Ratings of 1 indicate that a clinic was poorly operated.
Ratings of 10 indicate that a clinic operated very well.
Scheduling
8.6
8.6
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
8.4
8.4
Nursing Team
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory nursing team.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent nursing team.
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.
Dr. Marek was very kind. And made sure my husband and I understood everything that we would be going through. Tests, prescriptions, procedures. Made sure we read their manual. He was the reason I found out about my thyroid issue.... I loved that Dr. Mareks office was small and the whole staff knew you by name and greeted you so sweetly every time. They felt bad for you when you didn't get pregnant and celebrated with you when you did. I still stop in to visit them and show them the boys pictures as they grow.
I loved that Dr. Mareks office [Reproductive Health Specialists] was small and the whole staff knew you by name and greeted you so sweetly every time. They felt bad for you when you didn't get pregnant and celebrated with you when you did. I still stop in to visit them and show them the boys pictures as they grow.... Maggie was amazing. Sweet bubbly and just made the process so much easier
How was your experience with Marek Piekos at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Marek was very kind. And made sure my husband and I understood everything that we would be going through. Tests, prescriptions, procedures. Made sure we read their manual. He was the reason I found out about my thyroid issue.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Marek Piekos at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Be patient. Read everything so you have a full understanding.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Marek Piekos at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I loved that Dr. Mareks office was small and the whole staff knew you by name and greeted you so sweetly every time. They felt bad for you when you didn't get pregnant and celebrated with you when you did. I still stop in to visit them and show them the boys pictures as they grow.
Describe the protocols Marek Piekos used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
I don't remember everything. I remember doing shots in my stomach to produce eggs, and I remember going through egg retrieval and taking shots of progesterone after transfer until pregnancy was detected or not.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Maggie )
Maggie was amazing. Sweet bubbly and just made the process so much easier.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
I think their strength and weakness is that they are a small clinic. I love that I had that one on one feel, but they weren't able to do some of the things that the bigger clinics could do. I don't remember specifically but there were some things.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Marek Piekos at Reproductive Health Specialists.
I don't really remember I was very lucky that at the time my insurance covered the majority of my care
Describe Marek Piekos's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Dr Snook listens and cares about her patients. She has good bedside manner and knowledge of her profession. I wouldn’t hesitate to refer someone to her for treatment. She was willing to listen through my thoughts and ideas and change course when necessary...We used two IUIs but then switched to IVF due to male factor infertility and patient preference. We ended up with eight embryos and transferred 6 of them (one did not survive thaw). We ended up with one live birth as of now....
I believe the nurses [at Reproductive Health Specialists] are assigned to certain providers’ patients. They may be understaffed because it can take awhile to get a response. And definitely call, don’t use the portal as of now because you may not ever receive a response...You spend most of your time with techs and MAs, and then nurses on the phone. There isn’t much interaction with your REI, which is disappointing. They also don’t have any discounts for patients without coverage, which is a bummer. I would like to see them progress in this area....
How was your experience with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I feel like Dr Snook listens and cares about her patients. She has good bedside manner and knowledge of her profession. I wouldn’t hesitate to refer someone to her for treatment. She was willing to listen through my thoughts and ideas and change course when necessary.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Make a list and go through any concerns you have.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
It is clear that Dr Snook cares deeply for her patients and goes the extra mile. After failed transfers or miscarriage, she made sure to follow up and plan next steps.
Describe the protocols Meredith Snook used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
We used two IUIs but then switched to IVF due to male factor infertility and patient preference. We ended up with eight embryos and transferred 6 of them (one did not survive thaw). We ended up with one live birth as of now.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Things are a bit different now that this clinic has transferred to UPMC. You don’t generally see the same people it seems, although I believe the nurses are assigned to certain providers’ patients. They may be understaffed because it can take awhile to get a response. And definitely call, don’t use the portal as of now because you may not ever receive a response.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
Since their transition to UPMC, it feels more like a big clinic atmosphere than it was before. You spend most of your time with techs and MAs, and then nurses on the phone. There isn’t much interaction with your REI, which is disappointing. They also don’t have any discounts for patients without coverage, which is a bummer. I would like to see them progress in this area.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Patients paying without insurance coverage do not receive a discount. There are no cost share or discount programs. Very limited on financial options unfortunately. I hope they improve in this area.
Describe Meredith Snook's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Generally for younger age, eSET is done. Because of our failure rate with transfers, she allowed a switch to two embryos at once. My impression is that this option is reserved for certain situations and everyone is a little different so definitely discuss with her.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Nothing to add. Just some work needed on communication.
I never met her [Dr. Carolyn Kubik] in person, only on a video chat. I definitely felt like I was more of a number. It was hard and still is to be going through infertility, so compassion is always wanted and appreciated. I was always messaging her asking questions, but getting replies from the nurses instead. You can't call either, it's all message.
[Reproductive Health Specialists] Strengths are the nurses and the care you get from the PA when you are there. They sit and answer your questions, and don't rush you. They are organized with the ultrasounds and are able to get you in early when you need it. Weaknesses are you have to ask a lot of questions, Google things and advocate for yourself.
How was your experience with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I never met her in person, only on a video chat. I definitely felt like I was more of a number. It was hard and still is to be going through infertility, so compassion is always wanted and appreciated. I was always messaging her asking questions, but getting replies from the nurses instead. You can't call either, it's all message.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Be prepared to advocate for yourself and find out what testing you should be having before you go. I had to ask for a few of my test because she didn't think I needed them.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
It was impossible to call the office. You have to send a message on your portal, and a nurse gets back to you. If you have a question for the doctor, it could be weeks before you hear from them specifically, IF you do. I didn't think my concerns were very important to her either. I only met her on video, never in person. It was always a PA.
Describe the protocols Carolyn Kubik (retired) used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
I was placed on Clomid for timed cycles, which did not work. We tried this for close to a year, when I feel that we should have tried IUI much sooner. For my 1st IUI, we did an injection shot, Clomid and ultrasounds before the sperm injection. This attempt failed.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Reproductive Health Specialists.
The nurses are the ones I spoke to 95% of the time through messages. They were usually pretty prompt getting back to me on questions. However, there were some times it took a few days, and I would have to message again. They were empathetic in message when I had my miscarriage.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
Strengths are the nurses and the care you get from the PA when you are there. They sit and answer your questions, and don't rush you. They are organized with the ultrasounds and are able to get you in early when you need it.
Weaknesses are you have to ask a lot of questions, Google things and advocate for yourself. I have been trying for 4 years for our second child, and the time would probably be cut in half if I would have just known what to ask for earlier. I feel that a lot of time was wasted on repeat testing or testing later in the stages that should have been done way earlier.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Previous healthcare covered most of it. I have switched insurance carriers now, so not sure.
Describe Carolyn Kubik (retired)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
n/a
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Lost paperwork
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Lost results
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Lost or damaged samples
Scheduled the wrong procedure
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists.
My doctor was switched right before my 2nd IUI cycle because Dr. Kubik retired or left the practice. I was told this via messages. The new doctor, Dr. Beverly, was very respectful and took the time to talk on our video appointments with me. She also wanted to get all the testing done that I needed to instead of spacing it out so much like Dr. Kubik did. However, on my 2nd IUI things went astray. I had a silent miscarriage. I was told to bring my tissue samples (the baby) into the lab for testing and they would check for chromosome distorters and see if they could find the cause of death basically. After almost 3 months of waiting, I never heard anything about my results.I messaged and called, with no response. After finally receiving a response, I was told it was taking longer than expected. I did not get a call, but did see that my results finally came though my online chart about another month later. After discussing my results with the doctor last month, she told me something happened and "they dropped the ball." The full testing was not performed on my sample, so they did not have an answer. You can not repeat these test because the tissue is now gone. Sad and mad, I messaged the doctor for more explanation since I was still in shock when she told me over the video chat. She messaged me back once, but now it's been over a week and I still haven't received a reply from my response which included another question. I am beginning to feel very much like a number here again. I switched facilities and will be starting IVF soon with a new doctor. I will be driving over 4 hours to get to them, but I heard their bedside manner is good and maybe I will feel less like a number and more like a mother trying her hardest to conceive.
