Ratings of 1 indicate that a clinic was poorly operated.
Ratings of 10 indicate that a clinic operated very well.
Scheduling
8.8
8.8
Scheduling
Ratings of 1 mean it was difficult to schedule appointments with this clinic.
Ratings of 10 mean it was easy to schedule appointments.
Billing Department
7.6
7.6
Billing Department
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory billing department.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent billing department.
Nursing Team
8.9
8.9
Nursing Team
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory nursing team.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent nursing team.
LGBTQ+ Care
10
10
LGBTQ+ Care
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory LGBTQ+ care.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent LGBTQ+ care.
Attention to Detail
8.1
8.1
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is on a 1 - 10 scale, and is scored based on the rate, and severity, of errors committed by the clinic according to the patients.
For example, a severe error might be failing to inform a patient of critical information, while a small error might be failing to call a patient with results.
CDC Success Rates
This is the most recent data from the CDC. The CDC cautions that it should not be used to compare doctors and clinics. This data represents the outcomes of IVF cycles when using a person's own eggs.
For more information please see our FAQs.
Where you see a “?” on the chart, a clinic has done fewer than 20 cycles in this category and age range, so the CDC says showing percentages from this small data set would be misleading and unreliable.
I have never met her [Dr. Erin Lewis] in person only on video twice and a phone call. She is nice tries to explain things. Just needs like 3 confirmations to move forward. We were not really told our options because we thought we knew what we wanted before seeing her. A lot of the stuff I have a problem with is her unpreparedness because of a lack of communication from the clinic. If she was getting the info before seeing me I think she would be great.
Its hard to get a responce from the [RBA] office. You never really know what your next step is. And the finacial people cannot tell you hardly anything. You are better off asking for the codes for everything you might need and calling your insuramce directly to see whats covered...The pre screen staff were very nice and the blood work ladies are funny. Havent talked to any actual nursing staff except through messages and they are kinda choppy
How was your experience with Erin Lewis at RBA?
I am still early in the processes. I have never met her in person only on video twice and a phone call. She is nice tries to explain things. Just needs like 3 confirmations to move forward. We were not really told our options because we thought we knew what we wanted before seeing her. A lot of the stuff I have a problem with is her unpreparedness because of a lack of communication from the clinic. If she was getting the info before seeing me I think she would be great.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Erin Lewis at RBA?
Dont be in a rush. The reply time is longer than you want it to be.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Erin Lewis at RBA?
Its hard to get a responce from the office. You never really know what your next step is. And the finacial people cannot tell you hardly anything. You are better off asking for the codes for everything you might need and calling your insuramce directly to see whats covered.
Describe the protocols Erin Lewis used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
Not there yet
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
The pre screen staff were very nice and the blood work ladies are funny. Havent talked to any actual nursing staff except through messages and they are kinda choppy
Describe your experience with RBA.
They do not like to answer the phone. They do not like to call back. They do not give you the prices of services until you are about to do it. The finacial group shares very little and does not give you an accurate picture of what you will be paying.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Erin Lewis at RBA.
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
I have had appointments scheduled at the wrong location and had to correct them. I have had bloodwork that was suppose to be drawn and was scheduled but not prescibed until after I was there. I have had paperwork with missing and conflicting information on it that I had to point out. Whenever I call noone ever answers the phone.
Dr. Best has been very kind and compassionate towards us. She has wanted to see us succeed. With both miscarriages, she was very empathetic. She also wants to make sure we are doing everything we can to bring us home a baby. Sometimes I can get frustrated with the virtual visits, because she tends to run late.
Communication can be off [at RBA]. Sometimes they are great at communicating, and sometimes it’s so hard to get in contact with them. The billing department can be slow and responding and also hard to get in contact with...Dr. Best has always been warm and kind to us. With everything we have been through, she has been understanding and emphatic.
How was your experience with Monica Best at RBA?
Dr. Best has been very kind and compassionate towards us. She has wanted to see us succeed. With both miscarriages, she was very empathetic. She also wants to make sure we are doing everything we can to bring us home a baby. Sometimes I can get frustrated with the virtual visits, because she tends to run late. However, I know she is busy and potentially taking time to be with other patients that need her attention. Overall, I love Dr. Best and would recommend her to others.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Monica Best at RBA?
Advocate for yourself! Do not be afraid to ask questions, she is very good at responding and making sure you understand.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Monica Best at RBA?
Dr. Best has always been warm and kind to us. With everything we have been through, she has been understanding and emphatic.
Describe the protocols Monica Best used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
I have textbook PCOS, so I was on a pretty basic protocol. For the most part, it all “worked”. For my IUIs, I was in oral letrazole and used an HCG trigger shot. I did end up ovulating both times, so it technically worked even if it did not result in a positive pregnancy test. For egg retrieval I was on HCG, follistim, and ganirelex. These worked great for me and got us 34 eggs! Amazingly, I did not get OHSS. For my first transfer, I was on oral estrogen, baby aspirin, progesterone suppositories 2x daily and PIO (5 days before transfer). I did get a positive result, but my progesterone was low, and my beta did not rise appropriately. We upped the suppositories to 3x daily. Unfortunately, this resulted in an early loss just shy of 5 weeks. With my second transfer I was put on the same protocol, but added in lovenox. This resulted in a positive test as well and my beta numbers rose appropriately this round. However, baby was not growing as they should and we lost them at 9 weeks. The last miscarriage was recent and we have not yet discussed any protocol changes for the 3rd transfer. She does want to do some additional testing and an surgery before this next transfer.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
Started out with a nurse named Lacie, and she was the best. Very sweet and compassionate about our journey. She remembered details about me and my cycle/where we were at in our treatment. Unfortunately she left. Then I mostly spoke to a nurse named Christy. She was very good at her job, organized, and knew what she was doing/talking about. She was not as sweet and compassionate as Lacie, but still a good nurse. Most recently, I have been talking to a nurse named Samantha. I have not had much interaction with her, but she seems to be sweet as well.
Describe your experience with RBA.
Communication can be off. Sometimes they are great at communicating, and sometimes it’s so hard to get in contact with them. The billing department can be slow and responding and also hard to get in contact with.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RBA.
It was well ran. Did not feel like it was a “cattle call” they are very busy, but not overbooked. The only overbooking they tend to do is bloodwork appointments. I was always able to schedule it at a good time for me, it did not ruin my schedule.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Monica Best at RBA.
In the year 2021, we paid $23k in total to RBA. This was for egg retrieval, and 1 FET. Plus copays.
Describe Monica Best's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RBA.
Basically she told me that the odds only go up slightly on getting pregnant. She also told me that she wants my first pregnant to go as smoothly as it can and that multiples are considered high risk.
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
Once they forgot to tell me my next steps and to set up an appointment with me. When I knew I needed an appointment, I informed them and they were shocked that I didn’t have it set up already. They then did apologize and set up my appointment, but it was a month later than I felt like it could have been. Another time, my dr was 30 minutes late to a phone call appointment. I had to send the clinic a portal message and less than 5 minutes after I sent it, my dr called.
Dr. Toledo is great at listening to your concerns. If you don’t feel like something is right, he will immediately address it and change protocol if needed. He throughly answers questions and will address any concerns you have honestly...Our first IUI, we did low dose Letrozol and it did not work. Our second, we upped our Letrozol, got better follicles but never surged so we tried again. The third we did 7.5 and had great follicles but still no positive test. Currently starting IVF meds...
[nurses at RBA] Lack communication. I’ve had ultrasounds and never received an after call with no explanation as to why. When I started IFV, I had no where to start, requested multiple calls and no one would even answer questions until my full payment was made. Very frustrating that I had no clear direction...Front desk staff is amazing and as helpful as they can be. All of the ultrasound techs have been amazing and the doctors I’ve done procedures with have been very nice, helpful and happy to answer any questions...
How was your experience with Andrew Toledo at RBA?
Dr. Toledo is great at listening to your concerns. If you don’t feel like something is right, he will immediately address it and change protocol if needed. He throughly answers questions and will address any concerns you have honestly.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrew Toledo at RBA?
If you don’t feel something is right, address it. He is more than willing to talk to you and make protocol adjustments.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrew Toledo at RBA?
Dr. Toledo is great, the nursing staff does lack communication and is not very sympathetic when you’re not understanding something or questioning your next steps etc
Describe the protocols Andrew Toledo used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
Our first IUI, we did low dose Letrozol and it did not work. Our second, we upped our Letrozol, got better follicles but never surged so we tried again. The third we did 7.5 and had great follicles but still no positive test. Currently starting IVF meds.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
Lack communication. I’ve had ultrasounds and never received an after call with no explanation as to why. When I started IFV, I had no where to start, requested multiple calls and no one would even answer questions until my full payment was made. Very frustrating that I had no clear direction.
