF cycles that resulted in 10 frozen embryos at the end. Dr. Schmidt started with less aggressive approach first and based on my response, changed the stimulation protocol that resulted in very successful third cycle. He encouraged our decision to do PGS test on our frozen embryos and explain pros and cons very clearly. He was successfully transferred single normal embryo and currently I'm 10 weeks pregnant. We are very happy and satisfied with the treatment options taken for us by Dr. Schmidt.
All the nurses I met at the CARS are very caring, friendly and helpful. I haven't met anyone who was rude, mean or consider me as a nuisance... Overall environment is very pleasant. I particularly like the beautiful photo wall inside the clinic that shows photos of babies that came to this world because of the care of CARS team. It gives hope and bring positive thoughts to our stressful IVF journey.... My insurance covered costs associated with IVF treatment. We had to pay for embryo freezing, biopsy and PGS test.
Age
38 - 39
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
South Asian
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Professor
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IVF, 3 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
—
10
10
How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Schmidt is the best. He takes time to explain everything in details and make sure we understand all the information. I felt safe and comfortable when treated by Dr. Schmidt. I highly recommend him to my friends and colleagues.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Trust him.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I was fortunate to have Dr. Schmidt and his team for my IVF treatment. During my treatment process I met doctors, nurses and staff members at CARS, and everyone was very helpful and friendly. They tried their best to make my journey as comfortable as possible.
Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
I have completed three IVF cycles that resulted in 10 frozen embryos at the end. Dr. Schmidt started with less aggressive approach first and based on my response, changed the stimulation protocol that resulted in very successful third cycle. He encouraged our decision to do PGS test on our frozen embryos and explain pros and cons very clearly. He was successfully transferred single normal embryo and currently I'm 10 weeks pregnant. We are very happy and satisfied with the treatment options taken for us by Dr. Schmidt.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Marsha Kennedy)
All the nurses I met at the CARS are very caring, friendly and helpful. I haven't met anyone who was rude, mean or consider me as a nuisance.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Overall environment is very pleasant. I particularly like the beautiful photo wall inside the clinic that shows photos of babies that came to this world because of the care of CARS team. It gives hope and bring positive thoughts to our stressful IVF journey.
Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
My insurance covered costs associated with IVF treatment. We had to pay for embryo freezing, biopsy and PGS test.
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10
10
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Benediva is straight forward and honest. Some may interpret this as having not a great bedside manner but I felt very informed and cared for during the process. He is an expert in the field and will give you the best treatment possible for whatever your case may be. There were times where he personally called me on the phone to discuss plans or results. I am so thankful for everything he has done for us!...Don’t take his serious attitude the wrong way! He cares about giving you the best chance at pregnancy and is a true expert!
Appointments were always timely and they were quick and efficient [at UCONN Medical]. The financial team is fantastic as are the receptionists. The bloodwork team is quick and professional. I had a great experience with the people who did my retrieval and transfer too!...The nursing staff is amazing! They make sure you are comfortable and understand each step of the process. They were easy to communicate with and I almost always heard back the same day when I had a question.
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Benediva is straight forward and honest. Some may interpret this as having not a great bedside manner but I felt very informed and cared for during the process. He is an expert in the field and will give you the best treatment possible for whatever your case may be. There were times where he personally called me on the phone to discuss plans or results. I am so thankful for everything he has done for us!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Don’t take his serious attitude the wrong way! He cares about giving you the best chance at pregnancy and is a true expert!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He is very thorough in his explanation. He saw me whenever I had a worry in the early stages of my pregnancy.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
For IUI cycles I took letrozole. This produced great outcomes every time. Producing one follicle for each cycle.
For IVF I took gonal f, estradiol patches, cetrotide, estrace and pio. I had issues growing a thick lining during ivf and used both extra patches and the estrace pill. I had a great reaction to the egg retrieval meds, producing 31 eggs! I was closely monitored and meds were adjusted as needed!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Deb Raboin)
The nursing staff is amazing! They make sure you are comfortable and understand each step of the process. They were easy to communicate with and I almost always heard back the same day when I had a question.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Appointments were always timely and they were quick and efficient. The financial team is fantastic as are the receptionists. The bloodwork team is quick and professional. I had a great experience with the people who did my retrieval and transfer too!
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Some mornings were busier than others but they were very efficient. I don’t believe I waited for more than 15 minutes to be taken in.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I was lucky enough to have mosh covered. I payed a copay for visits, 1500 for retrieval and freezing, and 2800 for PGS.
Describe Claudio Benadiva's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
There was never a thought for us to do a multiple embryo transfer since this was my first transfer and we had done PGS.
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10
10
Age
31 - 33
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
10
10
Dr Schmidt is wonderful. ... He is one of the few doctors anywhere that asks if I am comfortable or in pain during every procedure My husband always asks a thousand questions, even some which may sound stupid, but Dr. Schmidt answered them all patiently and with great understanding. ... As I am under 35, he was only able to transfer one embryo ... He is very knowledgeable and shows great compassion.
the clinic [Center for Advanced Repro] has a discounted self-pay range depending on income for IVF which includes all costs except medication (does include egg retrieval). ... Everyone there is friendly and ready to help. Most of the staff who draws blood is great even though I am a difficult draw. When I had my polyp removal surgery, someone called me everyday to see how I was feeling.
Age
31 - 33
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr Schmidt is wonderful. Even when seeing an outside acupuncturist for IVF-related reasons, the acupuncturist said Dr. Schmidt was the most compassionate doctor there. He is one of the few doctors anywhere that asks if I am comfortable or in pain during every procedure My husband always asks a thousand questions, even some which may sound stupid, but Dr. Schmidt answered them all patiently and with great understanding. He is very knowledgeable and shows great compassion. I truly believe that he is the reason we conceived twins during our second transfer.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Do not be afraid to ask questions, and write them down before you go because you may forget. Do not get discouraged if your initial plan does not work, Dr. Schmidt will find another way.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Our doctor was very patient with all of our questions. Even though there were several times spent with him that I was crying, he remained kind and supportive. He has a good, appropriate sense of humor and a positive attitude.
Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
At first we used clomid and intercourse. Dr. Schmidt was then thinking about doing an IUI, but as we are self-pay he recommended going straight for IVF to get a better chance for our money. All my ultrasounds, bloodwork, and hysterosalpingogram looked clear at that point. Dr. Schmidt wanted to also do a water ultrasound. This showed that I had some small polyps. Dr. Schmidt performed surgery to remove them as they could cause miscarriage. Then the next month I was able to do egg retrieval and a fresh transfer. As I am under 35, he was only able to transfer one embryo at that point which did not result in a pregnancy. Three months later we did a frozen embryo transfer of 2 embryos (Dr. Schmidt said 2 was allowed now that the last transfer failed). We had a positive pregnancy blood test and when i went in for an ultrasound discovered both embryos implanted!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Marsha)
Marsha was my primary nurse once I moved onto starting the IVF process. She was always patient and understanding even if I was calling multiple times. When my husband and I were pregnant, we were not even at the clinic to see Marsha that day, yet she came out to both of us hugging and congratulating us. She was there through all the times of tears as well.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Everyone there is friendly and ready to help. Most of the staff who draws blood is great even though I am a difficult draw. When I had my polyp removal surgery, someone called me everyday to see how I was feeling. if I ever felt something was wrong after treatment, surgery, or a transfer. there was always a doctor on call and they would always see me the same day. At times, going in for daily blood draws and ultrasounds had long waits, but later on the wait time did improve. They take your privacy seriously and go through great lengths to make you comfortable even when you're very nervous.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The early morning (7:30-9) monitor hours are convenient for the schedules of most. Initially I could be waiting a long time if I did not get there right at 7 am. However, as time went on the wait time greatly improved.
Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I was self-pay for all costs. The clinic has a discounted self-pay range depending on income for IVF which includes all costs except medication (does include egg retrieval). We fell in the $10,500 bracket. Then the cost for self-pay frozen embryo transfer was $4,725.
Describe David Schmidt's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
N/A
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
- Read less
10
10
Age
30 - 33
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
He [Dr. Schmidt] was a great communicator and always gave us realistic expectations. He never exaggerated possible outcomes in a negative or positive way. He was honest and worked with us to make tough decisions instead of making them for us or not providing the information we needed to make an informed choice....Dr.Schmidt took into consideration what medications he felt would be best and also how the cost would effect us as a family. This was very important to us. If medications were available that would serve the same function and were less money we went in that direction.
The clinic [Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] works well and I feel like every staff members works as a team. I’m always impressed by their level of communication and knowledge of each case. In order to begin any treatment, you meet with the entire team including the financial analyst. They are very honest and upfront about cost and also provide resources....The monitoring appointments were quick and well organized. Typically I would be in and out within 30 minutes.
Age
30 - 33
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, East Asian
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He was a great communicator and always gave us realistic expectations. He never exaggerated possible outcomes in a negative or positive way. He was honest and worked with us to make tough decisions instead of making them for us or not providing the information we needed to make an informed choice.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Be honest and up front with your expectations and be an active part of your IVF team.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He was extremely personable and talked to us like people and not just patients passing through. He knew all our specific details and created a plan based on not only our testing but our conversations and life style.
Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
We used a variety of meds and protocols for each cycle. Dr.Schmidt took into consideration what medications he felt would be best and also how the cost would effect us as a family. This was very important to us. If medications were available that would serve the same function and were less money we went in that direction. He consistently monitored me through each cycle to make adjustments as needed.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Marsha )
She is an amazing nurse who truly feels compassion and connection to her patients. The entire staff made me feel like part of a family. They are all invested in the process and are just as excited to celebrate with you and also be there for you when things don’t work out.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The clinic works well and I feel like every staff members works as a team. I’m always impressed by their level of communication and knowledge of each case. In order to begin any treatment, you meet with the entire team including the financial analyst. They are very honest and upfront about cost and also provide resources.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The monitoring appointments were quick and well organized. Typically I would be in and out within 30 minutes. On a few occasions they were a little more backed up but the staff worked quickly to move everyone along and were apologetic for any delay.
Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The first 2 rounds including my retrieval were covered by insurance. The third and forth frozen transfers each cost 4,000, however it did not include medications which ended up being close to 2,000 for each round
Describe David Schmidt's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Overall he did not recommend multiple egg transfer during our initial IVF. Once we had a running history of miscarriage and negative tests, it was recommended that we attempt a multiple egg transfer. From the beginning he was very honest about percentages for both single and multi egg transfers. There was always logic behind his recommendations.
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10
10
Age
36
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
10
10
From the minute I met Dr. Schmidt I felt comfortable and confident being in his care. One of the first procedures scheduled for me was a repeat procedure that I had had done by a previous doctor. My previous experience had been traumatic to say the least. Dr. Schmidt acknowledged my fears and was SO compassionate and caring during the procedure with him. To say the two procedures were like night and day is an understatement and I really attribute that to Dr. Schmidt's level of experience and genuine interest in his patients wellbeing. And because of this, the results were much more accurate and we were able to get a better understanding of my infertility problems.
Bloodwork can be a little overwhelming, morning monitoring can get really busy but the clinic [UCONN Medical] does a good job of moving people along. The lab staff are all extremely friendly and compassionate (and really good at drawing blood). The OR staff are fabulous and unbelievabley compassionate- emotionally I was at a serious low point during my D&C and all my nurses and anesthesiologist recognized that and supported me in the kindest way. The level of compassion the entire clinic shows their patients is noteworthy!
