Ratings of 1 indicate that a clinic was poorly operated.
Ratings of 10 indicate that a clinic operated very well.
Scheduling
8.8
8.8
Scheduling
Ratings of 1 mean it was difficult to schedule appointments with this clinic.
Ratings of 10 mean it was easy to schedule appointments.
Billing Department
7.7
7.7
Billing Department
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory billing department.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent billing department.
Nursing Team
8.7
8.7
Nursing Team
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory nursing team.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent nursing team.
LGBTQ+ Care
9.6
9.6
LGBTQ+ Care
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory LGBTQ+ care.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent LGBTQ+ care.
Attention to Detail
7.8
7.8
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.
She’s [RMA of NY] very detailed during the paid visits. However, IVF Cycle for us was more of a disappointment since we didn’t get much of details of what is going on and what to expect next. Retrieved egg count was pretty low compared to the follicles were counted in the last visits.... Explicitly have her tell you the amount of eggs to be retrieved at every visit so you can have a chance to cancel before going in for retrieval.
Nurses are the best thing of RMA of NY.... [Monitoring Appointments] First in first out. You dont know which doctor is on duty. Somewhat rushed.... Expect bills sent months later. Finance team is working weird imo. Coordinator was not too sharp in my case, there were lots of wrong info passed by her that i had to dig in and get corrected....Such as telling me that there’re some procedures i need to get done ( which was already done) and i had to convince her through back and forth emailing.
How was your experience with Jovana Lekovich at RMA of New York?
She’s very detailed during the paid visits. However, IVF Cycle for us was more of a disappointment since we didn’t get much of details of what is going on and what to expect next. Retrieved egg count was pretty low compared to the follicles were counted in the last visits.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jovana Lekovich at RMA of New York?
Explicitly have her tell you the amount of eggs to be retrieved at every visit so you can have a chance to cancel before going in for retrieval.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jovana Lekovich at RMA of New York?
Mostly rushed during daily checks and not given too much info as in how I’m progressing
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RMA of New York.
Caring and nice. Responsive at all times.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
Expect bills sent months later. Finance team is working weird imo. Coordinator was not too sharp in my case, there were lots of wrong info passed by her that i had to dig in and get corrected. So, good luck with that.
Clinic in general -except Brooklyn location- is clean and nice.
Nurses are the best thing of RMA of NY.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
First in first out. You dont know which doctor is on duty. Somewhat rushed.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Jovana Lekovich at RMA of New York.
More than 20K
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
Coordinator of my doctor had provided some wrong information. To us, it told she was either not listening to people properly or not getting things properly. Such as telling me that there’re some procedures i need to get done ( which was already done) and i had to convince her through back and forth emailing. Also, at one point she said doctor needs to perform cyst removal surgery in between retrieval and transfer cycle which was not correct since the doctor at RMA doesn’t perform that kind of surgery. This was corrected by doctor herself as well.
So it’s more like passing wrong info to the patient.
Dr. McAvey is kind, optimistic, and has a great bedside manner. Even when I am feeling down about the process, she is encouraging and hopeful. She has been willing to answer all of my questions both by email and phone...I haven't actually interacted with her very much throughout the course of my treatment. I had an initial consultation with her before I started the IUI process (3 rounds), and then one more before starting my IVF retrieval cycle. Other than that, aside from one or two emails to answer a question, I didn't have any contact with her until she called to let me know my IVF failed to produce any normal embryos.
I found that sometimes the information you received from the nurses would vary from nurse to nurse....Monitoring appointments at RMA of New York are well organized. I typically never waited longer than 15 minutes to be called and was typically always in and out within 45 minutes....It's easy to feel like a number at this clinic, but they ARE pretty organized. While I got used to seeing a different doctor every time I went in for monitoring, one thing I did not like about RMA was that the actual procedures (IUI and IVF egg retrieval) were also performed by whatever doctor was on duty that day.
How was your experience with Beth McAvey at RMA of New York?
