Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr. Abbasi cares deeply about her patients. She is incredibly accessible via email, even on weekends. After each of my egg retrievals (3), she called me daily to not only check on my physical well-being but also to give me embryo updates. She performed every single one of my monitoring ultrasounds, egg retrievals, transfers and early pregnancy ultrasounds. I also appreciate her ability to tell me the truth and never sugar coat important information I need to hear. I trust her deeply!

While individual nurses at CFA are lovely, overall as a team they are disorganized, difficult to deal with and can be impersonal. Patients need to have a high degree of self-advocacy skill and overall knowledge of IVF procedures to navigate this element of the CFA experience. Dr. Abbasi is amazing and would be better served with a more organized and committed team.

How was your experience with Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

I saw Dr. Abbasi originally as a patient being treated for PCOS/anovulation. After over a year of negative tests and treatments including timed intercourse with injections and IUIs, we moved onto IVF with PGS tested embryos. When my first FET failed, Dr. Abbasi decided to run more tests to figure out why I was having such a lack of success at my age (28) with good egg quality. Her testing determined that I had many immunological and blood-clotting factors which were making it impossible for my embryos to implant. Once we began treatment for these issues I was able to get pregnant and carry to term (and am currently pregnant again after repeating my successful protocol). I am so thankful that Dr. Abbasi took quick action to make changes and figure out what my issues were. She didn't just suggest repeating the same failing strategy over and over. She is blunt and honest and I trust her intimately to tell me what I need to hear to be successful. I will always be thankful to her for being our miracle worker. I have also never heard of another doctor, anywhere, who is as hands-on as her. She performs all monitoring ultrasounds, retrievals, transfers and early pregnancy ultrasounds for her patients. She is incredibly responsive to email and has a dry sense of humor that I love!

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Do not be afraid to contact her directly to get the information you need. Ask her as many questions as you need to in order to be prepared for your cycle. Do not expect her to small talk often or give you a sugar-coated consult. Others might say that she is "cold" but if you get to know her you will find that she cares deeply for her patients and shows it through her hands-on care and not her smalltalk. There are not many doctors that call patients daily after retrieval and put patient health and safety above all else (including doing all she can to eliminate chances for OHSS).

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Describe the protocols Rafat Abbasi used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

My first retrieval protocol was antagonist with ICSI, lupron trigger, and FET. My 2 successful cycles involved the lupron down-regulation protocol with HCG trigger, ICSI and fresh transfers. For my 2 successful transfers I was also on an immune protocol which involved IVIG, Prednisone, neupogen and lovenox. I switched to the fresh transfer approach after having difficulty during my first cycle getting my lining thick enough for FET. My lining was better during my fresh cycles. My immune testing came after my PGS FET failed.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

CFA is small and personal. You will see your doctor often and they will likely do all of your major procedures. They are incredibly accessible via email and will take a variety of "hard" patients that other clinics might deny to keep their stats higher. Their nursing and billing departments, as well as their overall competence as a medical office, can be infuriating and hard to navigate. But the quality of care from Dr. Abbasi made it worth it to me (just need to self-advocate a lot!!)

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia Fertility Associates.

7:30 is always when monitoring was supposed to begin, but really it begins when the nurses show up. As a teacher who had to be at work early, I'd have to get there even earlier to get to be first in line so I could get out of the door fast. However, in my most recent cycle Dr. Abbasi did all of my montioring herself and I always appreciated this level of care!

Describe the costs associated with your care under Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates.

My insurance covered treatment and meds, but the freezing/testing part of any cycle was around $5400 (this was the part my insurance wouldn't cover) and embryo testing itself could be thousands more depending on the number of embryos to be tested. The immunological treatment I did for my successful cycles was around $30,000 per cycle.

Describe Rafat Abbasi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Dr. Abbasi is open to mutliple embryo transfer but definitely prefers to do a single embryo transfer with a PGS tested embryo. She does not believe that multiple embryos lead to a higher chance of success (just a higher chance of having multiples).

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost paperwork
Lost appointments
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The nurses, while nice, are disorganized and there is no apparent system to manage patients or provide information. It boggles my mind why patients are not given one main nurse to work with (each day you might hear from a different nurse and information gets lost). I have no idea why they cannot use an online portal or online records (back when they had multiple offices they had to physically move files from one office to another and my records were misplaced many times). I had to double check all my medication and treatment calendar items to check for inaccuracies. Their front desk and nurses can also be impossible to reach via phone

Doctor

Rafat Abbasi

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Arlington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Rafat Abbasi Columbia Fertility Associates

2016, Unknown Success

Age 39

1 IUI

Anovulation

Male Factor

Native American

Income $100K - $199K

2nd of 2 Docs

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Not sure

Review of

Abbaa Sarhan Columbia Fertility Associates

The doctor [Dr. Abbaa Sarhan] tries to do all the monitoring appointments herself. Prepare a list of questions when you go in each time so you can get your answers. It's a quick visit and she will try to head out without spending too much time with you. However, if you know what you want to ask, she is very helpful and does answer thoroughly...Dr. Sarhan remembers me each time I see her and remembers my treatment plan. She is personable and friendly and continues to give me hope to achieve my goal.

I did have some issue with the office/front desk staff in the beginning when getting started; the staff did not know I had already had an insurance check and was ok to do bloodwork and sono later in my cycle. I was away on vacation when I suddenly got my period. They shut be down without speaking with the doctor because they are trained that insurance is the guiding force behind fertility treatments. I spoke to several people, none of which bothered the check my records. It was Dr. Sarhan who told me to ignore the office staff and just come in for my first check.

How was your experience with Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sarhan has been kept me hopeful that I can have a child. When another fertility doctor would not treat me due to my weight, Dr. Sarhan was agreeable to treatment as long as I knew the risks. She has not stopped when we have come across issues and has made sure I was comfortable with every step. I do wish I could spend a bit more time with her, but I know she is a busy doctor with many patients. That would be my only criticism.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

The doctor tries to do all the monitoring appointments herself. Prepare a list of questions when you go in each time so you can get your answers. It's a quick visit and she will try to head out with out spending too much time with you. However, if you know what you want to ask, she is very helpful and does answer thoroughly.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sarhan remembers me each time I see her and remembers my treatment plan. She is personable and friendly and continues to give me hope to achieve my goal.

Describe the protocols Abbaa Sarhan used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

I started out doing 100mg of clomid. When I did not produce follicles we upped my clomid to 150. Still nothing. We then moved on to Gonal-f 150 injections. I was still producing slowly, so we upped it to 225. I then took 250 ovidrel injection to trigger with iui roughly 36 hours later.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia Fertility Associates. (Assigned nurse: Kalandria)

The nursing staff at Columbia Fertility are great. They have been very helpful and thorough.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates.

All of my medications were out of pocket. I paid a co-pay for each monitoring appointment. My iui was 100% covered by insurance.

Doctor

Abbaa Sarhan

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Arlington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Abbaa Sarhan Columbia Fertility Associates

2013 - 2015, Successful

Age 35 - 37

3 IUI

2 IVF

Anovulation

Male Factor

PCOS

Ashkenazi Jewish

2nd of 2 Docs

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Successful

Review of

Abbaa Sarhan Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr. Sarhan seemed very knowledgeable and up-to-date on all the scientific debates relative to the field of infertility...I saw her during every visit that required more than just taking blood, so she got to know me pretty well.... I think she might have wanted to perform more aggressive treatments, but she knew that I was hesitant, and never pressured me. She never sugar-coated anything, but she handled all bad news with respect and compassion.

The doctor was great, but the clinic [Columbia Fertility Associates] was pretty bad. The people working at the desk and the finance person were not friendly. They had a lot of problems doing things like printing receipts and having a functioning computer system. Sometimes I couldn't pay for my visit because the system was down. I was annoyed when I began discussing IVF and was referred to the "financial advisor." She just gave me a sheet telling me how much it would all cost and said I had to pay it all up front. That didn't seem like advising. Then I could only pay by credit card, not check. That meant I had to max out two separate credit cards. I would like to have had more options. On the plus side, scheduling was easy, and I almost never had to wait. I really appreciated that since I was there 1-3 times per week for three years!

How was your experience with Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sarhan seemed very knowledgeable and up-to-date on all the scientific debates relative to the field of infertility. Therefore, I completely trusted her to recommend the right things and to know all the potentials for success and failure. I saw her during every visit that required more than just taking blood, so she got to know me pretty well. We always talked about me during the visits which made me feel that she cared about me as a person, not just as a patient. She also listened to me and reassured me at every step. I think she might have wanted to perform more aggressive treatments, but she knew that I was hesitant, and never pressured me. She never sugar-coated anything, but she handled all bad news with respect and compassion. She handled good news in a way that let me know she actually cared about me as a person. She was clearly skilled in her performance of all medical procedures, so again, I trusted her completely.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Don't be afraid to ask for what you need. If you have any questions at all, just email her or call her office. It can take up to a day or two to receive an answer, but she will answer, and she will not be (or at least seem) annoyed that you asked.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sarhan was warm and treated me with respect. She never talked down to me or made me feel bad about my decisions or my diagnosis. She genuinely seemed to care about the success of my treatments. She also took the time to explain everything to me in detail and understood the kind of treatment I desired.