Age
36
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
From the minute I met Dr. Schmidt I felt comfortable and confident being in his care. One of the first procedures scheduled for me was a repeat procedure that I had had done by a previous doctor. My previous experience had been traumatic to say the least. Dr. Schmidt acknowledged my fears and was SO compassionate and caring during the procedure with him. To say the two procedures were like night and day is an understatement and I really attribute that to Dr. Schmidt's level of experience and genuine interest in his patients wellbeing. And because of this, the results were much more accurate and we were able to get a better understanding of my infertility problems. Our first IUI was successful but unfortunately ended in miscarriage at 10 weeks. Dr. Schmidt was there to support us every step of the way in a way that made us feel like he took our loss as a personal loss as well. Most recently we've found out that we are expecting (and surprisingly not through IUI) and Dr. Schmidt has given us the same level of attention and care that we've received during monitored cycles.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointments or follow up with them afterwards. In my experience, he will always take the time to answer them in easy to understand terms.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Not only does Dr. Schmidt take the time to answer all our questions during every appointment, he makes it a point to always ask about what's going on in our lives, how we're doing, etc. When we've shared personal information he always follows up at our next appointment, asking how things went. He seems to take a vested holistic interest in his patients. When we were informed of our miscarriage after a successful IUI cycle with him, he pulled himself out of appointments to meet with us, confirm the miscarriage, answer questions and comfort us.
Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
Repeat HSG to assess validity of previous HSG results, baseline bloodwork, genetic testing for both myself and my husband, injectable fertility medications with monitoring, 2 IUIs (one resulting in pregnancy) and a D&C after miscarrying at 10 weeks.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Jenny)
Jenny was fantastic at communicating information in a timely manner and answering any medication related questions I had. She always returned my phone calls and followed up as needed.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Bloodwork can be a little overwhelming, morning monitoring can get really busy but the clinic does a good job of moving people along. The lab staff are all extremely friendly and compassionate (and really good at drawing blood). The OR staff are fabulous and unbelievabley compassionate- emotionally I was at a serious low point during my D&C and all my nurses and anesthesiologist recognized that and supported me in the kindest way. The level of compassion the entire clinic shows their patients is noteworthy!
Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
My insurance paid for most of my treatments. There was some confusion at one point regarding a balance and the need to pay it in full before one of my IUIs could be performed but it was quickly resolved.
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10
10
Age
34
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
7 IUI, 4 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Unexplained
10
10
If you want someone that will take their time with you on this journey and really make sure you feel heard and comfortable with all the decisions in your treatment then she [Dr. DiLuigi] is your doctor. She shows compassion and she listens to your concerns. ... She let me keep trying IUI even though I was struggling with them but she could tell I wasn’t ready to make the leap to IVF. We then had pretty aggressive medication plans because I wasn’t responding and she always explained what we were doing and why.
At first you are so overwhelmed it can feel very business like and not personalble but give it time as you get to learn then process and meet more people you will feel like part of their [Center for Adv Repro Svcs - UCONN Med] family ... Monitoring hours for the most part were convenient since they started early in the morning, only issue was it could get really busy sometimes ... My nurse was amazing I called her my fertility coach.
Age
34
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
—
Occupation
Sales Representative
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
7 IUI, 4 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
She is the best doctor. If you want someone that will take their time with you on this journey and really make sure you feel heard and comfortable with all the decisions in your treatment then she is your doctor. She shows compassion and she listens to your concerns.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Trust her and ask lots of questions, she will always take Time to answer them. She is amazing at her job and will make sure you feel comfortable.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
She is a great doctor I always felt like she took the time to explain everything to us. She gave her full attention on all appts. You could trage cared about helping us achieve having a baby
Describe the protocols Andrea DiLuigi used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
She let me keep trying IUI even though I was struggling with them but she could tell I wasn’t ready to make the leap to IVF. We then had pretty aggressive medication plans because I wasn’t responding and she always explained what we were doing and why. We eventually introduced Clomid in with my injectables ( I was scared to add it but she really thought it would help). That would be my final cycle after 5 rounds we made 4 healthy embryos PGS tested.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
My nurse was amazing I called her my fertility coach. She was there to tell me how many meds to take, check on my progress and she picked me up and helped me refocus when I left like giving up
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
They are friendly and courteous. They take the time to get to know each patient. At first you are so overwhelmed it can feel very business like and not personalble but give it time as you get to learn then process and meet more people you will feel like part of their family
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Monitoring hours for the most part were convenient since they started early in the morning, only issue was it could get really busy sometimes
Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
We had some insurance to start and then once it ran out we spent abt 15k
Describe Andrea DiLuigi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I only wanted to transfer one and that is what we stuck with
- Read less
8
7
Age
40
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Unexplained
8
7
He [Dr. Daniel Grow] didn't mention PGS or give me an estimated chance of success on his own and I had to bring it up...My doctor did not communicate [his Eset Approach] with me...My first few rounds I very much felt like a number. I rarely saw him or had any communication with him. I had a conversation with him about my frustration with this experience. Afterwards he really made an effort to be more available, communicate more and treat me more like a person.
My nurse Shannon [at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] is excellent and a good communicator...They did not call with the results of a pregnancy test when I was scheduled to take clomid that evening. I had to call the doctor on call to get the results...You may rarely see your doctor. Many scans are performed by random doctors and ultrasound technicians. Your doctor may not do your retrieval or transfer. They have a schedule for retrieval and your retrieval will be done by whoever is scheduled to perform retrievals that day.
Age
40
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Unexplained
8
7
How was your experience with Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He genuinely wants to help people get pregnant. He was willing to look at my case and come with an individualized plan. He has a good bedside manner but you may not see him frequently. He was not good about communicating my chance of success and only did so when I asked after several failed cycles.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Ask him specific questions. He didn't mention PGS or give me an estimated chance of success on his own and I had to bring it up.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
My first few rounds I very much felt like a number. I rarely saw him or had any communication with him. I had a conversation with him about my frustration with this experience. Afterwards he really made an effort to be more available, communicate more and treat me more like a person.
Describe the protocols Daniel Grow used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
Clomid 100mg for 2 IUI cycles, no rational given. 1st failed, 2nd canceled for poor response. 1st IVF estrogen priming, 450 follistim, 150 menopur, no rational given, 4 eggs 2 fertilized 1 abnormal blastocyst. 2nd round birth control, lupron 20units, 450 follistim 150 menopur, cancelled converted to IUI, chemical pregnancy, originally no rational given but after cancelling he said it was an established protocol for deminished overian reserve. 3rd IVF growth hormone 3 units, lupron 20 units to 10 units, 300 follistim, 300 menopur, rational was that it tailored to my case. 4 eggs retrieved, 2 embryos, and 1 abnormal blastocyst.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Shannon )
My nurse Shannon is excellent and a good communicator.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
They have a reputation of being a good clinician and they have some good doctors on staff. You may rarely see your doctor. Many scans are performed by random doctors and ultrasound technicians. Your doctor may not do your retrieval or transfer. They have a schedule for retrieval and your retrieval will be done by whoever is scheduled to perform retrievals that day.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Monitoring appointments are in the morning. I didn't know who was going to do my scan until they walked in the room. You are given a cloth to drape and given as much privacy as possible.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Insurance covered treatment and most meds. PGS $1500 for biopsy each time.
Describe Daniel Grow's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
My doctor did not communicate this with me
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Failed to call with results
- Read less
9
10
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
4 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
9
10
We see Dr. Nulsen usually every couple appointments. He has been very caring. At first, I believe he just thought we were going to be a quick case so did not pay much attention to us. After we got pregnant and miscarried, his attention towards us quickly changed. Since then, he has been very attentive and caring.... We have used letrozole and the trigger shot. We started off using 5 mg of letrozole but that did not produce any follicles.
Strengths for this clinic [UCONN Medical] include organization and nursing team. Organization in terms processes and procedures. They have also been willing to work with me on price and insurance issues. Weaknesses are probably similar to other clinics in which there are too many patients which can sometimes make for long wait times.... The nursing staff always calls when they say they will and always follows up. If they do not know the answer, they usually touch base with Dr. Nulsen and call me right back.
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Consultant
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
4 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
9
10
How was your experience with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
We see Dr. Nulsen usually every couple appointments. He has been very caring. At first, I believe he just thought we were going to be a quick case so did not pay much attention to us. After we got pregnant and miscarried, his attention towards us quickly changed. Since then, he has been very attentive and caring.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Nulsen is very caring but still remember to be your own advocate. The month we did get pregnant, was a result of a request that I had made regarding my care.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He learned who we are; would have conversations with my husband about boating; when we miscarried, he rubbed my leg and my arm and apologized.
Describe the protocols John Nulsen used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
We have used letrozole and the trigger shot. We started off using 5 mg of letrozole but that did not produce any follicles. We switched to 7.5 which is the highest dose they will give and consistently got 1-2 follicles. We used the trigger shot at my request because we were ovulating late and my ovaries would ache. This also helped time the IUI.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Deb Jaksina)
The nursing staff always calls when they say they will and always follows up. If they do not know the answer, they usually touch base with Dr. Nulsen and call me right back.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Strengths for this clinic include organization and nursing team. Organization in terms processes and procedures. They have also been willing to work with me on price and insurance issues. Weaknesses are probably similar to other clinics in which there are too many patients which can sometimes make for long wait times.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
We did IUI which was approximately $699 per cycle. This included all ultrasounds and blood monitoring. We paid an additional $125 for the trigger shot. We also had a D&C procedure which my insurance covered.
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
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10
10
Age
31 - 34
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IUI, 3 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
10
10
Sometimes he [Dr. David Schmidt] was a little too gentle and hopeful given our complicated situation. He cares so much and just wants the best for his patients. He gave us a number of different options and we’ve had many follow up appointments over the past 3 years...He can be a little optimistic even when we were very burnt out, sad, and frustrated. As a scientist myself, I understand the statistics behind things, and sometimes I wish he could sit with my anger and disappointment rather than be super positive. We might not ever get a baby, and sometimes there’s nothing science can do about it. That’s an important and honest thing to acknowledge.
Sometimes it took so long that I’d be there [Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] over an hour waiting and my whole day was thrown off schedule...Strengths: Lots of doctors, close off the highway so it’s easy to get to, have financial and insurance people there to work with you. Weaknesses: Lots of patients so it’s very very busy, some front staff are a little confused sometimes...Kathy could not be a better nurse. She has taken us under her wing and shown us such care and compassion. We’ve been working with her close to 3 years and we’ve developed a strong bond with her. We feel like she’s almost family.
Age
31 - 34
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, 3 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Sometimes he was a little too gentle and hopeful given our complicated situation. He cares so much and just wants the best for his patients. He gave us a number of different options and we’ve had many follow up appointments over the past 3 years.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He can be a little optimistic even when we were very burnt out, sad, and frustrated. As a scientist myself, I understand the statistics behind things, and sometimes I wish he could sit with my anger and disappointment rather than be super positive. We might not ever get a baby, and sometimes there’s nothing science can do about it. That’s an important and honest thing to acknowledge.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Always very kind and compassionate and treated my wife and I like any other couple (we’re a same sex couple)
Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
Our first pregnancy ended because our son had a fatal genetic disorder. We got pregnant right away, so this was a rude awakening to infertility. We did pgs testing on the remaining embryos and found 4 of the 5 had genetic issues. We tried two cycles of IUI with my wife but had a chemical pregnancy and then a negative outcome. Tried to transfer the final healthy embryo but it didn’t take. We did an exploratory uterine surgery on my wife to see if there was a physical reason for the lack of pregnancy. We didn’t find anything. She did a cycle with her eggs and we got 2 genetically normal embryos. Transferred one and it didn’t take. In the meantime, we tried a retrieval cycle with my eggs again, but we only got one embryo and the genetics were inconclusion. We’re waiting to start another transfer with the remaining healthy embryo.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Kathy Varkal )
Kathy could not be a better nurse. She has taken us under her wing and shown us such care and compassion. We’ve been working with her close to 3 years and we’ve developed a strong bond with her. We feel like she’s almost family.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Strengths: Lots of doctors, close off the highway so it’s easy to get to, have financial and insurance people there to work with you.