My experience with Dr. McAvey has been fine. Whenever we speak she is kind and hopeful. I haven't actually interacted with her very much throughout the course of my treatment. I had an initial consultation with her before I started the IUI process (3 rounds), and then one more before starting my IVF retrieval cycle. Other than that, aside from one or two emails to answer a question, I didn't have any contact with her until she called to let me know my IVF failed to produce any normal embryos. It was only then that she let me know about taking CoQ10 to improve egg quality and to pursue acupuncture (which I had pursued on my own and told RMA I was doing). If you have questions, Dr. McAvey will absolutely answer them, via email or phone. But it's really up to the patient to proactively ask (and research/figure out WHAT to ask). When we found out there would be no transfer cycle for us, Dr. McAvey was optimistic and encouraged us to try again as IVF is really just "a numbers game".
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Beth McAvey at RMA of New York?
Do your own research and ask as many questions as you can at your initial consultation and all throughout the process. You have to be your own advocate.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Beth McAvey at RMA of New York?
Dr. McAvey is kind, optimistic, and has a great bedside manner. Even when I am feeling down about the process, she is encouraging and hopeful. She has been willing to answer all of my questions both by email and phone. At RMA, it's easy to feel like a number, because there are so many women being treated there every day. Even when I felt like "just a number" on my monitoring days, Dr. McAvey never made me feel that way during any of our interactions.
Describe the protocols Beth McAvey used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
3 cycles of IUI: five days of Clomid, Ovidrel trigger shot, IUI
I cycle IVF (retrieval only, no normal embryos to transfer): Gonal F / Menopur / Cetrotide / Dual Trigger Lupron + hCG
I was not given a rationale for following this protocol. I have a good ovarian reserve for my age, so based on this IVF cycle my issue appears to be egg quality.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RMA of New York.
The nurses at RMA of New York ranged from pretty nice to very nice. All of the questions I had throughout my IVF cycle were answered by the nurses vs. the doctors. Whenever I asked, they would sit down with me to walk me through the process and help me figure out my "medication ordering plan" (since I found the process of ordering the meds to be more stressful than actually taking them).
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
RMA of New York definitely has a system down. It's easy to feel like a number at this clinic, but they ARE pretty organized. While I got used to seeing a different doctor every time I went in for monitoring, one thing I did not like about RMA was that the actual procedures (IUI and IVF egg retrieval) were also performed by whatever doctor was on duty that day. There was one doctor at RMA that I didn't particularly care for (his bedside manner was not a match for me) that did one of my IUI's, and I would never have actually chosen him to do it. At RMA, you are very limited when it comes to choice in that sense. I didn't even SEE the doctor who did my IVF egg retrieval. I was already under anesthesia before he even came into the room. Overall, I've had a good experience at RMA (despite my treatment failures).
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
Monitoring appointments at RMA of New York are well organized. I typically never waited longer than 15 minutes to be called and was typically always in and out within 45 minutes.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Beth McAvey at RMA of New York.
My health insurance covered my IUIs in full and one cycle of IVF (up to $10,000), however it did not cover most of the expensive IVF medications. For my IVF retrieval cycle, out of pocket I paid ~$4,500 for my medications, $2,000 for the embryo biopsy, $750 for anesthesia, and $750 for PGS testing of 4 embryos plus all office co-pays ($40 each). Billing for my IVF egg retrieval procedure hasn't gone through my insurance yet, so I don't know if I will owe anything additional.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
I found that sometimes the information you received from the nurses would vary from nurse to nurse. Not mission critical information, but things like 'how many days before you should expect your period' or 'how many eggs are normally retrieved from someone my age'.
I have seen MANY doctors in the office. Dr. Grunfeld has called me a few times to explain next steps. I wish that questions were answered at the time of the visit, however. I find that I have to call into the office or email the nurses with questions. He also isn’t the doctor that does my retrieval, but I know timing does play a factor in this.... The office moves quick at times. I feel like I have a lot of unanswered questions that requires me to email or call the office at a later point.