Describe the protocols Abbaa Sarhan used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

It has been a couple of years, so I don't remember all the details, but I can say that we started out conservatively, using Letrozole for stimulation. I had had adverse reactions to Clomid with a former provider, so we started with Letrozole. On my third cycle, I had a chemical pregancy. We tried for another 3 cycles and I achieved pregnancy, but I miscarried at about 6 weeks. After that, Dr. Sarhan thought we should become more proactive, so we did a few rounds of IUI, still with Letrozole since that was providing enough eggs. After three rounds of that with no success, she again recommended we become more aggressive. We did the first round of IVF with Bravelle and Menopur. That was a long (12 days maybe) and not very successful cycle. We did a trigger shot and then the retrieval. On that cycle, we only got 7 embryos, and only 2 made it to become day 5 blastocysts. Dr. Sarhan said neither looked great, but she transferred them anyway. The cycle did not result in pregnancy. For the next cycle, she changed the drugs to Follistim and Menopur. This was more of a "textbook" cycle, resulting in 12 embryos, 7 of which made it to day 5. Two were transferred, resulting in my mono-di pregnancy which resulted in 2 live births. The other 5 were frozen.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The nursing staff went through a lot of changes while I was there. The first nurse I had did not seem compassionate or warm at all, but when I miscarried, she was wonderful and sat with me for a long time. When she left, I didn't really get to know anyone else as they were each only there for a few months. Some did a great job drawing blood, while others left huge bruises every time.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

The doctor was great, but the clinic was pretty bad. The people working at the desk and the finance person were not friendly. They had a lot of problems doing things like printing receipts and having a functioning computer system. Sometimes I couldn't pay for my visit because the system was down. I was annoyed when I began discussing IVF and was referred to the "financial advisor." She just gave me a sheet telling me how much it would all cost and said I had to pay it all up front. That didn't seem like advising. Then I could only pay by credit card, not check. That meant I had to max out two separate credit cards. I would like to have had more options. On the plus side, scheduling was easy, and I almost never had to wait. I really appreciated that since I was there 1-3 times per week for three years!

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The monitoring hours were always in the morning, which worked out fine for me. I was lucky because I was a full time student with a flexible schedule. There were sometimes a lot of people in the waiting room, but I almost never waited more than about 15 minutes. There were probably a handful of times over three years where I had to wait more like 45-60 minutes.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates.

My health insurance covered fertility medications and monitoring until I started doing IUI. The IUI procedures cost $1500 each. The IVF procedures cost around $20,000 each plus the cost of medications. I can't remember exactly how much those cost, but it was several thousand more dollars.

Describe Abbaa Sarhan's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia Fertility Associates.

She didn't really give me the choice for single or multiple embryo transfer because of the quality of the embryos, my age, and my previous lack of success. For both IVF cycles, she transferred two embryos.

Doctor

Abbaa Sarhan

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Arlington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Abbaa Sarhan Columbia Fertility Associates

2010 - 2011, Successful

Age 34 - 35

3 IUI

Donor Sperm

Other

European

Income $200K - $499K

Lawyer

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Rafat Abbasi Columbia Fertility Associates

She [Dr. Abbasi] was patient with my questions and honest about my chances. She agreed that IUI made sense first (given my age and medical history) and explained that after 6 cycles, she would recommend other options. ("cross that bridge when we come to it") When I got pregnant with twins (I'm a single mom), she was amazing candid about explaining how selective reduction would work--although I did not decide to go that route in the end...She was upfront and honest. I found her to be warm, but honestly I'm fine with more medical facts and less bedside manner.

They [Columbia - VA] have a number of locations which is good and they have a central location that is open on the weekends if you need it. They seemed well run. The insurance person was amazing. She knew more about my coverage than the people on the help line at the insurance company....I paid for the sperm and I paid for the defrosting and prep of the sperm. I think that the sperm was about $750 a vial and the prep was $250. My insurance covered everything else....[Nurses] were fine. Professional and organized. The clinic seemed to run on time...

How was your experience with Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

She was upfront and honest. I found her to be warm, but honestly I'm fine with more medical facts and less bedside manner. She was super cool with me being single. It really never came up after I explained why I was there in the beginning.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

She has a piecemeal approach--don't think about things too far down the road if you don't need to. Don't do tests that you don't need to. I really liked that.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

She was patient with my questions and honest about my chances. She agreed that IUI made sense first (given my age and medical history) and explained that after 6 cycles, she would recommend other options. ("cross that bridge when we come to it") When I got pregnant with twins (I'm a single mom), she was amazing candid about explaining how selective reduction would work--although I did not decide to go that route in the end. No judgment at all about any of it.

Describe the protocols Rafat Abbasi used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

We tried two cycles without any clomid or injections. (My choice.) Then we tried one cycle with clomid and an injection. She was supportive of my decision to try and do it naturally, but was also supportive when I changed my mind.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

As I recall they were fine. Professional and organized. The clinic seemed to run on time.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

They have a number of locations which is good and they have a central location that is open on the weekends if you need it. They seemed well run. The insurance person was amazing. She knew more about my coverage than the people on the help line at the insurance company. I was shocked at how much of my treatments were covered by my insurance.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates.

I paid for the sperm and I paid for the defrosting and prep of the sperm. I think that the sperm was about $750 a vial and the prep was $250. My insurance covered everything else.

Doctor

Rafat Abbasi

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Arlington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Rafat Abbasi Columbia Fertility Associates

2019, Unsuccessful

Age 40

2 IUI

Unexplained

European

Income $200K - $499K

Only Doc Seen

Doesn't Recommend

Unsuccessful

Review of

Abbaa Sarhan Columbia Fertility Associates

She [Dr. Abbaa Sarhan] spoke quickly and assumed we understood the process even though we were very new in our infertility journey...Our second IUI was triggered late with low estrogen for the existing follicles, had hcg in my system from a previous cycle, follicle on right was overcooked and left were not ready. We didn't receive calls when promised to receive pregnancy results...We didn't feel we had enough information to make informed decisions.

Since we were new in our fertility journey, we were in a vulnerable state. Our second IUI [at Columbia Fertility Associates] was triggered late with low estrogen for the existing follicles, had hcg in my system from a previous cycle, follicle on right was overcooked and left were not ready. We didn't receive calls when promised to receive pregnancy results and had to wait another 24 hours to receive results. We didn't have the information to get the HCG shot when we needed it for the trigger. We didn't feel we had enough information to make informed decisions.

How was your experience with Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

We had two IUI's and the nurse said she would facilitate the insemination and both times, it was another doctor who I've never met. Since we were new in our fertility journey, we were in a vulnerable state. Our second IUI was triggered late with low estrogen for the existing follicles, had hcg in my system from a previous cycle, follicle on right was overcooked and left were not ready. We didn't receive calls when promised to receive pregnancy results and had to wait another 24 hours to receive results. We didn't have the information to get the HCG shot when we needed it for the trigger. We didn't feel we had enough information to make informed decisions.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

She does mean well, however, the practices of this clinic are not acceptable. I would recommend to go to another clinic.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

She spoke quickly and assumed we understood the process even though we were very new in our infertility journey.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Columbia had a nurse shortage so we had to bounce around between clinics to facilitate our fertility cycle. It seemed as though the nurses were inconvenienced by us asking questions.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

Their strength is that you can go in for blood work from 7am to 9am so it can fit in your work schedule. The front desk nurse at Arlington is helpful. Be sure to ask lots of questions to the doctors and nurses.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates.

IUI's were around $1500 with no help from insurance.

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Failed to convey critical information
Canceled a cycle due to clinic error

Doctor

Abbaa Sarhan

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Arlington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Abbaa Sarhan Columbia Fertility Associates

2019, Unsuccessful

Age 43

European

Income $100K - $199K

5th of 5 Docs

Neutral

Strongly Recommends

Unsuccessful

Review of

Rafat Abbasi Columbia Fertility Associates

She [Dr. Abbasi] knows her stuff regarding reproductive immunology.. I would highly recommend and trust her. She was willing to do immune testing on me even though i didn't do my ivf with her. She answers questions and seems to know her stuff... Get immune testing. She is experienced w that...I was frustrated recently when i did a mock cycle for an ERA and they [Columbia Fertility Associates] knew i did a trigger shot but still made me do an hcg test which came back positive.they said i was pregnant and cancelled my ERA. It was positive because i did a trigger

I was frustrated recently when i did a mock cycle for an ERA and they [Columbia Fertility Associates] knew i did a trigger shot but still made me do an hcg test which came back positive.they said i was pregnant and cancelled my ERA. It was positive because i did a trigger...She [Dr. Abbasi] knows her stuff regarding reproductive immunology.. I would highly recommend and trust her. She was willing to do immune testing on me even though i didn't do my ivf with her. She answers questions and seems to know her stuff

How was your experience with Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

She knows her stuff regarding reproductive immunology.. I would highly recommend and trust her. She was willing to do immune testing on me even though i didn't do my ivf with her. She answers questions and seems to know her stuff

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Get immune testing. She is experienced w that

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

She was very thorough

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

I was frustrated recently when i did a mock cycle for an ERA and they knew i did a trigger shot but still made me do an hcg test which came back positive.they said i was pregnant and cancelled my ERA. It was positive because i did a trigger

Describe the costs associated with your care under Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Consult was covered so far

Doctor

Rafat Abbasi

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Arlington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Rafat Abbasi Columbia Fertility Associates

2018, Unknown Success

Age 30

3 IUI

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Operations

3rd of 3 Docs

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Rafat Abbasi Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr Abassi is incredibly knowledgeable and I feel like she is prescribing things specifically for my situation ... With her, I feel like my treatment is tailored. Now - the only thing is that she can come across as no-nonsense. I like it - I'm here for answers. But I can see that it could rub others the wrong way. ... I also think she is putting more effort into figuring out the cause of my unexplained infertility than other doctors, who just wanted to label it and jump straight into IUI and IVF with standard procedures.

