Ratings of 1 indicate that a clinic was poorly operated.
Ratings of 10 indicate that a clinic operated very well.
Scheduling
9.8
9.8
Scheduling
Ratings of 1 mean it was difficult to schedule appointments with this clinic.
Ratings of 10 mean it was easy to schedule appointments.
Billing Department
9.4
9.4
Billing Department
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory billing department.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent billing department.
Nursing Team
9.9
9.9
Nursing Team
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory nursing team.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent nursing team.
Attention to Detail
9.7
9.7
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. Kim seemed to genuinely care about my experience during the entire process and the outcome. He prescribed things to make the process as easy and cost effective as possible. He called with results himself, every time, including follow ups to see how I was doing...His approach and philosophy also resulted in less time wasted, less pain, less expense, and more ease in general throughout the process. We got pregnant on the first embryo transfer with him and cannot recommend Dr. Kim enough...
Shelli [nurse at RMA of Southern California] was incredible. She was on hand to answer any questions whenever we had any...She showed tremendous compassion and I really felt like she cared about our journey and outcome. She was also super knowledgeable about available research. The front desk was also a delight. They remembered me every time I was there and were always so friendly and warm...
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
We had an unbelievable experience with Dr. Kim. We moved to RMA after a terrible experience elsewhere so we have another clinic for comparison. Everything he did felt in our best interest from the get-go and I felt much more like a human being and patient than a lab rat as a result. He seemed to genuinely care -- not just about outcome but about experience. His approach and philosophy also resulted in less time wasted, less pain, less expense, and more ease in general throughout the process. We got pregnant on the first embryo transfer with him and cannot recommend Dr. Kim enough.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Trust him. He's brilliant.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
We came from another clinic where I felt totally like a lab rat. This was the complete opposite experience. Dr. Kim seemed to genuinely care about my experience during the entire process and the outcome. He prescribed things to make the process as easy and cost effective as possible. He called with results himself, every time, including follow ups to see how I was doing. He was warm and playful, and he made the cycle we did with him an absolute pleasure.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
Based on the IVF medication Dr. Kim prescribed and the success we had with it, I can safely say my previous doctor was overmedicating me. I had fewer shots needed. He also thinks mock ERA cycles were not needed in my case, which cost a lot of time and money at our previous clinic. He also recommended against intrallipid infusions the day of the transfer, and it turns out that wasn't needed either (even though our last doctor upsold us on it). Our previous experience was that anything and everything that COULD work, our last doctor threw at us. Dr. Kim follows the science. He's extremely knowledge and will only ask a woman to undergo certain medication or treatment if and when it's absolutely necessary to achieve the desired outcome. For that I'm super appreciative.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli Carter)
Shelli was incredible. She was on hand to answer any questions whenever we had any (even after I was already pregnant and in the care of an OBGYN). She showed tremendous compassion and I really felt like she cared about our journey and outcome. She was also super knowledgeable about available research. The front desk was also a delight. They remembered me every time I was there and were always so friendly and warm. I felt like they really cared too and were a part of what made the experience so pleasurable.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Everyone there is super friendly and supportive and I could ramble on for hours about how each and every person on staff made the experience so much easier for us. The only weakness (if I'm pressed to name one) is that I have small veins and would have liked someone available there who was great at drawing my blood every visit (and sometimes it was hit or miss -- but to be fair, that has been my experience everywhere).
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
Dr. Kim did eSET for us because he said statistically that results in better success. I can only speak from experience, but it worked for us and now we have multiple embyos left over for the next pregnancy attempt.
Dr Kim is not in favor of dual embryo transfers...He's a true scientist at heart, he really enjoys the process, and the lab work that the embryologist is doing. He wants you to understand the science the same way he does, so he's happy to show images and explain ultrasounds all in real time. He's never too busy for a teaching moment...
RMA Southern CA doesn't do very many cycles per year - less than 500...Despite being a satellite office for a large national clinic, RMA in Southern CA feels more "boutique" than it does national. All the nursing staff knows my name and everyone is up to speed on my specific information...Shared Risk program cost $32,000 for up to 6 egg retrievals and unlimited number of embryo transfers. If unsuccessful, a portion or all of the amount paid is refunded.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
I was reluctant to choose a male doctor - but decided to choose a clinic based on the lab instead of the doctor. I got very lucky with Dr. Kim! He's a true scientist at heart, he really enjoys the process, and the lab work that the embryologist is doing. He wants you to understand the science the same way he does, so he's happy to show images and explain ultrasounds all in real time. He's never too busy for a teaching moment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
He enjoys answering questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
RMA's headquarters are in NJ and they do some huge number of cycles annually (I think it's over 7,000 - you can check on Fertility IQ). But the Southern California branch is small - they do fewer than 500 per year. This provides the expertise of a national lab, but also the intimacy of a boutique clinic. Everyone always new my name.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
I don't know if my protocols had specific names.
For the first 2 IUIs we used Chlomid. For the third IUI we used the Follistim pen injection. None of the IUIs were successful.
For the Egg Retrieval we used a combination of Flotsam, Estrace (orally), and Ganirelix, Lupron, and Novarel.