Weaknesses: Lots of patients so it’s very very busy, some front staff are a little confused sometimes
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Sometimes it took so long that I’d be there over an hour waiting and my whole day was thrown off schedule.
Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Insurance covered most of our procedures. About $1,000 for freezing, $1,400 for transferring my embryo to my wife, and $150 a quarter for storage of embryos.
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Failed to call with results
- Failed to order appropriate test
- Provided conflicting information
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10
10
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
10
Dr. Engmann is not only an incredibly compassionate doctor, but also an incredibly patient (with all my questions), kind (you could tell he always wanted the best outcome), and knowledgable of every cycle and situation we were in. If there was an issue with treatment plan, or medications he reacted so quickly. Dr. Engmann calmed my nerves and relieved my anxiety during appointments. I will never forget when we were prepping for our transfer, he came in to speak to my husband and I and told us the embryo was "perfect".
The clinic (UCONN Medical0 was wonderful; from the front desk staff, the phlebotomists, nurses, financial team, doctors....everyone was just wonderful, compassionate and kept information confidential. There was one doctor I had a terrible experience with, I informed my doctor of the situation and I never saw that one doctor again- thankful for my doctor who fully understood this particular situation.... Morning appointments depended on the number of patients
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
10
How was your experience with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Engmann is not only an incredibly compassionate doctor, but also an incredibly patient (with all my questions), kind (you could tell he always wanted the best outcome), and knowledgable of every cycle and situation we were in. If there was an issue with treatment plan, or medications he reacted so quickly. Dr. Engmann calmed my nerves and relieved my anxiety during appointments. I will never forget when we were prepping for our transfer, he came in to speak to my husband and I and told us the embryo was "perfect". I cried and he put his hand on my shoulder to reassure me this was going to be a good day. During the transfer he and the nurse walked me through every step of the way and showed me on the screen where the embryo was placed. When we had our viability scan he could tell we were extremely nervous, and he immediately went right into the ultrasound- no small talk...just straight to the point. We we "graduated" from the clinic I cried happy tears for the first time in his treatment room and I'm forever grateful for Dr. Engmann and his compassion.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Trust him. No matter what you "google" or read on your Facebook forum, he knows what he's doing and he has your best interest in mind.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Engman was wonderful, as well as his entire staff. Phone calls were returned so quickly- regardless of how trivial my questions may have been at times. He always knew the details of my particular cycle when he walked into the treatment room. All procedures, updates, etc. were explained in full and expectations were set.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Darlene (IUI) & Amanda (IVF))
Darlene, even though she's no long with the clinic, was such a constant during our treatments. She walked us through every procedure, every medication. She educated and answered questions, she never treated me like my questions were silly.
Amanda was such a change in attitude that my husband and I needed. After our failed medicated cycles and failed IUI moving onto IVF was a really hard transition for us. I thought of IVF as the "LAST CHANCE" and Amanda was so patient during our initial consultation and explained that this was the next best step. She walked us through all the paperwork explaining decisions we needed to make. Leading up to and after all the IVF procedures she was irreplaceable- checking in on me, making sure I was up to date with all information and returned my calls so quickly. She knew I was concerned about my TSH levels and was sure to test them and adjust my medications appropriately. When we were testing for Beta levels- I could tell in her voice that she was genuinely happy for us. When we graduated from the clinic she sought us out to say goodbye and it just made my heart so happy.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The clinic was wonderful; from the front desk staff, the phlebotomists, nurses, financial team, doctors....everyone was just wonderful, compassionate and kept information confidential. There was one doctor I had a terrible experience with, I informed my doctor of the situation and I never saw that one doctor again- thankful for my doctor who fully understood this particular situation.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Morning appointments depended on the number of patients who were also there for monitoring. It was really nice to see most of the same faces and know that you weren't alone. The monitoring procedures themselves were relatively quick and painless. I liked going in the morning because I didnt have to take more time out of work.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
We were lucky to have fantastic insurance, our costs were mostly copays. Totaling somewhere in the ball park of $3,000.00
Describe Lawrence Engmann's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
We trusted Dr. Engmann's decision as to if he'd transfer a single or multiple embryos. Thankfully, we had a "perfect" embryo and only had to transfer one.
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6
7
Age
30 - 33
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI, 2 IVF, 2 Embryo Freezing (cancer)
Diagnosis
Cancer, Endometriosis, Uterine Fibroids, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
6
7
Dr. Engmann always prefers to see his patients for scans, transfers, etc. I think he truly cares about his patients. I think he maybe didn't always think outside the box for other things we could try (could have been restricted due to the clinic) such as immune testing or testing for endometriosis. I went unexplained for 2 years without a diagnosis and we just keep trying IVF and kept failing. I feel like we should have spent more time at the very beginning trying to figure out root cause.
We had a lot of issues with the financial department [UCONN Medical]. We had a financial rep tell us that there was "no way" we had a $20,000 lifetime cap...we thought we had insurance coverage and were so excited! She was wrong....They have a number of qualified physicians there and a strong lab.... They follow national guidelines though so they will not try any of the new outside of the box treatments... Sometimes it is very busy there. They say they start blood draws at 7:15 but I have been there and they often don't start until 7:30
Age
30 - 33
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Operations
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 2 IVF, 2 Embryo Freezing (cancer)
Diagnosis
Cancer, Endometriosis, Uterine Fibroids, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
6
7
How was your experience with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Engmann always prefers to see his patients for scans, transfers, etc. I think he truly cares about his patients. I think he maybe didn't always think outside the box for other things we could try (could have been restricted due to the clinic) such as immune testing or testing for endometriosis. I went unexplained for 2 years without a diagnosis and we just keep trying IVF and kept failing. I feel like we should have spent more time at the very beginning trying to figure out root cause. He has good bedside manner and doesn't sugar coat things if they don't look right.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Sometimes he can be a bit clinical but he is very factual.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I did feel like they truly cared about me. I just felt like they kept trying to do IVF as a solution rather than look for root cause for my problems.
Describe the protocols Lawrence Engmann used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
My 2nd retrieval was an antagonist protocol with menopur and gonal f. I cannot remember what the first one was (just gonal F). I also used HGH in my 2nd retrieval. I had a better outcome in that I had more PGS normal embryos that cycle.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Amanda Cislak)
Amanda was fabulous. She is responsive on the phone and also replies to emails which can sometimes be more convenient for the patient if we are at work, etc. She's compassionate... she has cried with me and laughed with me. I truly felt connected to her and that she cared about me as a patient and person.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
They have a number of qualified physicians there and a strong lab. They have some of the highest success rates in the state and multiple locations so you can go to wherever is most convenient to you. They follow national guidelines though so they will not try any of the new outside of the box treatments... such as immune treatments, etc. They tend to do similar things... hysteroscopy, ERA testing, PGS testing, etc. that they rely on as next steps when IVF has failed. However I think there is more testing that can be done that I had to ask for (Sperm DNA fragmentation, MRI for adenomyosis, immune testing/medications, EFT testing, etc.). I did end up having to go to an immune specialist to get further answers to try something different after 5 failed cycles and 3 miscarriages (1 of which was a PGS tested embryo).
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Sometimes it is very busy there. They say they start blood draws at 7:15 but I have been there and they often don't start until 7:30... There is always a long wait but that is just due to the volume of patients and only 1 person who does blood draws.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
We had $20,000 of insurance money which lasted us about 1 year (3 IUIs, 1 retrieval with fresh transfer, and 1 FET). After that we were self pay and opted to do a financial share program which cost us $20,000 for 6 cycles (3 fresh and 3 FET). However costs for anesthesia, cryo, PGS, etc. were not included in that so that was an additional cost.
Describe Lawrence Engmann's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
He definitely prefers eSET. He feels strongly against multiples. He advised us to transfer 1 many times.
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
- Failed to call with results
- Failed to send your chart to another clinic
- Provided conflicting information
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8
8
Age
34
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
8
[Dr. Andrea DiLuigi was] Knowledgeable and courteous. My husband and I did not feel rushed out of the appointment. She seems genuine about wanting to help her patients in their desire to become parents. Quick responses after treatments or blood work. I feel safe and comfortable during my procedures. She asks if I’m ok, checks in with how I’m feeling during my procedures.
[The staff at the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services was] On top of treatment plans, clean environment, friendly staff, returns calls on time. Knowledgeable financial team. Emails back and forth for easy questions and answers. They have a board with acupuncturist information, yoga and support groups for anyone interested.... Financial team was knowledgeable about insurance companies I was able to email with questions with fairly quick responses. They do bundle packages as far as blood work, ultra sounds and transfer if insurance does not cover.
Age
34
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
8
How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Knowledgeable and courteous. My husband and I did not feel rushed out of the appointment. She seems genuine about wanting to help her patients in their desire to become parents. Quick responses after treatments or blood work. I feel safe and comfortable during my procedures. She asks if I’m ok, checks in with how I’m feeling during my procedures.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Ask lots of questions she is happy to answer and take time with you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Spent the time to explain and review my care plan
Describe the protocols Andrea DiLuigi used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
Daily blood work and treatments if needed. My thyroid level was higher than normal and she wanted to make sure everything was on track being moving forward so we could have a safe and successful transfer day. Another time she found what was thought to be a polyp at the time of removal it started to bleed I could see she was sincerely concerned for my well being as I had a very traumatic experience after my c section with my son and almost did not make it. She knew my history and kept that in mind and even quoted “so no harm” she contacted my OB that took care of my delivery and went above to ask his advice for future pregnancies. I left that appointment very nervous and she allowed me to come back to see her to be checked and to ease my mind. I want not brushed off at all.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Toni)
Returned my calls same day. Spent time to answer questions.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
On top of treatment plans, clean environment, friendly staff, returns calls on time. Knowledgeable financial team. Emails back and forth for easy questions and answers. They have a board with acupuncturist information, yoga and support groups for anyone interested.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Financial team was knowledgeable about insurance companies I was able to email with questions with fairly quick responses. They do bundle packages as far as blood work, ultra sounds and transfer if insurance does not cover.
Describe Andrea DiLuigi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
At our first consult she made it clear the goal is to transfer one embryo unless she felt that the chance it may not take is high. That exactly what I wanted as well
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
5 IUI, 1 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
I always felt comfortable [with Dr. Andrea DiLuigi]...Doctor DiLuigi is smart, kind, empathetic, easy to relate to. I never waited long, never felt the office was overbooked, was able to get the time I needed with her. It was a great experience...17 eggs retrieved, 10 fertilized normally, 2 fertilized abnormally, 6 made it to day 5, 1 transferred (successfully), 5 frozen - drugs used centrotide, gonal F, HCG trigger, progesterone in oil injections
[The monitoring appointments at UConn Center for Advanced Reproductive Services were] Easy and as efficient as possible given there were times when many people would need to be seen. I never waited more than 15 minute and there were times when the waiting room was PACKED...Was able to get an appointment fairly quickly. Office was very Organized. All staff was approachable. Everyone was professional. The environment was warm and welcoming. There aren’t any weaknesses I experienced.