Billing/financial counseling has been complicated - hard to get in touch with the financial counselor at my clinic [Columbia Fertility Associates], and I didn't get a fee sheet, errors in describing of fees, double-billing for the same service. The good news is that eventually it all worked out - but getting it all to be accurate has been hard. ... their morning monitoring hours start at 7:30. I usually arrive at 7:20 so I can be first in line - often nurses and office staff don't arrive until 7:35 and they take the first appointment at 7:45 (when the waiting room is really filling up).

How was your experience with Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr Abassi is completely trustworthy and knowledgeable - I totally trust her medical knowledge. I also think she is putting more effort into figuring out the cause of my unexplained infertility than other doctors, who just wanted to label it and jump straight into IUI and IVF with standard procedures. With her, I feel like my treatment is tailored. Now - the only thing is that she can come across as no-nonsense. I like it - I'm here for answers. But I can see that it could rub others the wrong way.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Bring all your medical records with you to your consultation - we went over them in detail and it was very helpful I had them all well organized in a binder. At times it was a bit like a pop quiz on different numbers and treatments.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr Abassi is incredibly knowledgeable and I feel like she is prescribing things specifically for my situation

Describe the protocols Rafat Abbasi used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

IUI - letrozole plus FSH, then trigger and progesterone suppositories. I ovulate on my own but the goal is to get multiple eggs to improve the chances.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia Fertility Associates. (Assigned nurse: Vanessia)

Nursing staff is great, very communicative, very in touch after bloodwork, etc

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

I love the doctors and nurses. Billing/financial counseling has been complicated - hard to get in touch with the financial counselor at my clinic, and I didn't get a fee sheet, errors in describing of fees, double-billing for the same service. The good news is that eventually it all worked out - but getting it all to be accurate has been hard.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates.

$1620 for IUI with letrozole, including everything except the baseline appt

Describe Rafat Abbasi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia Fertility Associates.

n/a

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Lost paperwork
Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

In addition to billing issues I already described, their morning monitoring hours start at 7:30. I usually arrive at 7:20 so I can be first in line - often nurses and office staff don't arrive until 7:35 and they take the first appointment at 7:45 (when the waiting room is really filling up). Morning monitoring always takes a long time due to this!

Doctor

Rafat Abbasi

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Bethesda

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Rafat Abbasi Columbia Fertility Associates

2004 - 2011, Successful

Age 43 - 50

4 IUI

Donor Sperm

PCOS

Income $200K - $499K

Consultant

Only Doc Seen

Doesn't Recommend

Neutral

Successful

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

Felt that Sacks ( who I love) still spent too much time looking at the numbers and not at ME...Sacks is caring but with me at least, was not as creative or thoughtful as he could have been. It took me three years to get pregnant and I felt more like he was following his standard playbook than thinking through what I really needed. I finally did some of my own research and after 3 years of trying, I suggested I should be on Metformin. Given my history of PCOS this seemed like an obvious choice and he was not especially receptive when I suggested it.

Staff [at Columbia Fertility] was outstanding - compassionate, thoughtful, clear, encouraging. fabulous...Sacks is caring but with me at least, was not as creative or thoughtful as he could have been. It took me three years to get pregnant and I felt more like he was following his standard playbook than thinking through what I really needed...Felt that Sacks ( who I love) still spent too much time looking at the numbers and not at ME.

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Sacks is caring but with me at least, was not as creative or thoughtful as he could have been. It took me three years to get pregnant and I felt more like he was following his standard playbook than thinking through what I really needed. I finally did some of my own research and after 3 years of trying, I suggested I should be on Metformin. Given my history of PCOS this seemed like an obvious choice and he was not especially receptive when I suggested it. But we did try it and I was pregnant within 6 weeks. A miracle!

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Push to see him directly (as opposed to just reviewing your data) and encourage him to review your chart beyond the numbers. I was just within the range of normal in several categories so he never identified me as a candidate for different treatment. But in retrospect, the aggregation of these data points created a very different picture when put all together.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

I eventually succeeded with a drug that I found through my own research. Felt that Sacks ( who I love) still spent too much time looking at the numbers and not at ME.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Staff was outstanding - compassionate, thoughtful, clear, encouraging. fabulous

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Bethesda

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

2009 - 2012, Successful

Age 43 - 46

1 IUI

6 IVF

Donor Eggs

Uterine Fibroids

Immunological

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Rafat Abbasi Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr. Abassi was trustworthy and compassionate, but straight to the point. She did not sugar-coat anything...She was compassionate. It's [Columbia Fertility Associates] a smaller clinic so it didn't feel like a factory. The doctor spent many visits talking to me and spending more time than expected.

It's [Columbia Fertility Associates] a smaller clinic so it didn't feel like a factory. The doctor spent many visits talking to me and spending more time than expected. Monitoring appointments were done early in the morning. I always tried to get there as early as possible so I wouldn't have to wait a long time. At times it was stressful if only 1 nurse was available.

How was your experience with Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Abassi was trustworthy and compassionate, but straight to the point. She did not sugar-coat anything. She made recommendations that ultimately resulted in a pregnancy. She was compassionate.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

She has your best interest at heart. She does not sugar coat anything.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rafat Abbasi at Columbia Fertility Associates?

It's a smaller clinic so it didn't feel like a factory. The doctor spent many visits talking to me and spending more time than expected. They always returned calls and made suggestions for treatments.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

It was a small group and they listened and were attentive.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Monitoring appointments were done early in the morning. I always tried to get there as early as possible so I wouldn't have to wait a long time. At times it was stressful if only 1 nurse was available.

Doctor

Rafat Abbasi

Humanity

Communication

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Bethesda

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Rafat Abbasi Columbia Fertility Associates

2017 - 2018, Unknown Success

Age 37 - 38

1 Egg Freezing

European

Income $0 - $49K

1st of 2 Docs

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Not sure

Review of

Abbaa Sarhan Columbia Fertility Associates

I wish she had [Dr. Sarhan] expressed to me the urgency of going ahead with eggs freezing, because I ended up waiting a year and a half...I wish she had been more honest with me about how fertility works. She said. These are your test results right now, I can't guarantee you'll have the same numbers again in 6 months. I interpreted that to mean that my numbers might be the same in 6 months. But of course, quality and quantity go down with age, always. I wish she had expressed to me the urgency of going ahead with eggs freezing, because I ended up waiting a year and a half.

[Columbia Fertility Associates is] a small practice which I liked...I didn't go ahead with treatment...I found another clinic with cheaper prices...When I decided to switch clinics due to finding a better price, the admin staff were very slow in transferring my records to the new clinic. I liked the financial co sultans, who sat down with me for a good amount of time to discuss options...One of my blood tests didn't get AMH tested, so I had to get it tested again. I'm not sure if this was the clinic's fault or the lab's. I had to make several calls to get my records sent to my new clinic.

How was your experience with Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

I wish she had been more honest with me about how fertility works. She said. These are your test results right now, I can't guarantee you'll have the same numbers again in 6 months. I interpreted that to mean that my numbers might be the same in 6 months. But of course, quality and quantity go down with age, always. I wish she had expressed to me the urgency of going ahead with eggs freezing, because I ended up waiting a year and a half.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Nothing I can think of.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

It's a small practice which I liked. The doctor gave me her email for follow up questions.

Describe the protocols Abbaa Sarhan used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

I didn't go ahead with treatment with her because I found another clinic with cheaper prices.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

I didnt have much contact with the nursing staff since I just had a couple of consultations and diagnostics.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

When I decided to switch clinics due to finding a better price, the admin staff were very slow in transferring my records to the new clinic. I liked the financial co sultans, who sat down with me for a good amount of time to discuss options.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates.

My insurance covered the consultation and diagnostics. I then switched clinics for a better price.

Describe Abbaa Sarhan's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia Fertility Associates.

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Lost paperwork
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Lost results
Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

One of my blood tests didn't get AMH tested, so I had to get it tested again. I'm not sure if this was the clinic's fault or the lab's. I had to make several calls to get my records sent to my new clinic.

Doctor

Abbaa Sarhan

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Bethesda

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Abbaa Sarhan Columbia Fertility Associates

2016 - 2020, Unsuccessful

Age 38 - 42

1 IUI

5 IVF

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

European

Income $50K - $99K

Teacher

1st of 2 Docs

Strongly Recommends

Unsuccessful

Review of

Eric Forman Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr. Forman is like no other doctor. He truly cares about his patients and only wants what is best for them. Even though my second time around (trying to have a second child) has not been successful, I know he always had my best interest at heart. He goes above and beyond for his patients...He goes out of his way to check in on you and always available to answer questions...Ivf w injectables, ERA,...I often felt his team was disorganized sending my requisitions. If it happened once or 2x not a big deal, but out of 17 months of treatment maybe 40% of the time I had an issue.