For the FET we used Estrace (orally), and progesterone in oil injections.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli)
The Head nurse at RMA Southern CA is Shelli. She is incredibly capable and intelligent and organized - all important for her job. But beyond the basic functions of her position, she is one of those people who is so well suited for what she does. She has the personality and the demeanor to be encouraging but also to stick to the facts.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
RMA Southern CA doesn't do very many cycles per year - less than 500. So they do not have any data on Fertility IQ. I strongly suggest you look at their parent headquarter office RMA in New Jersey to see the quality of work their lab is doing. If you are interested in selecting a clinic based on labs or statistics, then RMA is a clinic you want to keep on your short list. Feel free to ask their staff direct questions about success rates.
Despite being a satellite office for a large national clinic, RMA in Southern CA feels more "boutique" than it does national. All the nursing staff knows my name and everyone is up to speed on my specific information. It feels like concierge medicine.
We qualified for the Shared Risk program with RMA which did require us to pay before starting treatment. I know shared risk is not for everyone, but for us it was a huge relief and allowed us to focus on the treatment.
Meter parking is always available on the side street. And the adjoining office building has courtyard with a cafe, so your partner has a nice outdoor area to wait since covid protocols are still in place.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
RMA does offer a pay-as-you-go option, but we selected the Shared Risk program, which is slightly more expensive upfront, but it caps your costs so they don't spiral out of control if you need multiple retrievals or embryo transfers.
Each IUI cost approx. $1300 (about $240/visit + medications) This amount can fluctuate depending on how you're responding to meds.
Shared Risk program cost $32,000 for up to 6 egg retrievals and unlimited number of embryo transfers. If unsuccessful, a portion or all of the amount paid is refunded.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
Dr. Kim is very even keel and realistic, knowledgeable and transparent. He described my treatment plans, provided expectations that made sense for me based on my situation (not just someone my age), and was very communicative. He is very genuine and you can tell that he cares about getting a successful outcome...He is a great communicator - happy to share information whenever asked, or explain things in more detail, but also doesn't bombard you with so much data that you can go down the rabbit hole. I appreciate his calm demeanor and his knowledge. He saw me at all monitoring visits and procedures, and seems to be very skilled. I had few side effects from retrievals, and with two rounds of egg retrievals for IVF I had very similar (and positive) results. He c
Shelli [nurse at RMA of Southern California] is great about following up with test results, checking in at the start of the retrieval cycle and on trigger day to make sure you know everything, and going over all protocols...This clinic is very comfortable - it's super clean and you feel comfortable and welcomed, but it also has the look & feel of a medical practice. I first started coming here during the pandemic, so have only seen the clinic operate using COVID protocols. This includes a health screening when they confirm your appointment, taking your temperature and another verbal health screening at check-in, chairs are socially distanced (although I was never waiting with anyone else), everyone wears masks, and partners can't come to appointments. The only time you won't have a mask on is during the retrieval itself. The location is well accessible - close to the 10/405 split. There is parking, but I th
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim is fantastic. I had done an initial consult at another clinic, where the doctor was overly enthusiastic, quick to jump to treatment, and used a lot of euphemisms. This made my husband and I really uncomfortable, as we wanted to understand the science of ART, what we could realistically expect, and what the process would be. Dr. Kim is a perfect fit for us - he wants you to be successful and treats you as a person, but also is great at explaining where you are in your fertility and setting realistic expectations (i.e. if my AMH is low and my AFC on day 3 is 8, a successful retrieval may be 7 eggs, not 30). He is a great communicator - happy to share information whenever asked, or explain things in more detail, but also doesn't bombard you with so much data that you can go down the rabbit hole. I appreciate his calm demeanor and his knowledge.
He saw me at all monitoring visits and procedures, and seems to be very skilled. I had few side effects from retrievals, and with two rounds of egg retrievals for IVF I had very similar (and positive) results. He checked in before and after, and is very patient with any questions. We are so grateful that we found this practice.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Stay calm and don't rush. I think that Dr. Kim is very methodical because he wants to get the best outcome for you (and the outcome is a healthy pregnancy). This may mean things take a little longer - you're not going to start the retrieval process the day of your consult, and since FET is their standard of care, it's going to be another month or more before you transfer. I think it's worth it - I'd rather not rush it. I appreciate that we waited a bit between my two retrieval cycles for my ovaries to calm down and have a better AFC, and he hasn't rushed me on the transfer, either, instead providing guidance on the best timing.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim is very even keel and realistic, knowledgeable and transparent. He described my treatment plans, provided expectations that made sense for me based on my situation (not just someone my age), and was very communicative. He is very genuine and you can tell that he cares about getting a successful outcome.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
IVF - We had the antagonist protocol (Follistim + low-dose HCG, Ganirelix, Leuprolide, Trigger Shot). In one round I was on BCP for a couple of weeks, in the other I wasn't but just had some estrace priming. In one cycle things went a little slower, so I was on Follistim a little longer than the first one, but all was good. I haven't yet started the transfer protocol.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli)
Shelli is amazing! You'll wind up speaking/emailing with her the most, as she is the main point of contact when you call or e-mail. She is a fantastic communicator, understands the science, is compassionate while also being transparent, and has fantastic bedside manner during the retrieval. If there's an outstanding question, she follows up. She, too, really cares about a successful outcome. I can't imagine having as positive an experience as I have had if she were not at this practice.