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
5 IUI, 1 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I always felt comfortable. Doctor DiLuigi is smart, kind, empathetic, easy to relate to. I never waited long, never felt the office was overbooked, was able to get the time I needed with her. It was a great experience.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Be open, ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I loved being a patient at CARS. Always felt like every member of the office cared about me and my journey. Every person in the office had empathy and was genuine.
Describe the protocols Andrea DiLuigi used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
Round 1 IUI - 75 mg clomid, another 75mg
Round 2 IUI - HSG and 150 mg clomid, trigger
Round 3 IUI - 150mg clomid and trigger
Round 4 IUI - 150 mg clomid and trigger
Round 5 IUI - 150 mg clomid and trigger
Month 6 rest
Month 7 - IVF, 17 eggs retrieved, 10 fertilized normally, 2 fertilized abnormally, 6 made it to day 5, 1 transferred (successfully), 5 frozen - drugs used centrotide, gonal F, HCG trigger, progesterone in oil injections
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Chelsea and Tony)
Chelsea - IUI nurse, amazing.
Tony - IVF nurse, even more amazing
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Was able to get an appointment fairly quickly. Office was very Organized. All staff was approachable. Everyone was professional. The environment was warm and welcoming. There aren’t any weaknesses I experienced.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Easy and as efficient as possible given there were times when many people would need to be seen. I never waited more than 15 minute and there were times when the waiting room was PACKED.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Fairly reasonable. My insurance did pay for a portion of the treatments so my out of pocket expenses were not as significant as I thought they would be. Monthly IUIs cost around $200 out of pocket. My IVF cycle cost about $3000 out of pocket & $4000 for meds out of pocket.
Describe Andrea DiLuigi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I wanted 2 embryos transferred and Dr. D said no. She was very kind in how she explained that 2 embryos would be risky, and given my age and medical history, she felt 1 was the best course of action. She was right.
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10
10
Age
36
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
10
I was so happy with the support and treatment I received. She [Dr. Andrea DiLuigi] was extremely thorough during the initial appointment and I felt that she had a good plan to help us achieve our goals. She performed surgery to remove polyps in my uterus before we could even start and she always put my anxiety at ease. I trusted in her ability to create a successful outcome (which she did!). I was disappointed that she didn't perform the actual retrieval and transfer, but was equally impressed with her team of doctors and it made sense to ensure the timing worked out.
It [UConn] was pretty efficient. There were a couple days that were very busy and took up to an hour to complete bloodwork, but for the most part I was done within 10 minutes.... I was very happy overall. The only drawback was driving to Farmington instead of Hartford for bloodwork/ultrasounds needed on weekends. Otherwise, they were very efficient and made the process very easy.
Age
36
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Operations
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
10
10
How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I was so happy with the support and treatment I received. She was extremely thorough during the initial appointment and I felt that she had a good plan to help us achieve our goals. She performed surgery to remove polyps in my uterus before we could even start and she always put my anxiety at ease. I trusted in her ability to create a successful outcome (which she did!). I was disappointed that she didn't perform the actual retrieval and transfer, but was equally impressed with her team of doctors and it made sense to ensure the timing worked out. I would absolutely recommend Dr. DiLuigi and CARS for anyone undergoing fertility treatment.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I felt that Dr. DiLuigi really cared about me and making it work.
Describe the protocols Andrea DiLuigi used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
I decided to conduct DNA testing on the embryos before transfer, which I would highly recommend. It's expensive but increases chances dramatically and helps avoid the potential heart break of a miscarriage if the DNA isn't right. Because the eggs had to be frozen to do that, my transfer was done on a natural cycle. Although I had to wait an extra month, it was so worth it and I avoided another round of painful shots since we did it naturally. I just followed the recommendations of the team and it all worked out!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Toni)
Toni was absolutely amazing. She was caring, took her time to explain everything, and was invested in my well-being and success.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I was very happy overall. The only drawback was driving to Farmington instead of Hartford for bloodwork/ultrasounds needed on weekends. Otherwise, they were very efficient and made the process very easy.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
It was pretty efficient. There were a couple days that were very busy and took up to an hour to complete bloodwork, but for the most part I was done within 10 minutes.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Amanda
Describe Andrea DiLuigi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The doctor recommended I do a single transfer and DNA testing since at my age she would have had to transfer 2 if I didn't do the test. We wanted to avoid multiples and increase chances of success, so that was the right decision for us.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
29 - 31
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage
10
10
He [Dr. John Nulsen] was so knowledgeable and caring and compassionate. He was so patient with us as we always went to appointments with a full list of questions. He explained everything well. We went through a lot with him: 2 surgeries to remove my Fallopian tubes, one of which was emergency. He was so caring and comforting, I knew I was in great hands and it was actually sad to leave him after getting pregnant.
Strengths of CARS are it's success and experience and reputable doctors. Some weaknesses are that some people I know felt like things skipped through the cracks at times so you have to be your own advocate. It's also pretty busy so wait times during IVF cycling could be long but after hours and return phone care was always very responsive.
Age
29 - 31
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Operations
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage
10
10
How was your experience with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He was so knowledgeable and caring and compassionate. He was so patient with us as we always went to appointments with a full list of questions. He explained everything well. We went through a lot with him: 2 surgeries to remove my Fallopian tubes, one of which was emergency. He was so caring and comforting, I knew I was in great hands and it was actually sad to leave him after getting pregnant.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Don't be afraid to bring a list of questions to appointments
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He was so incredibly caring and empathetic throughout my treatments, and he performed the surgical removal of both my Fallopian tubes and treated me for an ectopic pregnancy, he made me feel calm and cared so much.
Describe the protocols John Nulsen used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
Original diagnosis after ectopic and identifying tube blockage was trying to conceive naturally for 4-6 months before removing blocked tube. After removing blocked tube, recommended action up to us but felt natural conception was possible and repeat ectopic was low. Unfortunately repeat ectopic occurred and caused emergency Fallopian tube removal. After that IVF was only option. He recommended freeze all with PGS to maximize success, as well as Lupron trigger due to higher risk of OHSS.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Vicki Hauptmann )
Vicki was very responsive and friendly. She seemed a little all over the place at times but was very nice to work with.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Strengths of CARS are it's success and experience and reputable doctors. Some weaknesses are that some people I know felt like things skipped through the cracks at times so you have to be your own advocate. It's also pretty busy so wait times during IVF cycling could be long but after hours and return phone care was always very responsive.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Wait times were pretty long at times but I was always able to be seen by my primary doctor even on weekends if he was on call. All doctors and staff were excellent so t didn't matter who I saw.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I spent about $15k out of pocket On top of maxing out my $20k lifetime infertility insurance benefits to have HSG, sonohysterogram, surgical removal of left Fallopian tube at same time as hystetoscopy, along with second emergency surgery to remove right Fallopian tube after ectopic, followed by IVF with PGS and successful FET.
Describe John Nulsen's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I was very happy with his approach to single FET
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Provided conflicting information
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8
8
Age
39 - 40
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
8
8
I had/have a good relationship with Dr. DiLuigi; while it's not always easy to get an appointment, when I do meet with her in person or on the phone, she takes as much time as we need to go over everything in as much detail as I want and answer any questions. She assumes a level of intelligence and has always confirmed that I know what I'm talking about when I come to her with questions/requests based on my own research. She has a positive attitude without over-promising.
...Other than some significant snags with understanding my insurance coverage that actually did effect my treatment plans (they [UCONN Medical] have a financial dept dedicated to being a liaison with your insurance company, but it's not foolproof), my experience with the clinic has been good...If you're not covered by insurance, they offer a "discounted" self-pay plan....My IVF nurse has spent a ton of time on phone calls with me and calling me back, so in that regard she's amazing and I don't know how she does it. That said, she doesn't have quite the level of knowledge that the doctor has, so it's difficult to try to communicate with the doctor through her as an intermediary sometimes, when I'd prefer to just speak with my doctor.
Age
39 - 40
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Writer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
8
8
How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
While it's not always easy to get an appointment with Dr. DiLuigi, when I do speak with her in person or on the phone, she always takes as much time as I need to understand everything and ask questions. She has a positive attitude without over-promising.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I had/have a good relationship with Dr. DiLuigi; while it's not always easy to get an appointment, when I do meet with her in person or on the phone, she takes as much time as we need to go over everything in as much detail as I want and answer any questions. She assumes a level of intelligence and has always confirmed that I know what I'm talking about when I come to her with questions/requests based on my own research. She has a positive attitude without over-promising. I enjoy interacting with her more than a couple others on the clinic's staff (both doctors and support staff). (Though I have no MAJOR complaints about them either.)
Describe the protocols Andrea DiLuigi used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
I've tried IVF cycles with 4 different protocols so far: Lupron/birth control pills/microflare (+ injectables), Clomid (+ injectables), Femara (+ injectables), and estrogen patch (+ injectables). I'm a "poor responder" so I've only gotten one embryo so far (and it failed PGS). Still trying.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Toni)
My IVF nurse has spent a ton of time on phone calls with me and calling me back, so in that regard she's amazing and I don't know how she does it. That said, she doesn't have quite the level of knowledge that the doctor has, so it's difficult to try to communicate with the doctor through her as an intermediary sometimes, when I'd prefer to just speak with my doctor.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
This clinic is the only one I've been too, so I don't have anything else to compare it to. So far I've been going there almost a year and I haven't made it to an egg transfer yet, but I'm assume that's because of my own low ovarian reserve and poor response to stimulation. But other than some significant snags with understanding my insurance coverage that actually did effect my treatment plans (they have a financial dept dedicated to being a liaison with your insurance company, but it's not foolproof), my experience with the clinic has been good. Egg retrievals are pretty much a breeze. HSG, which is supposed to be potentially really painful, was fine and just merely uncomfortable--and Dr. DiLuigi was super understanding about my anxiety and coddled me through the whole thing:)
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
It's a well-oiled cattle call:) There are morning hours for cycling bloodwork/ulstrasound (so everyone cycling that week has to come in between 7:30 and 9 am, about every other day, and it's first come, first served). There's a long wait sometimes, but it generally works pretty smoothly. I'm an hour away from the clinic though, so I do lose a lot of sleep during those weeks trying to get there at the crack of dawn. It's also important to note: The clinic has a New London location, however its main office is in Farmington. So only very rarely can you do your cycling blood work and ultrasounds in New London; it's a very bare-bones office with only one nurse who is not always available (and there's no doctor there). So if you're in southern CT and think this clinic is nearby you...it's not really. You'll be going to Farmington or Hartford most of the time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
If you're not covered by insurance, they offer a "discounted" self-pay plan. I think it's about $19K for IVF (not including meds) and $500 for the most basic IUI (including meds). My insurance does cover my services, however because of a high deductible and some optional meds I chose (growth hormone, DHEA, CoQ10), I've still ended up paying about $9-12K/year out of pocket.
Describe Andrea DiLuigi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
They offer ESET but my insurance doesn't have a policy on it, so technically I'm not using it. (Though I'm only transferring a single embryo anyway.)
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Provided conflicting information
- Scheduled the wrong procedure
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10
N/A
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
IVF, Donor Eggs
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality
10
N/A
I really had a great experience with Dr benadiva. He was very kind and understanding and caring. He answered my questions he let us know what the best options were and didn't lie to us. He treated us good and I was very happy with my results. I really appreciated him taking my records from other dr's and how I didn't have to repeat alot of my testing that made me happy....He also explained what was going on with me and what the best options would be. He was honest and really listened and took his time with us and didn't rush us.
All the staff [Uconn Ctr Adv Repro S - Farm] was very nice and caring....Even when I did the blood work they were very nice and caring and we're pretty quick getting everyone in and out so we could get to work on time.... Kathy was extremely kind and caring and always answered all my questions...Everytime I saw her in the office she always took her time with me and helped me with figuring out how to pick my egg donor and always gave me great advice and was always happy to see me...I liked where the location was and just all the friendly people and staff....