Describe your experience with RBA.
Front desk staff is amazing and as helpful as they can be. All of the ultrasound techs have been amazing and the doctors I’ve done procedures with have been very nice, helpful and happy to answer any questions.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrew Toledo at RBA.
Iui about $1200 each, currently at $15500 for IVF not including meds
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Lost appointments
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
During one of my IUI cycles, the wrong amount of Letrozol was called into my pharmacy
I personally wanted a doctor with high success rates and want the clinical information. I do not need warm fuzzy bedside manner. I just want the facts and no nonsense. So Dr. Straub was perfect! He doesn't treat me as a number per se but he also isn't hand-holding...He wants to do high dose injections, ICSI, 5 day embryos with genetic screen, ultrasound guided frozen transfer the next cycle, assisted hatching, and post-transfer course of steroids and progesterone.
[RBA Clinic] Strength: everyone is very professional, the facility and people are high quality Weakness: limited hours the clinic is open and limited phone accessibility with difficulty reaching a live person. They do have multiple offices in the metro Atlanta area for convenience...It is around 10k for if no insurance for just the egg-collection. If you have insurance they raise the price high enough that you end up paying 8k out of pocket. Labs and genetic testing are extra. Medications are additional and expected to cost 5-7k, then there are fees for egg/embryos frozen storage.
How was your experience with Robert Straub at RBA?
He is very matter of fact and wants you to have your baby through the way he scientifically knows it will happen. I was very pleased to learn that what he was recommending was in line with the best practices I had read up on. He is there for you if you are ready for IVF. He won't try to talk you into it but he really doesn't want to do other options when he doesn't think those things will be successful. But I prefer he to-the-point style.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Robert Straub at RBA?
Look for results, not hand-holding.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Robert Straub at RBA?
I personally wanted a doctor with high success rates and want the clinical information. I do not need warm fuzzy bedside manner. I just want the facts and no nonsense. So Dr. Straub was perfect! He doesn't treat me as a number per se but he also isn't hand-holding.
Describe the protocols Robert Straub used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
I cannot undergo IVF yet because of Covid-19 but I am in line for when it is allowed again. I am 35 with low ovarian reserve and my husband is 52. He wants to do high dose injections, ICSI, 5 day embryos with genetic screen, ultrasound guided frozen transfer the next cycle, assisted hatching, and post-transfer course of steroids and progesterone.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
They are all nice on the phone but his office has very limited hours and it is difficult to reach anyone in person. I usually have to leave a voicemail.
Describe your experience with RBA.
Strength: everyone is very professional, the facility and people are high quality
Weakness: limited hours the clinic is open and limited phone accessibility with difficulty reaching a live person.
They do have multiple offices in the metro Atlanta area for convenience. The Sandy Springs is close to my work so I like that.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Robert Straub at RBA.
It is around 10k for if no insurance for just the egg-collection. If you have insurance they raise the price high enough that you end up paying 8k out of pocket. Labs and genetic testing are extra. Medications are additional and expected to cost 5-7k, then there are fees for egg/embryos frozen storage.
Describe Robert Straub's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RBA.
He appears to transfer the number recommended by the guidelines. It is age dependent and stage of embryo dependent.
Dr. Slayden always made me feel welcomed and heard...Take plenty of notes when you go to appts, bc he does talk fast...We decided to do IVF with low dose HCG, Cetrotide, and Gonal F...Due to my estrogen being too high, we had to nix the Fresh transfer protocol and move to a complete FET. He believed I was on the verge of having OHSS....currently 18 weeks, 3 days pregnant with our little girl!
I really enjoy the satellite sites compared to the main clinic [for RBA]. I feel like they were more personable compared to those at the home base. I went to Marietta and Cartersville satellite sites. I had to go to Sandy Springs (main clinic) for husband's appts, retrieval/transfer, and during the beginning of pandemic. The main clinic just has a lot going on, esp bc it is attached to a large hospital.
How was your experience with Scott Slayden at RBA?
As a patient, Dr. Slayden always made me feel welcomed and heard. He listened to what I had to say and what my needs were, then planned the best course of treatment to satisfy everyone. He was positive during every appt. I did not feel like a number under his care.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Scott Slayden at RBA?
He is very energetic, so be prepared. But he is willing to do what is necessary to get you pregnant. Take plenty of notes when you go to appts, bc he does talk fast. He will answer every question you have to the best of his ability.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Scott Slayden at RBA?
Dr. Slayden always asked about my husband when he couldn't make it to appts (esp during the pandemic). He would always take the time to ask about work, etc. He was always so caring and wanted to make sure we would become pregnant. He answered every question we had and made sure we understood our options. He also let us pick what WE wanted.
Describe the protocols Scott Slayden used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
We started off with MFI. We were recommended to Dr. Slayden by my husband's urologist, who is also at RBA. We decided to do IVF with low dose HCG, Cetrotide, and Gonal F as the medications for retrieval. Due to my estrogen being too high, we had to nix the Fresh transfer protocol and move to a complete FET. He believed I was on the verge of having OHSS and didn't want to risk anything. Then the pandemic hit, but we were able to have our FET in June 2020 (successful) and currently 18 weeks, 3 days pregnant with our little girl!
Describe your experience with your nurse at RBA. (Assigned nurse: Lacie Bean )
Lacie was an actual saint. She held my hand every step of the way, esp when my husband couldn't be there. She did everything she could to help the pregnancy along. She always called to check on me, held my hand when I cried, and made sure that I always had what I needed. I couldn't have gone through this without her.
The other nurses and staff were great, too! Always friendly and willing to help!
Describe your experience with RBA.
I really enjoy the satellite sites compared to the main clinic. I feel like they were more personable compared to those at the home base. I went to Marietta and Cartersville satellite sites. I had to go to Sandy Springs (main clinic) for husband's appts, retrieval/transfer, and during the beginning of pandemic. The main clinic just has a lot going on, esp bc it is attached to a large hospital.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Scott Slayden at RBA.
Whew. With any fertility treatment, it is expensive. Luckily, SOME things were sent to our insurance, but not all. Most everything was paid out of pocket (esp IVF treatment, meds, FET)
Describe Scott Slayden's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RBA.
He explained to us the difference and due to my age, size (fairly small in weight and height), and the increased chance of having twins (or more), we all agreed that a single embryo transfer was best.
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Failed to call with results
Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
There were a couple of times with my husband's results that they failed to call us and we had to call them to get them.
He [Dr. Toledo] is warm and friendly. Always includes my husband in the conversation and gives big hugs...My egg retrieval was rough. It was the max dose you could give someone to maximize their egg retrieval outcome. I had a lower AMH and that’s why he chose this. We did frozen transfers every time using lupron, estrogen, progesterone...He only likes to implant 1 at a time..
I felt like a number [at RBA] in some ways because I never actually talk to the doctor unless it’s for bad news, or my post IVF failure. But the nurses have always been great, and once I did talk to the doctor he treated us like family...They need free parking. After all the money you spend on IVF, it’s the least they could do! Other than that, I feel like it it a great place. It’s definitely not small a quaint. So you will feel part of masses, but it’s a great place.
How was your experience with Andrew Toledo at RBA?
He is warm and friendly. Always includes my husband in the conversation and gives big hugs. We have had a hard journey together, we don’t know why it’s not working but we are all trying to figure it out together.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrew Toledo at RBA?
Get a good relationship with the nurses.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrew Toledo at RBA?
I felt like a number in some ways because I never actually talk to the doctor unless it’s for bad news, or my post IVF failure.
But the nurses have always been great, and once I did talk to the doctor he treated us like family.
Describe the protocols Andrew Toledo used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
My egg retrieval was rough. It was the max dose you could give someone to maximize their egg retrieval outcome. I had a lower AMH and that’s why he chose this.
We did frozen transfers every time using lupron, estrogen, progesterone. As the transfers were failing we kept adding more medication such a prednisone and lovenox.
We tried doing a uterine biopsy to test when my implantation window was.
All of these procedures and still no pregnancy
Describe your experience with your nurse at RBA. (Assigned nurse: Jennilyn )
I usually spoke to two nurses. Jennilyn and Lindsey. Lindsey was direct and to the point, Jennilyn was so sweet and compassionate all the time. She felt like a friend. Both good qualities for nursing. The made the perfect pair!
Describe your experience with RBA.