Dr. Snook is a great doctor that really cares about her patients. Unfortunately, I've seen her once in my six months of treatment -- all the staff at the clinic rotate through and you're not always with your primary doctor...Know that she's making all the decisions for your treatment, but you may not actually see her...Agonist protocol (batched with other patients), and then estrogen-primed agonist protocol with my natural cycle...
[Reproductive Health Specialists] strengths are that they specialize in only fertility treatment and have a state of the art lab. The clinic experience with appointments and portal messaging leave a lot to be desired...I'm in the middle of my second cycle here, but related to frustration with the clinic constantly running late and just a general feeling of being uninformed about the progression of my treatment (although I am a registered nurse myself), I will not be returning if this second cycle is unsuccessful. This clinic might be great for you if you're very proactive and do a lot of research yourself and live east of the city, but if you're trying to get out here and back to downtown like I do on a regular basis, I would recommend trying Magee as that's my next plan.
How was your experience with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Snook is a great doctor that really cares about her patients. Unfortunately, I've seen her once in my six months of treatment -- all the staff at the clinic rotate through and you're not always with your primary doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Know that she's making all the decisions for your treatment, but you may not actually see her, so you have to be comfortable with everyone at the clinic.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Snook takes time to listen to you and will adjust a protocol to your specific needs, but in my experience, only after you failed with the clinic's batching protocol.
Describe the protocols Meredith Snook used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
Agonist protocol (batched with other patients), and then estrogen-primed agonist protocol with my natural cycle
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Everything is managed through a portal, and completely impersonal. Staff often is complaining at the clinic, and they tend to run 30-40 minutes late related to understaffing as of October 2019.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
The clinic's strengths are that they specialize in only fertility treatment and have a state of the art lab. The clinic experience with appointments and portal messaging leave a lot to be desired. I have multiple friends who have had success at this clinic, and I'm in the middle of my second cycle here, but related to frustration with the clinic constantly running late and just a general feeling of being uninformed about the progression of my treatment (although I am a registered nurse myself), I will not be returning if this second cycle is unsuccessful. This clinic might be great for you if you're very proactive and do a lot of research yourself and live east of the city, but if you're trying to get out here and back to downtown like I do on a regular basis, I would recommend trying Magee as that's my next plan.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Out of pocket, between $12-15k per IVF cycle, including medication.
Describe Meredith Snook's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
eSET is highly advised by this clinic, but I'm okay with that because it reflects what is in the literature.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I think she’s [Dr. Carolyn Kubik] very knowledgeable about IVF treatments and seems knowledgeable about my POF diagnosis which is refreshing. She was understanding and open to answering questions about us choosing to pursue donor eggs or not due to the complications that brings. She seemed to know out case when we met with her.
My IVF coordinator [at Reproductive Health Specialists] knows nothing about my medicine and usually messes up until I correct her even though she has the correct info in the chart: she’ll say oh let me check... oh yes. Aloof... The office only does single embryo tranfers as they feel it produces the best outcomes for their patients.... It’s a nice facility. The ladies who draw blood are 110% amazing! They make you feel so welcome and they also are both so good at the blood draw you don’t feel a thing which is a plus for me. The ultrasound tech is also so amazing. Seemed to really care. I have a lot of issues and she was very gentle & kind. She also answered my questions. I do really appreciate the doctor as well. And wait time is great. The only thing I’m not happy with is my IVF coordinator.
How was your experience with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I think she’s very knowledgeable about IVF treatments and seems knowledgeable about my POF diagnosis which is refreshing. She was understanding and open to answering questions about us choosing to pursue donor eggs or not due to the complications that brings. She seemed to know out case when we met with her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Have questions written down that you want answered! It’s the best way to remember! You won’t remember on the spot.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I really like working with Dr. Kubik. She seems very knowledgeable and straightforward when discussing options. Also sympathetic to our situation mentally/emotionally/financially.
Describe the protocols Carolyn Kubik (retired) used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
Firstly we were looking to see if my lining would grow so she increased medicines to see. After seeing that it got thick enough we started discussing donor eggs. We have not had a transfer yet. But have chosen our donor.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Annette)
Unfortunately I haven’t had a great experience with my IVF coordinator. She seems aloof and uninterested in my case as when I speak to her I have to remind her of aspects (since my case is a little different from the norm with my POF.) She doesn’t explain anything and almost expects me to know what to do. We have been planning my transfer so maybe she’ll be better since we will be speaking a lot more, but I’m honestly very frustrated. I had an amazing nurse working with me at first when I was getting my hormones balanced. I’m not sure if she left or maybe is no longer in the department. I’ve been very disappointed on muni iVF coordinators lack of communication and it hurts my feelings that she seems not to care. We have come too far/spent too much money and this point to change our course and switch clinics. So we are hoping our outcome is good with our upcoming cycle.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
It’s a nice facility. The ladies who draw blood are 110% amazing! They make you feel so welcome and they also are both so good at the blood draw you don’t feel a thing which is a plus for me. The ultrasound tech is also so amazing. Seemed to really care. I have a lot of issues and she was very gentle & kind. She also answered my questions. I do really appreciate the doctor as well. And wait time is great. The only thing I’m not happy with is my IVF coordinator.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Insurance doesn’t cover much so it was pretty expensive. I think the transfer with meds is about $10K not including our donor egg stuff... so I’m unsure how much an egg retrieval is additionally. My insurance did cover all testing/medicine up until we do the actual IVF.
Describe Carolyn Kubik (retired)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
The office only does single embryo tranfers as they feel it produces the best outcomes for their patients.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists.
My IVF coordinator knows nothing about my medicine and usually messes up until I correct her even though she has the correct info in the chart: she’ll say oh let me check... oh yes. Aloof.
We started with Dr. Kubik in May 2018, she was a second option, our first doctor we didn’t like . She met with us and went over all my medical history and from there we did bloodwork and sonohystagram. And she recommended we can do iui as a first step since it is unexplainable infertility. After two iui fails we took a month off . Then we decided to look into clomid but she didn’t push that it was our idea to take that step . We did one month clomid no iui and was no success.
The strength [Reproductive Health Specialists] was they were private , when we started here they were a private practice and everything in life is so much about money that we loved they weren’t like that . They were just taken over oct 1 by UPMC so we’re not sure how this will effect things down the road but as of now they don’t over book and usually we wear always taken on time for our appointment. I feel very comfortable and confident going here... Our care coordinator was awesome , anytime I sent a message through the portal I had a response very fast .
How was your experience with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
We truly felt comfortable going to her. Unfortunately she must be at the end of her career because she was a private practice and they are now owned by Upmc.
I started at Upmc Magee and the doctor there wanted to jump right into medication and iui so I sought a second opinion and started seeing doctor Kubik and she took her time with us
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Have all your questions written down to ask
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
She took the time to talk to me and explain things . They didn’t have a room
Full of people waiting for appointments like some places when they over book . She came in and talked with us anytime we wanted to sit down and go over a plan or know her thoughts on the next steps
Describe the protocols Carolyn Kubik (retired) used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
We started with Dr. Kubik in May 2018, she was a second option, our first doctor we didn’t like . She met with us and went over all my medical history and from there we did bloodwork and sonohystagram. And she recommended we can do iui as a first step since it is unexplainable infertility. After two iui fails we took a month off . Then we decided to look into clomid but she didn’t push that it was our idea to take that step . We did one month clomid no iui and was no success. Then we did 1 month clomid and iui and now on our second month of clomid and iui . If your in a super
Hurry and want someone to pump you with drugs and spend a lot of your money this is the place . They like To take things slow and try the best option for you with multiple baby births. As we found our here multiples is not a good things when doing fertility treatments .
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Our care coordinator was awesome , anytime I sent a message through the portal I had a response very fast . She would answer any questions I had and if she couldn’t she would ask the doctor and get back to me. The portal was a great tool because it made me feel good to know I had that at my fingertips . The nurses were always so sweet to us there
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
The strength was they were private , when we started here they were a private practice and everything in life is so much about money that we loved they weren’t like that . They were just taken over oct 1 by UPMC so we’re not sure how this will effect things down the road but as of now they don’t over book and usually we wear always taken on time for our appointment. I feel very comfortable and confident going here
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists.