I did outside monitoring and I often had issues getting my requisitions sent to the outside facility [from Columbia Fertility Associates]. Many times I was stuck there w/o a requisition. It caused a lot of additional stress to the process. I know it was not my drs fault, but I often felt his team was disorganized sending my requisitions. If it happened once or 2x not a big deal, but out of 17 months of treatment maybe 40% of the time I had an issue.

How was your experience with Eric Forman at Columbia Fertility Associates?

He is one of a kind. He is invested in you and your success. He only wants what is best. Not only is he brilliant, but kind and compassionate. He goes out of his way to check in on you and always available to answer questions.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Eric Forman at Columbia Fertility Associates?

You are in the best hands.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Eric Forman at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Describe the protocols Eric Forman used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

Ivf w injectables, ERA,

Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia Fertility Associates. (Assigned nurse: Christine Heblo)

My nurse was very positive, upbeat, and cheered me on.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

I did outside monitoring and I often had issues getting my requisitions sent to the outside facility. Many times I was stuck there w/o a requisition. It caused a lot of additional stress to the process. I know it was not my drs fault, but I often felt his team was disorganized sending my requisitions. If it happened once or 2x not a big deal, but out of 17 months of treatment maybe 40% of the time I had an issue.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Eric Forman at Columbia Fertility Associates.

My insurance covered

Doctor

Eric Forman

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Bethesda

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Eric Forman Columbia Fertility Associates

2021 - 2022, Unknown Success

Age 39 - 40

4 IUI

Donor Sperm

European

Ashkenazi Jewish

Income $50K - $99K

2nd of 2 Docs

LGBTQ

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr. Sacks is friendly and helpful. He was very sympathetic when he performed my HSG, which I was very nervous about. He gives me realistic expectations for my procedures, and listens to my questions and concerns...He has never hassled me about my weight...I have had very standard medicated IUIs. I chose to do medicated cycles because, while there is no evidence that I have fertility issues (I'm queer, and don't have access to sperm/reproductive sex), I'm also nearing 40, and want to make the best use of my time and money...

The nurse [at Columbia Fertility Associates] was very supportive...She was positive about the procedure, without being patronizing or making false guarantees. She communicates via email about test results, and is very prompt and clear...One concern has been that each time I've had sperm shipped/stored there, for any length of time, they try to charge me for a year's worth of storage fees. I have successfully had those charges removed each time, but it's a pain to explain that I won't pay for a year's storage for a vial that has been there for 2 weeks...

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sacks is friendly and helpful. He was very sympathetic when he performed my HSG, which I was very nervous about. He gives me realistic expectations for my procedures, and listens to my questions and concerns. He did once have to take another call during an appointment, but otherwise, I feel that I've had his full attention. He has never hassled me about my weight.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Things can move quickly, so make sure you know what you want to cover (questions and concerns) before your appointment, so you can make sure those are addressed.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sacks was friendly and his support staff was very helpful. While appointments were often short, he always answered my questions and listened to my concerns.

Describe the protocols Preston Sacks used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

One cycle with Clomid, one cycle with letrazole (since I had done 3 total previous Clomid cycles, and I wanted to try something different). Otherwise, I have had very standard medicated IUIs. I chose to do medicated cycles because, while there is no evidence that I have fertility issues (I'm queer, and don't have access to sperm/reproductive sex), I'm also nearing 40, and want to make the best use of my time and money.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The nurse was very supportive, particularly when I was doing my most recent cycle. She was positive about the procedure, without being patronizing or making false guarantees. She communicates via email about test results, and is very prompt and clear.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

The clinic has mostly been fine. They're helpful when I call. I do frequently have to remind them that I have no copay (because I'm doing self-pay, and have already paid for my cycle). One concern has been that each time I've had sperm shipped/stored there, for any length of time, they try to charge me for a year's worth of storage fees. I have successfully had those charges removed each time, but it's a pain to explain that I won't pay for a year's storage for a vial that has been there for 2 weeks. Otherwise, the andrology lab has been helpful. The phlebotomist is excellent -- I wish she could do all my blood draws and IVs outside of my fertility care.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates.

For a self-pay (no insurance) medicated IUI, I pay around $1700 each cycle (not including the cost of sperm), plus the cost of medications ($15-$50) and the trigger shot ($150-$250).

Describe Preston Sacks's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia Fertility Associates.

n/a

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

LGBTQ Care

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

LGBTQ Care

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

2020, Unknown Success

Age 37

3 IUI

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Unexplained

Latinx

Income $100K - $199K

Lawyer

2nd of 2 Docs

Neutral

Doesn't Recommend

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

During the only cycle I had with Dr. Sacks I feel I was treated like a human. Mostly all the time he was open to listen to my concerns. He also makes him available through email...It was good to have him performed mostly all of my sonograms, even though those happened very quick you can have your questions answered right away...I really appreciated his good bedside manner when he gave me the bad news of my nonviable pregnancy

I think the [Columbia Fertility Associates] clinic is a bit outdated. Everything is on paper, your file, forms, lab results. There is not an online system where you can communicate with the doctor/nurses or get your lab results. It's very difficult to have labs results sent through e-mail. I had to call more than three times to get them. The receptionists are not very helpful over the phone. In person they are nicer though.

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Strengths: Dr. Sacks was willing to explain the IVF procedure to me in detail. He seems knowledgeable about my condition and is also up to date with the latest research. He is patient and happy to answer mostly all of my questions. I really appreciated his good bedside manner when he gave me the bad news of my nonviable pregnancy, explaining also the possible procedures going forward. Weakness: My cycle was canceled because of poor response. During my monitoring sessions he saw I was not responding but he stayed with his protocol. He also decided to wait that my body responds without increasing the dose, even though I told him about how I responded in previous treatments so it was never clear that he took that into account. Also, during the cycle it was not very well communicated if the retrieval was possible or not. I guess he was hoping my body responds. However, all the cycle lasted 29 days and I ended up ovulating on my own. I would have expected him to see that my ovulation was coming and communicate it to me that the procedure was not possible (I got pregnant though but it was a blight ovum)

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Be sure to ask all of your questions during the routine visits, and also via e-mail. Also, make sure to be honest and direct with him if you have any problems with the clinic or the nurses, he'll get involved.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

During the only cycle I had with Dr. Sacks I feel I was treated like a human. Mostly all the time he was open to listen to my concerns. He also makes him available through email, which I didn't experience with my previous doctor (although sometimes it took days to reply). It was good to have him performed mostly all of my sonograms, even though those happened very quick you can have your questions answered right away.

Describe the protocols Preston Sacks used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

Estrogen priming, then 12 days of stim meds: First 3 days Menopur 150IU + Gonal F 150IU, remaining 9 days only Gonal F 150IU, and Estrogen. No eggs were retrieved, they weren't ready in size. I ovulated on my own though after 26 days since starting stimulation, and got pregnant (blighted ovum).

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

I was not assigned one nurse specifically, but I have interactions with Wendy Hemingway and Iman Khalil. I thing Wendy is the nurse coordinator. She was in charge of ordering my meds, giving basic information about the procedures, getting the approval forms signed, among other stuff. It was sometimes very painful to deal with her. She doesn't have any patience at all and she is not willing to answer questions. Once I sent her an email she requested with the complete information of the meds I was given and she told me she didn't have time to look at emails. Not only she is rude, but she doesn't seem very competent. Not only I had to remind her about my dose but also she asked me several times to sign the ICSI approval form when the doctor was advised conventional insemination for my case. It was very stressful to communicate with her. Iman was more helpful, and compassionate. She was most of the time during my monitoring sessions with Dr Sacks, and provided my lab results over the phone most of the time. Although sometimes I feel that I had to remind her about the meds I was taking, and when I asked medical-related questions she always had to get back to the doctor.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

I think the clinic is a bit outdated. Everything is on paper, your file, forms, lab results. There is not an online system where you can communicate with the doctor/nurses or get your lab results. It's very difficult to have labs results sent through e-mail. I had to call more than three times to get them. The receptionists are not very helpful over the phone. In person they are nicer though.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates.

I have an insurance coverage of 50K for procedures, I have a $20 copay for every visit. Meds were mostly cover for this cycle and I payed approx. $700, but already reach my coverage of 10K.

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Failed to call with results
Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The billing/financial department is a mess. I almost missed the planned cycle because they sent the authorization request to the wrong insurance policy, even though I told them several times that it expired. They even told me they got the approval from them until I realized it didn't correspond to my current insurance. What is worse is that once I told them about the mistake I did not receive any updates on the new approval process. I had to call several times to see if they were going to amend their mistake which gave me a lot of stress and anxiety since I didn't know if I was going to start with the treatment. I had to involve the doctor, and at the end they tried to fix it by providing me with back up medications, until I got the ones from my insurance.