The need free parking. After all the money you spend on IVF, it’s the least they could do! Other than that, I feel like it it a great place. It’s definitely not small a quaint. So you will feel part of masses, but it’s a great place.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrew Toledo at RBA.
Out of pocket expenses have been about 16,000.
Describe Andrew Toledo's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RBA.
Dr. Rubin treated my husband and me with nothing but kindness. She took time to explain things where we could understand them and didn’t hesitate to answer any questions. At the time of my miscarriage, she personally called me a couple of times to check on me...For me personally, Dr. Rubin recommended single embryo transfer...
[staff of RBA] Medical assistant seemed a little short with me when asking questions. Nurse was very compassionate during miscarriage. Prompt communication via email, but phone communication was a little slow...Surgery center is also conveniently located in same building so egg retrieval’s and embryo transfers are performed in main office location.
How was your experience with Jessica Rubin at RBA?
Very thorough- at my initial consultation it was obvious that she read all my medical records (size of a book) and had even made notes and marked pages. Very kind and explained all steps of the process and what to expect.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jessica Rubin at RBA?
Write a list of questions before appointment so that you don’t forget.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jessica Rubin at RBA?
Dr. Rubin treated my husband and me with nothing but kindness. She took time to explain things where we could understand them and didn’t hesitate to answer any questions. At the time of my miscarriage, she personally called me a couple of times to check on me.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
Medical assistant seemed a little short with me when asking questions. Nurse was very compassionate during miscarriage. Prompt communication via email, but phone communication was a little slow.
Describe your experience with RBA.
Multiple locations makes it a little more convenient for people traveling from out of town. The doctor who is on-call performs the procedures. Some of the other doctors do not seem to be as personable as Dr. Rubin. Surgery center is also conveniently located in same building so egg retrieval’s and embryo transfers are performed in main office location.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Jessica Rubin at RBA.
I was accepted into the baby guarantee program. It was a flat fee that covered monitoring appointments, egg retrieval, and embryo transfers. Medication was not included. If no live birth in 2 years, then we get our money back.
Describe Jessica Rubin's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RBA.
For me personally, Dr. Rubin recommended single embryo transfer.
So our first appt was a phone consultation. We talked to him [Dr. Scott Slayden] for about an hour, and he really got to know us. I was surprised at how well the appt went just having it over the phone...Due to my age (35) he doesn't recommend IUI and recommends IVF for us so we can also freeze embryos and build a larger family later...
It is tough to rate [RBA] clinic during a pandemic. We had our consult, and his MA emailed us right away to contact them the first week of April for updates and unfortunately we couldn't do anything at this point. I have had trouble getting in contact with anyone since then, but all satellite offices are closed and the Main office is open, however I am unable to get in touch with anyone there. Again, we are in the middle of a pandemic and they are not starting anything new.
How was your experience with Scott Slayden at RBA?
We have only had a phone consult to this point due to the coronavirus pandemic. He made us feel pretty good about our chances of conceiving via IVF. However due to the timing of everything we cannot get any tests or start any cycles at this point. So we are just WAITING and it stinks, but I understand.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Scott Slayden at RBA?
We had waited a few months to get a consultation with Dr. Slayden. When it was time for our appointment the Coronavirus pandemic was just beginning and the office had closed. So our first appt was a phone consultation. We talked to him for about an hour, and he really got to know us. I was surprised at how well the appt went just having it over the phone.
Describe the protocols Scott Slayden used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
Due to my age (35) he doesn't recommend IUI and recommends IVF for us so we can also freeze embryos and build a larger family later.
Describe your experience with RBA.
It is tough to rate a clinic during a pandemic. We had our consult, and his MA emailed us right away to contact them the first week of April for updates and unfortunately we couldn't do anything at this point. I have had trouble getting in contact with anyone since then, but all satellite offices are closed and the Main office is open, however I am unable to get in touch with anyone there. Again, we are in the middle of a pandemic and they are not starting anything new.
Dr. Shapiro spent so much time with us discussing every aspect of our treatment plan. We expected someone as busy as him to rush us through the initial conversation, but he took his time and made sure every single one of our questions was answered. He was blunt in a way I appreciated and never seemed condescending or like he was judging our questions.
It’s a giant practice [RBA] - lots of doctors and a few different locations. While your specific doctor remembers your case and information not every single person at the office location will. One great aspect has been that pretty much everything can be done in house. From bloodwork to genetic consults and everything in between. I rarely have to go anywhere else to get a test done.
How was your experience with Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
Very knowledgeable about what seemed like our very specific set of circumstances, which I think speaks to his overall expertise. He made us feel comfortable discussing topics we hadn’t discussed with anyone else yet. Most importantly he eased a lot of the concerns I had about whether or not it was even possible for me to use my eggs in our course of treatment. The only weakness I’d say we’ve encountered is that it took awhile to get the initial appointment-approx. 6 weeks - but we were lucky to have the time to wait.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
Come in prepared with all your questions, he’ll have the time to answer them. Be willing to be open about exactly what your expectations are with him so he can set realistic goals for you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
Dr. Shapiro spent so much time with us discussing every aspect of our treatment plan. We expected someone as busy as him to rush us through the initial conversation, but he took his time and made sure every single one of our questions was answered. He was blunt in a way I appreciated and never seemed condescending or like he was judging our questions.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RBA.
There was some initial confusion with the care coordinator on exactly what types of tests and blood work needed ordered for my first few appointments. But every other nurse in the office always worked extremely hard to get it sorted out when I was there. Everyone has been very responsive to emails and questions and we’ve never had trouble getting in touch with anyone.
Describe your experience with RBA.
It’s a giant practice - lots of doctors and a few different locations. While your specific doctor remembers your case and information not every single person at the office location will.
One great aspect has been that pretty much everything can be done in house. From bloodwork to genetic consults and everything in between. I rarely have to go anywhere else to get a test done.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Shapiro at RBA.
$14K
Describe Daniel Shapiro's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RBA.
He only does single embryo transfer - something we were ok with.
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Provided conflicting information
Scheduled the wrong procedure
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
During the initial bloodwork and ultrasounds there was an instance of the care coordinator ordering the wrong ultrasound and ordering the bloodwork twice. It was frustrating in the moment but the nurse assigned to me that day was incredibly helpful about getting it all sorted out.
Overall, I had a great experience with him [Dr. Daniel Shapiro]....He is extremely personable and will be very honest and upfront with you on treatment and potential roadblocks...He understands our frustration, but has changed the plan on us a few times. I will do whatever is best, and appreciate his explanations of treatment...He is extremely personable and will be very honest and upfront with you on treatment and potential roadblocks...He took the time to get to know me. I ran into him outside the office and he knew and said hi to me.
Strengths [at RBA] - doctors all truly care and are compassionate. Check-in and check-off staff are so nice. Check out system was down a few times during checkout, meaning I couldn’t pay and got a very large bill with all of my “past due” payments at once, which wasn’t fun. Be patient, as cycles take time...Some nurses were better than others. Some acted as though they hadn’t read my charts and I was practically telling them what to do. Some understand my case and advised accordingly...I showed up once for a midcycle ultrasound, and the ultrasound person said they had me down for a baseline
How was your experience with Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
Overall, I had a great experience with him. My first 2 pregnancies everything went according to his plan and I got pregnant very quickly. We are trying for our 3rd, with the same plan as before, and are having an insanely hard time getting pregnant. It is frustrating because to him, this is normal and is unexplained infertility, but knowing I got pregnant so easily the first two times makes this even harder. He understands our frustration, but has changed the plan on us a few times. I will do whatever is best, and appreciate his explanations of treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
He is extremely personable and will be very honest and upfront with you on treatment and potential roadblocks.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
He took the time to get to know me. I ran into him outside the office and he knew and said hi to me.
Describe the protocols Daniel Shapiro used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
I took Femara for each cycle, along with Progesterone shots, ovidril to trigger ovulation, and IUI
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
Some nurses were better than others. Some acted as though they hadn’t read my charts and I was practically telling them what to do. Some understand my case and advised accordingly.
Describe your experience with RBA.
Strengths - doctors all truly care and are compassionate. Check-in and check-off staff are so nice. Check out system was down a few times during checkout, meaning I couldn’t pay and got a very large bill with all of my “past due” payments at once, which wasn’t fun. Be patient, as cycles take time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Shapiro at RBA.
One IUI cycle including medicine was between $2,500-$3,000
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Provided conflicting information
Scheduled the wrong procedure
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
I showed up once for a midcycle ultrasound, and the ultrasound person said they had me down for a baseline
He [Dr. Scott Slayden] explained everything very well. I had to have surgery initially which turned out to just be a uterine polyp but he was awesome and very personable. When was pregnant but my HCG levels hadn’t increased as they should he called me to tell me and did it in a very compassionate but factual way so I understood exactly what was happening. When I had the miscarriage the ultrasound tech was out so he personally did the ultrasound. He remains positive but realistic about the treatments.