My iui appointments cost is $378
My clomid was $10
That’s all we used so far . My insurance covered my consultation
Dr. Albert makes me feel like she’s studying my case and thinking of new ways to make it work and bringing in colleagues to help me. She appears to be very knowledgeable and resourceful. She is very straight with us and is honest when we strategize.... We started with an IUI even though it hadn’t worked at our previous doctor....We jumped right into ivf...Retrieved 23 eggs. 13 became embryos. We had a frozen transfer because we worried about OHSS.
I feel so comfortable there [Repro Health Specialists]. You spend ALOT of time there so it’s very important to feel comfortable. I’m greeted by my name which always makes me feel good. I love when I walk up to the receptionist to check in and she greets me by name. Makes me smile every time. While I’m walking through the halls the techs all smile at me or address me by name or follow up from a frivolous conversation we’ve had while they’re drawing my blood or scanning me.
How was your experience with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Albert makes me feel like she’s studying my case and thinking of new ways to make it work and bringing in colleagues to help me. She appears to be very knowledgeable and resourceful. She is very straight with us and is honest when we strategize.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Trust her. She’s got a lot of experience with this.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I feel like I’m their most important and favorite patient.
Describe the protocols Judith Albert used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
We started with an IUI even though it hadn’t worked at our previous doctor. It didn’t work. We jumped right into ivf and had our first retrieval on thanksgiving. Retrieved 23 eggs. 13 became embryos. We had a frozen transfer because we worried about OHSS. The first transfer resulted negative. We continued with several more FETs. And all were negative. On Memorial Day we had our first fresh transfer (I like a good holiday). I went gluten free for the months before, we only transferred one instead of two, and I ended up pregnant. I lost the pregnancy when I went in to see the heartbeat at 8 weeks. I had a D&C a few days later bc I didn’t want to waste time waiting for it to pass. I needed the closure. We had a ton of tests done to check for various factors. I didn’t not react to gluten so I’m no longer gluten free, though I’d consider doing it again because I feel like it might have been the key. We had a few more FETs after the recovery from D&C. We decided we might need a fresh batch of embryos. We did a retrieval on Feb 22 and transferred one again on Feb 27 but we just found out it was negative. On this cycle, I had what we feel was a period 3dp5dt. I highly recommend the cost sharing plan. We couldn’t have done it without the shared risk. We refinanced our house and made it work. We are going to consider genetic testing on the embryos next.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Reproductive Health Specialists.
The nursing staff is so kind and they make you feel that they truly care. I’ve been there so long I’ve seen Medical assistants come and go. I absolutely trust all of them and they all know me by name.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
I feel so comfortable there. You spend ALOT of time there so it’s very important to feel comfortable. I’m greeted by my name which always makes me feel good. I love when I walk up to the receptionist to check in and she greets me by name. Makes me smile every time. While I’m walking through the halls the techs all smile at me or address me by name or follow up from a frivolous conversation we’ve had while they’re drawing my blood or scanning me. The phlebotomist recalled why my husband does and where he works and it was just amazing to me. They see so many people and they remember me!!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists.
We paid separate for our first IUI. I cannot remember the cost. We enrolled in the shared risk plan. We paid $25,000 for a 100% money back guarantee. Either we’d have a baby or get our money back. Best decision we made. You get four retrieval’s and all of the frozen embryos that those can make. Once you take home a living baby, you’re contract is terminated. If after 2 years or 4 fresh cycles and the embryos are used up, you still have no baby, then you get your money back. You have to qualify for the program based on your health history.
Describe Judith Albert's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Their view is different than mine. They see the risks of a multiples pregnancy. I see it as this is my only chance. I’m tapped out on money when this is said and done and if I could get two babies at once it would be worth the risk. Ultimately they let me make the choice but they are very convincing.
Dr. Snook is very kind and genuine. She took the time to sit with me and explain everything when my miscarried my first pregnancy after my IVF transfer. She didnt downplay my years of trying even though I am a younger patient. She is very focused on my success and continues to look for new options that may help grow our family.... First we tried unassisted IUI cycles. We wanted to try for only one egg each cycle as my uterine abnormality wouldnt work well with a multiple pregnancy.
I love that this clinic [Reproductive Health Specialists] has a small town feel. I feel like i know most of the staff pretty personally and am always confortable to ask questions when need be. I dont like they they recently changed health care services ( highmark to UPMC)... [Nurse] Cece is AMAZING!!!! She is always soo bubbly and compassionate. She gets all of my questions answered so quickly even when i ask a ridiculous amount of them.
How was your experience with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Snook is very kind and genuine. She took the time to sit with me and explain everything when my miscarried my first pregnancy after my IVF transfer. She didnt downplay my years of trying even though I am a younger patient. She is very focused on my success and continues to look for new options that may help grow our family.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Tell her everything. The more information she has to work with the more she will be able to help them achieve their family planning goals.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
She always took the time to talk to me and answer my questions. I never had to remind her of my care or any important part of my history.
Describe the protocols Meredith Snook used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
First we tried unassisted IUI cycles. We wanted to try for only one egg each cycle as my uterine abnormality wouldnt work well with a multiple pregnancy. Those two cycles were not successful. I them wanted to move onto IVF. I was on gonal f and menopur. Then centritide. I had a very successful egg retrieval cycle gaining 21 eggs. We used ICSI on 10 eggs amd that gave us 7 embroyos and then we used natural fertilization on the remaining 11 and we had 8 embroyos. We had 12 embroyos make it to day 5. We transferred one in a fresh cycle and froze the remaining 11. I miscarried at 5w6d.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Cece keefe)
Cece is AMAZING!!!! She is always soo bubbly and compassionate. She gets all of my questions answered so quickly even when i ask a ridiculous amount of them.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
I love that this clinic has a small town feel. I feel like i know most of the staff pretty personally and am always confortable to ask questions when need be. I dont like they they recently changed health care services ( highmark to UPMC)
Describe the costs associated with your care under Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists.
I was lucky enough to have great health insurance that covered everything completely so I am unsure costs
Dr. Albert never appears rushed and is always willing to answer questions completely....She is also very knowledgable and willing to modify testing and treatment based on my personal concerns. She isn't a very warm personality, but that's not necessary for me personally. She is also thorough and great with answering questions.... She isn't harsh/rude/insensitive, just not very warm and fuzzy. However, she is very good at what she does and will give you quality and individualized care.
They're all really kind and welcoming. The clinic [Repro Health Specialists] is very zen, too. Allow yourself about 1 to 1.5 hrs for a MD visit b/c it can take a while b/n different parts of the visit. But ultrasound and lab is pretty fast....the clinic is always friendly and engaging....[Nursing Staff] Informative, helpful, kind/...Ultrasounds are somewhere around 150-250. Lab usually runs me b/n 13 and 50. All semen work and the procedure for IUI isn't supposed to be more than $400.
How was your experience with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Albert comes highly recommended by another MD that I truly respect. She is also very knowledgable and willing to modify testing and treatment based on my personal concerns. She isn't a very warm personality, but that's not necessary for me personally. She is also thorough and great with answering questions.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Specifically to Dr. Albert, don't expect a lot of personal relationship. She isn't harsh/rude/insensitive, just not very warm and fuzzy. However, she is very good at what she does and will give you quality and individualized care. Come with all your concerns written down so you don't forget b/c she is very good at answering questions and I sometimes forgot all I wanted to talk about.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
The clinic is always friendly and engaging. Dr. Albert never appears rushed and is always willing to answer questions completely.
Describe the protocols Judith Albert used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
I started on clomid b/c I had some signs of PCOS. 3 cycles of clomid were unsuccessful so we moved to Letrazole for a monitored cycle. I had some rectal bleeding on my first cycle with it, so all Tx was placed on hold until I had a colonoscopy which was normal except for hemorrhoids. Now I am on my second cycle of letrozole and am anticipating my first IUI on this medication. The Letrozol is strictly to help me predict when I ovulate. My cycles are inconsistent and this way I can plan my work schedule for IUIs. If two IUI cycles don't result in live birth, our plan is to progress to IVF.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Informative, helpful, kind/
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
Take a deep breath. They're all really kind and welcoming. The clinic is very zen, too. Allow yourself about 1 to 1.5 hrs for a MD visit b/c it can take a while b/n different parts of the visit. But ultrasound and lab is pretty fast.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Ultrasounds are somewhere around 150-250. Lab usually runs me b/n 13 and 50. All semen work and the procedure for IUI isn't supposed to be more than $400.