Shelli is great about following up with test results, checking in at the start of the retrieval cycle and on trigger day to make sure you know everything, and going over all protocols. She was also great with helping me navigate the pharmacy side of things, as my insurance covered some items but not everything was available.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Strengths - This is a smaller clinic that's part of a larger clinical network. To me, this means the best of both worlds: you get the insights from their cutting-edge technology and research, but you also have continuity of seeing the same doctors and nurses and staff when you come in. All of the staff here are so pleasant and skilled. The phlebotomists draw blood (and there's a lot of it) without any discomfort! They are responsive, it's easy enough to get appointments, and they are quick - I don't think I ever waited for more than 5 minutes. The surgical center (for retrievals/transfers) is on site, as is the embryology lab. The only thing not performed on site is the PGT-A testing; they send the biopsies to the east coast.
Another critical thing for me was insurance coverage. I am fortunate enough to have fertility treatments covered by my employer-based insurance, but many "in-network" fertility specialists that I reached out to (including both that my OB-GYN had initially recommended) did not do all of the treatment, and elements of the treatment would be out of network. Because of RMA-So Cal's set-up, the monitoring, retrievals, and fertilization/culturing were all in-house and therefore in-network. The only items out of network are anesthesiology during egg retrieval and the chromosomal testing.
I've seen some clinics that look like a "spa" experience (i.e. chandeliers) or instagram-worthy. That makes me feel a bit uncomfortable - at the end of the day, it's a medical clinic. This clinic is very comfortable - it's super clean and you feel comfortable and welcomed, but it also has the look & feel of a medical practice.
I first started coming here during the pandemic, so have only seen the clinic operate using COVID protocols. This includes a health screening when they confirm your appointment, taking your temperature and another verbal health screening at check-in, chairs are socially distanced (although I was never waiting with anyone else), everyone wears masks, and partners can't come to appointments. The only time you won't have a mask on is during the retrieval itself.
The location is well accessible - close to the 10/405 split. There is parking, but I think it's pricey - there are a lot of much cheaper meters (which are free before 8), and you'll always be in and out within 15-30 mins. There is also bike parking in the garage.
Not a weakness, per se, but when you're a new patient scheduling an appointment, it goes to a call center in NJ (where their largest practice or HQ is). It took a few days to hear back, which worried me at first. Have no fear! Once you become a patient, it's so easy to reach this clinic directly and get appointments quickly.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
My treatments were largely covered by insurance, so I don't have a great sense of out-of-pocket fees. Anesthesia for retrieval was ~$450. PGT-A testing is $300/embryo - I think this is great as many clinics charge a lump sum per batch which is far more expensive (thousands of dollars). I think you'd need to have double-digit embryos for the cost to even get close to what others charge for PGT-A testing.
They work with MDR pharmacy for the stim cycle drugs, unless if your insurance requires another provider. Mine was a hybrid of sorts. The Follistim was ~$250 per vial (1 vial/day) and the low-dose HCG was around $200. MDR is far less expensive than the pharmacy my insurance works with; I think they mentioned that the cash price for a stim cycle would run around $2,500-3,000 had I purchased everything from MDR.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
I think eSET is the standard of care here, but have not yet done a transfer. We are planning to do SET.
[Dr. Thomas Kim] is just a great person - always taking time to answer my questions or check in on me even if I was just there for bloodwork. I felt so cared about as a human...truly took the time to get to know us as people. He is candid without being callous and hopeful without overpromising. He was always available to answer questions and explain where we were headed. One example that comes to mind is that after every ultrasound, he would offer me his hand and help me into a sitting position so we could have a conversation. Something about that made me feel like a human and not just a number or a patient. He is so respectful. Just a gentle, kind man.
I cannot say enough good things about the team at RMA. Every single one of them was kind, compassionate, and knew who I was when I walked in...Retrieval Cycle - $13,600 (includes all visits, ultrasounds, bloodwork, the retrieval itself) $450 for anesthesia (outside party) PGS testing recommended...appreciate how research focused they are. It makes you confident in the approaches they are taking. So thankful for my experience here.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Doctor Kim truly took the time to get to know us as people. He is candid without being callous and hopeful without overpromising. He was always available to answer questions and explain where we were headed. One example that comes to mind is that after every ultrasound, he would offer me his hand and help me into a sitting position so we could have a conversation. Something about that made me feel like a human and not just a number or a patient. He is so respectful. Just a gentle, kind man.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Doctor Kim is efficient and sometimes can explain things quickly. If you need clarification, don’t be afraid to ask for it.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
From the moment I called RMA SoCal, I felt peace. Everyone I interacted with was kind, compassionate, and respectful. Doctor Kim is just a great person - always taking time to answer my questions or check in on me even if I was just there for bloodwork. I felt so cared about as a human.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
Doctor Kim put me on an antagonist protocol. Despite my low ovarian reserve, he felt good about my antral follicle count. I was on Gonal F (400iu) and low dose hCG (20iu). For the last 4 days we added in cetrotide. Trigger shot and retrieval 36 hours later. 9 eggs were retrieved - which was better than what was expected. Unfortunately, only 4 were mature. All 4 fertilized. 1 made it to day 5/6.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli Carter)
I cannot say enough good things about the team at RMA. Every single one of them was kind, compassionate, and knew who I was when I walked in. Azalea and Brittany were always there with a smile and a kind word. Our nurse, Shelli, is wonderful. She was always prompt in replying to emails and making sure I had the information that I needed. She helped out when I wanted to order my meds overseas and answered my many questions. Every person I came into contact with in that office created a comforting environment. Is it strange to almost look forward to your appointment because you enjoy the people you’ll see when you get there? That’s RMA.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
I would recommend RMA to friends and strangers alike. That’s why I’m here! My first clinic made me feel like a number. RMA is the complete opposite. You are a cared about human here. They are great communicators, we always had an easy time getting appointments when we needed them, they worked around our schedule. I also appreciate how research focused they are. It makes you confident in the approaches they are taking. So thankful for my experience here.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
Retrieval Cycle - $13,600 (includes all visits, ultrasounds, bloodwork, the retrieval itself)
$450 for anesthesia (outside party)
PGS testing recommended - $250/embryo
I have not made it to transfer, but I know that’s about $4,500
They also do your check ups until 7 weeks which I believe run somewhere around $150/visit.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
Doctor Kim is pretty firmly behind a SET. They are very confident in the embryos they grow at RMA and feel single embryo is the safest choice.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of Southern California?