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

2019 - 2020, Successful

Age 41 - 42

5 IUI

3 IVF

European

Income $200K - $499K

Business Executive

2nd of 2 Docs

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Eric Forman Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr. Forman is awesome. He’s very responsive and always lets you know the possible outcomes. Obviously what Him and the embryologists do is incredible the science is there but there’s the parts they can’t control and he lets you know up front. He also lets you make your decisions without pressure but tells you his point of view. I trusted Dr Forman the whole step of the way and very grateful for him and all he’s done for us...always lets you know the possible outcomes. Obviously what Him and the embryologists do is incredible the science is there but there’s the parts they can’t control and he lets you know up front. He also lets you make your decisions without pressure but tells you his point of view. I trusted Dr Forman the whole step of the way and very grateful for him and all he’s done for us.

Christine [nurse at Columbia Fertility Associates] was amazing. Very patient, quick to respond and genuinely cared. Also all of the nurses that took my blood were the best. So gentle and caring...Retrieval cycle including PGS testing (not Transfer as insurance covered) around $14,000. Didn’t have to pay for monitoring as my insurance covered this as well...The office is beautiful. Doesn’t feel like a doctors office at all. At first I was worried that the costs would be much higher than other clinics but that’s not the case! The staff is wonderful. The nurses and all the doctors that I had the experience of dealing with. Nothing but positive things to say about Columbia!

How was your experience with Eric Forman at Columbia Fertility Associates?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Eric Forman at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Trust his judgment and take notes if you’re one that needs to know all the details!

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Eric Forman at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Forman and his staff knew me and out conversations and appointments showed that. You can tell they truly care about their patients. When you go in for your retrieval and transfer it’s one room so one person at a time. You don’t feel like your in a hospital. Very different from my other clinic.

Describe the protocols Eric Forman used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

He changed my protocol after my first clinic wasn’t successful as I ovulated before they went in for retrieval. He used lupron micro flare along with follistim and menopour.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia Fertility Associates. (Assigned nurse: Christine Helbo )

Christine was amazing. Very patient, quick to respond and genuinely cared. Also all of the nurses that took my blood were the best. So gentle and caring.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

The office is beautiful. Doesn’t feel like a doctors office at all. At first I was worried that the costs would be much higher than other clinics but that’s not the case! The staff is wonderful. The nurses and all the doctors that I had the experience of dealing with. Nothing but positive things to say about Columbia!

Describe the costs associated with your care under Eric Forman at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Retrieval cycle including PGS testing (not Transfer as insurance covered) around $14,000. Didn’t have to pay for monitoring as my insurance covered this as well.

Describe Eric Forman's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia Fertility Associates.

N-a

Doctor

Eric Forman

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Eric Forman Columbia Fertility Associates

2018 - 2020, Unknown Success

Age 32 - 34

4 IUI

Unexplained

European

Ashkenazi Jewish

Income $200K - $499K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

He [Dr. Preston Sacks] did a number of tests when I first started working with him to confirm I didn't have various fertility issues. Then after it was decided I had unexplained infertility, we moved to IUI...Very warm, personable. Remembers details about my work and background. Takes the time during consults to explain, but also talk about light things to ease my mind...I've really enjoyed being a patient of Dr. Sacks. He is warm, straightforward and optimistic about my chances of having a child. He has answered all my questions and taken us through what feels like a logical progression of fertility testing and treatments.

The nurses staff are mostly wonderful [at Columbia Fertility Associates]. They are supportive, organized, and kind. My one complaint is completely understanding the timing after I leave. Some nurses are much more thorough in calling and telling me all of my blood counts, when I should start clomid and when I should plan on coming back in. My guess is that they explain a lot of these things on a daily basis many times and sometimes forget whether they've explained the why behind a treatment or schedule to me. I think it's important for all patients to try to repeat back their understanding to help gain clarity.

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

I've really enjoyed being a patient of Dr. Sacks. He is warm, straightforward and optimistic about my chances of having a child. He has answered all my questions and taken us through what feels like a logical progression of fertility testing and treatments.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

No advice for Dr. Sacks. I have advice for the nurses.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Very warm, personable. Remembers details about my work and background. Takes the time during consults to explain, but also talk about light things to ease my mind.

Describe the protocols Preston Sacks used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

To be honest, I don't remember all the treatment strategies and protocols and I have been seeing him for over two years with a year break in between. He did a number of tests when I first started working with him to confirm I didn't have various fertility issues. Then after it was decided I had unexplained infertility, we moved to IUI. I go into the clinic when my period starts for blood work and a transvaginal ultrasound. Then I've started clomid shortly after, taken a trigger shot, and had an IUI. Still working with him.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The nurses staff are mostly wonderful. They are supportive, organized, and kind. My one complaint is completely understanding the timing after I leave. Some nurses are much more thorough in calling and telling me all of my blood counts, when I should start clomid and when I should plan on coming back in. My guess is that they explain a lot of these things on a daily basis many times and sometimes forget whether they've explained the why behind a treatment or schedule to me. I think it's important for all patients to try to repeat back their understanding to help gain clarity.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

I LOVE the woman who draws blood at this clinic. It doesn't hurt, she's so nice, and she's very efficient. If I just need to go in for bloodwork, I can be in and out in 5 minutes. The front desk staff are polite and I've also found the billing staff to be helpful and polite. There's also usually some parking available on the street, which is nice. And I appreciate that they open at 7:30 am so that I can go in for treatment before the workday starts. No need to sneak out at lunch from the office.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates.

An IUI without insurance costs $1,620 plus copay and medications.

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

2019 - 2020, Unsuccessful

Age 37 - 38

1 IVF

European

Ashkenazi Jewish

Black or African-American

Income $200K - $499K

Only Doc Seen

Doesn't Recommend

Unsuccessful

Review of

Safa Rifka Columbia Fertility Associates

[Dr. Safa Rifka] Dragged feet and wanted us to pay for IUI when IVF would have had higher indication of success considering both parents’ age. I had a complication after egg retrieval: no one checked in with me so I had to seek urgent care, and no one asked about how I was tolerating ovarian stimulation meds...I wish I had picked another doctor who could deign to be more informative and less paternalistic...One of the biggest failures was not assigning a triage schedule for handoffs because intervention is so time sensitive.

I had a complication after egg retrieval [at Columbia Fertility Associates]: no one checked in with me so I had to seek urgent care, and no one asked about how I was tolerating ovarian stimulation meds. I had a singular positive experience with one nurse who only works occasionally and offered assistance with triggering...The “lead nurse” was rude and uninformative. I had 2 positive interactions with nurses face to face in a year of having to deal with this office...Be prepared to demand confirmation of everything the billing and scheduling department does as there is little to no accountability. If you have the means to go somewhere else and can find another decent option in the metro area, then do so. Be sure to check CDC information for success rates.

How was your experience with Safa Rifka at Columbia Fertility Associates?

I wish I had picked another doctor who could deign to be more informative and less paternalistic. DC has a dearth of providers so I picked this clinic based on CDC live birth stats. One of the biggest failures was not assigning a triage schedule for handoffs because intervention is so time sensitive.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Safa Rifka at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Go to another practice if you have to cross state lines, or pick another physician—but you will still have to deal with the negligent office practices.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Safa Rifka at Columbia Fertility Associates?

The office staff is grossly incompetent and cannot even muster pretending to care, while the physicians seem to engage in willful blindness. The process is stressful enough, but the office sent billing to the wrong insurer multiple times compromising our PHI and delaying intervention, had my name wrong on a chart, forgot to order tests for my husband so he had to miss more work to come back, and had overall poor communication, excepting the phlebotomist. The dearth of information and transparency was astounding.

Describe the protocols Safa Rifka used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

Dragged feet and wanted us to pay for IUI when IVF would have had higher indication of success considering both parents’ age. I had a complication after egg retrieval: no one checked in with me so I had to seek urgent care, and no one asked about how I was tolerating ovarian stimulation meds. I had a singular positive experience with one nurse who only works occasionally and offered assistance with triggering.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia Fertility Associates. (Assigned nurse: Wendy)

The “lead nurse” was rude and uninformative. I had 2 positive interactions with nurses face to face in a year of having to deal with this office.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

This office is disorganized to the point of negligence and fraud. Be prepared to demand confirmation of everything the billing and scheduling department does as there is little to no accountability. If you have the means to go somewhere else and can find another decent option in the metro area, then do so. Be sure to check CDC information for success rates.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Safa Rifka at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Copays of about 3.5-4K

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Lost paperwork
Failed to order appropriate test
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Failed to consider drug intolerance
Canceled a cycle due to clinic error

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

As I stated before, the office forgot to order a screening test for my husband on a panel—which requires checking a box. When all regular employees were out of the office they had no one accountable to reach a physician, delaying care. They continue to submit our PHI to the wrong insurance.

Doctor

Safa Rifka

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Safa Rifka Columbia Fertility Associates

2018, Unknown Success

Age 36

2 IVF

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

European

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Doesn't Recommend

Success w/ Doc Not sure

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

He [Dr. Preston Sacks] was personable and friendly. I felt like we had a good relationship. I felt he listened to me, but sometimes I wasn't sure what the next step was and had to ask. He was easy to talk to during visits and was present for every one of them, which made it a little easier to come in... The backend administrative team is next to impossible to work with. Their financial team would call to harass me for payments, despite the fact that I had previously spoken to them to get further information about what I owed. They were impossible to get ahold of unless they called you, they wouldn't respond to or even check their emails, and typically didn't seem to know what was going on with your account.