The office [RMA of NY] moves quick at times. I feel like I have a lot of unanswered questions that requires me to email or call the office at a later point.... Anytime I email the nurses they get back to me with an answer quick and prompt. They are friendly and easy to approach with questions.... My medications were sent to CVS. CVS doesn’t fill fertility meds. I was then told to call and figure out what happened instead of the IVF coordinator.
How was your experience with Lawrence Grunfeld at RMA of New York?
I have seen MANY doctors in the office. Dr. Grunfeld has called me a few times to explain next steps. I wish that questions were answered at the time of the visit, however. I find that I have to call into the office or email the nurses with questions. He also isn’t the doctor that does my retrieval, but I know timing does play a factor in this.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Grunfeld at RMA of New York?
Ask a lot of questions and demand to get answers before you leave.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Grunfeld at RMA of New York?
The office moves quick at times. I feel like I have a lot of unanswered questions that requires me to email or call the office at a later point.
Describe the protocols Lawrence Grunfeld used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
We did 3 IUIs due to insurance purposes. Those failed and we moved into IVF. The first round resulted in zero embryos that could be used. We moved into another round of IVF but only had 4 eggs and body was responding well to meds (GonalF- 225 and Menopur 2 vials). We changed to an IUI cycle which ended up failing. I was also diagnosed with endometritis after the retrevial.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of New York. (Assigned nurse: Vivian and Clara)
Anytime I email the nurses they get back to me with an answer quick and prompt. They are friendly and easy to approach with questions.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
Strengths- runs like a well oiled machine. They seem to have all appointments in an appropriate time. You know what to expect when it comes to medications and appointments necessary.
Weaknesses- sometimes you feel like a number. Ask lots of questions!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Grunfeld at RMA of New York.
I have insurance. Currently an IVF cycle is approximately $6,200.
Describe Lawrence Grunfeld's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
No comment here. Haven’t gotten to a transfer yet.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
My medications were sent to CVS. CVS doesn’t fill fertility meds. I was then told to call and figure out what happened instead of the IVF coordinator. Took almost a week to straighten it out (only to find out the number of refills then got messed up as a result)
In the initial consultation and on follow-up conversations about next steps, Dr. Copperman was very helpful, informative and empathetic. I felt like he really cared about our outcomes and was confident in his expertise during the transfer process which we had to modify at the last minute, switching from one embryo to two. His reasoning was clear and I felt confident in our decisions together...If you feel strongly about one path or another, he's open to hearing that feedback.
The upper east side location [of RMA] has many patients and the phlebotomy staff is large which keeps up with the demand for the daily blood draws and ultrasounds. I once did an IUI over a holiday weekend and there was even staff available then which was reassuring. I also used their facility in Brooklyn Heights which was more convenient for me but smaller. I appreciated that flexibility, when necessary and I always found everyone friendly and helpful.
How was your experience with Alan Copperman at RMA of New York?
In the initial consultation and on follow-up conversations about next steps, Dr. Copperman was very helpful, informative and empathetic. I felt like he really cared about our outcomes and was confident in his expertise during the transfer process which we had to modify at the last minute, switching from one embryo to two. His reasoning was clear and I felt confident in our decisions together.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alan Copperman at RMA of New York?
Ask any and all questions you have. If you feel strongly about one path or another, he's open to hearing that feedback.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alan Copperman at RMA of New York?
Dr. Copperman and his whole team were really thoughtful and kind throughout the process. They were always available to answer questions or provide support over the phone, email or in person at the office. When I was feeling emotional during the process to getting pregnant, they were honest and caring. I was excited to send them newborn pictures when our baby was born and look forward to working with them again on baby #2.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of New York. (Assigned nurse: Jordyn Banks)
Jordyn was very helpful, responsive and knowledgable. I found working with her really wonderful.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
The upper east side location has many patients and the phlebotomy staff is large which keeps up with the demand for the daily blood draws and ultrasounds. I once did an IUI over a holiday weekend and there was even staff available then which was reassuring. I also used their facility in Brooklyn Heights which was more convenient for me but smaller. I appreciated that flexibility, when necessary and I always found everyone friendly and helpful.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
Some days the waiting room was busier than others but you could always tell that the support staff was moving through the patients as quickly as they could.