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of Southern California.
The only thing that was a challenge during our retrieval cycle happened because I needed to take my medication midday. They were changing up my protocol in the day or two leading up to retrieval, but I didn’t get that information until after already taking my medication for the day. That caused a bit of stress, but all ended up being fine.
He [Dr. Thomas Kim] was extremely rude and condescending. At the consult he told an elaborate story about "an ideal American couple" with very generic names and good careers and super fertile which wasn't relevant and very triggering. He literally laughed at me when I shared a statistic I read. When I complained to the office about him, he went on to call me back and again was pushy with his perspective even though I said I never wanted to work with him.
I was able to get an appointment quickly [at RMA of Southern California]. The office was clean and there was plenty of spots to wait. They had extra masks. They didn't lose any of my information. All emails were sent in a secure platform (except the email from Dr. Kim). I was seen quickly once I arrived at the clinic. They took my vitals and weight and height...[Dr. Thomas Kim] was was extremely rude and condescending
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
During our consult for some reason he told an elaborate story about "Sarah" and "John" who were two "all-American good looking couple with great jobs. John works in technology. Sarah works in business. They have a home and Sarah is very fertile". The story went on for forever and it wasn't relevant to me or to my situation but he kept on telling it. And he wasn't sensitive to the fact that as someone with POI/DOR I was not interested in hearing the success rates of a highly fertile couple. Also how much money they make and their hypothetical home and hypothetical jobs weren't relevant at all. I gave him a statistic from NIH and Pub med that he literally laughed at. I left the appointment upset. I emailed a complaint and he called me back and said "sorry I came across in a bad way but I just want to tell you that I'm right" so basically in "apologizing" he was more concerned about his ego and being proven right. Even though he actually was wrong and I sent the link to the research article to prove it. On the phone call he kept berating me again about how unlikely it is that I will ever get pregnant. Which I already know but he did not need to do that. All he needed to do was apologize and I didn't even ask the office for an apology. But instead he said "sorry if I came across wrong but I just really want you to know how impossible it will be for you to get pregnant". Again, unneeded. I hung up on him and emailed the office again telling them I never want to work with them and I don't want him to ever contact me again and then got ANOTHER email from him again repeating again how impossible pregnancy would be for me. It was like he wanted to crush every hope and wish. I get it. 5% is not a great statistic but you don't have to keep telling me that over and over when I already said I don't want to work with you.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Just skip the consult all together.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
He was extremely rude and condescending. At the consult he told an elaborate story about "an ideal American couple" with very generic names and good careers and super fertile which wasn't relevant and very triggering. He literally laughed at me when I shared a statistic I read. When I complained to the office about him, he went on to call me back and again was pushy with his perspective even though I said I never wanted to work with him.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
He recommended donor eggs
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
I was able to get an appointment quickly. The office was clean and there was plenty of spots to wait. They had extra masks. They didn't lose any of my information. All emails were sent in a secure platform (except the email from Dr. Kim). I was seen quickly once I arrived at the clinic. They took my vitals and weight and height.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
Dr. Kim was a great fit for our family and situation, and our interaction with him was a high point in a long fertility journey that included fertility medications, IVF, surrogacy and plenty of other complications before we were blessed with our children. This is a wonderful doctor if you enjoy straightforward communication, being as active a participant as you want in your treatment decision, and evidence-based treatments.
RMA of SoCal is a finely tuned machine. I had almost 0 wait time in all my many visits. They are organized with patient records and in communication. Overall this clinic made a traditionally traumatic experience much better and even enjoyable at times. I recommend them highly...[nurse] Shelli Carter at RMA is an absolute gem, compassionate, always 100% organized - all of my 30 or so visits here started and ended in time. She answered all the questions I had throughout my cycles (connecting me with Dr Kim if necessary), provided supplemental data I asked for, and exercised a high level of care and involvement in my treatment. She is amazing!