They [nurses at RBA-Marietta] are great- always get back to me quickly when I call, appointments are on time and efficient...Clomid check $470...Mid cycle ultrasound $200...IUI $600...I love that they have several different office locations and I can go to anyone for the ultrasounds and bloodwork. I wish there was more of a support network while in treatment. I think they have a group at the main office but it has never been mentioned. This process is hard physically and emotionally and wish they had more to offer in the way of a community feeling.
How was your experience with Scott Slayden at RBA?
He explained everything very well. I had to have surgery initially which turned out to just be a uterine polyp but he was awesome and very personable. When was pregnant but my HCG levels hadn’t increased as they should he called me to tell me and did it in a very compassionate but factual way so I understood exactly what was happening. When I had the miscarriage the ultrasound tech was out so he personally did the ultrasound. He remains positive but realistic about the treatments.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Scott Slayden at RBA?
This is a long process and you have to be flexible
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Scott Slayden at RBA?
The staff are great and try their best to
Work with your schedule. Everything is explained well and they always get back to me when I contact them.
Describe the protocols Scott Slayden used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
I am currently in the middle of the last cycle of IUI we can do before having another consultation and moving to other treatments. It’s been straight forward so far: Clomid check- iltrasound, clomid 2 tabs x 5 days then a mid cycle ultrasound and then IUI the day after positive ovulation test.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RBA. (Assigned nurse: Selena)
They are great- always get back to me quickly when I call, appointments are on time and efficient.
Describe your experience with RBA.
I love that they have several different office locations and I can go to anyone for the ultrasounds and bloodwork.
I wish there was more of a support network while in treatment. I think they have a group at the main office but it has never been mentioned. This process is hard physically and emotionally and wish they had more to offer in the way of a community feeling.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Scott Slayden at RBA.
Dr Straub is direct and open about his plans for you...He was warm but to the point. He didn’t waste my time or my money...I didn’t see Dr Straub as much as I saw his nurse and nurse practitioner...He believes I doing all baseline testing then coming up with a personalized plan. We started with clomid as I have PCOS. We did 2 cycles of monitored clomid, I had an ectopic then we moved on to femara. I am currently pregnant from my femara cycle.
There has been turnover [at RBA- Cumming]] since I became pregnant. While I was there I saw his nurse practitioner mostly and she was wonderful...Around $1000 per clomid/femara cycle including a trigger shot...Great communication, great office staff- very sensitive...They have plenty of cost effective options to try. The clinic experienced turn over in my last cycle so that was upsetting but the communication was still there...
How was your experience with Robert Straub at RBA?
I didn’t see Dr Straub as much as I saw his nurse and nurse practitioner. The office always answered my calls and called me back in a timely manner. I did experience an ectopic pregnancy while under his care and his office was very sensitive about the situation. I loved the ultrasound tech, she always made me feel relaxed.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Robert Straub at RBA?
Do not hesitate to make an appointment and get started. Wish I had started sooner. 2/3 cycles ended up with a positive pregnancy test.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Robert Straub at RBA?
He was warm but to the point. He didn’t waste my time or my money.
Describe the protocols Robert Straub used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
He believes I doing all baseline testing then coming up with a personalized plan. We started with clomid as I have PCOS. We did 2 cycles of monitored clomid, I had an ectopic then we moved on to femara. I am currently pregnant from my femara cycle.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
There has been turnover since I became pregnant. While I was there I saw his nurse practitioner mostly and she was wonderful.
Describe your experience with RBA.
Great communication, great office staff- very sensitive. Dr Straub is direct and open about his plans for you. They have plenty of cost effective options to try. The clinic experienced turn over in my last cycle so that was upsetting but the communication was still there.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Robert Straub at RBA.
Around $1000 per clomid/femara cycle including a trigger shot.
Dr. Slayden was very personal and positive with his words. He was very encouraging and honest. He made us feel right at home while speaking with him about the right plan.... You will meet with his NP a lot, but he is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about what he does!... We met him once. He was very kind and genuine! He was very passionate about wanting to help us and had the right plan in mind. He also took in interest to our hobby while discussing wanting to know more about us which was cool.
Front desk rep [at RBA- Lawrenceville] isn’t very passionate or friendly. She seems frustrated a lot. She’s straight forward with not much personality. All of the other staff has been very nice and pleasant! The cost are a little high but hopefully it’ll be worth it in the end... Carla is actually the NP. She communicates back very quickly, tells me what I need to hear, listens to all my concerns and answers all my questions!
How was your experience with Scott Slayden at RBA?
We met him once. He was very kind and genuine! He was very passionate about wanting to help us and had the right plan in mind. He also took in interest to our hobby while discussing wanting to know more about us which was cool.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Scott Slayden at RBA?
You will meet with his NP a lot, but he is extremely knowledgeable and passionate about what he does!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Scott Slayden at RBA?
Dr. Slayden was very personal and positive with his words. He was very encouraging and honest. He made us feel right at home while speaking with him about the right plan.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RBA. (Assigned nurse: Carla)
Carla is actually the NP. She communicates back very quickly, tells me what I need to hear, listens to all my concerns and answers all my questions!
Describe your experience with RBA.
Front desk rep isn’t very passionate or friendly. She seems frustrated a lot. She’s straight forward with not much personality. All of the other staff has been very nice and pleasant! The cost are a little high but hopefully it’ll be worth it in the end.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Scott Slayden at RBA.
Pretty expensive! It seems like every time I go in I’m spending $500 at each visit.
He [Dr. Michael Witt] talks a lot. Take all the notes you can. And ask for your record so you can look things over...My husband had to have several semen analysis done. Dr. Witt wanted to run several different tests. He also needed ultrasounds completed, which shown stage 2 varicocele. Dr. Witt conducted surgery. After 3 months, we went back and my husband is now on medication and supplements perscribed by Dr. Witt
Majority of the nurses [at RBA- Sandy Springs] have gone through infertility, as well. They know our struggle. They are Always so sweet to check on us and make sure we understand everything...I don't like the "office fee" every time we come. Esp when we have to due to a follow up. But infertility is expensive. At least they take some of our insurance...It can feel like you are just a number if you let it. But if you open yourself up the RBA, you'll see that it's a great fertility center. They want to succeed. They make us feel like it's possible to have our baby.
How was your experience with Michael Witt at RBA?
He is very nice. Kind be kind of awkward, but that's good personality. He's very smart and has a great deal of knowledge about MFI. We trust him completely to give us our miracle. He has won many awards in urology. He is one of the top doctors in the country!!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Witt at RBA?
Take notes!!! He talks a lot. Take all the notes you can. And ask for your record so you can look things over.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Witt at RBA?
He seemed like he really cared for us. He wants the best/less invasive route.
Describe the protocols Michael Witt used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
My husband had to have several semen analysis done. Dr. Witt wanted to run several different tests. He also needed ultrasounds completed, which shown stage 2 varicocele. Dr. Witt conducted surgery. After 3 months, we went back and my husband is now on medication and supplements perscribed by Dr. Witt
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
Majority of the nurses have gone through infertility, as well. They know our struggle. They are Always so sweet to check on us and make sure we understand everything.
Describe your experience with RBA.
It can feel like you are just a number if you let it. But if you open yourself up the RBA, you'll see that it's a great fertility center. They want to succeed. They make us feel like it's possible to have our baby.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Witt at RBA.
I don't like the "office fee" every time we come. Esp when we have to due to a follow up. But infertility is expensive. At least they take some of our insurance.
Dr. Straub is very matter of fact. He doesn’t give any emotional support. He did make a joke at the end of my second appt with him and it was kind of a shock because his personality is so straight forward.... He draws a diagram as he speaks and lays out all of the details for you. He answered all of my questions and was pretty patient with me because I had a lot.... We had a lot of tests run on me including amh level, hormone levels, femvue test
RBA is huge and it is a pretty well oiled machine. The most annoying part for us has been the billing office which took forever to return my calls or emails. Everyone else has been mostly kind. I had one rude person answer the phone but that’s all.... The nurses have been wonderful. They answer all of my questions and put up with my crazy. They tell me of their own personal experiences with IVF. They are quick to respond and always thorough. They made me feel like they cared.
How was your experience with Robert Straub at RBA?