Age
35 - 36
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
4th of 4 Docs
Treatment
IVF, Donor Eggs
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality
10
N/A
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I really had a great experience with Dr benadiva. He was very kind and understanding and caring. He answered my questions he let us know what the best options were and didn't lie to us. He treated us good and I was very happy with my results. I really appreciated him taking my records from other dr's and how I didn't have to repeat alot of my testing that made me happy. I liked where the location was and just all the friendly people and staff. He took his time with us and didn't make us feel like we were rushed. When my first embryo didn't take he felt bad and made me feel confident on the 2nd embryo I had frozen. He didn't do my first transfer and he did my second and I felt so confident and positive and he felt very good about that embryo and it worked and I am pregnant. Thank you
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
That he is smart and knows what he is doing and to trust in him.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He was extremely caring and so kind and made me feel like I will be pregnant and what I needed to do to get there. He also explained what was going on with me and what the best options would be. He was honest and really listened and took his time with us and didn't rush us. From all the dr's I saw he actually was wiling to help me get pregnant and I am so grateful for that. He knew the meds I needed and what worked for me.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
When I did my first embryo Transfer I started with lupron injection and then I added baby aspirin and estrogen patches and then progesterone injection. My second one I just did estrogen patches, and then progesterone injection and still on the patches and progesterone until I'm about 12 weeks.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Kathy Varkal )
Kathy was extremely kind and caring and always answered all my questions. I know sometimes I seemed worried and had so many questions or concerns and she always was there for me and I was so grateful. Everytime I saw her in the office she always took her time with me and helped me with figuring out how to pick my egg donor and always gave me great advice and was always happy to see me. She made me feel that I was in good hands with Dr b and the while staff. Everyone was amazing and so caring
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
All the staff was very nice and caring. I really appreciated how everyone always said hi or good morning. Even when I did the blood work they were very nice and caring and we're pretty quick getting everyone in and out so we could get to work on time. I appreciate how they open the doors at 630 even though they didn't start the blood work until 7. Atleast we didn't have to wait out in the cold or bad weather. I like this location alot. I had a better experience here compared to Yale. Thank you
Describe Claudio Benadiva's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I only had 1 embryo ready at my first transfer.
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10
10
Age
31
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
He was very clear his stance on multiples was it would not be advisable or healthy. ... He was very concerned I would end up with multiples and suggested selective reduction if that were to happen. ... I loved our experience with Dr.Engmann. He is very knowledgable and helpful when you ask questions and when coming up with a course of treatment. He exhausted all possibilities of why we were infertile and was very optimistic when I was losing hope.
You will be leaving and receiving voicemails more thank talking to an actual person most of the time but I was ok with that. Everyone [at Ctr for Adv Repro Svc] is helpful and informative, I enjoyed working with everyone on the nursing staff. ... I talked to many different nurses for the IVF cycle. I loved my clinical nurse Darlene that I had for my IUI’s. All the nurses I worked with were helpful and kind.
Age
31
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I loved our experience with Dr.Engmann. He is very knowledgable and helpful when you ask questions and when coming up with a course of treatment. He exhausted all possibilities of why we were infertile and was very optimistic when I was losing hope. He was kind when he needed to be, direct when he needed to be and even though there were long periods where I only saw nurses and not him, I always felt like he was in control and monitoring everting. He had a good sense of humor and made me feel comfortable and confident in him.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Have your questions ready, and trust him he knows what he is doing!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr.Engmann was always engaged and determined to help me finally become pregnant. He listened to me, answered my questions and reassured me.
Describe the protocols Lawrence Engmann used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
I had a miscarriage after trying for 2 years to get pregnant, then tried to get pregnant for a year after that before going to Dr.Engmann. He had me go for a hysterosalpingogram, tested my blood for everything, std tests for both my husband and I, semen analysis for my husband, looked at my uterus and diagnosed me with unexplained infertility. He recommended 3 rounds of IUI with 50 mg clomid days 3-7. The first round I monitored my ovulation with kits at home, the other 2 times I went for bloodwork everyday day 10 until surge and I did an hcg trigger shot for the 3rd one. None of them worked. He recommended IVF I had a saline ultrasound to check my uterus, many blood tests, ultra sounds, took hormone injections and after one cycle became pregnant. They performed ICSI and assisted hatching on the embryo that was transferred. 9 days after transfer I had a positive pregnancy test and continued progesterone injections until my second ultrasound at 8 weeks and then was transferred back to my obgyn.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Amanda)
I talked to many different nurses for the IVF cycle. I loved my clinical nurse Darlene that I had for my IUI’s. All the nurses I worked with were helpful and kind.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
You will be leaving and receiving voicemails more thank talking to an actual person most of the time but I was ok with that. Everyone is helpful and informative, I enjoyed working with everyone on the nursing staff.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Costs were considerable but expected for infertility trestments. They don’t hound you for payments and will work with you.
Describe Lawrence Engmann's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
He was very clear his stance on multiples was it would not be advisable or healthy. He only wanted to transfer one embryo and he was worried about having too many mature eggs during my last IUI. He was very concerned I would end up with multiples and suggested selective reduction if that were to happen.
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10
10
Age
28 - 31
Treated
2013 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Nulsen felt we would have success with the antagonist protocol, and started the next cycle. I was young with regular periods so he didn’t feel we needed the longer protocol...He was surprised that I did not produce more mature eggs during the retrieval, but my AMH levels were on the lower side...He knew all our medical history before even walking into his office. Dr. Nulsen first asked us what our expectations were, and what routes we wanted to take. He was knowledgeable and very kind as we discussed different plans. I had done a lot of research beforehand, and he was patient (and willing) to answer any of my questions.
Monitoring [at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services]...was on a first come basis. Some days you waited a while, and others you did not...The billing office was incredibly helpful in all areas. Especially when dealing with insurance. Our representative was incredibly knowledgeable, and gave us the best advice. We paid out of pocket for our deductible and all medication. We were reimbursed for some of the medication through insurance months later. At the time acupuncture was not offered at the clinic, and we paid separately for that off site.
Age
28 - 31
Treated
2013 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Nulsen was always warm and devoted to our best interests. He gave his best advice as a medical professional, and we completely trusted he opinions. Never once did we feel rushed. He took the time to answer all questions/concerns until I was completely at ease with our next steps for treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Trust his expertise. He loves his work and he knows how to do it well.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He knew all our medical history before even walking into his office. Dr. Nulsen first asked us what our expectations were, and what routes we wanted to take. He was knowledgeable and very kind as we discussed different plans. I had done a lot of research beforehand, and he was patient (and willing) to answer any of my questions.
Describe the protocols John Nulsen used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
After two failed IUIs with 50 mg of Clomid, we decided to go right to IVF. Dr. Nulsen felt we would have success with the antagonist protocol, and started the next cycle. I was young with regular periods so he didn’t feel we needed the longer protocol. Follistim, Ganirelix, and Pregnyl were used for medications. Followed by PIO injections after the retrieval. The Follistim injections were the easiest to handle myself, but the Ganirelix seemed to burn a bit. The PIO injections were painful towards the end with so many different bruises that popped up after 13 weeks. He was surprised that I did not produce more mature eggs during the retrieval, but my AMH levels were on the lower side.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Deb Jaksina)
Deb and the other nurses were amazing. They always made sure I was okay (physically and emotionally) and I never felt like an after thought. Each call I made they responded right away, and made sure I was at ease as the protocol progressed.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The clinic itself moved to a new and beautiful office at the tail end of our journey. The staff is always helpful and patient with anything I needed. You will wait sometimes to see the doctor, or to get blood drawn... But it is only because the staff really does take their time with each and every patient.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Monitoring was done first thing in the morning. You had your blood drawn, and then you proceeded to the other area for monitoring. It was on a first come basis. Some days you waited a while, and others you did not. I felt it was efficient as it could be given the time sensitive nature of the protocols.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Our deductible was pretty high, and that was due before we started IVF protocol. They were able to chunk it into smaller installments throughout the length of our treatment. The billing office was incredibly helpful in all areas. Especially when dealing with insurance. Our representative was incredibly knowledgeable, and gave us the best advice. We paid out of pocket for our deductible and all medication. We were reimbursed for some of the medication through insurance months later. At the time acupuncture was not offered at the clinic, and we paid separately for that off site.
Describe John Nulsen's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
UConn has a firm approach on how many embryos to transfer based on age and diagnosis. I was younger so it was advised for only a single embryo transfer. I completely agreed. His goal, and mine, was only to create a singleton pregnancy.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
30 - 31
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Male Factor
10
10
Dr. DiLuigi was extremely kind and encouraging. As a patient she made me feel very comfortable. I always felt like I could ask her anything, and would get an honest response. I felt that there were times where she definitely went above and beyond for me...Dr. Diluigi and her team were kind, easy to talk to, encouraging, and set realistic expectations. They acknowledged all of my fears and concerns and made the most challenging year of my life a little more bearable.
Our one full IVF cycle [at Uconn Center for Advanced Reproductive Medicine] with meds, monitoring, retrieval, ICSI, labs. anesthesia, etc. cost about $20,000. IUI without meds was about $450...Monitoring appointments were on a first come, first serve basis. Often patients (myself included) would get there long before the doors open to stand in line in order to get in and out as quickly as possible and get to work on time...Strengths: Early Hours, open almost everyday of the year, great staff and physicians Weaknesses: They list the New London location as a office location without any caveats, however the hours and capabilities are very limited in New London and the doctors are only in the office their twice a month.
Age
30 - 31
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Marketer or PR
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Male Factor
10
10
How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. DiLuigi was extremely kind and encouraging. As a patient she made me feel very comfortable. I always felt like I could ask her anything, and would get an honest response. I felt that there were times where she definitely went above and beyond for me.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Be blunt and don't be afraid to ask questions. She will answer them.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Diluigi and her team were kind, easy to talk to, encouraging, and set realistic expectations. They acknowledged all of my fears and concerns and made the most challenging year of my life a little more bearable.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Toni Sullivan )
Dr. DiLuigi's nursing staff is top notch! I looked forward to my daily calls with Toni and truly felt she was whole heartedly routing for me throughout my journey. She was profession and kind while making sure I felt like a human and not a number.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Strengths: Early Hours, open almost everyday of the year, great staff and physicians
Weaknesses: They list the New London location as a office location without any caveats, however the hours and capabilities are very limited in New London and the doctors are only in the office their twice a month. This means that a patient like me who lives in South Eastern, CT has to drive an hour each way to Hartford or Farmington for 90% of appointments, including cycle monitoring appointments. This makes it extremely difficult for patients who work full time and are trying to juggle the stress of a job, with the stress of an IVF cycle.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Monitoring appointments were on a first come, first serve basis. Often patients (myself included) would get there long before the doors open to stand in line in order to get in and out as quickly as possible and get to work on time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Our one full IVF cycle with meds, monitoring, retrieval, ICSI, labs. anesthesia, etc. cost about $20,000.
IUI without meds was about $450
Describe Andrea DiLuigi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Dr. DiLuigi made it clear that as a practice they prefer to do eSET, however every patient and case is different and in my experience she felt comfortable (as long as we were completely OK with the prospect of multiples) with transferring 2 embryos on Day 3.