Describe Alan Copperman's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
Dr. Copperman ordinarily is a very strong proponent of single embryo transfer but on my second transfer, the defrosting process didn't go as smoothly as expected and rather than cancel, they called me that morning to request thawing a second embryo. We did that and then decided to transfer both, which was very unusual for him, as his staff and he reiterated at our transfer. This transfer ended up in a positive pregnancy and a single baby so I'm glad we went this route.
When I wanted to add lovenox for low grade anticardiolipin levels, he [Dr. Daniel Stein] was not supportive. Said it was risky (for bleeding) and wouldn't help...Dr Stein did not seem to remember my case well...I found him dismissive and not patient with my questions. Having said that, despite the huge amount of patients at RMA, overall I thought they did a good job in making patients feel heard - I just didn't necessarily feel that with Dr Stein.
RMA is a strong clinic and well organized. It is huge, and they do a good job of managing individual cases. They always return phone calls within the hour. It does feel like a bit of a factory given the size. They are also fairly conservative/traditional. They do not believe in immunology issues and are not particularly open/imaginative about understanding RPL. They are very evidence-based, which is not a bad thing, but I do wonder since other places are more open to experimental treatments!
How was your experience with Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
Dr Stein is smart, experienced and knows his stuff. He explains things well and is a realist - a described pessimist. I think he did a good job with our egg retrieval, as he was very exacting about my timing and when to trigger. We got good results from the retrieval (though a lot of that is because of my eggs).
I found the transfer VERY uncomfortable (I am not a great gyno patient) and he was incredibly impatient and unsupportive in the moment. My transfer took, but then I miscarried at 5.5 weeks, exactly the same time I had miscarried with my two natural pregnancies. Despite the fact that he had pushed for IVF to control for embryo quality, and then the embryo quality didn't seem to make a difference (they were PGD tested), he had no explanation for why I might have miscarried. He also was not overly sensitive and wanted to just 'try again.' he said it's a numbers game. He was very dismissive of my suggestions (other women in my family had a bicornuate uterus, but he immediately said I didn't have that).
When I went to get a second opinion from another clinic, they suggested a different protocol. I brought that suggestion back to him and he was immediately dismissive, judgmental and unprofessional. He told me that clinic had a 'terrible reputation' (despite the fact that he had trained the doctor) and that their suggestions were off-base. This was a phone call, after not responding to my email for a few weeks. He claimed he had. Overall, he left a very bad taste in my mouth and I felt unsafe/uncared for in his care. I think he is very smart and knows his stuff but is very arrogant and not open-minded. While I think he likely provides good care overall and helps a lot of women have success, I would not recommend him to a close friend.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
Be your own advocate, and push him hard if you disagree.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
There were so so many patients in and out of RMA - there would often be at least 20 other women in the waiting room while I was there. Dr Stein did not seem to remember my case well (I had had a horrible miscarriage with gushing blood for 12 days, came to see him to make sure I wasn't hemorrhaging and he helped break up the clots, and then had no memory a short time later as to why I would be anemic. Also didn't seem to check my chart).
I found him dismissive and not patient with my questions.
Having said that, despite the huge amount of patients at RMA, overall I thought they did a good job in making patients feel heard - I just didn't necessarily feel that with Dr Stein.
Describe the protocols Daniel Stein used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
I believe it was a standard protocol, with menapur, gonal F, and the trigger. for the transfer, we used PIO and estrace.
When I wanted to add lovenox for low grade anticardiolipin levels, he was not supportive. Said it was risky (for bleeding) and wouldn't help.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of New York. (Assigned nurse: Eliza?)