Felt like treatment was not individualized [with Dr. Kubik], and that things were not always discussed in a way that made me feel like my specific situation was important...Very intelligent and knowledgeable about the ivf process she uses but not willing to try anything outside of her general treatment plan. Dismissive of any research you might do yourself... nice and calming to speak to, but it kind of feels forced.
The lab techs (blood draws, ultrasound) are the nicest people I encountered at the clinic [Reproductive Health Specialists]. You see them the most, sometimes everyday...and they were so friendly and compassionate and easy to talk to. They were caring and reassuring and professional at the same time... I received “generalized” email responses that contained incorrect/opposing information from what I was verbally told in the office, and when I questioned it, I was made to feel like I was annoying or a bother to them.
How was your experience with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Very intelligent and knowledgeable about the ivf process she uses but not willing to try anything outside of her general treatment plan. Dismissive of any research you might do yourself... nice and calming to speak to, but it kind of feels forced.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Ask a lot of questions and more important be your own advocate. Do your own research so that you know what to ask bc if you don’t ask questions you won’t get answers. Also so you can get as much information as possible.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Felt like treatment was not individualized, and that things were not always discussed in a way that made me feel like my specific situation was important. I received “generalized” email responses that contained incorrect/opposing information from what I was verbally told in the office, and when I questioned it, I was made to feel like I was annoying or a bother to them.
Describe the protocols Carolyn Kubik (retired) used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
I have pcos and complex atypical Endometrial hyperplasia. We Started with ovulation induction. Had a polypectomy and then at the suggestion on my oncologist, an inserted to keep the hyperplasia reversed for ivf. Stims meds were menopur, Ganirelix, and lupron trigger shot. Doses were super low, trying to avoid ovarian hyper stimulation bc of pcos and high levels of unopposed estrogen.We did a freeze all cycle as the iud was in place for the stim cycle. Retrieved 32 eggs, and had 10 embryos, 6 made it to freeze. We waited about 4 weeks, biopsied the endometrium. When the biopsy showed negative results, we removed the iud and started b.c. To prepare for the frozen embryo transfer. Used Lupron injections and the progesterone suppositories. Transferred 2 embryos each time over 3 Transfers. All failed.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Annette)
Again, I felt that my concerns were dismissed. We didn’t know anything about ivf when we started, and I was scared. I felt like I was bothering them, and felt like I was meant with attitude.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
The lab techs (blood draws, ultrasound) are the nicest people I encountered at the clinic. You see them the most, sometimes everyday...and they were so friendly and compassionate and easy to talk to. They were caring and reassuring and professional at the same time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Approx 20k, before meds
Describe Carolyn Kubik (retired)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
She explained the risks and benefits of both.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Failed to call with results
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Was on a freeze all schedule, and received an email that I needed to be back at the clinic for my transfer in a few days. I called and was told that was a “general” response. Billing was messed up multiple times, which I had to basically argue to fix... luckily I kept all of my receipts. Our 2nd transfer failed and instead of a phone call, I received an email about it, not even a phone call. The email said that the dr would call in a couple days. We had to stop mid cycle due to my limit mot being tri-laminar, but I didn’t understand what that was. Received that info via the portal too... but I wanted to talk to someone about it bc I didn’t understand. No phone call, it was only discussed through email which was very frustrating and scary considering the history or endometrial issues. Also was asked multiple times about my gestational carrier, which we weren’t using, but made me feel like maybe they knew something i didn’t... or didn’t know my case at all.
Strengths- she [Dr. Kubik] is very encouraging when you talk with her. She is thorough when going over test results...you deal more with staff than the doctor directly...We only got to talk to the doctor once so far...No follow up on how we want to proceed after the IUI failed...The treatment strategy is to run all of the female testing during one cycle which results in a lot of visits in a very short period of time. Test results were provided via a patient portal. Then a doctor visit to discuss the results and our options.
We only got to talk to the doctor [at Repro Health] once so far. Everything else was handled by a nurse or a nurse practitioner. Even the IUI was performed by a different employee. I don't think we saw the same nurse more than once. All results were provided through a patient portal and no phone calls; no face-to-face meetings... the patient portal can be used for some things, but the clinic forces you to use it for everything. It's easy to forget to update or to check. If you fail to keep updating the clinic no longer contacts you to see why. Sometimes a phone call is better.
How was your experience with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Strengths- she is very encouraging when you talk with her. She is thorough when going over test results.
Weaknesses- it seems like the facility treats a lot of patients, so you deal more with staff than the doctor directly.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Do you own follow up and be proactive. Be your own advocate. Make sure you are ready to talk about everything and contour own research. Bring questions to the table.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
We only got to talk to the doctor once so far. Everything else was handled by a nurse or a nurse practitioner. Even the IUI was performed by a different employee. I don't think we saw the same nurse more than once. All results were provided through a patient portal and no phone calls; no face-to-face meetings. No follow up on how we want to proceed after the IUI failed.
Describe the protocols Carolyn Kubik (retired) used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
The treatment strategy is to run all of the female testing during one cycle which results in a lot of visits in a very short period of time. Test results were provided via a patient portal. Then a doctor visit to discuss the results and our options. IUI was scheduled for the next cycle based on at-home ovulation testing. I didn't get a positive ovulation result within the typical window, so they scheduled for day 14 regardless. IUI was performed but unsuccessful. We opted to hold off on future treatment until further male factor testing could be completed.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Nikki)
Strengths- they are professional and good at getting you in and out. Good at taking blood. Thorough with all procedures.
Weaknesses- the facility seems to see a lot of patients so you may not get the same nurse every time which is disappointing when your concerns are already heightened.
The patient portal is insufficient. Sometimes a phone call is better than a message via the internet. It's easy to forget to update the portal so then the office doesn't follow up.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
Primary mode of communication is their patient portal which is good if you enjoy that type of thing, but I think with such a sensitive topic phone calls are more appreciated and more information can be passed along.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists.
All testing up until diagnosis was covered by my insurance except for co-host and co-insurance. Most of the tests were run on-site with the exception of one which was sent to an outside lab. The clinic and the outside lab have an agreement for reduced fees.
The IUI was out-of-pocket but their cost was reasonable when compared to other facilities.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists.
In my opinion, the patient portal can be used for some things, but the clinic forces you to use it for everything. It's easy to forget to update or to check. If you fail to keep updating the clinic no longer contacts you to see why. Sometimes a phone call is better.
She [Dr. Judith Albert] spent time explaining information in a clear and informative fashion. She reexplained when needed. She was direct and helpful...is informative and very professional. She took time for me to ask questions and gave direct feedback regarding those questions...She was cautious in best plan of care and creating low risk for me as a patient meaning she didn’t give information based off what I wanted to hear but if what would create the best outcome.
The nursing staff I worked with [at Reproductive Health Specialists] were caring, warm and approachable. They were quick to get answers and help provide any needed help...When I called to talk to staff, nurses or front desk I was able to get in contact with whom I needed to address concerns or questions. I felt like the front desk communicated clearly the financial obligations and coached through financials as well as apts scheduled. The office ambiance was pleasant. The clinic is positive and clean. As a new patient you will be greeted by the front office staff and directed with information. The front desk are professional. I really liked the gals who did my ultrasounds. They were both easy to talk to and did a great job explaining things to me and putting my mind at ease as well as making sure that I had everything I needed to be comfortable while at my appointment.
How was your experience with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr Albert is informative and very professional. She took time for me to ask questions and gave direct feedback regarding those questions. She was straightforward and direct in our plan of care. She was cautious in best plan of care and creating low risk for me as a patient meaning she didn’t give information based off what I wanted to hear but if what would create the best outcome.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
She is direct, efficient and calculated. She presents the entire picture including information that might be hard to hear but is necessary.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
She spent time explaining information in a clear and informative fashion. She reexplained when needed. She was direct and helpful.