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim was a great fit for our family and situation, and our interaction with him was a high point in a long fertility journey that included fertility medications, IVF, surrogacy and plenty of other complications before we were blessed with our children. This is a wonderful doctor if you enjoy straightforward communication, being as active a participant as you want in your treatment decision, and evidence-based treatments.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Be straightforward and ask any questions you have about the process. Dr. Kim is very patient and knowledgeable.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim and his staff were with me for three years of fertility treatments, including a beautiful surrogate journey and a surprise natural pregnancy. Communication was prompt, appointments always started on time, I got answers to all questions about my treatment. Overall I felt the team truly cared. Appointments were always a great part of my day.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
Letrozole resulted in a chemical pregnancy 3 IVF freeze-all: retrieved 35 eggs resulting in 8 PGS normal embryos. Lining was always way too thin for a transfer and was unresponsive to estrogen. We progressed to surrogacy for one of the frozen embryos -> first transfer worked -> living child I had 1 successful natural pregnancy almost a great later. Although this was not a pregnancy created at RMA, they were kind enough to give full monitoring up to 9weeks, where I was transferred to an OB -> currently 25 weeks pregnant.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli Carter)
Shelli Carter at RMA is an absolute gem, compassionate, always 100% organized - all of my 30 or so visits here started and ended in time. She answered all the questions I had throughout my cycles (connecting me with Dr Kim if necessary), provided supplemental data I asked for, and exercised a high level of care and involvement in my treatment. She is amazing!
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
RMA of SoCal is a finely tuned machine. I had almost 0 wait time in all my many visits. They are organized with patient records and in communication. Overall this clinic made a traditionally traumatic experience much better and even enjoyable at times. I recommend them highly.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
Dr. Kim recommends eSET for euploid frozen embryos.
Dr. Kim spent so much time talking to me about my history, different treatment options, and expected outcomes. And every single time I had an appointment at the clinic, I saw Dr. Kim...he's honest and tells it how it is...I was grateful to Dr. Kim for sharing facts and science to back everything that he recommended, and for explaining the information in a way that made sense and was digestible...
Shelli [nurse at RMA of Southern California] was FANTASTIC. She always called me the same day I was seen for morning monitoring and spent ample time thoroughly reviewing my levels, my meds, and answering my hundred questions...I always saw the same few faces during my appointments, which made the experience feel much warmer...And I never waited more than a few minutes to be seen. And the clinic itself is beautiful - it looks brand new, and so modern....
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim has all the qualities of a fantastic doctor. He is kind and gentle with his approach - I always felt how invested he was in my success. At the same time, he's honest and tells it how it is. As someone who is naturally a control freak in life, it was very difficult for me to accept that I can't control my fertility. But I was grateful to Dr. Kim for sharing facts and science to back everything that he recommended, and for explaining the information in a way that made sense and was digestible. It made the uncontrollable feel a little more manageable.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Don't be afraid to ask questions! If something doesn't make sense to you straight away, Dr. Kim will be able to explain it clearly so that you feel comfortable with the information.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
From the beginning, Dr. Kim spent so much time talking to me about my history, different treatment options, and expected outcomes. And every single time I had an appointment at the clinic, I saw Dr. Kim. He managed my care from A-Z! Additionally, while I was in cycle and going in for monitoring visits, his nurse Shelli would call me that same afternoon and review my lab results and medications for the following few days. I always felt SO taken care of by the two of them.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
For my retrieval cycle, I had an antagonist cycle IVF with PGT-A. Used Estrace, Follistim, low dose HCG, Ganirelix, and Pregnyl/Lupron trigger. I responded much better than anticipated, so Dr. Kim adjusted my meds and dosage as I got closer to my retrieval. He had me trigger at the perfect time to maximize the number of eggs retrieved as well as avoid hyperstimulation.
For my transfer cycle, I had a medicated cycle and took Estrace and progesterone (in oil, intramuscular).
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli)
Shelli was FANTASTIC. She always called me the same day I was seen for morning monitoring and spent ample time thoroughly reviewing my levels, my meds, and answering my hundred questions. She was just as invested and instrumental in my care as Dr. Kim, and I am so so thankful she was my nurse.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Love the entire staff at RMA!! I always saw the same few faces during my appointments, which made the experience feel much warmer. The girls at the front desk always greeted me with a smile, asked me how I was doing, and celebrated each milestone along with me, which was so sweet and comforting.
I was always able to get an appointment quickly and super early in the morning, so I wouldn't have to miss work. And I never waited more than a few minutes to be seen. And the clinic itself is beautiful - it looks brand new, and so modern.
She [Dr. Melanie Landay] is very knowledgeable and takes all the time that the patient needs. She is very smart and is a problem solver. I highly recommend her; I would just recommend that sometimes what the patient needs is a bit of compassion before we immediately run to the medical discussion...She takes the time to explain the procedure and is generally pretty sympathetic; a few times she tilted towards focusing on the medical when what I needed at that time was compassion.
[RMA of Southern California is] A very well organized clinic. The support staff is splendid. Doctors can do everything in that clinic because it has its own lab, procedure room, etc. The staff were also really helpful in trying to help me financially. You also want to park outside, where they are many spots. Parking at the building is $20.
How was your experience with Melanie Landay at RMA of Southern California?
She is very knowledgeable and takes all the time that the patient needs. She is very smart and is a problem solver. I highly recommend her; I would just recommend that sometimes what the patient needs is a bit of compassion before we immediately run to the medical discussion.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Melanie Landay at RMA of Southern California?
I would take a notebook with you and be unafraid to ask questions. She is happy to answer them for you; but you need to stop her to ask make sure you understand because she might have the assumption that you and her are speaking the same medical language.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Melanie Landay at RMA of Southern California?