Eliza is amazing!! There was another nurse too who comforted me when I cried about starting PIO. I wish I remember her name.
Overall, the nurses are amazing there.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
RMA is a strong clinic and well organized. It is huge, and they do a good job of managing individual cases. They always return phone calls within the hour.
It does feel like a bit of a factory given the size.
They are also fairly conservative/traditional. They do not believe in immunology issues and are not particularly open/imaginative about understanding RPL. They are very evidence-based, which is not a bad thing, but I do wonder since other places are more open to experimental treatments!
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
I liked that the hours were early and I could go before work, and the window of time was substantial. However, it is such a huge place that sometimes I would wait an entire hour. And there was no way to predict it! So I'd have to go much earlier than I wanted just in case. It did feel a bit like cattle call.
Describe Daniel Stein's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
For me, Dr Stein believed strongly in transferring one embryo, because multiples bring higher risks. I agree with this assessment and appreciated it. (He also has twins himself, so that may bias him).
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
They did not give my husband clear instructions about when to ejaculate at home to prepare for the sperm deposit. It was very stressful.
When I started seeing her [Dr. Kudesia] she was nothing but human, and caring and understood my fears and anxieties after such a huge loss....The only issue I really had is after 2 failed IUI's she never enforced my husband to do a sperm analyisis... I loved her bedside manner and how personal and sweet she was, but I felt like she would just increase my dosage of Clomid each month I didnt get pregnant
Strengths [of RMA] are efficiency...I never waited more than 10-15 minutes in the waiting room...they were very friendly. The nurses called back very quickly and were good about getting any questions I had answered...The weaknesses were that it has a feeling of being a business and that they almost hope you have to jump to IVF...We once had the nurse call and she thought we were doing an IVF cycle, when clearly I had discussed with finance several times
How was your experience with Rashmi Kudesia at RMA of New York?
The only issue I really had is after 2 failed IUI's she never enforced my husband to do a sperm analyisis. Considering I had been pregnant 3 times naturally before coming to the clinic, I think they just assumed his sperm was healthy. It wasn't until I personally had to enforce it did my husband get his sperm analysis and now here we are 8 months later still not pregnant, but found out that my husband has 0% motility. My 40th birthday is this year, and we will have to make a big decision about IVF. I loved her bedside manner and how personal and sweet she was, but I felt like she would just increase my dosage of Clomid each month I didnt get pregnant and was chalking it up to unexplained infertility, and shouldn't have even allowed us to do IUI without him having a sperm analysis.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rashmi Kudesia at RMA of New York?
To make sure you ask every question you have, as she doesn't really give answers unless you come with questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rashmi Kudesia at RMA of New York?
I felt like a human because I could really tell she cared. I had a full term still birth in 2016, I was 39 weeks pregnant and I lost my son to an umbilical cord accident. When I started seeing her she was nothing but human, and caring and understood my fears and anxieties after such a huge loss.
Describe the protocols Rashmi Kudesia used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
First we tested my AMH and it was very good, and since I had been pregnant 3 times before we just did a non-medicated natural cycle that she monitored. I produced follicles on my own, ovulated according to the blood work, etc. Then when that didn't work she suggested we go right to IUI unmedicated and I did one unmedicated and it didn't work. Then we did one IUI cycle where I took 50mg of clomid, and then they gave me the trigger shot of ovidrel and that IUI also failed. Then I didn't have any more money for IUI's and my insurance covers NOTHING for fertility treatments. So then she decided to increase my dose of clomid to 100mg and then I gave myself the trigger at home, negative again. Then she increased me to 150mg clomid and I did the trigger shot again at home, negative. That following month she discovered a polyp on my uterus and I had read that was a side effect of clomid. On Feb, 14th 2017 I had the polyp surgically removed. Before we started trying again and while I was healing I had my husband go get his sperm analysis. Thats when we discovered his motility was 0%.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
Strengths are efficiency. I was VERY surprised for NYC and how busy they were that I never waited more than 10-15 minutes in the waiting room, a lot better than my OB's office ! Also they were very friendly. The nurses called back very quickly and were good about getting any questions I had answered. I also liked that I had a way to communicate with Dr. Kudesia over email. I found that very personal. The weaknesses were that it has a feeling of being a business and that they almost hope you have to jump to IVF. In our case we do have to jump to IVF because of my age and my husbands sperm motility, and I just wished from day one they would have made him get tested.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rashmi Kudesia at RMA of New York.