Describe the protocols Judith Albert used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
Straightforward in accordance with what worked with our first IVF Cycle in Idaho which resulted in multiples.
Assessed and put on medications to start IVF cycle. Egg retrieval and 5 day transfer on fresh cycle.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Reproductive Health Specialists.
The nursing staff I worked with were caring, warm and approachable. They were quick to get answers and help provide any needed help.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
This clinic is organized, efficient, clean and easy to work with. When I called to talk to staff, nurses or front desk I was able to get in contact with whom I needed to address concerns or questions. I felt like the front desk communicated clearly the financial obligations and coached through financials as well as apts scheduled. The office ambiance was pleasant. The clinic is positive and clean. As a new patient you will be greeted by the front office staff and directed with information. The front desk are professional. I really liked the gals who did my ultrasounds. They were both easy to talk to and did a great job explaining things to me and putting my mind at ease as well as making sure that I had everything I needed to be comfortable while at my appointment.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists.
20,000
Describe Judith Albert's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Dr Albert is more inclined to counsel you as a patient to do a single embryo transfer vs multiple due to increased risks and patient health and safety.
I met with Dr. Snook 3 times of my 5 total visits to RHS. The first was a consultation in which I was required to bring my husband. This appointment went well and it was fairly quick and straightforward. The second time I saw her was for my sonohystogram. I felt she was compassionate because I was very nervous about the procedure and the results. The final time was our follow up to discuss the results of all our diagnostic work...IVF was what Snook recommended but could not afford $28,000 for one cycle
I wish the clinic had some sort of financial program [at Reproductive Health Specialists]. The cost of the IVF was dumped on us rather bluntly and we were just expected to have the money. That left a bad impression on me. There is no compassion over costs. There was no financing available and possibly if there was we may have proceeded...I felt the wait times for bloodwork, diagnostic procedures, and ultrasounds were very quick. Dr. Snook did a sonohysterogram with me and I was very anxious over it and she made me feel relaxed. Nurse who drew my blood (7 vials!) was very personable and friendly.
How was your experience with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I met with Dr. Snook 3 times of my 5 total visits to RHS. The first was a consultation in which I was required to bring my husband. This appointment went well and it was fairly quick and straightforward. The second time I saw her was for my sonohystogram. I felt she was compassionate because I was very nervous about the procedure and the results. The final time was our follow up to discuss the results of all our diagnostic work.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Come prepared to fight for what exactly you want to do.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I felt the wait times for bloodwork, diagnostic procedures, and ultrasounds were very quick. Dr. Snook did a sonohysterogram with me and I was very anxious over it and she made me feel relaxed. Nurse who drew my blood (7 vials!) was very personable and friendly.
Describe the protocols Meredith Snook used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
Did not do any treatment as I have previously done 6 failed IUIs. IVF was what Snook recommended but could not afford $28,000 for one cycle (that was total with meds) it was suggested we’d need upwards of 3 IVF cycles for success. Did not qualify for shared risk due to AMH. Was given the option to do medicated IUIs but did not proceed due to price and previous failures.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
I wish the clinic had some sort of financial program. The cost of the IVF was dumped on us rather bluntly and we were just expected to have the money. That left a bad impression on me. There is no compassion over costs. There was no financing available and possibly if there was we may have proceeded.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists.
IVF $22,000 and Meds $8,000. There was some sort of slight discount program for repeat cycles.
Describe Meredith Snook's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
I do like Dr. Albert though I think she does not seem to look in depth into what some other clinics are doing as far as researching effects of other disorders on IVF outcomes (immune/MTHFR/etc). It seems like she is hesitant to think outside of the box. She is compassionate and really does care about her patients; but I feel maybe not as forward thinking or experimental as other doctors perhaps. She does take into account your thoughts and feelings towards your treatment however.
The portal system [at Reproductive Health Specialists] is buggy. On important days it felt like it would crash on me (beta days!). Also, when we first started treatment there we would get results quickly, and then (as current as now) results seem to take all day which is nerve wracking. It's better than having to wait the next day, but still from what we started with to now it is a bit frustrating.... I love Nina. She became a friend to me. She cares so much about her patients and I have nothing but good positive things to say about her.
How was your experience with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I do like Dr. Albert though I think she does not seem to look in depth into what some other clinics are doing as far as researching effects of other disorders on IVF outcomes (immune/MTHFR/etc). It seems like she is hesitant to think outside of the box. She is compassionate and really does care about her patients; but I feel maybe not as forward thinking or experimental as other doctors perhaps. She does take into account your thoughts and feelings towards your treatment however.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Though she appears very clinical and black and white, she has a huge heart. Be prepared to advocate for yourself though, just as anywhere else.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Albert truly has a heart. She can come off clinical but I felt that she cared when we had our losses. She even offered to speak with me at my convenience. She does really care.
Describe the protocols Judith Albert used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
We began with IUI and clomid, hormonal support in the form of vaginal progesterone suppositories. I'm glad she didn't waste time on those, they gave us negative results. In my IVF cycle we used birth control, Menopur, Lupron, Follistim that I can remember as well as progesterone in oil, estradiol tabs orally, and doxycycline and medrol. I had to be a freeze all cycle as my hormonal levels were high and they were afraid to risk OHSS. So we got 28 eggs and I was pleased. 9 made it to day 5 blast, and all but two were graded 4 or above (two 2's). First eSET, positive beta, great second beta, ultrasound appointment we had no heartbeat, but fetal pole and yolk sac. Missed miscarriage at 7w (had to have a D&C as I would not miscarry even 3-4 weeks later). Second we transferred two, positive result, great second beta, baby/babies could not be found on ultrasound. Miscarried at home around 4-5 weeks. Third we transferred two, chemical pregnancy, fourth we transferred two and another chemical pregnancy.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Antanina Perricone)
I love Nina. She became a friend to me. She cares so much about her patients and I have nothing but good positive things to say about her.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
The portal system is buggy. On important days it felt like it would crash on me (beta days!). Also, when we first started treatment there we would get results quickly, and then (as current as now) results seem to take all day which is nerve wracking. It's better than having to wait the next day, but still from what we started with to now it is a bit frustrating.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists.
We had to pay an ambulatory and surgical fee for retrieval since we were at a private clinic (over $1000 I believe). We paid for freezing out of pocket as well, and ICSI. A small amount was covered for our initial IVF cycle through old insurance we had but it didn't cover a whole cycle, I can't remember exactly but ICSI may have been around $1500, and freezing for the first 18 months $1500 (two years ago). If my estimates are remembered correctly. An FET costs roughly $3400 each time, and freezing (after the first 18 months that we already paid for) about $60 per month.
Describe Judith Albert's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
She strongly recommends eSET. She will try to move you to eSET if you are young. But due to our situation she let us try two at successive transfers.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists.
When my protocol was changed they mistakenly did not include it in the protocol that was uploaded to portal. I had to ask to have the medicines listed on my protocol.
I feel as though Dr. Albert had taken the time to throughly go over our history and diagnosis and developed a personalized plan of care for us.... She thoroughly reviewed our past medical history and current diagnosis of MFI and made sure everything was in line before starting the process of IVF. She reviewed all of our options with us and once the plan for IVF was in place everything seem to go smoothly and as planned. Dr. Albert was very kind, compassionate and listened to all of our concerns....
I feel like overall the clinic [Reproductive Health Specialists] was very organized and the staff members were all very knowledgeable and compassionate. They took the time to listen to my questions and concerns and overall would recommend this clinic to others.... Our nurse/coordinator was very well educated and explained the plan of care very well. She and all the other nurses we came in contact with were very compassionate and caring.
How was your experience with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I feel as though Dr. Judith Albert was a great RE. She thoroughly reviewed our past medical history and current diagnosis of MFI and made sure everything was in line before starting the process of IVF. She reviewed all of our options with us and once the plan for IVF was in place everything seem to go smoothly and as planned. Dr. Albert was very kind, compassionate and listened to all of our concerns.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Try to stay as calm as possible throughout the process, trust Dr. Judith Albert and her team, and lean on friends and family for support!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I feel as though Dr. Albert had taken the time to throughly go over our history and diagnosis and developed a personalized plan of care for us. She took the time to answer all of our questions and I never felt rushed and never felt like I was just a number.