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10
10
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 Egg Freezing, IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Poor Egg Quality, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
Dr. Benadiva always took the time to answer my questions. Not just 1 or 2...I mean 35-45. I've come to his office on multiple occasions with a book full of questions. And he's gone through each and every one with me...He's a quiet man with a singular focus--to help you have a baby. He's going to explain his steps, his procedures, his expectations, and his concerns. He's going to explain what you can realistically expect. But he's not going to be your shoulder to cry on. That doesn't mean that he's not compassionate. It's simply that his goal isn't to comfort you temporarily...
Mornings at the Center [Uconn Ctr Adv Repro S - Farm] can be crowded, but it's a good reminded that you're not the only one going through this. Everyone there is clearly very interested in helping you have a child. I never felt that one of the staff wasn't genuinely concerned with my situation, even those who weren't directly involved in my treatment...
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, South Asian, Black or African-American
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Marketer or PR
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 Egg Freezing, IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Poor Egg Quality, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He's a quiet man with a singular focus--to help you have a baby. He's going to explain his steps, his procedures, his expectations, and his concerns. He's going to explain what you can realistically expect. But he's not going to be your shoulder to cry on. That doesn't mean that he's not compassionate. It's simply that his goal isn't to comfort you temporarily. It's to help you realize your dream of becoming a patient. So, if there are setbacks, don't expect him to dwell on them. He's going to keep pushing forward as long as you are still willing to.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Don't be put off by his reserved manner. Know that he's already working on a plan.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Benadiva always took the time to answer my questions. Not just 1 or 2...I mean 35-45. I've come to his office on multiple occasions with a book full of questions. And he's gone through each and every one with me.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
We skipped Clomid as I had tried that with my OBGYN. He tried Letrozole first but I didn't respond. Then, 3 IUI+injectibles. Then ICSI + PGS + eSET. Postive pregnancy test after my first frozen embryo transfer
He started with the less invasive techniques first. Because of my PCOS, he recommended ICSI to help with fertilization and PGS to make sure we transferred the best embryo. He recommended eSET as he's had tremendous success with PGS and didn't want to risk multiples.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Glorimar Diaz)
Glorimar was a great nurse. Very knowledgeable and organized. Also explained procedures in very clear detail.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Mornings at the Center can be crowded, but it's a good reminded that you're not the only one going through this.
Everyone there is clearly very interested in helping you have a child. I never felt that one of the staff wasn't genuinely concerned with my situation, even those who weren't directly involved in my treatment.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I have a pretty flexible work schedule, so the monitoring appointments weren't too bad for me. Most were on a first come-first serve basis, but some were scheduled for specific times. Just depended on what needed to be monitored.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
It was expensive. Not because of the Center per se, but because of my insurance. They covered 50% of my IVF procedure, but I had to pay for PGS myself. I also had to pay for some of my meds myself because I reached my lifetime cap on fertility meds.
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10
10
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Poor Egg Quality, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
He's a quiet man with a singular focus--to help you have a baby. He's going to explain his steps, his procedures, his expectations, and his concerns. He's going to explain what you can realistically expect. But he's not going to be your shoulder to cry on. That doesn't mean that he's not compassionate. It's simply that his goal isn't to comfort you temporarily. It's to help you realize your dream of becoming a patient. So, if there are setbacks, don't expect him to dwell on them. He's going to keep pushing forward as long as you are still willing to.
Both a strength and a weakness--This place [CARS] is almost always packed. I know they've implemented new strategies to reduce the morning congestion, which do seem to be working. Everyone working here is really nice and clearly dedicated to helping you have a child. I never once felt like someone I interacted with didn't care about what I was going through...Glorimar was a great nurse. Very knowledgeable and organized. Returned my calls in a timely fashion and provided very clear instructions.
Age
28 - 29
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, South Asian, Black or African-American
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Marketer or PR
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Poor Egg Quality, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He's a quiet man with a singular focus--to help you have a baby. He's going to explain his steps, his procedures, his expectations, and his concerns. He's going to explain what you can realistically expect. But he's not going to be your shoulder to cry on. That doesn't mean that he's not compassionate. It's simply that his goal isn't to comfort you temporarily. It's to help you realize your dream of becoming a patient. So, if there are setbacks, don't expect him to dwell on them. He's going to keep pushing forward as long as you are still willing to.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Don't be put off by his reserved nature. He's already working on a plan.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Benadiva took the time to answer my questions. And I don't mean 1 or 2 questions...I mean 40. We sat in his office and went through every question I had--on multiple occasions. I really liked that his answers were straightforward, too. He never tried to sugarcoat things for me. He saw that I had a problem and he made it his business to fix it.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
We skipped Clomid as I had tried with my OBGYN. I started on Letrozole but didn't respond. We moved on to injectibles + IUI. After three failed IUIs, we moved on to ICSI+PGS+eSET. BFP after my first transfer.
The rationale was to try the less invasive techniques first. I have PCOS, and have had 3 miscarriages. Dr. B felt that there was a problem with my egg quality, so he recommended ICSI to help with fertilization and PGS to ensure that we transferred the best embryo. He's had tremendous success with PGS so he recommended eSET to avoid multiples/pregnancy complication.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Glorimar Diaz)
Glorimar was a great nurse. Very knowledgeable and organized. Returned my calls in a timely fashion and provided very clear instructions.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Both a strength and a weakness--This place is almost always packed. I know they've implemented new strategies to reduce the morning congestion,
which do seem to be working.
Everyone working here is really nice and clearly dedicated to helping you have a child. I never once felt like someone I interacted with didn't care about what I was going through.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I have a very flexible work situation, so the monitoring appointments weren't really an issue for me. Most were on a first come-first serve basis. Some were by appointment. It just depended on what needed to be monitored.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Expensive--but not because of Dr. Benadiva. It's just the nature of fertility treatments. My insurance stopped covering some of my meds so I had to order them online from overseas.
- Read less
10
10
Age
42 - 45
Treated
2013 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, 5 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Engmann is an amazingly kind and compassionate brilliant Doctor. He cares very deeply about his patients...We conceived our son under his care when I was 42 years old. Our son was diagnosed with cancer at 13 months old and passed away at 17 months old. We are presently trying to have another child and Dr. Engmann has been so compassionate and kind and gentle with us. My age is a huge factor at this point and Dr Engmann has been very understanding. Conversations have been difficult as we have had failed cycles. He wants to be hopeful but realistic at the same time...Any one would be lucky to have him. He is truly one of the best doctors I have ever met...
It's an excellent clinic [Uconn Ctr Adv Repro S - Hart]. The staff is amazing. Everyone cares deeply from the receptionist to the girls taking blood draws to every nurse and ultrasound technician...Amanda is an amazing nurse. So kind and compassionate and always takes time to talk to me and comfort me when needed...
Age
42 - 45
Treated
2013 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, 5 IVF
Diagnosis
Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Engmann is a very kind and brilliant dr. We conceived our son under his care when I was 42 years old. Our son was diagnosed with cancer at 13 months old and passed away at 17 months old. We are presently trying to have another child and Dr. Engmann has been so compassionate and kind and gentle with us. My age is a huge factor at this point and Dr Engmann has been very understand. Conversations have been difficult as we have had failed cycles. He wants to be hopeful but realistic at the same time.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Any one would be lucky to have him. He is truly one of the best doctors I have ever met.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Engmann is an amazingly kind and compassionate brilliant Doctor. He cares very deeply about his patients.
Describe the protocols Lawrence Engmann used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
We have used atagonist protocol, micro dose lupron. We did PGS testing and got 2 chromosomally normal embryos at 44 years of age but the transfer was unsuccessful. We have done 4 egg retrievals since losing our son to cancer to try to get chromosomally normal embryos with my own eggs. I produce a lot of eggs at 45 years old. We've retrieved 12 eggs in the 1st cycle, 26 in the 2nd, 24 in the 3rd and 30 in the 4th cycle.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Amanda Cislak)
Amanda is an amazing nurse. So kind and compassionate and always takes time to talk to me and comfort me when needed
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
It's an excellent clinic. The staff is amazing. Everyone cares deeply from the receptionist to the girls taking blood draws to every nurse and ultrasound technician
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
We've spent over $50,000 for 5 egg retrievals which led to 3 embryo transfers. This resulted in 1 full term baby.
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10
10
Age
29
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
10
10
While I didn't usually see Dr. DiLuigi directly, when I did see her she was also kind and completely up to date on our treatment plan...Dr. DiLuigi diagnosed me with PCOS at our initial consultation after giving me an ultrasound. We used injectable medication (Follistim) and a trigger shot (Ovidrel) for all of our cycles. The first cycles we did timed intercourse, and the other three included IUI. We were on the calendar to start IVF, but our final IUI was successful!
The support staff [at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services in Hartford] is all great to work with, and the locations are clean and as inviting as such a place can be. There are numerous doctors in the practice, so you will not always see your main doctor. While this can be seen as a drawback, it also means that monitoring goes more quickly as there are often multiple doctors and nurses working at a given time.
Age
29
Treated
2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Engineer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I selected Dr. DiLuigi because she was the only female doctor at the Center. She was always pleasant, compassionate, and honest about our treatment options. At first I was bothered by the fact that I didn't see her often (during one of our four cycles I didn't see her at all). When I did see her, however, she was completely aware of our treatment status, and this made me feel good about the fact that she was following our journey even when she didn't see us at appointments.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Don't expect to see her all the time. She is available for meetings and consultations, and you will see her occasionally for monitoring or procedures, but understand that you will often see her support staff or other clinicians.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
While I didn't usually see Dr. DiLuigi directly, when I did see her she was also kind and completely up to date on our treatment plan.
Describe the protocols Andrea DiLuigi used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
Dr. DiLuigi diagnosed me with PCOS at our initial consultation after giving me an ultrasound. We used injectable medication (Follistim) and a trigger shot (Ovidrel) for all of our cycles. The first cycles we did timed intercourse, and the other three included IUI. We were on the calendar to start IVF, but our final IUI was successful!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Marie Heslin)
Marie was amazing! She is the person who I saw most often at the clinic, and after four cycles I really felt like I got to know her and she me. She is compassionate, straightforward, and just a pleasure to be around. She made difficult appointments tolerable and was always available to answer questions. She ALWAYS returned phone calls, even if she couldn't get back to you until 6pm.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The Center has numerous locations. While I usually went to Hartford, I went to the Farmington location on weekends or occasionally during the week. The support staff is all great to work with, and the locations are clean and as inviting as such a place can be. There are numerous doctors in the practice, so you will not always see your main doctor. While this can be seen as a drawback, it also means that monitoring goes more quickly as there are often multiple doctors and nurses working at a given time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Our insurance covered the majority of our fertility care. The office offered different payment options for those without insurance, but I am not familiar with those.
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10
10
Age
36 - 37
Treated
2013 - 2014
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
10
10
Schmidt utilized visuals to help explain procedures, and had a very personable manner. At our initial visit and exams, he said "let's get you two on your way to having a baby!" in a way that felt believable (and ultimately proved to be)...Schmidt utilized visuals to help explain procedures, and had a very personable manner. At our initial visit and exams, he said "let's get you two on your way to having a baby!" in a way that felt believable (and ultimately proved to be)...A corny joke or two? This isn't a bad thing; it's good to be treated by a human.
Before the very detailed regime of fertility drugs, Marsha [nurse at UConn Ctr Adv Repro S - Hart] was great at keeping us organized. When news wasn't good (low numbers after implantation) Marsha said it wasn't great, but not impossible, and recommended we relax in the two days before our next blood test. Indeed we did have a late bloomer, that did keep multiplying (and is now a toddler). Marsha was the perfect mix of realistic but warm...
Age
36 - 37
Treated
2013 - 2014
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Schmidt utilized visuals to help explain procedures, and had a very personable manner. At our initial visit and exams, he said "let's get you two on your way to having a baby!" in a way that felt believable (and ultimately proved to be).