Dr. Straub is direct and to the point. He draws a diagram as he speaks and lays out all of the details for you. He answered all of my questions and was pretty patient with me because I had a lot. He is not emotionally supportive at all. I cried when he told us ivf was our best option and he pointed to the box of tissues on his desk and kept talking.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Robert Straub at RBA?
Go with this doctor if you want an efficient, smart doctor who will cater to your timeline. Get a therapist elsewhere.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Robert Straub at RBA?
Dr. Straub is very matter of fact. He doesn’t give any emotional support. He did make a joke at the end of my second appt with him and it was kind of a shock because his personality is so straight forward.
Describe the protocols Robert Straub used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
We had a lot of tests run on me including amh level, hormone levels, femvue test and maybe more tests. My husband had to do two semen analyses and ultimately they found male factor infertility was the issue. Due to his numbers ivf using ICSI and a frozen transfer were presented as our best option. We are about to start the egg retrieval process.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RBA. (Assigned nurse: Amy C)
The nurses have been wonderful. They answer all of my questions and put up with my crazy. They tell me of their own personal experiences with IVF. They are quick to respond and always thorough. They made me feel like they cared.
Describe your experience with RBA.
RBA is huge and it is a pretty well oiled machine. The most annoying part for us has been the billing office which took forever to return my calls or emails. Everyone else has been mostly kind. I had one rude person answer the phone but that’s all.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Robert Straub at RBA.
So far we have paid about 13,000 but expect to pay 26 or so for IVF with ICSI.
Describe Robert Straub's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RBA.
He recommended transferring only one embryo for us as it is lower risk.
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
The only issue I had was they wouldn’t call with results as promised. I called every day that the results were expected to come and they would tell me the results but I rarely had them reach out to me.
She [Dr. Pavna Brahma] is very sweet and reassuring of the process...Dr. Brahma is very compassionate and knowledgeable. I feel like some extra communication could have been better for example I did not realized that eggs were graded and actually asked afterwards and then was explained... I responded very well during the egg retrieval. I produced 15 eggs. 10 mature. 7 eggs fertilized. 5 made it to the 5 day blastocyst stage. After genetically testing those 3 came back normal. My transfer protocol was 10cc Lupron then down to 5.
I had my Pap smear sent to the clinic [RBA] but it got lost and delayed my getting my medications and I did not find out till It was past time for me the have my medications. No one called to follow up with me...Approximately $14k for the retrieval process. Then an additional cost of a choice of $4k for one embryo transfer or $6500 for multiple transfers up to a live birth. The second round cost was unexpected and not communicated until it was necessary. I was not able to have My medications ordered until everything was paid upfront.
How was your experience with Pavna Brahma at RBA?
Dr. Brahma is very compassionate and knowledgeable. I feel like some extra communication could have been better for example I did not realized that eggs were graded and actually asked afterwards and then was explained.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Pavna Brahma at RBA?
Be prepared to be very persistent and knowledgeable on the subject yourself.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Pavna Brahma at RBA?
Dr. Brahma is great! She is very sweet and reassuring of the process. The process in general in regards to the office and getting people to call you back and give you all the details you need was less than great. I felt like I had to be on top of all phone calls and calling and or emailing several times in order to get an answer.
Describe the protocols Pavna Brahma used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
I was on the highest dosage of meds for the egg retrieval and wasn’t expected to result in many eggs as my AMH was a .42. My egg retrieval was the highest dosages of Lupron and Follistim. The Lupron gave me migraines. Although the 2nd transfer using it maybe my body adjusted as I didn’t have the headaches like the first two times. I responded very well during the egg retrieval. I produced 15 eggs. 10 mature. 7 eggs fertilized. 5 made it to the 5 day blastocyst stage. After genetically testing those 3 came back normal.
My transfer protocol was 10cc Lupron then down to 5. With Estrogen and Progesterone. My first transfer resulted in a chemical pregnancy. The embryo started to implant but ultimately did not. All my levels were perfect and everything should have worked but it didn’t. Additionally after the failed transfer I had a scratch biopsy and was put on antibiotics. My 2nd transfer is scheduled in 10 days.
In addition to the medication I have been receiving accupuncture treatments.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RBA. (Assigned nurse: Crystal Alcantara)
I felt that they forget we don’t know the process of what is happening. There are some things you don’t know to ask or to do if you aren’t told or haven’t been through this before. Some vital information was not effectively communicated.
Describe your experience with RBA.
Again educate yourself on the process, ask a lot of questions,Take notes and be prepared to be the squeaky wheel. They should have someone on staff just to answer phones and answer questions. Calling and getting someone on the phone is an act of God. Most times I would have to call and email and call again and again.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Pavna Brahma at RBA.
Approximately $14k for the retrieval process.
Then an additional cost of a choice of $4k for one embryo transfer or $6500 for multiple transfers up to a live birth.
The second round cost was unexpected and not communicated until it was necessary. I was not able to have My medications ordered until everything was paid upfront.
Describe Pavna Brahma's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RBA.
At first I really wanted to do multiple embryos in the transfer. Due to having a myomectomy in 2014 Dr. Brahma recommended that I only do one at a time due to the potential my uterus may not be able to take getting so enlarged. She also explained that if the uterine environment were to be the cause of a transfer not taking I would most likely lose both embryos in a multiple transfer.
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Lost paperwork
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
I had my Pap smear sent to the clinic but it got lost and delayed my getting my medications and I did not find out till It was past time for me the have my medications. No one called to follow up with me.
Dr. Daniel Shapiro was great at addressing my and my husband's concerns and explaining the details involved for the surgery I had in 2017 to remove my left fallopian tube and clean the adhesions & scar tissue from endometriosis. He also has a great sense of humor, which helped alleviate my anxiety....Dr. Shapiro was very detailed in his explanations and, in particular, explained the next steps needed. He also helped me feel calmer before undergoing surgery. He is a forthright and direct communicator, which I appreciated.
RBA is a great clinic overall. They are easy to get ahold of and worked with us in scheduling a time to meet with the first available doctor and his team. I've had some issues with the billing office and my insurance company covering some items that should be covered...For the initial visit, my husband and I met with a nurse practitioner, who was very helpful in answering our questions and who showed compassion. After my surgery, I saw another nurse for the post-op visit, who was good, but not as great as the first nurse was.
How was your experience with Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
Dr. Shapiro was very detailed in his explanations and, in particular, explained the next steps needed. He also helped me feel calmer before undergoing surgery. He is a forthright and direct communicator, which I appreciated.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
Feel comfortable asking questions, even if you think they are minor or irrelevant.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
Dr. Daniel Shapiro was great at addressing my and my husband's concerns and explaining the details involved for the surgery I had in 2017 to remove my left fallopian tube and clean the adhesions & scar tissue from endometriosis. He also has a great sense of humor, which helped alleviate my anxiety.
Describe the protocols Daniel Shapiro used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
Dr. Shapiro removed my left fallopian tube, which was blocked, and cleaned the adhesions and scar tissue present as a result of stage 3 endometriosis. I did not know I had endometriosis, but I did find that I had a blocked fallopian tube after having done the HSG test. The surgery was necessary to remove the blocked fallopian tube and to diagnose if I had endometriosis.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
For the initial visit, my husband and I met with a nurse practitioner, who was very helpful in answering our questions and who showed compassion. After my surgery, I saw another nurse for the post-op visit, who was good, but not as great as the first nurse was.
Describe your experience with RBA.
RBA is a great clinic overall. They are easy to get ahold of and worked with us in scheduling a time to meet with the first available doctor and his team. I've had some issues with the billing office and my insurance company covering some items that should be covered; however, I hope this can be worked out.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Shapiro at RBA.
The surgery I had was around $3-4k, though most was covered by the insurance company. It was less expensive because the clinic has an out-patient facility. The office consultations were $100-$300/visit. The bloodwork was about $300-$900 for my husband and me. Most of these costs were covered by my insurance company, though we did pay money for co-payments and co-insurance. Right now, I have been billed by Lab Corps to cover the lab work done with our initial visit, which should've been covered by the insurance company. I have been in touch with the billing office; however, it has not yet been resolved. RBA needs to resubmit the claim with the diagnosis code that will be covered by the insurance company. The billing office person said they've had several of these returned claims and are working on handling them. However, this has been the most frustrating part of the process so far.
I feel like Shapiro genuinely cares about getting you pregnant, and not by doing it the most expensive way possible. Unlike our old RE, he didn’t think we needed IVF based solely one one low number (2% morphology) on my husband’s SA. He talked about completely different possibilities of what could be preventing us from getting pregnant that my old RE never even remotely explored. He spent almost 2 hours in our consultation and goes into great detail when explaining things. He’s very smart, and a little hard to keep up with at times, but you get the sense that he genuinely wants you to understand. I enjoy listening to him, and wish I could have seen him at all of my appointments. I could probably talk about infertility with him for hours. He seems passionate about what he does, and he cares about helping you.