Describe the protocols Judith Albert used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
I honestly forget the majority of the medications/protocol. I know started on birth control and then possibly Gonal-F, Menopur, and Lupron. (but it's been awhile) I also was on the progesterone IM shots daily. They retrieved 9 eggs and then went through the process of ICSI. We only had 2 embryos make it to day 5 for the transfer and because of quality of the embryos we decided to transfer both. We had a successful outcome and now have a healthy baby boy!!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Our nurse/coordinator was very well educated and explained the plan of care very well. She and all the other nurses we came in contact with were very compassionate and caring.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
I feel like overall the clinic was very organized and the staff members were all very knowledgeable and compassionate. They took the time to listen to my questions and concerns and overall would recommend this clinic to others.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists.
It was approximately 15,000 for the IVF and ICSI.
Describe Judith Albert's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
We originally had planned to just transfer on embryo, but on the day of the transfer we spoke with Dr. Albert and because we had one ok embryo and one that was not as good and would not make it to freeze she discussed options to transfer 2 embryos. She reviewed the risks involved etc and the final decision came down to my husband and I, and we decided to transfer 2 embryos.
My husband and I were in total shock when she [Dr. Carolyn Kubik] suggested canceling the cycle on day 4 because of lack of results. Ultimately, the cycle was cancelled before egg retrieval due to DOR and I was told by her nurse that she would not try another cycle with my own eggs. The nurse said the doctor would only move forward with IVF if I did donor eggs. It was horrible that the nurse was communicating this to me. I had so many questions, and she just kept suggesting that I make an appoint,net with the doctor to discuss donor eggs. After my husband and I gathered ourselves together, we began researching IVF clinics that specialize in DOR
All RHS [Reproductive Health Specialists] doctors worked or studied at UPMC, so they are all pretty similar in their decision making and treatment protocol. If you're unhappy with one doctor's treatment plan, then I doubt another doctor from that clinic would do anything much different. Most doctors in Pittsburgh treat patients conservatively, if you are looking for different approaches that are more aggressive look at east coast clinics. We interviewed 5 clinics before settling on Shady Grove and Dr. Bromer. Each clinic offered a unique treatment plan that was different from RHS.
How was your experience with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
She is warm during her initial consults with you, but when you begin to have setbacks in therapy, she becomes appethetic.
The only way to talk to her, was via messages through her nurse or during phone/face to face consults.
She really downplayed the diminished ovarian reserve. My husband and I were in total shock when she suggested canceling the cycle on day 4 because of lack of results.
Ultimately, the cycle was cancelled before egg retrieval due to DOR and I was told by her nurse that she would not try another cycle with my own eggs. The nurse said the doctor would only move forward with IVF if I did donor eggs.
It was horrible that the nurse was communicating this to me. I had so many questions, and she just kept suggesting that I make an appoint,net with the doctor to discuss donor eggs.
After my husband and I gathered ourselves together, we began researching IVF clinics that specialize in DOR and have had better success at Shady Grove with Dr. Bromer.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
If you find out that you have diminished ovarian reserve, RUN! Find another clinic. Don't waste your time and money at RHS.
Look outside of Pittsburgh to find a doctor that is willing to work with your condition. PGH, is a conservative market, look at clinics on the east coast.
Describe the protocols Carolyn Kubik (retired) used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
300 Gonal F and 50 Menopur.
In talking to other clinics and having further labs run, I was prescribed DHEA 75mg and CoQ10 1200mg. When beginning IVF 2, I was put on Gonal F 450 and Menopur 375.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Annette)
In all honesty, I think the nurses were overwhelmed and so care and communication suffer. i felt rushed anytime I had questions and received inadequate answers. Also, I hated having to communicate via a nurse to get answers from the doctor.
Also, when we decided to have our escorts transferred to other clinics, we were given a hard time and they charged us on a few occasions.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
RHS won't allow you to monitor anywhere, but there, so it's a pain to go for IVF monitoring if you don't live near Penn Hills.
RHS is very protective of their numbers. There's a reason they have such high IVF success rates. They don't take chances on candidates that may not be successful. Don't be fooled by those high rates.
All RHS doctors worked or studied at UPMC, so they are all pretty similar in their decision making and treatment protocol. If you're unhappy with one doctor's treatment plan, then I doubt another doctor from that clinic would do anything much different.
Most doctors in Pittsburgh treat patients conservatively, if you are looking for different approaches that are more aggressive look at east coast clinics. We interviewed 5 clinics before settling on Shady Grove and Dr. Bromer. Each clinic offered a unique treatment plan that was different from RHS.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists.
I think 1 IVF session cost $8,000. There were cost sharing packages, but I don't remember the particulars.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr Kubick was incredibly nice, and took time to explain things. However, she was not open to trying anything new or changing my treatment. After my 3rd chemical pregnancy she gave me the exact same speech in my regroup as she had given me four times before. No explanation, no new ideas, no suggestions to try something new. She just wanted to do the same thing again. My other complaint is that I believe I was over stimulated in my first cycle and that was the only transfer that was a complete negative (all others chemical). I asked her if I was overstimulated and she said 'no', but my next retrieval with her she just used the same protocol but stopped me earlier, resulting in less eggs. After sending my medical records to 3 doctors for another opinion, they all independently said that my estrogen was too high for a fresh transfer (both times). Two of the three doctors questioned if I had PCOS or PCO-like ovaries. The doctor I switched to put me on a different protocol that was more beneficial to me because of how many follicles I had (lower dose, longer stim), so
Dr Kubick was incredibly nice, and took time to explain things. However, she was not open to trying anything new or changing my treatment. After my 3rd chemical pregnancy she gave me the exact same speech in my regroup as she had given me four times before. No explanation, no new ideas, no suggestions to try something new. She just wanted to do the same thing again. My other complaint is that I believe I was over stimulated in my first cycle and that was the only transfer that was a complete negative (all others chemical). I asked her if I was overstimulated and she said 'no', but my next retrieval with her she just used the same protocol but stopped me earlier, resulting in less eggs. After sending my medical records to 3 doctors for another opinion, they all independently said that my estrogen was too high for a fresh transfer (both times). Two of the three doctors questioned if I had PCOS or PCO-like ovaries. The doctor I switched to put me on a different protocol that was more beneficial to me because of how many follicles I had (lower dose, longer stim), so
How was your experience with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr Kubick was incredibly nice, and took time to explain things. However, she was not open to trying anything new or changing my treatment. After my 3rd chemical pregnancy she gave me the exact same speech in my regroup as she had given me four times before. No explanation, no new ideas, no suggestions to try something new. She just wanted to do the same thing again.
My other complaint is that I believe I was over stimulated in my first cycle and that was the only transfer that was a complete negative (all others chemical). I asked her if I was overstimulated and she said 'no', but my next retrieval with her she just used the same protocol but stopped me earlier, resulting in less eggs.
After sending my medical records to 3 doctors for another opinion, they all independently said that my estrogen was too high for a fresh transfer (both times). Two of the three doctors questioned if I had PCOS or PCO-like ovaries. The doctor I switched to put me on a different protocol that was more beneficial to me because of how many follicles I had (lower dose, longer stim), something dr Kubik never considered.
Dr Kubik was nice, but nice doesn't mean you will have a baby. I feel like they have a set protocol and if it doesn't work for you, you are probably out of luck with dr Kubik.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Don't do more than one cycle with her! If you aren't an 'easy' case, then definitely look elsewhere. Don't fall for her kindness and 'try try again' attitude.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
She was compassionate and good bedside manner.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Annette)
She was amazing! I truly consider her a friend to this day.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
All of the doctors collaborate, so I'm assuming my experience would have been similar with any of the doctors. I think it's a flaw of the clinic.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Approx $13k for IVF w ICSI incl fresh transfer. Approx $4k for a frozen transfer.
Describe Carolyn Kubik (retired)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
My first transfer was an eSET bc they were confident it would work- saying my eggs retrieved, fertilization and blast report were all above average.