She takes the time to explain the procedure and is generally pretty sympathetic; a few times she tilted towards focusing on the medical when what I needed at that time was compassion.
Describe the protocols Melanie Landay used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
Don't remember.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Emily Wright )
Emily is a great communicator and slower in pace than Dr. Landay, which actually works really well for me because she is a calming force.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
A very well organized clinic. The support staff is splendid. Doctors can do everything in that clinic because it has its own lab, procedure room, etc. The staff were also really helpful in trying to help me financially. You also want to park outside, where they are many spots. Parking at the building is $20.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Melanie Landay at RMA of Southern California.
About 5,000 per cycle.
Describe Melanie Landay's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
She said that single embryo transfer was safer and I trusted her with that advice. I think she is a very cautious doctor, which I like.
Dr Kim is kind, reliability, and professional! After my consult I knew he was the DR for me because of the human manor he took and the detailed explanations he walked me through. I was never rushed off the phone and every question I had was answered...time to explain my exact age and rates of fertility so set my expectations. Our plan was very custom to me!...The process was simple for my 2 retrievals (one egg freezing and the second embryo freezing). ~2 weeks of injections and then retrieval...
The clinic [RMA of Southern California] is a well oiled machine! I never waited too long and the front desk team is fabulous. Azelia at the front desk was one of the reasons I choose RMA. She was kind and very informative, especially with billing...Clarifying that Emily Wright is a NP and one of the best I've ever worked with. She was also very kind and prompt with her responses! I knew she was reliable since I had a 3pm on Friday issue and she left her personal number for me to call all weekend...
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim is kind, reliability, and professional! After my consult I knew he was the DR for me because of the human manor he took and the detailed explanations he walked me through. I was never rushed off the phone and every question I had was answered.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
If you're between Dr Kim and another Dr., meet with Dr Kim and you'll understand why all of the high marks.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim to time to explain my exact age and rates of fertility so set my expectations. Our plan was very custom to me!
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
The process was simple for my 2 retrievals (one egg freezing and the second embryo freezing). ~2 weeks of injections and then retrieval.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Emily Wright)
Clarifying that Emily Wright is a NP and one of the best I've ever worked with. She was also very kind and prompt with her responses! I knew she was reliable since I had a 3pm on Friday issue and she left her personal number for me to call all weekend.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
The clinic is a well oiled machine! I never waited too long and the front desk team is fabulous. Azelia at the front desk was one of the reasons I choose RMA. She was kind and very informative, especially with billing.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
I had Progyny coverage which RMA works with regularly and it was a seamless experience.
Dr. Landay is smart and compassionate. I came to her after a year of not being able to conceive and she put together a comprehensive plan of testing both my husband and I. She was so easy to talk to and explained all the results to us thoroughly and in a way that we could understand...She made changes to the timing and gave specific advice on dietary changes and supplements and we saw significant changes in our second round. We ended up with 2 healthy embryos and the first one she transferred stuck...
The clinic was very clean and professional. The admin staff was polite and courteous. I felt like the associate in charge of billing could have been a little more knowledgable and professional. I always got the answers I needed, but sometimes would have to ask someone else to feel satisfied...Emily [nurse] was great at communicating and explaining results. She always answered all my questions and made sure I understood any changes to the treatment plan...
How was your experience with Melanie Landay at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Landay is smart and compassionate. I came to her after a year of not being able to conceive and she put together a comprehensive plan of testing both my husband and I. She was so easy to talk to and explained all the results to us thoroughly and in a way that we could understand and digest. We ended up going through 2 rounds of IVF and what impressed us the most was how after the first failed round, she encouraged us to try again and came up with a modified plan based on the first round’s results. She made changes to the timing and gave specific advice on dietary changes and supplements and we saw significant changes in our second round. We ended up with 2 healthy embryos and the first one she transferred stuck! I am now 38 weeks pregnant and couldn’t be more grateful to Dr. Landay and RMA!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Melanie Landay at RMA of Southern California?
Don't hesitate to ask questions- She has a wealth of knowledge and experience and is happy to share as much as she can.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Melanie Landay at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Landay was very compassionate when delivering test results. She never made me feel rushed or like I couldn't ask questions. She always explained procedures and results thoroughly and in a way that was easy to understand.
Describe the protocols Melanie Landay used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
During my first IVF cycle I had a good amount of eggs, but when it came down to biopsying the embryos produced, none of them came back normal. During our second round Dr. Landay recommended eating a clean healthy diet, using HGH and also waited an extra day for my egg retrieval than she did during the last round. We ended up with 2 high quality embryos.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Emily)
Emily was great at communicating and explaining results. She always answered all my questions and made sure I understood any changes to the treatment plan.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
The clinic was very clean and professional. The admin staff was polite and courteous. I felt like the associate in charge of billing could have been a little more knowledgable and professional. I always got the answers I needed, but sometimes would have to ask someone else to feel satisfied.
Describe Melanie Landay's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
She recommended doing a biopsy on the embryos and transferring the best quality embryo first.
Dr. Kim was very knowledgeable and very approachable. He was mild mannered which made him a good fit for this type of sensitive and emotional treatment. He attended every monitoring visit I had and personally called to report results after the major events and milestone (egg retrieval, embryo growth, transfer etc).