Not speaking about Shapiro, but the rest of the clinic [RBA- Sandy Springs] kind of makes you feel like a number. I know they’re busy, and the clinic is huge, but I don’t like feeling like they’re trying to get me out of there as quickly as they can. The front desk ladies are very nice. A couple of the billing people you check out with are nice, but one is an absolute nightmare to speak to. The sonographers are nice, as are the ladies who take your blood. The patient coordinators aren’t easy to deal with. They don’t respond in a timely manner. And the girl who does all of Shapiro’s scheduling is terrible to deal with. She literally never answers the phone when you call. You have to wait every time.
How was your experience with Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
I feel like Shapiro genuinely cares about getting you pregnant, and not by doing it the most expensive way possible. Unlike our old RE, he didn’t think we needed IVF based solely one one low number (2% morphology) on my husband’s SA. He talked about completely different possibilities of what could be preventing us from getting pregnant that my old RE never even remotely explored. He spent almost 2 hours in our consultation and goes into great detail when explaining things. He’s very smart, and a little hard to keep up with at times, but you get the sense that he genuinely wants you to understand. I enjoy listening to him, and wish I could have seen him at all of my appointments. I could probably talk about infertility with him for hours. He seems passionate about what he does, and he cares about helping you.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
Don’t be afraid to ask him questions if you don’t understand something. Sometimes he can explain things to you as if you were another doctor he’s speaking to, but don’t let that intimidate you. He’s just very smart, and seems to really like talking about infertility. Have questions ready in case he spends a lot of time on one subject, that you forget you wanted to ask him something else. He’s very humorous as well and likes to joke, which totally took me by surprise. I really enjoyed the times I got to speak with him.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
At the initial consultation with Shapiro, he spent almost 2 hours with us. He really seems to enjoy explaining things and going into great detail, and I really appreciate that. I didn’t feel like he wanted to rush us out of there at all. He genuinely wanted to be talking to us I think, or else he wouldn’t have spent so much time.
Describe the protocols Daniel Shapiro used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
He believed there might be an egg quality issue, and that oral medication (Femara) with IUI isn’t enough for me. He had me do a low dose HCG injection lead in for egg quality (started day 15 of the cycle before the cycle with the IUI). This continued up until trigger shot. I then started 75 IU of Gonal F in the next cycle on days 8-12. Ovidrel was used for trigger, then the IUI was scheduled for 36 hours later.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RBA. (Assigned nurse: Kelly Fristensky )
Majority of communication with the nurse is done via email which I was fine with. She was pretty quick to respond which was nice. I had a rough start with her, as I couldn’t get a call back. But then I quickly realized email was my best bet. She doesn’t elaborate a lot in emails, or go into much detail, but I assume that’s because she’s busy. Dealing with her in person wasn’t as pleasant as I got the sense she was in a hurry and trying to rush me through my appointments with her after my ultrasounds. That’s something I cannot stand. I drove over 2 hours for every appointment, only to be rushed.
Describe your experience with RBA.
Not speaking about Shapiro, but the rest of the clinic kind of makes you feel like a number. I know they’re busy, and the clinic is huge, but I don’t like feeling like they’re trying to get me out of there as quickly as they can. The front desk ladies are very nice. A couple of the billing people you check out with are nice, but one is an absolute nightmare to speak to. The sonographers are nice, as are the ladies who take your blood. The patient coordinators aren’t easy to deal with. They don’t respond in a timely manner. And the girl who does all of Shapiro’s scheduling is terrible to deal with. She literally never answers the phone when you call. You have to wait every time. I will say that the major drawback about this clinic, and one that has made me reconsider using them for future treatments is that I was told both my consultation and my SHG would be covered by insurance. I was only required to pay my $40 copay for the consultation, and that $287 was my portion of the SHG. My insurance covers testing, and every consultation I had with my old RE was covered. But because of the diagnosis code (female infertility not specified) that RBA is using on these claims, my insurance is denying them. I was never told that the diagnosis code might prevent them from being covered. I’ve asked them to please use a code that doesn’t indicate infertility like my old clinic did, but they’re refusing to. This really upset me considering I had my insurance verified by them, and they told me these two things would be covered, but now they’re coding them in a way to keep them from being covered. I’m not asking them to commit fraud, there are a lot of other valid codes that could be used. It really makes me reconsider using them again.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Shapiro at RBA.
We ended spending about $2500 for one IUI with injectables - that included all appointments, blood work before cycle and during, medications, and IUI ($600 by itself). But now we probably owe $500 or more due my insurance claims being denied that they told me would be covered.
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
They failed to tell me that even though my insurance covers the consultation and SHG, that it may not be covered depending on the diagnosis code used on the claim.
Dr. Brahma is soft spokDr. Brahma is soft spoken and will answer any question asked. She can move through the material quickly as I'm sure she has many patients to get to and this material is routine for her. She was clear in her concerns at the beginning. We met with her twice in person and once by phone for the entire cycle process beginning to end...every visit seemed to feel somewhat 'cut short' as her nurse would knock on the door and saying something along the lines of 'they are ready for you when you are' as if to very politely say 'Times up". Just know that will happen. I do wish our appointment times were longer.
I felt as if they [RBA - Sandy Springs] forgot this was my first time doing anything with IVF and it was all new to me. They do this day in and day out so Im sure its routine but I needed more hand holding because this process is mentally taxing and financially very expensive as insurance did not cover the process...I was on the highest dosage of medication allowed as my AMH is low and 'egg age is older then my biological age'. We built a probe through Cooper Genomics for PGS and PGD testing to look for cystic fibrosis.
How was your experience with Pavna Brahma at RBA?
Dr. Brahma is soft spoken and will answer any question asked. She can move through the material quickly as I'm sure she has many patients to get to and this material is routine for her.
She was clear in her concerns at the beginning.
We met with her twice in person and once by phone for the entire cycle process beginning to end.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Pavna Brahma at RBA?
Take notes and when you are unsure what she is saying speak up, right then, to ask her to elaborate.
Also, every visit seemed to feel somewhat 'cut short' as her nurse would knock on the door and saying something along the lines of 'they are ready for you when you are' as if to very politely say 'Times up". Just know that will happen. I do wish our appointment times were longer.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Pavna Brahma at RBA?
Dr. Brahma has 2 nurses that are responsible for responding to emails re: concerns, treatment plan and follow up plans... Both are very nice and prompt to respond. However, we never received proper training for injection administration and/or location. We were told the pharmacy would do that to which the pharmacy said they do not do that anymore, so we were left to learn off of videos on YouTube. Looking back now I should have messaged RBA to say "They won't teach us, when would you like for us to come in for you to show us how?"
Feeling like a number: We did our transfer 2 weeks before Christmas so right around the Christmas is when I needed to do my bloodwork to confirm pregnancy. Because we were traveling I went to an offsite 3rd party facility who ended up taking 4 days to send it the results (should have been next day). No one at RBA seemed concerned when I would call to ask if they had received results, which was very disappointing. I wish someone would have lit a fire under the 3rd party company to send results but RBA seemed to only feel it their responsibility to merely wait until the company sent (in their own time)...
Then after 'regular hours' were established again Dr Brahma said 'Yes, quite often they do not get us the results next day." That was infuriating to hear this was common and no-one mentioned it to me when I told them I would be going to a 3rd party location as I have to believe we would have changed our travel plans.
Feeling like a number: Often when orders would be sent or a plan put in place there would not be much explanation on the details of that plan. I felt as if they forgot this was my first time doing anything with IVF and it was all new to me. They do this day in and day out so Im sure its routine but I needed more hand holding because this process is mentally taxing and financially very expensive as insurance did not cover the process.
Feeling like a human: Dr. Brahma has an amazingly kind disposition. She is soft spoken and quick to acknowledge any concerns or worries presented. She will reach out to fellow practitioners if she has a question. Meetings with her were clear and we left feeling like she cared about us and the outcome.
Describe the protocols Pavna Brahma used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
I was on the highest dosage of medication allowed as my AMH is low and 'egg age is older then my biological age'.
We built a probe through Cooper Genomics for PGS and PGD testing to look for cystic fibrosis.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RBA. (Assigned nurse: Crystal Alcantara)
Crystal (and Caitlin) were overall quick to respond to questions we had and also share protocol plans. Be mindful that any communication over major holidays the communication is very very delayed.
Describe your experience with RBA.