$75 per blood test $250 for monitoring, $1250 for IUI, $150 for sperm analysis,
$125 for phone calls, $375 for in person meet ups. All in all I spent 10K in 2017.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
It was just more oversights, and assumptions. We once had the nurse call and she thought we were doing an IVF cycle, when clearly I had discussed with finance several times it just wasn't possible as I have zero insurance coverage for this. The plan my job provides has no coverage what so ever.
Dr. Beth McAvey is personal and warm. She is direct and reply to emails....As this is my first IVF, I wish Dr. McAvey explained to me which treatment is choose for me and educate me a little bit more on what to expect. I did most of my learning through reading and google online. I wish I have more options available to me for me to consider if the 1st treatment failed....Lupron protocol was used for me, don't know the rationale of why using Lupron.
RMA seemed pretty organized and well run, most of appointments are on schedule. I wish they give me more clear answer on the state run grant's availability. I follow up many times on the status and I always get respond that they do not have a contract signed with the grant yet....I always get different nurse on each blood work result and call back. They are give clear instructions and answer my questions.
How was your experience with Beth McAvey at RMA of New York?
As this is my first IVF, I wish Dr. McAvey explained to me which treatment is choose for me and educate me a little bit more on what to expect. I did most of my learning through reading and google online. I wish I have more options available to me for me to consider if the 1st treatment failed.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Beth McAvey at RMA of New York?
Educated yourself more on the IVF topic. I was abit overwhelmed and clueless.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Beth McAvey at RMA of New York?
Dr. Beth McAvey is personal and warm. She is direct and reply to emails.
Describe the protocols Beth McAvey used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
Lupron protocol was used for me, don't know the rationale of why using Lupron. That was exactly my previous comments that I wish Dr. McAvey explained to me more on the treatment strategies. I didn't know how many protocols are available and options before my treatment. All the blood work seemed normal as progressed. As a result of this Protocol, 2 matured size, 2 mid size and 1 small one. Dr. MaAvey did push 1 more day before the trigger shot to give more time for the small one to grow. Result: 5 retried and only 1 inseminated. And the only 1 inseminated one didn't grow after few days.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RMA of New York.
I always get different nurse on each blood work result and call back. They are give clear instructions and answer my questions.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
RMA seemed pretty organized and well run, most of appointments are on schedule. I wish they give me more clear answer on the state run grant's availability. I follow up many times on the status and I always get respond that they do not have a contract signed with the grant yet.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
the overall experience is good. 95% of time are pretty quick and standard. wish I get less bruise from the blood drawing. There are 2 nurses's technique are bite harsh.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Beth McAvey at RMA of New York.
3 times of IUI - $2,000
1 IVF - $20,000
Describe Beth McAvey's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
I didn't get to that stage of process yet, so I don't have good and valuable comments on this topic that I can provide.
I only saw Dr. Flisser a couple of times...during my first consultation, on day one of my cycle for monitoring and maybe twice more quickly for monitoring. A different doctor did my retrieval, whom I had never met, based on the day my retrieval fell and their schedules for doing retrievals. Overall, I think Flisser is a nice guy and is smart/very knowledgeable about fertility treatments. I didn't get the feeling he was paying close attention to my treatment and was invested in my outcome (even if he was, I didn't get that feeling). The communication and follow up with the doctor wasn’t great post cycle...