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
A corny joke or two? This isn't a bad thing; it's good to be treated by a human.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Schmidt had a warm, positive attitude in each visit and procedure.
Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
After diagnostics showed we had unexplained fertility, Dr. Schmidt preceded with treatment right away. We were surprised to start IVF right away, and expected to go through other treatments first, a la "see if this works first," but later were relieved that we did what we did. It was nice to feel like the Dr. was taking our case seriously.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Marsha)
Before the very detailed regime of fertility drugs, Marsha was great at keeping us organized. When news wasn't good (low numbers after implantation) Marsha said it wasn't great, but not impossible, and recommended we relax in the two days before our next blood test. Indeed we did have a late bloomer, that did keep multiplying (and is now a toddler). Marsha was the perfect mix of realistic but warm.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
This clinic provided us a full educational regime of procedure explanations, multiple diagnostic procedures, and online resources to help train us in medicine use (which shots are in skin, which are inter muscular). They were upfront in recommendations, and we chose to follow (inter muscular medicine verses vaginal suppositories; single egg implantation of day 5 hatches, not drinking through treatment, etc.). It all proved successful.
Cost is high, but insurance was happily accepted.
Lots of shots and vaginal ultrasounds, with partner welcome in most visits, including the day we saw her heartbeat for the first time.
Calls returned in a timely manner!
Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Insurance covered the majority of treatments (diagnosis, extraction and implantation, monitoring visits) except for embryo freezing.
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10
10
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2010 - 2012
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
10
[Dr. Claudio Benadiva was] Very attentive, compassionate, thorough. Honestly, I almost felt like he tried to not get our hopes up and was very realistic. At each internal ultrasound, he would say things like, "they aren't growing as fast as we would like", or "we many only have a couple viable, so we may need to do another cycle." On day of retrieval he got 12 eggs and 10 fertilized!
[UCONN is a] High volume practice. I was at first very overwhelmed by the number of people I would see in the waiting room, but they got you in and out. However, it felt very lonely in the waiting room. We all knew we were there for the same reason, but no one talked or looked up from their magazine. Wish more opportunity was provided to network with others while going through the process.
Age
35 - 37
Treated
2010 - 2012
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
10
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Very attentive, compassionate, thorough. Honestly, I almost felt like he tried to not get our hopes up and was very realistic. At each internal ultrasound, he would say things like, "they aren't growing as fast as we would like", or "we many only have a couple viable, so we may need to do another cycle." On day of retrieval he got 12 eggs and 10 fertilized!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. B knows what he is doing! Our first meeting with him, we didn't get the warm and fuzzies, but he was honest!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Very attentive, took extra time with me. When I saw another doctor in the same practice for one visit, i was very upset by the way I was handled. Talked to Dr. B nurse and she got Dr. B right away and he told me to ask to see him every time.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
I can't remember the names of the drugs we used, but I do remember that after receiving a positive pregnancy test, he had me stay on progesterone for 16 weeks as a precaution.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Debbie Raboin)
Nurse Debbie was amazing! As well as all the other staff we came in contact with. They were in constant contact and returned calls on the same business day.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
High volume practice. I was at first very overwhelmed by the number of people I would see in the waiting room, but they got you in and out. However, it felt very lonely in the waiting room. We all knew we were there for the same reason, but no one talked or looked up from their magazine. Wish more opportunity was provided to network with others while going through the process.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
It was almost all covered by my insurance so I can't be sure. I know one cycle of medication cost $8,000 and I paid $70 in copays.
Describe Claudio Benadiva's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
It was explained to us and they showed us the microscope pictures that all embroys were of excellent quality. They let my husband and I decide if we wanted to transfer 1 or 2. Two being the best chance to get pregnant but knowing the risk that we could have twins. We had twins!
- Read less
10
10
Age
30
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
Dr. Benadiva was very informative and let my.husband and I know each step he wanted to take in our treatment plan. He and his staff were always able to answer all of questions and concerns at all times...We started with test on my husband and then tested me. We started started with making sure my tubes were open and then he started with the least invasive procedure IUI. We did this for about 3 cycles with the injections at home.
[UConn] was very clean and always had different events going on like support groups, yoga, heath and wellness nights. Theybalso always had coffee that was a major.plus for my husband...Glory was always on point and very informative. She always called back and answered all my questions without hesitation...He [Dr. Benadiva] and his staff were always able to answer all of questions and concerns at all times.
Age
30
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Benadiva was very informative and let my.husband and I know each step he wanted to take in our treatment plan. He and his staff were always able to answer all of questions and concerns at all times.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He is very well educated and knows his stuff.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He was very down to the point and kept us well informed about each step of the process.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
We started with test on my husband and then tested me. We started started with making sure my tubes were open and then he started with the least invasive procedure IUI. We did this for about 3 cycles with the injections at home. 3rd time was the charm.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: GLORY)
Glory was always on point and very informative. She always called back and answered all my questions without hesitation. Also another person have met a few times but i forget her name today (6/23/16) she was wearing blue scrubs with chanel earings really made me feel great. Once I was done with my ultrasound she came back in and gave me the biggest hug and congratulated me. Since my first ultrasound was ify. You could tell she was so excitied for my.husband and I and that she really cared about what was going on. Thank you so much for that.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Ot was very clean and always had different events going on like support groups, yoga, heath and wellness nights. Theybalso always had coffee that was a major.plus for my husband.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
My insurance covered
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10
10
Age
33 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
6 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Poor Egg Quality
10
10
Dr Engmann was very compassionate and respectful and was ready to listen to our opinion. And he was very honest about what he thinks . He sometimes call me personally if he needs to give us information about treatment....He is going to tell you as think and not sugar coat his words to make you feel better. He will be frank with you.... My ivf protocol was microdose flare . Because I am a poor responder.it consist of lupron , Gonal F and Menopur.
CARS is a nice and clean place to be. They are very organized and you have a whole doctor or a nurse to yourself. And they many offices in Connecticut so you don’t have to be on waiting list for long....I did six IUI and each cost $750.00 and the IVF $11000 and medication cost $8000... Amanda [nurse] had me come to the office and we sat down and she explained all I needed to know about my injections and how to administer them
Age
33 - 37
Treated
2015 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Black or African-American
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Operations
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
6 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Poor Egg Quality
10
10
How was your experience with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr Engmann was very compassionate and respectful and was ready to listen to our opinion. And he was very honest about what he thinks . He sometimes call me personally if he needs to give us information about treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He is going to tell you as think and not sugar coat his words to make you feel better. He will be frank with you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I was treated like a family
Describe the protocols Lawrence Engmann used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
My ivf protocol was microdose flare . Because I am a poor responder.it consist of lupron , Gonal F and Menopur. After a whole week of injections my blood work was the same and my cycle was cancelled. I’m yet to start any cycle.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Amanda Seslac)
Amanda had me come to the office and we sat down and she explained all I needed to know about my injections and how to administer them
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
CARS is a nice and clean place to be. They are very organized and you have a whole doctor or a nurse to yourself. And they many offices in Connecticut so you don’t have to be on waiting list for long.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I did six IUI and each cost $750.00 and the IVF $11000 and medication cost $8000
Describe Lawrence Engmann's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Yes, he recommended a single embryo transfer
- Read less
10
10
Age
38
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
Dr. Diluigi covered all the bases and was very good about easing my anxieties with my current pregnancy (since I had so many losses.) She really examined every possible cause for my recurrent losses and then came up with a plan that so far has worked.... Dr. Diluigi always took the time to speak with me about all my options and was very thorough in investigating everything possible to explain why I kept losing pregnancies. She also took the time to listen to me and I really felt she cared. My first consultation lasted about an hour.
Everything [UCONN] was great— nurses, office staff, Dr. Diluigi, finance office, phlebotomists were all amazing. A great experience! They do everything they can to accommodate you and answer any and all questions you might have....Chelsea was also amazing. Always got back to me same day and I had many questions so there were many phone calls. In the beginning, when I was more filled with worry, she was very reassuring and agreed to bloodwork to ease my worries.
Age
38
Treated
2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Diluigi covered all the bases and was very good about easing my anxieties with my current pregnancy (since I had so many losses.) She really examined every possible cause for my recurrent losses and then came up with a plan that so far has worked.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! She is very good about answering questions and getting more information or results if you request it.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Diluigi always took the time to speak with me about all my options and was very thorough in investigating everything possible to explain why I kept losing pregnancies. She also took the time to listen to me and I really felt she cared. My first consultation lasted about an hour.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Chelsea)
Chelsea was also amazing. Always got back to me same day and I had many questions so there were many phone calls. In the beginning, when I was more filled with worry, she was very reassuring and agreed to bloodwork to ease my worries. She was awesome!
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Everything was great— nurses, office staff, Dr. Diluigi, finance office, phlebotomists were all amazing. A great experience! They do everything they can to accommodate you and answer any and all questions you might have.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Insurance covered my fees
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10
10
Age
23
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Endometriosis, Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Luciano is extremely kind, compassionate, and caring. He asked me where I live, what I do, and all about my husband. Only after did he delve into the details of my fertility.... I found Dr. Luciano to be excellent. He has a wonderful bedside manner which I appreciate immensely. He is very straightforward about results and what to expect but gives over the information extremely kindly as well. He is willing to try anything but has our best interests at heart and makes sure that we're making thought out decisions.
The facility [UCONN] is beautiful and very modern. You have to pay for parking which could be a nuisance but isn't the biggest deal. The wait times are a bit on the longer time but very worth it. The nurses at the front desk are not the most organized and things could take time but they get it done.... The nursing staff is very nice. I found them to be a bit disorganized but I was impressed with their facility and Dr Luciano which made up for that.
Age
23
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Ashkenazi Jewish
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Endometriosis, Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with Anthony Luciano at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I found Dr. Luciano to be excellent. He has a wonderful bedside manner which I appreciate immensely. He is very straightforward about results and what to expect but gives over the information extremely kindly as well. He is willing to try anything but has our best interests at heart and makes sure that we're making thought out decisions. He understands the struggle of infertility and it is evident in the way he treats us. It makes the struggle that much more tolerable.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Anthony Luciano at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Come in knowing you'll have long wait times but receive the very best care possible.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Anthony Luciano at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Luciano is extremely kind, compassionate, and caring. He asked me where I live, what I do, and all about my husband. Only after did he delve into the details of my fertility.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nursing staff is very nice. I found them to be a bit disorganized but I was impressed with their facility and Dr Luciano which made up for that.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The facility is beautiful and very modern. You have to pay for parking which could be a nuisance but isn't the biggest deal. The wait times are a bit on the longer time but very worth it. The nurses at the front desk are not the most organized and things could take time but they get it done.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Anthony Luciano at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Dr. Luciano took our insurance which was a tremendous relief.
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8
9
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IVF, Surrogacy
Diagnosis
Other
8
9
I rarely saw him [Dr. Claudio Benadiva] and most of my communication was with his nurse Kathy. He seems knowledgeable and was friendly. The doctors who did my retrieval’s were nice as well. The nurses made he difference though.... He was airing on the side of conscious with the levels for my meds since I have previously conceived and carried a child to term. Although I would have liked to try and higher dose to yield more eggs since our insurance was changing and IVf wasn’t goinf to be covered. I only ended up with two mosaic embryos that round. Second round was a little more aggressive and we did end up with two normal embryos.