They are familiar with IVF for reasons other then infertility, ie: avoiding specific genetic diagnosis. The billing/financial department is not helpful at ALL in determining what the out of pocket cost will be to the family. they will give you a price breakdown sheet but that is it.
We were left on our own to call insurance and see what/ if anything they would cover.
RBA will not bill insurance for anything if you do not have an IVF policy so it will be on you to request reimbursement.
The cost of how much IVF will be is literally one of the hardest items to nail down.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Pavna Brahma at RBA.
We built a probe through Cooper Genomics to PGS and PGD testing for cystic fibrosis. The cost for that was $4,500 and $1000 for up to 8 embryos. The probe is kept to be used for any additional cycles/embryos.
Medication was ~$5300
Single transfer was $4500
Multiple transfers (until a live birth) was $6000 (The is PER retrieval)
Overall we gathered our out of pocket costs to be $35,000. Ours was more because of the extra genetic testing and lack of insurance paying.
There is no discount for paying cash for a cycle.
Describe Pavna Brahma's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RBA.
She stated that single embryo transfers are more successful so multiple transfers were not common in their facility.
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Lost results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
Results arrived over a holiday and it took extra time for anyone to reach out to us from the clinic to relay that.
Dr. Toledo is extremely personable and wants to help. He gets to know you and your partner. ... Dr. Toledo is an excellent doctor and very knowledgeable about the most current research and treatments. As someone who came to him with extensive research he was able to have a knowledgeable conversation and also communicate when he thought it was best I seek an alternate opinion with all the issues I had going on. I deeply respect him and appreciate his honesty.
Very expensive but Dr. is very knowlwdgable and experienced. ... Sometimes challenges with nurses [RBA Sandy Springs] but overall good. ... No matter what doctor you see, be your own advocate and ask lots of questions ...[nursing staff] Lack of consistency and attention to detail ... Great reputation and success rate ... Due to endo I used Lupron Depot to suppress my cycle before a FET.
How was your experience with Andrew Toledo at RBA?
Dr. Toledo is an excellent doctor and very knowledgeable about the most current research and treatments. As someone who came to him with extensive research he was able to have a knowledgeable conversation and also communicate when he thought it was best I seek an alternate opinion with all the issues I had going on. I deeply respect him and appreciate his honesty.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrew Toledo at RBA?
Ask lots of questions and be an informed patient, he respects that in his patients. Follow your gut and if something doesn’t seem right to you then voice your opinion.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrew Toledo at RBA?
Dr. Toledo is extremely personable and wants to help. He gets to know you and your partner.
Describe the protocols Andrew Toledo used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
Due to endo I used Lupron Depot to suppress my cycle before a FET. Then after a chemical pregnancy got an ERA in addition to changing my protocol. Following a miscarriage and using an immune protocol discussed other options.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
Lack of consistency and attention to detail
Describe your experience with RBA.
Very expensive but Dr. is very knowlwdgable and experienced. Sometimes challenges with nurses but overall good. Great reputation and success rate. No matter what doctor you see, be your own advocate and ask lots of questions
Dr Brahma has tremendous empathy and a compassionate bedside manner. She did not sugar coat or over promise results, but was balanced and honest.... I would never have chosen the course of infertility, but knowing Dr Brahma as a result was the silver lining. Her compassionate and wise care changed everything for my husband d and me. We are forever thankful for her intellectual brilliance and her loving bedside manner.... Typical egg retrieval and transfer of tested, frozen embryos.
RBA has changed a lot and their corporate administration has gotten disorganized. You have to be your own advocate and stay on top of your protocols, procedures and paperwork. Still have a very strong lab... I would never have chosen the course of infertility, but knowing Dr Brahma as a result was the silver lining. Her compassionate and wise care changed everything for my husband d and me. We are forever thankful for her intellectual brilliance and her loving bedside manner.
How was your experience with Pavna Brahma at RBA?
I would never have chosen the course of infertility, but knowing Dr Brahma as a result was the silver lining. Her compassionate and wise care changed everything for my husband d and me. We are forever thankful for her intellectual brilliance and her loving bedside manner.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Pavna Brahma at RBA?
Don’t wait to go see her!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Pavna Brahma at RBA?
Dr Brahma has tremendous empathy and a compassionate bedside manner. She did not sugar coat or over promise results, but was balanced and honest.
Describe the protocols Pavna Brahma used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
Typical egg retrieval and transfer of tested, frozen embryos. She was wise to encourage me not to wait too long when I was scared to try IVF
Describe your experience with your nurse at RBA. (Assigned nurse: Mary Koelbel, Crystal Alcantara)
Very well trained t Dr Brahma
Describe your experience with RBA.
RBA has changed a lot and their corporate administration has gotten disorganized. You have to be your own advocate and stay on top of your protocols, procedures and paperwork. Still have a very strong lab
Describe the costs associated with your care under Pavna Brahma at RBA.
$25k
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
Just occasional miscommunication from how RBA has changed
He [Dr. Daniel Shapiro] prescribed me to 3 cycle of monitored timed intercourse with letrozole. I did that but didn't get pregnant. Next option is to do IUI if I choose to, but I decide to go straight to IVF due to the fact with he won't change my medication to injectable due to high risk of multiple.... I usually see a PA when I come in for my monitored time intercourse. I like her, she is easy to talk to and answer all my questions.
The clinic [RBA-Sandy Springs] is pretty on time with your appointment. The weakness is that it is hard to call them and have someone pick up the phone. Usually I will have to leave my number on the answering machine, but they usually get back to you a couple hour later, in the afternoon. Another thing is that they don't have a patient portal for the lab work, so it is hard to find out unless you give them a call.
How was your experience with Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
I've Dr. twice. The first time was the initial consultation, he described his treatment plans to us in an effective way. The second time I met with the Dr., I express my incline to move forward to IVF after 3 failed letrozole cycles, he did went over the procedure and the types of medications that I will be on. After the appointment, he told me to contact the clinic when my period starts or when I want to start IVF cycle.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
He is receptive to your opinion about the treatment plan, so do your own research and tell him how to proceed with the plan
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Shapiro at RBA?
There is no follow up with the Dr. Mostly it is up to you to call and request a treatment
Describe the protocols Daniel Shapiro used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
He prescribed me to 3 cycle of monitored timed intercourse with letrozole. I did that but didn't get pregnant. Next option is to do IUI if I choose to, but I decide to go straight to IVF due to the fact with he won't change my medication to injectable due to high risk of multiple. So right now, I'm waiting for my period to start to do IVF, the treatment for IVF is: minimal dose of FSH, and ganirelex for about 10-12 days with monitor. I will be trigger with either HGC or Lupron, more likely Lupron since it has a lower risk of ovarian hyperstimulation. If it is Lupron trigger, then we will do a FET.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RBA. (Assigned nurse: Nina)
I usually see a PA when I come in for my monitored time intercourse. I like her, she is easy to talk to and answer all my questions.
Describe your experience with RBA.
The clinic is pretty on time with your appointment. The weakness is that it is hard to call them and have someone pick up the phone. Usually I will have to leave my number on the answering machine, but they usually get back to you a couple hour later, in the afternoon. Another thing is that they don't have a patient portal for the lab work, so it is hard to find out unless you give them a call.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Shapiro at RBA.
Every is out-of-pocket for me. It is around $600 for a cycle with monitor. This consists of the first Ultrasound in the beginning of your cycle, blood work. Then you have another mid cycle ultrasound to determine if you are near ovulation.
Describe Daniel Shapiro's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RBA.
He will do a simple embryo transfer because the clinic has a high success with it.
Dr Brahma is a wonderful doctor, she explains processes in great detail and will listen to all my concerns and answer all my questions. Never have I felt rushed when meeting with her. She takes all the time that I need to make sure I'm comfortable with the information she's provided. An opportunity I feel Dr Brahma could add to her amazing practice would be to consider more protocols. Especially for DOR patients that don't respond to aggressive stims. There has been a lot of new research and she is aware of it but she sticks to standard protocols. I totally get that when its the first round, but after they fail, why not try something new? The other opportunity I see for Dr Brahma would be to consider more alternative therapies. She does agree with acupuncture but not Chinese herbs. She does not agree with using any supplements that may have desiccated organs. She doesn't suggest any dietary changes.
Do your research about whatever you're diagnosed with. As great of a doctor Dr Brahma is, you still have to advocate for yourself. Ask all the questions you need to feel comfortable. She will answer them and tell you if she agrees with them or if they aren't procedures she would suggest immediately. She is a great listener and provides sound medical advice...
Dr Brahma has amazing bedside manner. Her entire team treats me like I'm their only patient. I can easily email them any questions I have and they respond within the day. Brahma greets me with a hug every time we have an appointment together. Her personality and demeanor are the reasons I have not sought out another RE.