The office is clean and modern. It feels like a private clinic and the patient experience reflects that. Clinic never felt overrun and was always on time with appointments and monitoring visits. I was of the opinion that the lab and embryologist are equally as important as the reproductive endocrinologist. Dr. Kim and Shelley both made sure to point out how good their lab staff was - which may just be a line but my results speak for themselves. I was a low responder to egg retrieval but had 50% of my eggs end up as viable frozen 5 day embryos after ICSI and PGD testing....
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim was very knowledgeable and very approachable. He was mild mannered which made him a good fit for this type of sensitive and emotional treatment. He attended every monitoring visit I had and personally called to report results after the major events and milestone (egg retrieval, embryo growth, transfer etc). At each visit it was clear that he was busy and had a specific window for you - but that window was just for you. While he was in the room he gave his full attention and explained the monitoring etc. And you always new the nurse would be calling you in the afternoon for any and all additional details. I did wonder if my egg retrieval cycles were customized or adjusted enough because I had one failed cycle and was a low very responder (2 eggs, 4 eggs) but I think most of that was just my low ovarian reserve. And my first transfer was successful so I think his technique is good.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Ask lots of questions, especially during COVID-19 when you have less in person appointments and more phone conversations
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim and his staff were very friendly. They were very professional and clear with information and were able to delivered all news/updates/instructions in a sensitive manor. There was no ambiguity or misleading info provided. They were always available for questions and would provide thorough info and instructions. I always felt like I had easy access to them. This office was very well run and a VERY different experience from a normal doctor's office, much more private/concierge feeling and they did not seem overrun with patients so each got the attention they deserve. Staff knew your name and were friendly while also respecting privacy.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelley)
The staff have a huge impact on your infertility treatment experience. They were excellent. Shelley, the office manager/primary nurse was WONDERFUL. Straightforward, very knowledgeable, a lot of experience, good practical tips and tricks, easy to communicate with and reliably called with updates. She was also easy to get ahold of for additional questions. I spent the most time talking to Shelley and she really makes this clinic great. All staff was friendly and professional. My one critique was one nurse who drew your blood was not nearly as smooth as the others - if I had her it was sure to hurt a bit and bruise
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Fairly new clinic (I believe) so there is only one doctor, Dr. Kim. I believe they are growing and adding more doctors. So I would ask what level of access you will have with your doctor - my access was great but it may change as they get busier. Despite them being a newer location - RMA is a very well established and respected fertility clinic with multiple locations around the US. Their focus on the latest and greatest standard of care was very important to me. They use the latest proven (not experimental) science for their patients. The publishing record and research behind RMA-IVI is impressive. The office is clean and modern. It feels like a private clinic and the patient experience reflects that. Clinic never felt overrun and was always on time with appointments and monitoring visits. I was of the opinion that the lab and embryologist are equally as important as the reproductive endocrinologist. Dr. Kim and Shelley both made sure to point out how good their lab staff was - which may just be a line but my results speak for themselves. I was a low responder to egg retrieval but had 50% of my eggs end up as viable frozen 5 day embryos after ICSI and PGD testing.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
I had insurance coverage for fertility care so I only had to pay my annual $3k deductible and then small amounts after that. All of my treatment was within one year. I did pay for the prescriptions out of pocket to use a specialty pharmacy because getting approval for Rx coverage was going to take weeks and I was not willing to wait. So I paid ~ 7k total for 3 egg retrieval cycles plus 1 transfer cycle
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
RMA standard of care is single embryo transfer except in special cases; I agreed with this strategy
he [Dr. Kim] remembered many details, was kind and always willing to explain and answer questions...Wonderful doctor, nurses and staff. I felt very taken care of going through multiple rounds of IUI and finally a successful round of IVF...Ask lots of questions; he will take the time to answer them all candidly....
I was always able to get someone [at RMA of Southern California] on the phone or through their email/secure message line...Great hours (open early and I never had trouble getting appointments for when I wanted/needed them); I wish they had more up to date technology (very limited online portal, for instance)...She and the other staff at the clinic helped me navigate medications, pharmacies, insurance, work fertility benefits in a way that alleviated my stress - I felt that they were always on my side...
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Wonderful doctor, nurses and staff. I felt very taken care of going through multiple rounds of IUI and finally a successful round of IVF. I never had a problem getting an appointment for days/times that worked for me and they were very cautious and considerate during the COVID pandemic as well. I was always able to get someone on the phone or through their email/secure message line; I know friends who went with larger offices who never had a consistent point of contact throughout and feel grateful that I knew pretty much every person in Dr. Kim's office by name (and they knew me by name as well).
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Ask lots of questions; he will take the time to answer them all candidly.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Small office - he remembered many details, was kind and always willing to explain and answer questions
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli Carter)
Shelli Carter was absolutely wonderful. Very responsive, extremely helpful and knowledgeable. She and the other staff at the clinic helped me navigate medications, pharmacies, insurance, work fertility benefits in a way that alleviated my stress - I felt that they were always on my side.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Great hours (open early and I never had trouble getting appointments for when I wanted/needed them); I wish they had more up to date technology (very limited online portal, for instance) but that wasn't my highest priority.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
I was fortunate that my work benefits covered it, so I only paid my $4000 out of pocket insurance deductible/max (including for medications). They billed pretty much everything very promptly through my insurance.