[UConn Medical's] Strengths: large clinic, easy to get in and out of Weakness: cost for self pay, pressure usbto use an agency for surrogate despite our wanting to go independent due to cost and because we have found our own carrier (hopefully)... The nurse was fantastic. Always patience, answered questions and was present.... Cycle with meds and patial insurance was about 5k, embryos testing 1,500 (x2)
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IVF, Surrogacy
Diagnosis
Other
8
9
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I rarely saw him and most of my communication was with his nurse Kathy. He seems knowledgeable and was friendly. The doctors who did my retrieval’s were nice as well. The nurses made he difference though.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Be patience.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
They would call and explain things to me. The nurse was patience.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
He was airing on the side of conscious with the levels for my meds since I have previously conceived and carried a child to term. Although I would have liked to try and higher dose to yield more eggs since our insurance was changing and IVf wasn’t goinf to be covered. I only ended up with two mosaic embryos that round. Second round was a little more aggressive and we did end up with two normal embryos. We are still waiting for a carrier to work out for transfer.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Kathy Varkal. )
The nurse was fantastic. Always patience, answered questions and was present.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Strengths: large clinic, easy to get in and out of
Weakness: cost for self pay, pressure usbto use an agency for surrogate despite our wanting to go independent due to cost and because we have found our own carrier (hopefully)
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
It was quick for the most part.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Cycle with meds and patial insurance was about 5k, embryos testing 1,500 (x2)
Describe Claudio Benadiva's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
No comments since we haven’t made it that far yet.
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10
10
Age
43 - 44
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
—
10
10
He [Dr. Claudio Benadiva] was 100% concerned with my age and the time frame I had. He also spoke very realistically regarding my chances of success. I completely respected this candid conversation. No promises, just words of advice and explicit directions to follow regarding the procedures.
The staff [at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] always greeted me as though they remembered me, (even if they didn't) and I was always treated with complete respect..... The doctor increased my thyroid medication and it wasn't until 4 weeks later when I saw the doctor for ultrasound did he realize that they never called in my dosage.... I feel as though they all treated me as though I as the only one there trying to get pregnant. Meaning I felt important each visit.
Age
43 - 44
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
—
10
10
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He was 100% concerned with my age and the time frame I had. He also spoke very realistically regarding my chances of success. I completely respected this candid conversation. No promises, just words of advice and explicit directions to follow regarding the procedures.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
To do exactly what he says and don't waist time. If it's something you want, follow the plan.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
The staff always greeted me as though they remembered me, (even if they didn't) and I was always treated with complete respect.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
I first saw Dr. B in the summer of 2016. I ended up getting pregnant on my own soon after the appointment and miscarriage a couple months later. Due to depression from this, I didn't call Dr. B again until Jan. 2017. He understood, BUT explained to me that I had NO time to waist seeing I was 43 at the time. He instantly prescribed me Clomid for when I started ovulating and told me to schedule an IUI as soon as the time came which was in Feb 2017.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Amazing, kind, informative.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I feel as though they all treated me as though I as the only one there trying to get pregnant. Meaning I felt important each visit.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
I have a big insurance deductible so I paid at least 2500k out of pocket.
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
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7
9
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
7
9
I felt like a number [with Dr. Benadiva] . Office visits while few and far between felt rushed. Instead of trying to tweak something he went right to IVF. After HSG no other tests to find out why were preformed...I felt he gave more care and consideration to the students with him, than to me and my husband. The patients!...After 2 failed IUI's I asked about either changing med or at least increasing the meds. Nothing was changed. Then he suggested IVF because my husband sperm analysis kept coming in with great numbers
Clinic [Center for Advanced Reproductive Services: UCONN Medical] itself is wonderful...Glori [nurse] is the best. She makes him a good doctor...First IUI he [Dr. Benadiva] went with Clomid because I'd used it with my OB and that resulted in a pregnancy(subsequent loss). After 2 failed IUI's I asked about either changing med or at least increasing the meds. Nothing was changed. Then he suggested IVF because my husband sperm analysis kept coming in with great numbers.
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2015 - 2016
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other, Prefer not to answer
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
7
9
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I felt he gave more care and consideration to the students with him, than to me and my husband. The patients! I'm not shy, I know how students learn but when my legs are in stirrups I'd like to be spoken to, not spoken at.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Ask him to slow down. Either when speaking or in treatments.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I'm sure he's great and has done well with patients, but I felt like a number. Office visits while few and far between felt rushed. Instead of trying to tweak something he went right to IVF. After HSG no other tests to find out why were preformed.
Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
First IUI he went with Clomid because I'd used it with my OB and that resulted in a pregnancy(subsequent loss). After 2 failed IUI's I asked about either changing med or at least increasing the meds. Nothing was changed. Then he suggested IVF because my husband sperm analysis kept coming in with great numbers. Made me feel like it's all my fault. Probably true, didn't need my doctor to insinuate that.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Glorimar Diaz)
Glori is the best. She makes him a good doctor.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Clinic itself is wonderful.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Paid specialist co-pay for appts. My insurance pharmacy wouldn't approve IVF meds. My insurance did cover clomid.
Describe Claudio Benadiva's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
He explained why he recommends single embryo transfers and I agree.
What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
- Provided conflicting information
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10
10
Age
37 - 42
Treated
2007 - 2012
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
IUI, 4 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
Dr. Nulsen always made us feel that we mattered and he was here to help us achieve our goal. Made sure we understood what was expected. We didnt feel like a number of statistic. He knew us by name and that made us feel like he thought of us beyond being a patient.... He suggested only 2 embryo transfer each time. And ICSI was the choice of treatment.... He cares and will make you feel like a person and not a statistic.
They [Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] will treat you with so much compassion during this difficult process. From the doctor to the phlebotomist and receptionist all were amazing. Highly recommend staff. Some may have moved on but I'm sure the quality of care is still intact.... It was very expensive. It was very difficult for us to continue our of pocket once the age of 40. My insurance in my state would not cover. I have 2 embryos still in storage in hope to use.
Age
37 - 42
Treated
2007 - 2012
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Black or African-American
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IUI, 4 IVF
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Nulsen always made us feel that we mattered and he was here to help us achieve our goal. Made sure we understood what was expected. We didnt feel like a number of statistic. He knew us by name and that made us feel like he thought of us beyond being a patient.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
He cares and will make you feel like a person and not a statistic.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I felt like I was treated like a human. The staff was wonderful. Some of the best professionals I've come across during my 20 plus years of trying to conceive. My only heart break was not concerning.
Describe the protocols John Nulsen used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
I dont remember this information.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Jane Tyler)
Amazing! Exceptional! Loving! Caring! God send!
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
They will treat you with so much compassion during this difficult process. From the doctor to the phlebotomist and receptionist all were amazing. Highly recommend staff. Some may have moved on but I'm sure the quality of care is still intact.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nulsen at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
It was very expensive. It was very difficult for us to continue our of pocket once the age of 40. My insurance in my state would not cover. I have 2 embryos still in storage in hope to use. I now have insurance that will cover the process even after 40 years old. But will not cover new cycle.
Describe John Nulsen's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
He suggested only 2 embryo transfer each time. And ICSI was the choice of treatment.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
9
9
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
6 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Other
9
9
Dr Schmidt was the first doctor I felt like really listened to me. He took the time to hear my story, diagnose and the explain. He’s optimistic and comforting and assured me that he would work with us to get us pregnant.... I have no complaints about Dr Schmidt. He made me feel at ease, always answered all my questions and took time with my husband and I. His nurses were also great and understanding. The Center is a great place of support and everyone there is willing to work with your situation to get the outcome you’re looking for.
The Center [Center for Advanced Reproductive Services- UCONN] is great and very supportive. Weakness is that they text and email you all the time asking you to share them on social media. Our fertility journey is private, so we don’t plan to do that.... His nurses were also great and understanding. The Center is a great place of support and everyone there is willing to work with your situation to get the outcome you’re looking for.
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Marketer or PR
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
6 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Other
9
9
How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
I have no complaints about Dr Schmidt. He made me feel at ease, always answered all my questions and took time with my husband and I. His nurses were also great and understanding. The Center is a great place of support and everyone there is willing to work with your situation to get the outcome you’re looking for.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Ask questions and be detailed. He’s a doctor who is willing to take tome with you to fully explain everything so take him up on that.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr Schmidt was the first doctor I felt like really listened to me. He took the time to hear my story, diagnose and the explain. He’s optimistic and comforting and assured me that he would work with us to get us pregnant.
Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical) and their degree of success.
I’m at the start of my treatment and we’ve taken a break to save up for a cycle.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
He nurses were great and very supportive
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
The Center is great and very supportive. Weakness is that they text and email you all the time asking you to share them on social media. Our fertility journey is private, so we don’t plan to do that.
Describe David Schmidt's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Dr Schmidt told us they try not to do multiple embryo transfers
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10
10
Age
26 - 28
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing, 1 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage
10
10
Dr. Benadiva is wonderful! He is responsible for 4 successful IVF cycles in my family alone. I have had one failed IVF cycle, but look forward to our second with Dr. Benadica as he has put together a revised plan that looks to be promising!...Dr. Benadiva is very thorough in his explanations and takes the time to make sure you understand the IVF process... Doctors and nurses [at UCONN] are helpful and make sure you understand all procedures and next steps before you leave.
Wonderful, helpful clinic [Uconn Ctr Adv Repro S ]. Everything runs smoothly and you never feel like just another patient! Doctors and nurses are helpful and make sure you understand all procedures and next steps before you leave. Lab runs very efficiently as well!...Deb is a wonderful asset to the team and really makes the patient feel comfortable and always available...Monitoring and labs had flexible windows and run very smoothly
Age
26 - 28
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Business Executive
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing, 1 Embryo Freezing
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage
10
10
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Benadiva is wonderful! He is responsible for 4 successful IVF cycles in my family alone. I have had one failed IVF cycle, but look forward to our second with Dr. Benadica as he has put together a revised plan that looks to be promising!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
None!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Dr. Benadiva is very thorough in his explanations and takes the time to make sure you understand the IVF process.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical). (Assigned nurse: Deb)
Deb is a wonderful asset to the team and really makes the patient feel comfortable and always available.
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Wonderful, helpful clinic. Everything runs smoothly and you never feel like just another patient! Doctors and nurses are helpful and make sure you understand all procedures and next steps before you leave. Lab runs very efficiently as well!
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Monitoring and labs had flexible windows and run very smoothly
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10
10
Age
30 - 32
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
10
[Dr. Claudio Benadiva is] Straightforward - Detailed - Strategic My experience as great given that I was not certain I would able to have children with my husband due to his issues. Given his advanced age, Dr. Benadiva worked through solutions that helped us get pregnant twice, for which we will always be grateful.
[UConn Center for Advanced Reproductive Sciences] Organized and detailed. Clearly all staff knew what they were doing and made it easy to go to one place for all needs. Given that fertility treatments can be time consuming its great to only have to go to one location which is efficiently run to get individuals out and onto their day in a timely manner as many of us work.
Age
30 - 32
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Business Executive
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
10
How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
- Straightforward
- Detailed
- Strategic
My experience as great given that I was not certain I would able to have children with my husband due to his issues. Given his advanced age, Dr. Benadiva worked through solutions that helped us get pregnant twice, for which we will always be grateful.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)?
Listen
Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Caring
Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Organized and detailed. Clearly all staff knew what they were doing and made it easy to go to one place for all needs. Given that fertility treatments can be time consuming its great to only have to go to one location which is efficiently run to get individuals out and onto their day in a timely manner as many of us work.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Efficient well oiled machine.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical).
Largely covered by insurance. Out of pocket for 2nd fresh cycle was ~$11K given we did not meet income requirements for reduced costs. FET was ~$5K using HD plan.
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