How was your experience with Pavna Brahma at RBA?
Dr Brahma is a wonderful doctor, she explains processes in great detail and will listen to all my concerns and answer all my questions. Never have I felt rushed when meeting with her. She takes all the time that I need to make sure I'm comfortable with the information she's provided.
An opportunity I feel Dr Brahma could add to her amazing practice would be to consider more protocols. Especially for DOR patients that don't respond to aggressive stims. There has been a lot of new research and she is aware of it but she sticks to standard protocols. I totally get that when its the first round, but after they fail, why not try something new?
The other opportunity I see for Dr Brahma would be to consider more alternative therapies. She does agree with acupuncture but not Chinese herbs. She does not agree with using any supplements that may have desiccated organs. She doesn't suggest any dietary changes.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Pavna Brahma at RBA?
Do your research about whatever you're diagnosed with. As great of a doctor Dr Brahma is, you still have to advocate for yourself. Ask all the questions you need to feel comfortable. She will answer them and tell you if she agrees with them or if they aren't procedures she would suggest immediately. She is a great listener and provides sound medical advice.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Pavna Brahma at RBA?
Dr Brahma has amazing bedside manner. Her entire team treats me like I'm their only patient. I can easily email them any questions I have and they respond within the day. Brahma greets me with a hug every time we have an appointment together. Her personality and demeanor are the reasons I have not sought out another RE.
Describe the protocols Pavna Brahma used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
Clomid - I ovulated too early then had cysts for months and months after
Lupron, Follistim, Menopur - Only had two follicles, canceled IVF
Estrogen, Ganirelix, Follistim, Menopur - Only had two follicles, demanded to proceed and both were retrieved and fertilized. - did not achieve pregnancy
HSG - Showed Polyp, had hysteroscopy that removed polyp and endometritis
Femara, Follistim, HCG - IUI failed
Femara, Follistim - breakthrough bleeding, cycle cancelled
Moved on to Donor Egg - Transfer 4/11/17 (next week!)
Describe your experience with RBA.
very organized, great staff
Describe the costs associated with your care under Pavna Brahma at RBA.
25k for an IVF, 18k for Donor Egg. Once I got insurance they filed everything thru them and I did not see the prices
Dr. Best is a warm and welcoming doctor. She is very insightful and wants to go over her action plan in detail. Once she has her plan she is on a mission. My low ovarian reserve count and my husband's klinefelter syndrome didn't stop her as it would most doctors I believe...Dr. Best took the time to attack the plan at need. However, my husband and I both felt that a lot of information was given at once with little take home information.
Our clinic was Reproductive Biology Associates. My husband's doctor was Dr. Michael Witt while I saw Dr. Monica Best. The two offices appeared to function as satellite offices. The only weakness I saw regarding the clinic was the communication between offices could have been better in regards to doctor's notes, medical files and procedure plans...The nursing staff for Dr. Best were able to assist when needed. The satellite offices appeared to not communicate as well with one another.
How was your experience with Monica Best at RBA?
Dr. Best is a warm and welcoming doctor. She is very insightful and wants to go over her action plan in detail. Once she has her plan she is on a mission. My low ovarian reserve count and my husband's klinefelter syndrome didn't stop her as it would most doctors I believe.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Monica Best at RBA?
Do your research and know your options. Dr. Best will let you know but it is better to go in there with the knowledge already so you aren't lost when she is talking terms and procedures.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Monica Best at RBA?
Dr. Best took the time to attack the plan at need. However, my husband and I both felt that a lot of information was given at once with little take home information.
Describe the protocols Monica Best used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
Dr. Best wants to do two cycles of Egg retrievals then for my husband to have a sperm extraction procedure. After this, we will then fertilize then send off for genetic testing.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
The nursing staff for Dr. Best were able to assist when needed. The satellite offices appeared to not communicate as well with one another.
Describe your experience with RBA.
Our clinic was Reproductive Biology Associates. My husband's doctor was Dr. Michael Witt while I saw Dr. Monica Best. The two offices appeared to function as satellite offices. The only weakness I saw regarding the clinic was the communication between offices could have been better in regards to doctor's notes, medical files and procedure plans.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Monica Best at RBA.
Estimated total costs: $52,000
Describe Monica Best's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RBA.
Dr. Best does have a strong preference to only selecting one embryo to transfer compared to multiple. We have expressed wanting to place two embryos in our first trial and she expressed that it does not raise our chances of pregnancy.
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
Dr. Straub seemed like a great choice at first. He answered all my questions and explained everything thoroughly even drawing diagrams. But when it came down to it he was just to cut and dry. My husband (who had a varicocoele and subsequent surgery)...his doctor said we definitely had options as far as treatments, but Dr. Straub made it appear like IVF was the ONLY way to go...He was very natter of fact about the process...not optimistic, or giving false hope....but more like this is how it goes...only that is the case when everything goes exactly according to plan.
Very efficient, good communication [at RBA - Atl Main]...open short hours though which can be difficult when calling....The staff was always wonderful...The head nurse Karen is excellent. I had another experience with a nurse Jenni that she lied. I asked if the Dr had received updated sperm analysis results and his recommendation was still IVF, she said yes. On my next meeting with Dr. Straub I asked him the same question directly based and the most resent Soren analysis results...he said he did not even have them yet.
How was your experience with Robert Straub at RBA?
Dr. Straub seemed like a great choice at first. He answered all my questions and explained everything thoroughly even drawing diagrams. But when it came down to it he was just to cut and dry. My husband (who had a varicocoele and subsequent surgery)...his doctor said we definitely had options as far as treatments, but Dr. Straub made it appear like IVF was the ONLY way to go. When asking if there was anything else to investigate on my end he was a bit flippant and said he could always find more tests to do. I was going to go ahead and do IVF and after try to look at treating any underlying issues, which I honestly felt he was overlooking due to the fact his goal is to get a baby and the way to do that was IVF regardless of any other issues. I ordered and received all the IVF drugs, but I couldn't go through with it because I just didn't feel comfortable with the decision and his pushiness of IVF over anything else. I should be at peace with my decision and happy to be starting to get somewhere on our fertility journey and maybe finally get our baby. Also after reading versions blogs on infertility and others experiences with egg retrieval I learned that some retrieval cycles are aborted for various reasons, which he never even mentioned as a possible outcome. He was very natter of fact about the process...not optimistic, or giving false hope....but more like this is how it goes...only that is the case when everything goes exactly according to plan.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Robert Straub at RBA?
Do not expect to get any emotional support from him.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Robert Straub at RBA?
The staff was always wonderful...Dr. Straub on the other hand was very blunt which is fine but not always the best attitude when dealing with a major decision such as IVF
Describe the protocols Robert Straub used in your cycles at RBA and their degree of success.
I first met with Dr. Straub to assess if I had any issues contributing to our infertility. My husband had a varicocoele and subsequent surgery to correct it. There was originally low motility with 20% acrosomal defects. The surgery improved his numbers and his specialist (within the same practice) said the numbers were good enough for various treatment options. Dr. Straub had me complete bloodwork and a FemVue. Everything turned out normal. I am on thyroid meds and that was ok. My AMH was low normal so he suggested IVF based on some low sperm results (bad sample). Even after a new sperm analysis with good numbers...still pushing IVF, and was flippant when I asked if anything else to look at on my end (due to husbands doctor reporting an increase of 10% natural conception to now 60% now after surgery...but still no success) I wonder if there isn't some underlying issue on my end...but It seems Dr. Straubs goal is Baby, not treatment. I was supposed to start IVF (the drugs are in my fridge) but I did not feel confident or happy about the decision. I will now be transferring to another Dr. Within the practice.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RBA.
The head nurse Karen is excellent. I had another experience with a nurse Jenni that she lied. I asked if the Dr had received updated sperm analysis results and his recommendation was still IVF, she said yes. On my next meeting with Dr. Straub I asked him the same question directly based and the most resent Soren analysis results...he said he did not even have them yet.
Describe your experience with RBA.
Very efficient, good communication...open short hours though which can be difficult when calling. In general no complaints about the clinic, just DrSttaub, but will be remaining with the practice, just a different doctor
Describe the costs associated with your care under Robert Straub at RBA.
Luckily we do have insurance coverage, which it has been suggested to me was the reason behind him pushing IVF so hard
What specific things went wrong at RBA?
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RBA.
Just the instance previously described if Dr straubs nurse jenni lying that Dr had seen results and had same recommendation when he hadn't even seen the results. And issue with Dr. Straub