Dr. Kim was kind and informative. We chose him because of his bilingual ability, which also came in handy at times. He took the time to explain everything and if we had additional questions, he would answer those as well...Dr. Kim said his clinic would not implant more than one embryo at a time, because they human body wasn't meant to carry more than one (unlike animals). It was less risky to implant one over multiple embryos...
Clinic [RMA of Southern California] is state-of-the-art and clean. They have a lab in-house which makes things a lot faster. Very impressed with their space and resources. Also being part of a big network meant more learnings and resources if needed...Shelli [nurse] was great - very patient and thorough in her explanations. She also helped with any administrative or billing questions I had as well. She also did a lot of the follow-up calls after every appointment to explain the results or procedures.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim was kind and informative. We chose him because of his bilingual ability, which also came in handy at times. He took the time to explain everything and if we had additional questions, he would answer those as well.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
I would have them ask him to explain the chances/percentages of each of the stages of IVF. i.e. on average, how many embryos before finding a healthy one? or how many eggs per retrieval on average.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli)
Shelli was great - very patient and thorough in her explanations. She also helped with any administrative or billing questions I had as well. She also did a lot of the follow-up calls after every appointment to explain the results or procedures.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Some of the other nurses weren't as helpful as Shelli. A couple were not good with drawing blood and had to poke my wife multiple times in one sitting. Also weren't great with follow-up calls when requested.
Clinic is state-of-the-art and clean. They have a lab in-house which makes things a lot faster. Very impressed with their space and resources. Also being part of a big network meant more learnings and resources if needed.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
only copays under Dr. Kim. However, we had to pay out-of-pocket for anesthesia and then get reimbursed by our insurance company, which was a pain. Wished they would have used someone that takes insurance.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
Dr. Kim said his clinic would not implant more than one embryo at a time, because they human body wasn't meant to carry more than one (unlike animals). It was less risky to implant one over multiple embryos.
Dr. Kim explained every procedure, the expectations and risks. Her made sure we understood every step of the process and our odds. He made sure we understood what the entire process would entail so that we could make informed decisions. In addition, he was warm and friendly, setting us at ease and making sure we felt no pressure when making decisions...
Dr. Kim's clinic is clean, quiet, and comfortable. The staff is friendly and welcoming. Parking was easy and the location was easy to find...Costs were bundled into a package option, depending on what was expected for the patient you could choose different options. The packages saved money as a whole over paying for each procedure individually. All costs were explained in detail...
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim explained every procedure, the expectations and risks. Her made sure we understood every step of the process and our odds. He made sure we understood what the entire process would entail so that we could make informed decisions. In addition, he was warm and friendly, setting us at ease and making sure we felt no pressure when making decisions
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
I am not sure
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim and his staff were very friendly and kind during every encounter. He answered my questions whether through email, in person, or over the phone. Dr. Kim seemed to take a very personal interest is our success getting pregnant, his warmth and bed side manner are impeccable. I would not hesitate to recommend Dr. Kim to anyone.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
My procedure was simple compared to what others may experience. I simply had poor egg quality due to age. We chose donor eggs, I had no medications prior to the procedure. After the embryo transfer I was put on progesterone and estrogen for 12 weeks to increase the chances of implantation and maintaining the pregnancy to the point the placenta was formed. From there
I was medication free and carried to term.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RMA of Southern California.
helpful and kind
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Dr. Kim's clinic is clean, quiet, and comfortable. The staff is friendly and welcoming. Parking was easy and the location was easy to find. I experienced no weaknesses and have no complaints to give. My response must be 200 characters and I am out of things to say, can I please move on
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
Costs were bundled into a package option, depending on what was expected for the patient you could choose different options. The packages saved money as a whole over paying for each procedure individually. All costs were explained in detail
During 2 rounds of egg freezing cycles with RMA, I have nothing but great things to say about Dr.Kim and his entire staff. From my first appt, Dr Kim explained the process to me in a way I could really understand, and was always available to me...Very personal experience from Dr Kim& his staff. With them remembering my name/history throughout my experience - and always being available, never being made to wait...
During 2 rounds of egg freezing cycles with RMA, I have nothing but great things to say about Dr.Kim and his entire staff...the personal care i received from the nurse (Shelley) who was available at every visit, and during both retrievals. She was also on call late at night whenever I needed her...I never had any issues getting an appointment, and was never made to wait...
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
During 2 rounds of egg freezing cycles with RMA, I have nothing but great things to say about Dr.Kim and his entire staff.
From my first appt, Dr Kim explained the process to me in a way I could really understand, and was always available to me.
Shelley was incredible, taking my calls at 10pm when I was in a panic - and instantly dealt with my problem. I never had any issues getting an appointment, and was never made to wait.
My Progyny health insurance took care of everything else!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Very personal experience from Dr Kim& his staff. With them remembering my name/history throughout my experience - and always being available, never being made to wait.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelley)
This was the best part of the experience - the personal care i received from the nurse (Shelley) who was available at every visit, and during both retrievals.
She was also on call late at night whenever I needed her.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
During 2 rounds of egg freezing cycles with RMA, I have nothing but great things to say about Dr.Kim and his entire staff.
From my first appt, Dr Kim explained the process to me in a way I could really understand, and was always available to me.
Shelley was incredible, taking my calls at 10pm when I was in a panic - and instantly dealt with my problem. I never had any issues getting an appointment, and was never made to wait.
My Progyny health insurance took care of everything else!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
All covered by Progyny health insurance with a copay