Pros: The ladies at the front desk are very nice and friendly, as are all the nurses during monitoring hours. The clinic is very organized considering the volume of people coming through there everyday. They always called when they said they would with instructions for the next day and followed up with an email with the exact instructions. The nurses were very available for questions...
How was your experience with Eric Flisser at RMA of New York?
Eric has a fairly laid back attitude, but he is willing to sit and answer as many questions as you have. When I did see him, he was patient and thorough in his explanations. He is thorough when asked questions, but does not proactively provide a lot of information. It was my first time doing any fertility treatment, so more information regarding expectations and how I was progressing along the way would've been helpful. But if you know what to expect and what questions to ask, you should be ok. I only saw Dr. Flisser a couple of times...during my first consultation, on day one of my cycle for monitoring and maybe twice more quickly for monitoring. A different doctor did my retrieval, whom I had never met, based on the day my retrieval fell and their schedules for doing retrievals. Overall, I think Flisser is a nice guy and is smart/very knowledgeable about fertility treatments. I didn't get the feeling he was paying close attention to my treatment and was invested in my outcome (even if he was, I didn't get that feeling). The communication and follow up with the doctor wasn’t great post cycle. My cycle was unsuccessful and I had questions about options for another cycle and I had to follow up several times to get answers.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Eric Flisser at RMA of New York?
Ask a lot of questions. You have to be proactive to get information. Know that you may not have him for your retrieval. This is more a statement of the clinic though because each doctor is scheduled to do retrievals on a certain day.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Eric Flisser at RMA of New York?
I didn't see him much, but when I did, he appeared to remember me and took interest in my progress.
Describe the protocols Eric Flisser used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
First 5 days:
300 IU of Gonal/F every day ( in the morning )
2 amps of Menopur ( in the evening )
Last 5 days
300 IU of Gonal/F ( in the morning )
3 amps of Menopur ( in the evening )
250 mcg of Cetrotide (in the evening)
Trigger shots night before retrieval:
40 units of LupT
1000 IU of hCG
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RMA of New York.
The nursing staff at the monitoring sessions were all very caring and pleasant. The nurses that would call with instructions or answer questions were very organized and prompt.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
Pros: The ladies at the front desk are very nice and friendly, as are all the nurses during monitoring hours. The clinic is very organized considering the volume of people coming through there everyday. They always called when they said they would with instructions for the next day and followed up with an email with the exact instructions. The nurses were very available for questions. You'd have to leave a message with the front desk, but a nurse would call you back, even after hours.
Cons: There are a LOT of patients in and out each day. The waiting time for monitoring hours can be long. If you arrive a few minutes before they open at 7am, that's your best bet for a short wait time.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
The monitoring hours are from 7am-9am, but the waiting room gets very full and the wait times can be very long. The best time to go is first thing in the morning and be there when they open at 7am. Each time I did this, I never waited more than 10 minutes.
However, the waiting does have WiFi, which is nice.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Eric Flisser at RMA of New York.
He [Dr. Sandler] is obviously a brilliant dude, but there were times I felt like he spoke down to me, as if I couldn't possibly understand the intricacies of ART treatments, when in reality I was reading academic journal articles regularly to try to know as much as possible...Don't be afraid to ask questions because he will answer them...Just don't expect to ask questions or get much information during the monitoring ultrasounds because they have to see a million patients in a row before and after you...
You will feel like a number [at RMA - East Side] but it's okay -- that just means they know what they're doing. Even on days when you cannot believe how freaking packed the waiting room is, you will be in and out of there before you know it. A lot of people go there and I took that to mean that they were good. I didn't have success with them but that's because my body is wacky... they bill your insurance for a complete cycle, so if you don't make it to transfer, it is still billed as a complete cycle. I don't know if it is different for self-pay people...
How was your experience with Benjamin Sandler at RMA of New York?
He is obviously a brilliant dude, but there were times I felt like he spoke down to me, as if I couldn't possibly understand the intricacies of ART treatments, when in reality I was reading academic journal articles regularly to try to know as much as possible.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Benjamin Sandler at RMA of New York?