Dr. Kubrick seems incredibly knowledgeable. She is very direct and doesn’t sugarcoat the possibilities or risks of treatment. She is quick and to the point but has always been available to discuss any of my questions. She was skilled and gentle with the procedures I have had so far...So far in my treatment I have only had an ultrasound and a sonohysterogram. My husband has azoospermia. He will have MicroTese surgery. Depending on the results, I will pursue IVF with or IUI with donor sperm
All of the nurses and other staff [at Reproductive Health Specialists] I have worked with have been incredibly helpful, compassionate, and knowledgeable. They are great at communicating and reaching out to me when needed...So far in our treatment, this clinic has been very professional, kind, and helpful. I feel very comfortable there and am happy with everything I’ve experienced so far. They are always available when I call or will get back to me quickly.
How was your experience with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Kubrick seems incredibly knowledgeable. She is very direct and doesn’t sugarcoat the possibilities or risks of treatment. She is quick and to the point but has always been available to discuss any of my questions. She was skilled and gentle with the procedures I have had so far. I feel confident that I am in good hands with her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Be prepared with any questions you have ahead of time.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Kubik has a very straightforward and businesslike demeanor. She is more direct in her conversations and not as personable.
Describe the protocols Carolyn Kubik (retired) used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
So far in my treatment I have only had an ultrasound and a sonohysterogram. My husband has azoospermia. He will have MicroTese surgery. Depending on the results, I will pursue IVF with or IUI with donor sperm under Dr. Kubik.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Annette )
All of the nurses and other staff I have worked with have been incredibly helpful, compassionate, and knowledgeable. They are great at communicating and reaching out to me when needed.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
So far in our treatment, this clinic has been very professional, kind, and helpful. I feel very comfortable there and am happy with everything I’ve experienced so far. They are always available when I call or will get back to me quickly.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists.
I am at the beginning of my fertility journey. So far, all procedures I’ve had have been diagnostic and covered by my insurance.
Dr. Snook was kind and always positive. She made me feel like nothing was wrong so why would it not work. She always has a smile on. She however never changed my medications after 3 failed IUIs. Protocol was always the same. She was easy to get in contact with very available.... Always clomid with ultrasound and bloodwork then iui following day after positive LH surge.... she talked with me on the phone after my loss and was very empathetic. She was positive and upifting.
They [Reproductive Health Specialists] don't make you wait long. Techs and nurses smile and are kind. No one rushes you. It is kept very Clean. They are great with bloodwork. They don't make u pay till time of insemination. They walk you through everything. There is no question of what happens next. The patient portal is used and run wonderfully and they response so fast.... She [nurse] always was quick to tell you results and respond immediately to questions. She always asked dr snook if I had questions and would respond with her answer
How was your experience with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Snook was kind and always positive. She made me feel like nothing was wrong so why would it not work. She always has a smile on. She however never changed my medications after 3 failed IUIs. Protocol was always the same. She was easy to get in contact with very available.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
She is not in any rush but she is kind and wants what's best for you. She will not put you in danger but it may take some time because she doesn't change her routine easily.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
She was kind, explained everything in depth, she talked with me on the phone after my loss and was very empathetic. She was positive and upifting.
Describe the protocols Meredith Snook used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
Always clomid with ultrasound and bloodwork then iui following day after positive LH surge.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Gina)
She always was quick to tell you results and respond immediately to questions. She always asked dr snook if I had questions and would respond with her answer. She never made me feel like I was bothering. She was prompt and always gave me apts asap and without difficulty.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
They don't make you wait long. Techs and nurses smile and are kind. No one rushes you. It is kept very Clean. They are great with bloodwork. They don't make u pay till time of insemination. They walk you through everything. There is no question of what happens next. The patient portal is used and run wonderfully and they response so fast.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Iui with clomid 250. Iui with blood work, ultrasound and clomid 730. Consult 100.
Dr. Snook was very attentive and empathetic with our situation. She even offered to stay with me during the 10 min wait after my IUI when my wife couldn't make the appointment. When we got our positive beta test back she cried happy tears with me. She truly cares!... She's kind and shows she cares with her tone and attention to detail. She makes a point to speak with her patients directly instead of relying on her nursing staff.
Cece [nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists] was thorough with her responses and quick to respond to my questions or concerns...They do break up billing so I never had a lump sum bill but rather a "per treatment " bill...I love that they have an App that you can use to readily and easily communicate. You can review test results and appointments easily too. The only negative is it takes a while for your initial appointment to be scheduled because they book fast however once you're a patient they're very flexible with appointments!
How was your experience with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Snook was a pleasure to work with and I recommended her to my friend who agreed she's a great doctor to work with. She's kind and shows she cares with her tone and attention to detail. She makes a point to speak with her patients directly instead of relying on her nursing staff.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Know your insurance coverage so you don't have to play around with the least expensive treatments. If you have coverage, use it!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Snook was very attentive and empathetic with our situation. She even offered to stay with me during the 10 min wait after my IUI when my wife couldn't make the appointment. When we got our positive beta test back she cried happy tears with me. She truly cares!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Ceecee)
Cece was thorough with her responses and quick to respond to my questions or concerns.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
I love that they have an App that you can use to readily and easily communicate. You can review test results and appointments easily too. The only negative is it takes a while for your initial appointment to be scheduled because they book fast however once you're a patient they're very flexible with appointments!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Meredith Snook at Reproductive Health Specialists.
I was fortunate to have insurance coverage for our fertility treatments. The clinic did, however, go in to detail about costs if insurance didn't pay the claim. They also explained the financing options. They do break up billing so I never had a lump sum bill but rather a "per treatment " bill.
Describe Meredith Snook's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Dr. Snook used logistics when deciding how many embryos to transfer. I was pleased in the end!
She [Dr. Kubik] always answered all my questions. Sometimes blunt, but very specific and made sure I understood everything. Always took the time to explain things and felt confident in her treatment plan for me....All of my questions were always answered in a timely matter. No question was very dismissed or ignored....We started with clomid only. I asked about using a trigger shot and was quickly given the option, we spent many months using clomid and the trigger shot with timed intercourse.
[Repro Health Specialists] Very clean and inviting. Lots of pictures of success stories. Sometimes the pictures made me feel uncomfortable because I wondered if I would ever be lucky enough to have my baby’s picture hanging in their office...Wonderful nursing staff. They were always quick to answer my questions and supportive when I needed their support...Cost was always discussed up front, and I felt they were fair.
How was your experience with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
She always answered all my questions. Sometimes blunt, but very specific and made sure I understood everything. Always took the time to explain things and felt confident in her treatment plan for me.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Be your own advocate, do research and come with an idea of what you want your treatment to be.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
All of my questions were always answered in a timely matter. No question was very dismissed or ignored.
Describe the protocols Carolyn Kubik (retired) used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
We started with clomid only. I asked about using a trigger shot and was quickly given the option, we spent many months using clomid and the trigger shot with timed intercourse. Prior to treatmeant I was only getting a period once every 4-5 months. After 6 months of timed intercourse she recommended IUI. Due to scheduling conflicts this wouldn’t take place for another few months. On our first attempt at IUI (with clomid and trigger shot) we got pregnant with 1 baby. We are currently 6 months pregnant!
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Wonderful nursing staff. They were always quick to answer my questions and supportive when I needed their support.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
Very clean and inviting. Lots of pictures of success stories. Sometimes the pictures made me feel uncomfortable because I wondered if I would ever be lucky enough to have my baby’s picture hanging in their office.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Cost was always discussed up front, and I felt they were fair.
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists.
After I become pregnant my thyroid number went up. I was also under the care of an endocrinologist, RHS mistakenly prescribed me thyroid medication that I was already taking.
Dr. Kubik was great! She never rushed me through an appointment. She was honest and kind. She gave me the facts but seemed hopeful and understood the costs and emotional challenges with moving forward. She was never pushy.... Because my AMH was very high, she didn’t use menopur on me. I still overstimmed so we do a Lupron shot before the egg retrieval and then I had to wait 2 months before I could do a frozen transfer but it was successful!