The nursing staff [at Columbia Fertility Assoc-DC] was very hit or miss. Sometimes they were great -- there were one or two who were always helpful and trustworthy, but the weekend staff and the rest of the team seemed like they were completely overworked and under-resourced. It was sometimes painful having to deal with them and get appropriate information.

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

He was personable and friendly. I felt like we had a good relationship. I felt he listened to me, but sometimes I wasn't sure what the next step was and had to ask. He was easy to talk to during visits and was present for every one of them, which made it a little easier to come in

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Stay on top of your care and be honest with him. While I liked him as a doctor, the back end systems of his clinic are very messy and painful to work with at times.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sacks made time to talk with me and my husband. He addressed our concerns and had an easy and personable manner. He was mindful of the fact that our budget was limited. He was present for every single monitoring session I had with the exception of 2 or 3 when he was on vacation during part of one cycle.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia Fertility Associates. (Assigned nurse: Wendy)

The nursing staff was very hit or miss. Sometimes they were great -- there were one or two who were always helpful and trustworthy, but the weekend staff and the rest of the team seemed like they were completely overworked and under-resourced. It was sometimes painful having to deal with them and get appropriate information. One time I went in for monitoring on a Sunday morning and was told I needed to trigger that day. The weekend nurse (not my usual one) promised she would call in the trigger shot to the pharmacy by 10am and then call me (since the pharmacy closed early on Sunday). By noon I still had not heard from her and I was frantically trying to call the on call team to get a call back from her. When I finally got ahold of her, she had confused me with another patient who also needed a trigger shot and had completely forgotten to call in mine. It all worked out in the end and we got the shot with an hour to spare, but it added much unnecessary stress and had I not been proactive, we would have missed out window. This is just one example of how the nursing staff was not always able to adequately serve patients. I don't completely blame them, as they all seemed lovely and competent, they just seemed to be put into a difficult work situation that leaves the patient at risk.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

Dr. Sacks is great, but the clinic is a disaster. The backend administrative team is next to impossible to work with. Their financial team would call to harass me for payments, despite the fact that I had previously spoken to them to get further information about what I owed. They were impossible to get ahold of unless they called you, they wouldn't respond to or even check their emails, and typically didn't seem to know what was going on with your account. During my last cycle, I got a call asking to make a payment, and it seemed higher than what I was expecting, so I asked for an itemized invoice so that I could verify the charges. I was sent it and then responded to that email with questions, because it didn't look right. I also called the person back and left a voicemail. I sent a subsequent email to the same person two days later. When they finally called me one week later, they stated that they hadn't checked their email in that period of time and had no idea what my questions had been. It then took another few hours to work out and by the time I was done with paying for that last round I had decided I was also done with Columbia Fertility, despite the fact that I liked my doctor. Dealing with every other aspect of the clinic was just too stressful.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Usually a cattle call, would typically take anywhere from 20-45 minutes to get blood drawn and monitoring completed. Clinic seems understaffed and under-resourced.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Canceled cycle $2,000. Embryo Transfer approx $12,000, Egg Retrieval $10,000+

Describe Preston Sacks's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Dr. Sacks was open to whichever we wanted and had an appropriate conversation with us about our options.

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost paperwork
Failed to call with results
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The backend admin of this clinic is a nightmare. Its unfortunate because Dr. Sacks is great, but its very hard to work with the rest of his team. It seems like this this clinic is severely under-resourced and mis-managed no matter how good their doctors are. It needs some serious management changes.

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

2009 - 2018, Unknown Success

Age 26 - 35

3 Fertility Medications

Anovulation

Male Factor

PCOS

Uterine Fibroids

Black or African-American

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Not sure

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

I started with Preston Sacks prior to TTC. He was always forthcoming with results and painted clear pictures of the obstacles to come. He is very easy to talk to and was very responsive to emails. Early on he determined that the issue was a male factor and referred us to one of his colleagues. He even took the time to set expectations on what to expect when working with the specialist which was extremely comforting.

All of my issues are with the finance department [at Columbia-DC]. The are extremely unorganized and seem to be all over the place. On several occasions I was told to expect a call back and did not receive one for days at a time. After following up myself, I would find out there was no action done. It's extremely frustrating when you're paying for a portion or all of your procedures and still have to deal with rude people.

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Even if you think they are silly.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

He was always open to listen to my concerns and answer any questions I have. He thoroughly explained every step of the process

Describe the protocols Preston Sacks used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

We used clomid and timed intercourse for 3 cycles. When I didn't respond to clomid he used the step up method. After the 3 cycle, he ordered an SA for my husband. Upon the results he suggested IVF. Due to insurance/money issues we took a break.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The nurses that I encountered were extremely nice with perfect bedside manner. Even when they called to say the pregnancy test were negative they were very gentle. These ladies are gems.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

The billing department is HORRIBLE. They have no problem informing you of a balance, yet are extremely slow providing information or answering questions. On several occasions I've had to follow up as well as get very stern. I'm not sure if they are understaffed or not good at their jobs. There are 2 women in particular I try to avoid at all cost. They are very brash and have somewhat of an attitude.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Competitive compared to other clinics

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

All of my issues are with the finance department. The are extremely unorganized and seem to be all over the place. On several occasions I was told to expect a call back and did not receive one for days at a time. After following up myself, I would find out there was no action done. It's extremely frustrating when you're paying for a portion or all of your procedures and still have to deal with rude people.

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

2016 - 2018, Successful

Age 32 - 34

3 IVF

Endometriosis

Poor Egg Quality

South Asian

Income $200K - $499K

Engineer

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Successful

Review of

Abbaa Sarhan Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr. Sarhan had a warm manner, performed most of my monitoring ultrasounds herself, was attentive during our conversations, answered all my questions, was easy to reach and called me regularly..... Sarhan was wonderful. She knew the science/medicine and knew my case intimately well, plus she had wonderful bedside manner. I felt I could trust her... She recommended against fresh transfer due to the endometriosis.

The small team at the Arlington is great. The DC clinic is not as organized or compassionate. Also, the administrative system at this clinic overall is a bit of a mess. The admins can be rude in person and over the phone. The billing department is also disorganized and often rude...I loved nurse Kalandria and the nursing staff overall at the Arlington clinic. The nurses at the DC clinic were not as compassionate.

How was your experience with Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sarhan was wonderful. She knew the science/medicine and knew my case intimately well, plus she had wonderful bedside manner. I felt I could trust her. The proof is in the pudding - thanks to her, I had a successful pregnancy.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Find out the days she will be at your clinic (in my case it was Tuesdays and Thursdays in Arlington) and arrange your work schedule to be available those days for all monitoring. You will get a ton of face time with her.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sarhan had a warm manner, performed most of my monitoring ultrasounds herself, was attentive during our conversations, answered all my questions, was easy to reach and called me regularly.

Describe the protocols Abbaa Sarhan used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

We used the antagonist protocol for each freeze-all retrieval. I had endometriosis so Dr. Sarhan had me suppress with birth control pills for 6-8 weeks before each frozen embryo transfer. She recommended against fresh transfer due to the endometriosis. It took me three retrievals and three transfers to achieve a successful pregnancy/live birth.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia Fertility Associates. (Assigned nurse: Kalandria Waddy)

I loved nurse Kalandria and the nursing staff overall at the Arlington clinic. The nurses at the DC clinic were not as compassionate.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The ‘monitoring hours’ system made t super efficient - I was in and out quickly.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Abbaa Sarhan at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Insurance covered everything, so I don’t know.

Describe Abbaa Sarhan's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia Fertility Associates.

We only transferred single embryos until the third FET, when she recommended increasing to two embryos.

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

I had to email the nurse coordinator for clarification a couple times.

Doctor

Abbaa Sarhan

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Abbaa Sarhan Columbia Fertility Associates

2014 - 2017, Successful

Age 31 - 34

12 IUI

1 IVF

Donor Sperm

Tubal Blockage

Unexplained

European

Ashkenazi Jewish

Income $100K - $199K

Consultant

2nd of 2 Docs

LGBTQ

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

He's [Dr. Preston Sacks] very chatty and personable, which helped put me at ease during a number of procedures. One example: Before my egg retrieval, the nurse had trouble getting the IV started and I ended up passing out. I was very nervous about whether it would affect what happened that day, but he came in and immediately put me at ease, shared stories about himself passing out, etc.! He also remembered personal details about me in a really thoughtful way that I think went above and beyond.

The nurses at CFA are wonderful! I've been with them long enough that the nursing staff has changed, but everyone I've interacted with has been so helpful and compassionate. Some are responsive over email, though not all. But they have been extremely helpful at all stages of the process -- whether figuring out prescriptions, helping me get seen "off schedule" or rushing some blood work, or generally being understanding and compassionate and reassuring and friendly. I really feel like they are pulling for me and know me as an individual.