Strengths [for Reproductive Health Specialists] - friendly, experienced staff. High success rates. Always got into appointments on time. Convenient schedule for working women. Weakness- couldn’t think of too much - maybe just more time with the actual doctor. My 2 IUIs were not Done by Kubik but I wish they had been.... We spent about $18,000 total including medicine for IVF. I believe the IVf with ICSI was about $13,500
How was your experience with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Kubik was great! She never rushed me through an appointment. She was honest and kind. She gave me the facts but seemed hopeful and understood the costs and emotional challenges with moving forward. She was never pushy.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
You won’t see her every visit but she is there when it counts and she is one of the best!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Kubic was very compassionate yet honest. She didn’t give false hope but was enthusiastic and caring.
Describe the protocols Carolyn Kubik (retired) used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
Because my AMH was very high, she didn’t use menopur on me. I still overstimmed so we do a Lupron shot before the egg retrieval and then I had to wait 2 months before I could do a frozen transfer but it was successful!
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Reproductive Health Specialists.
The nursing staff was my favorite. It felt like they had become my friends. I knew about their families, where they were going on vacation, etc. they were supe friendly and very educated!
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
Strengths - friendly, experienced staff. High success rates. Always got into appointments on time. Convenient schedule for working women.
Weakness- couldn’t think of too much - maybe just more time with the actual doctor. My 2 IUIs were not
Done by Kubik but I wish they had been.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists.
We spent about $18,000 total including medicine for IVF. I believe the IVf with ICSI was about $13,500
Describe Carolyn Kubik (retired)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
My doctor recommend one embryo for transfer and due to many preemies in my family, that’s all I wanted. She felt that due to my age and it being more male factor, one would be best for me.
We loved Dr. Albert! She was thorough, straight to the point, patient, and remembered details about our personal lives. She was confident that we would conceive, and gave us all of the necessary information needed to make the choice on whether we should pay for numerous transfers upfront or one at a time...We tried one cycle of IUI. We did one retrieval, but had to cancel and freeze all due to being overstimulated.
This clinic [Repro Health Specialists] is professional, clean, well respected and a great place to start a family! We were unhappy with our nurse ivf coordinator, but luckily the other staff provided a warm welcoming place for us during a very difficult time in our life!...No one called us the night before our transfer to tell us the time. It took us about a good hour of trying to reach someone to know the time. It was very stressful
How was your experience with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
We loved Dr. Albert! She was thorough, straight to the point, patient, and remembered details about our personal lives. She was confident that we would conceive, and gave us all of the necessary information needed to make the choice on whether we should pay for numerous transfers upfront or one at a time.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
You have to be alright with hearing Information straight up without sugar coating!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists?
She was straight to the point, but kind, and laid out all the information we could possibly need.
Describe the protocols Judith Albert used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
We tried one cycle of IUI. We did one retrieval, but had to cancel and freeze all due to being overstimulated. The next cycle we transferred one frozen and it didn’t take. The following cycle we transferred one embryo and it took!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Nina)
She was rude, demanding and threatened to cancel our cycle because I couldn’t make one appointment
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
This clinic is professional, clean, well respected and a great place to start a family!
We were unhappy with our nurse ivf coordinator, but luckily the other staff provided a warm welcoming place for us during a very difficult time in our life!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Judith Albert at Reproductive Health Specialists.
20,000
What specific things went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Reproductive Health Specialists.
No one called us the night before our transfer to tell us the time. It took us about a good hour of trying to reach someone to know the time. It was very stressful as we were anxious to begin with, plus we just wanted to know the details! Luckily dr snook called us back and was nothing but apologetic and kind!
Dr. Kubik was always compassionate and explained everything thoroughly. I felt like she took my feelings and struggles into consideration during my treatments...I had 9 failed IUI's before I switched to IVF and got pregnant on my first fresh transfer. The first 3 IUI's were natural while the remaining 6 used different fertility medications (Clomid and Femera) to see how my body would respond best...I loved Dr. Kubik and would recommend her to anyone. She has a warm bedside manor and was always honest but kind. She never makes guarantees but gives all possible outcomes. I didn't see her at every appointment but she was always available via phone or through the patient portal.
I had 9 failed IUI's [at Reproductive Health Specialists] before I switched to IVF and got pregnant on my first fresh transfer. The first 3 IUI's were natural while the remaining 6 used different fertility medications (Clomid and Femera) to see how my body would respond best...This clinic is owned and operated by mostly women and many of them were patients at one time- this means they understand what its like and can sympathize with the struggles and difficult results. Because they are so busy, they do leave most communication to the patient portal which doesn't always seem personable but effectively gets communication to each patient.
How was your experience with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
I loved Dr. Kubik and would recommend her to anyone. She has a warm bedside manor and was always honest but kind. She never makes guarantees but gives all possible outcomes. I didn't see her at every appointment but she was always available via phone or through the patient portal.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Don't stress over everything but let Dr Kubik guide you through the process.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Kubik was always compassionate and explained everything thoroughly. I felt like she took my feelings and struggles into consideration during my treatments.
Describe the protocols Carolyn Kubik (retired) used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
I had 9 failed IUI's before I switched to IVF and got pregnant on my first fresh transfer. The first 3 IUI's were natural while the remaining 6 used different fertility medications (Clomid and Femera) to see how my body would respond best. The failure of the IUI's were just bad luck.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Annette)
The nursing staff at RHS is amazing- everyone one of them was kind, compassionate, flexible, and showed the upmost respect for us as patients.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
This clinic is owned and operated by mostly women and many of them were patients at one time- this means they understand what its like and can sympathize with the struggles and difficult results. Because they are so busy, they do leave most communication to the patient portal which doesn't always seem personable but effectively gets communication to each patient.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolyn Kubik (retired) at Reproductive Health Specialists.
Don't remember
Describe Carolyn Kubik (retired)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Reproductive Health Specialists.
This clinic stresses the importance of one healthy baby so they are conservative with their approach to as to produce healthy embryos.
Both my husband and I enjoyed working with Dr. Erb [at Reproductive Health Specialists]. She was present at all of my embryo transfers and always called immediately to follow-up after each procedure. We did not end up getting pregnant at RHS, but I did feel that Dr. Erb was a knowledgeable and trustworthy physician to work with. We ultimately did decide to move onto a larger out-of-state clinic that had more treatment options.
We did not end up getting pregnant at RHS [Reproductive Health Specialists], but I did feel that Dr. Erb was a knowledgeable and trustworthy physician to work with. We ultimately did decide to move onto a larger out-of-state clinic that had more treatment options....Our nurse coordinator was very friendly and was provided prompt responses. She was easier to work than our originally assigned IVF coordinator....The front desk admin could stand to be more warm and friendly since she always acted like it was an inconvenience whenever I spoke to her over the phone.
How was your experience with Teresa Erb at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Both my husband and I enjoyed working with Dr. Erb. She was present at all of my embryo transfers and always called immediately to follow-up after each procedure. We did not end up getting pregnant at RHS, but I did feel that Dr. Erb was a knowledgeable and trustworthy physician to work with. We ultimately did decide to move onto a larger out-of-state clinic that had more treatment options.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Teresa Erb at Reproductive Health Specialists?
Dr. Erb was incredibility kind, patient, and understanding of our needs to conceive a baby. She did not make us feel rushed during patient visits and took her time to thoughtfully answer all of our questions.
Describe the protocols Teresa Erb used in your cycles at Reproductive Health Specialists and their degree of success.
Clomid cycles, IVF with ICSI- Freeze All, and Frozen Embryo Transfers.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Reproductive Health Specialists. (Assigned nurse: Denise)
Our nurse coordinator was very friendly and was provided prompt responses. She was easier to work than our originally assigned IVF coordinator.
Describe your experience with Reproductive Health Specialists.
I enjoyed the convenience of the online patient portal, so I could see all of my test results reported within hours of testing, available prescriptions, and procedure instructions. It was helpful to be able to email through the portal, while at I was at work. The front desk admin could stand to be more warm and friendly since she always acted like it was an inconvenience whenever I spoke to her over the phone.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Teresa Erb at Reproductive Health Specialists.
My treatment was covered by my insurance, so I cannot really give exact costs.