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

I have been very happy with Dr. Sacks. He's been doing this a long time and really knows his stuff and knows the latest research, etc. He's always very responsive over email, which I really appreciate. And I have felt like overall he does a good job of balancing being realistic with being gentle. Like most fertility doctors, he's not overly emotional or super outwardly compassionate, but I always felt like he cared (he wasn't harsh) and also like he was telling me how it is (not sugar coating). He's often hesitant to give specific chances/percentages, but when he has them, he shares them. There have been a couple times where I wondered why he didn't suggest or say something different, but overall I have been very happy. He also has a really good, calming bedside manner. He's very chatty and personable, which helped put me at ease during a number of procedures. One example: Before my egg retrieval, the nurse had trouble getting the IV started and I ended up passing out. I was very nervous about whether it would affect what happened that day, but he came in and immediately put me at ease, shared stories about himself passing out, etc.! He also remembered personal details about me in a really thoughtful way that I think went above and beyond.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Be prepared for the fact that he's very chatty :)

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sacks and everyone at Columbia Fertility always made me feel like an individual. He (and they) always knew my name, remembered personal details about me (in a comforting, not creepy way) and I always felt like they were giving me advice based on who I was, not some standard. Dr. Sacks is very responsive over email and is very personable.

Describe the protocols Preston Sacks used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

In summary: 6 natural IUIs with donor sperm; 1 cycle with Clomid where I had the bad side effect that affected my vision; 5 IUI cycles with Letrozole. That included an ectopic pregnancy (after an HSG test) and ultimately doing another HSG test and finding a blocked tube (likely from the ectopic). Then moved to IVF and egg retrieval followed by PGS/PGD. Resulted in two embryos. First resulted in a miscarriage. After that, did a bunch of tests via bloodwork to rule out immunological issues. As of this writing, six weeks pregnant from second FET.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

Overall, I've been very happy with CFA and feel like I get much more personalized care and treatment than I hear about people getting with Shady Grove.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Monitoring is done between 7:30-9:30 and generally I found it to be pretty efficient. Some days I'd be out of there in 5 minutes, if all I needed was blood work and there weren't many people there. Other days, it might be more like 30 minutes or so, if it was more crowded and I needed blood work and a sonogram.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates.

I did not have insurance coverage so it was very expensive. Natural IUIs were $500. Monitored IUIs were $1,000. Medicated IUIs were $1,500. IVF with FET was about $18,000 not including medication or the PGD testing, which added about $2,000. Just the FET was $3,500.

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

No, not really. I think just once I got slightly different information from a nurse and then a doctor about what the plan was for when I would come back to the office and what the protocol would be. It wasn't a huge deal.

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

2006 - 2017, Unknown Success

Age 22 - 33

3 IUI

PCOS

European

Income $200K - $499K

Only Doc Seen

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr. Sacks diagnosed me with PCOS approximately 10 years ago. He treated my PCOS with metformin and later birth control pills....Dr. Sacks is extremely knowledgeable and is able to speak to current literature and studies clearly while taking your individual situation into account. Dr. Sacks is always on time and addresses any questions you ask, though during standard monitoring appointments, his time is somewhat short. For consultations, he will take all the time necessary...Be prepared with questions you want to ask him...

Columbia Fertility sees a high volume of patients. They are efficient in seeing all patients, particularly during routine blood tests and sonograms. The front office staff and nurses are friendly and helpful...The nursing staff are capable and compassionate. Columbia Fertility has a variety of nurses who all participate in your care...I occasionally had miscommunication about scheduling of my appointments. However, given that Columbia Fertility has flexible morning hours, the office staff was able to fit me in without a problem.

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sacks is extremely knowledgeable and is able to speak to current literature and studies clearly while taking your individual situation into account. Dr. Sacks is always on time and addresses any questions you ask, though during standard monitoring appointments, his time is somewhat short. For consultations, he will take all the time necessary.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Be prepared with questions you want to ask him

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Describe the protocols Preston Sacks used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

Dr. Sacks diagnosed me with PCOS approximately 10 years ago. He treated my PCOS with metformin and later birth control pills. When trying to conceive, I completed approximately 12 months of treatment with clomid while monitoring my cycles, Dr. Sacks recommending clomid for PCOS treatment. For most of those cycles, I also utilized ovidrel to trigger ovulation. At the end of approximately 1 year, Dr. Sacks conducted a laparoscopy and recommended we proceed with IUI. Following this, I complete IUI, again using clomid and ovidrel. To date, all cycles have resulted in negative pregnancy tests.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The nursing staff are capable and compassionate. Columbia Fertility has a variety of nurses who all participate in your care.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

Columbia Fertility is a high volume operation, but they are efficient, responsive, and on time with knowledgeable practitioners, reasonably friendly office staff, and friendly and capable nurses.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates.

IUI was partially covered by my insurance, so that cost was $500 per cycle plus approximately $85 for ovidrel.

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Failed to call with results

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

I occasionally had miscommunication about scheduling of my appointments. However, given that Columbia Fertility has flexible morning hours, the office staff was able to fit me in without a problem.

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

2017, Unsuccessful

Age 34

3 IUI

2 IVF

Unexplained

European

Income $200K - $499K

2nd of 2 Docs

Strongly Recommends

Unsuccessful

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

While we're still in the midst of our treatment and have had several setbacks, including a recent miscarriage, Dr. Sacks has been empathetic and present throughout our entire time with him. He's always done our exams; our procedures; and been responsive to our emails/calls. After a very negative experience at another doctor's office, I have nothing bad to say about Dr. Sacks or his team.

My only complaint about Columbia has been their billing--there are some times that they ask for my co-pay, other times that they don't, and we get billed for three or four visits at a time, which can be frustrating...[Nurse] Heather is amazing--she's warm, positive, and always responsive. She has been a great resource over the course of our treatments...Dr. sacks is very empathetic--very patient and answered all our questions. When he delivered good or bad news, we've gotten it all, he was always responsive and always was the one we heard from.

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Come prepared with what you want to know, questions/concerns/etc.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. sacks is very empathetic--very patient and answered all our questions. When he delivered good or bad news, we've gotten it all, he was always responsive and always was the one we heard from.

Describe the protocols Preston Sacks used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

for IVF: I was on 150 mL of Gonal F and 150 of Menopur (plus ganirelix) to stop ovulation. The first cycle, none of my embryos made it to blastocyst. Second cycle, Dr. Sacks didn't change my treatment (he said that he was happy with our response, so hopefully, we'd get a different batch of embryos) We got 10 embryos--3 made it to blastocyst--and after PGS, we got two back One was transferred, which subsequently ended in a miscarriage.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia Fertility Associates. (Assigned nurse: Heather)

Heather is amazing--she's warm, positive, and always responsive. She has been a great resource over the course of our treatments.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia Fertility Associates.

I found the experience to be efficient...I can get in and out in less than 30 minutes in the morning, before even going to work.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates.

I couldn't tell with you with certainty--some things our insurance covered...we paid for drugs out of pocket, to save on our lifetime insurance maximum.

Describe Preston Sacks's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia Fertility Associates.

We asked Dr. Sacks for his recommendation--and he said one. So we went with one. He talked us through the risks of both.

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

I had one nurse tell me conflicting information about when to start my protocol--called Dr. Sacks to confirm and within 2 minutes, had the right answer. Another time, one of the other nurses forgot to call in a prescription to CVS, but they fixed the issue in a few hours.

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

2016, 2 Eggs Frozen

Age 32

1 Egg Freezing

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Ashkenazi Jewish

Income $100K - $199K

Marketer or PR

Only Doc Seen

Neutral

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Not sure

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr. Sacks takes his time to explain answers to all of my questions. I found the most benefit from this during our consultations. When doing quick sonograms or blood tests, I did feel the time crunch but Dr. Sacks always answered me thoughtfully and honestly. He has a nice bedside manner and does make you feel like he cares... He has always been patient and willing to explain procedures and outcomes in great detail. Dr. Sacks always has a good bedside manner and is very kind and friendly...

Strengths [at Columbia Fertility Associates - Washington DC]: Appointments always on time, front desk staff is nice, clinic is convenient to downtown area of DC. Weaknesses: The finance department is one woman who is quite nice, but I've found over 3 errors in our financial communications when first starting out on round 1. I would love if it was standard procedure to tell patients their test results each time on voicemail or email. It felt like I was bothering them to ask for it...

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Weakness: I feel that Dr. Sacks could have better explained my initial test results and what that meant for my likelihood to produce low # of eggs with stim meds. I did most of this research on my own but know he could have prepared me for the less than optimal results BEFORE choosing treatment. Strengths: Dr. Sacks is clearly an expert in what he does and is more than capable of answering the most complex questions. He has always been patient and willing to explain procedures and outcomes in great detail. Dr. Sacks always has a good bedside manner and is very kind and friendly.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

To ask for detailed explanation of test results and what he will be looking for in continuous testing before and during rounds of treatment. He has the answers, there is just so much to cover to coming prepared with pointed questions is helpful.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Describe the protocols Preston Sacks used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

First round of stim meds for egg freezing was 300 IU of menopur. I only needed one ganorelix shot before retrieval as I ended up on the menopur for longer than expected - 13 days.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The service provided by nursing staff varied quite a bit. In person, most are pleasant and helpful. However, I find myself regularly asking for them to leave my test results on email or phone, only to get a call with instructions for next steps and no context. As someone who like to always know all of the information, this was frustrating. I was also originally assigned to one specific nurse for questions but found she didn't always respond and in person did not have great bedside manner. I do with there was one nurse per physician to handle questions/follow up, or at the very least, pass along communications better. Lastly, there were a few instances where I know the nurse had not looked at my chart before answering questions and then would adjust her response/suggestion accordingly. This was only a few times, but there is room for improvement on patient-nurse connection.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

Strengths: Appointments always on time, front desk staff is nice, clinic is convenient to downtown area of DC. Weaknesses: The finance department is one woman who is quite nice, but I've found over 3 errors in our financial communications when first starting out on round 1. I would love if it was standard procedure to tell patients their test results each time on voicemail or email. It felt like I was bothering them to ask for it.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Very efficient monitoring appointments. Even when it seemed crowded, their system is optimized for quick visits to get you out the door. I also like that the time frame is early morning so we aren't forced to miss work.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates.

First found of egg freezing was about $8,300 plus the cost of meds. Second round is a little lower to account for freezing cost already covered, about $7500. The third round (not yet completed) will be free besides cost of anesthesia ($500) and meds. This is part of a "buy 2, get one free" egg freezing package.

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Failed to call with results

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

As mentioned, if I request the results, I would like those to be told to me. I have to ask every time!! There were two instances where I had to write back and ask for exact numbers of blood work.

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

2015 - 2016, Successful

Age 37 - 38

8 IUI

1 IVF

Donor Sperm

Uterine Fibroids

Unexplained

European

South Asian

Latinx

Black or African-American

Other

Income $100K - $199K

Writer

2nd of 2 Docs

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Successful

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr. Sacks personally responded to my emails and phone calls and was always available for appointments. I only met with nurses and other support staff after discussing my care directly with Dr. Sacks... Dr. Sacks recommended a conservative approach.... He worked closely with me to develop a treatment plan and communicated every step in language I could understand. He gave his opinion frankly, but was kind and supportive.

As mentioned before, the nursing team [at Columbia] could be more professional and better trained. Thankfully, Dr. Sacks was easily accessible and perhaps aware of the nursing staff's deficiencies, so my care did not suffer, but the staff should be reliable as they interact closely with patients...It did not feel like a cattle call. There were other patients present in the waiting room, obviously, but I never felt rushed.

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sacks has an excellent bedside manner and treats patients as if he is personally invested in their well-being and success. He worked closely with me to develop a treatment plan and communicated every step in language I could understand. He gave his opinion frankly, but was kind and supportive.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Be honest and open to honesty

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sacks personally responded to my emails and phone calls and was always available for appointments. I only met with nurses and other support staff after discussing my care directly with Dr. Sacks. Any problems I had were resolved personally by Dr. Sacks. I never felt like a number or just another patient. He has an excellent bedside manner and treats patients as if he is personally invested in their well-being and success.

Describe the protocols Preston Sacks used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

Because of my favorable initial testing, Dr. Sacks recommended a conservative approach. We began with unmedicated IUIs (3 chemical pregnancies, 3 negative tests) and progressed to IVF--for insurance coverage reasons--with low-dose medications (9 eggs retrieved, 7 fertilized, 4 frozen embryos, eSET) which resulted in a chemical pregnancy. Dr. Sacks helped me overcome my reluctance to medicated IUIs (1 negative, 1 positive), the second of which resulted in a vanishing twin and birth of a singleton.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia Fertility Associates. (Assigned nurse: Julianna)

I had a mixed experience. Care was far from terrible, but I often had to go directly to Dr. Sacks for confirmation and follow up of details as communication from the nursing staff was inconsistent and sometimes inaccurate. One of the nurses in particular was not well informed and almost caused me to cancel a cycle unnecessarily.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

As mentioned before, the nursing team could be more professional and better trained. Thankfully, Dr. Sacks was easily accessible and perhaps aware of the nursing staff's deficiencies, so my care did not suffer, but the staff should be reliable as they interact closely with patients.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia Fertility Associates.

It did not feel like a cattle call. There were other patients present in the waiting room, obviously, but I never felt rushed.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates.

About $16,000 in totol

Describe Preston Sacks's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia Fertility Associates.

Because of my strong aversion to having twins, Dr. Sacks advised an eSET, which proved to be the right choice as I still conceived twins (one vanishing at 8 weeks).

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

As mentioned, I had to go directly to Dr. Sacks on a few occasions as the information conveyed by nurses was inaccurate or incomplete. There was one occasion when a nurse attempted to act unilaterally and it was only through my close interaction with Dr. Sacks that I was able to keep my treatment on course.

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Compassion

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

2014 - 2016, Successful

Age 33 - 35

6 IUI

2 IVF

PCOS

European

Ashkenazi Jewish

Income $200K - $499K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Preston Sacks Columbia Fertility Associates

Dr. Sacks was incredibly warm, concerned with our personal circumstances, straight with us in terms of managing our expectations but also helping us remain hopeful and not worry unnecessarily. He ALWAYS took the time to answe my questions thoroughly and also was extremely responsive by email the few times I had urgent concerns or questions...Dr. Sacks was incredibly warm, concerned with our personal circumstances, straight with us in terms of managing our expectations but also helping us remain hopeful and not worry unnecessarily. He ALWAYS took the time to answe my questions thoroughly and also was extremely responsive by email the few times I had urgent concerns or questions.

[Columbia - DC] Strengths -- more personable compared to larger clinics, excellent doctor, mostly great nurses, high frequency of seeing doctors, responsiveness of doctor and nurses by email, choir follow up / communicating test results and answering questions Weaknesses -- billing team is at times disorganized, difficult to contact to resolve question or their errors, and sometimes callous (calling to demand late peymebt even though bills were not mailed)

How was your experience with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

I can't recommend him highly enough. Dr. Sacks was extremely caring and thorough. He is very knowledgeable on all subjects related to fertility and was able to help us understand what was known by science and not known by science related to our particular circumstances. Sometimes he felt rushed at non critical visits, but if I initiated he was always available to answer questions. When it came time to handling difficult times/news with us, he was always patient and caring. Dr. Sacks also helped us avoid unnecessary procedures by helping us weigh the pros and cons of different options. I am so grateful that he was our doctor.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Be sure to ask all of your questions. He may seem rushed at times at routine visits (e.g. Ultrasounds) if the schedule is backed up, but he will always provide valuable answers to your questions. Also, he's very responsive by email.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Dr. Sacks was incredibly warm, concerned with our personal circumstances, straight with us in terms of managing our expectations but also helping us remain hopeful and not worry unnecessarily. He ALWAYS took the time to answe my questions thoroughly and also was extremely responsive by email the few times I had urgent concerns or questions. Dr. Sacks also took time out of his very busy schedule to attended the Bris of our son. He honestly came to feel like part of our family. We were definitely not numbers to him!

Describe the protocols Preston Sacks used in your cycles at Columbia Fertility Associates and their degree of success.

I started with Climid, then the off-label breast cancer drug (can't remember the name) combined with six IUIs, then two fresh IVF cycles. My first IVF cycle none of the eggs fertilized properly (initial failure then ICSI after 24 hours but none implanted). The second IVF cycle we did ICSI and had 7 embryos, one of which we implanted and gave us our beautiful baby boy! (I have PCOS but it seems, perhaps, that the issue was the egg-sperm interaction).

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia Fertility Associates.

There was some variability with the bedside manor of the nurses. One in particular was extremely caring from the beginning. The others were better once my treatment got further along in the process (more intensive treatment). A few didn't study my chart carefully before talking with me, which I found annoying and also at time upsetting depending on the confusion. However, by in large the nursing care was good.

Describe your experience with Columbia Fertility Associates.

Strengths -- more personable compared to larger clinics, excellent doctor, mostly great nurses, high frequency of seeing doctors, responsiveness of doctor and nurses by email, choir follow up / communicating test results and answering questions Weaknesses -- billing team is at times disorganized, difficult to contact to resolve question or their errors, and sometimes callous (calling to demand late peymebt even though bills were not mailed)

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The early ones were strssful for me when I was new and leaning the system, and only one nurse seemed sensitive to this. Once I got the drill down, the monitoring visits were fine.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Preston Sacks at Columbia Fertility Associates.

We had Fertility treatments covered by insurance, so it was the cost of the premium (I opened a secondary plan to cover IVF), copays, and some of the drugs for IUI

What specific things went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates?

Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia Fertility Associates.

The billing team billed insurance for a seventh IUI that I didn't have and was very unhelpful/rude in resolving the problem. I had to get the head nurse involve to help me fight with them, which ultimately worked. In the meantime I got a FRANTIC call from someone helping the billing team demanding that I give my credit card number to pay a thousand dollar bill or i would be sent to collections, even though I had not been sent a bill (by that time I was pregnant and no longer coming in to the clinic). They did a similar thing with my husband even though the error was on their side (he had requested sperm disposal and paid the remaining bill but their system didn't show it). The errors wouldn't be such an issue if their main billing person, Kim, was more responsive or less rude.

Doctor

Preston Sacks

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Columbia Fertility Associates

Washington DC