Don't be afraid to ask questions because he will answer them.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Benjamin Sandler at RMA of New York?
In a way, I thought it was somewhat reassuring to be treated like a number, as long as whoever I was dealing with knew my background, where I was in treatment, and so on. The fact that the clinic ran like a well-oiled machine was very comforting because they really did give you the impression they knew what they were doing. I'm also not a person who needs to feel coddled.
Describe the protocols Benjamin Sandler used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
1 Clomid cycle with IUI, 3 letrozole cycles with IUI, and 1 last letrozole cycle with TI (because I felt that we were headed for IVF anyway and didn't want to waste money on another IUI). Then, IVF/ICSI with PGS on antagonist protocol (preceded by 10-14 days of OCP), using max dosage of stims because -- as it turned out -- I have DOR! This was never verbalized to me until after the first cycle failed. Good thing I read all those journal articles because I had figured that out myself. The next cycle was supposed to be micro dose Lupron flare protocol preceded by OCP again.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of New York. (Assigned nurse: Kirsten Schlosser)
Everyone on the support staff was amazing. Even the phlebotomists were sweet and super competent. In the end, I think that makes a bigger difference in the experience than how the doctor talks to you, for example.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
You will feel like a number but it's okay -- that just means they know what they're doing. Even on days when you cannot believe how freaking packed the waiting room is, you will be in and out of there before you know it. A lot of people go there and I took that to mean that they were good. I didn't have success with them but that's because my body is wacky.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
I covered this earlier -- it is very busy during morning monitoring but they have so many phlebotomists that it takes no time to get blood draws done. Sometimes there is a minor wait to get twanded but I was never there more than an hour. Just don't expect to ask questions or get much information during the monitoring ultrasounds because they have to see a million patients in a row before and after you.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Benjamin Sandler at RMA of New York.
This is important -- they bill your insurance for a complete cycle, so if you don't make it to transfer, it is still billed as a complete cycle. I don't know if it is different for self-pay people.
All told, we used up 8750 of our 10K insurance limit, plus another 4500 out of pocket for PGS, freezing (even though there was nothing to freeze), anesthesia, and extra meds beyond what our insurance was willing to cover ( I was on very high doses).
Dr Talebian was completely professional, smart, compassionate, knowledgable, caring and very kind. My experience with her was EXCELLENT! I am currently about to start another IVF cycle for a second child and I tracked her down at her new clinic (CCRM) just to make sure she was my doctor again. I recommend her highly!!!...Dr Talebian was wonderful every step of the way! She always replied to every email and phone call with detailed answers to my questions. She was very approachable and made sure I understood everything. She was kind, generous, funny and always treated me with absolute respect.
This was a real pain at RMA! I had to go to Midtown Manhattan for certain procedures or on the weekends which was not as convenient and monitoring hours were only early in the morning and there were always tons of women waiting. At CCRM now, it's MUCH better. You can schedule monitoring any time!...IUIs were about $1000 each (plus the cost of sperm). The whole IVF cycle was about $15,000 plus $5k for genetic testing and $5k for meds.
How was your experience with Sheeva Talebian at RMA of New York?
Dr Talebian was completely professional, smart, compassionate, knowledgable, caring and very kind. My experience with her was EXCELLENT! I am currently about to start another IVF cycle for a second child and I tracked her down at her new clinic (CCRM) just to make sure she was my doctor again. I recommend her highly!!!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sheeva Talebian at RMA of New York?
Don't be afraid to ask anything! She is totally nonjudgmental and always responded to all my questions (some of which were kind of crazy!) with patience, compassion and clarity.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sheeva Talebian at RMA of New York?
Dr Talebian was wonderful every step of the way! She always replied to every email and phone call with detailed answers to my questions. She was very approachable and made sure I understood everything. She was kind, generous, funny and always treated me with absolute respect.
Describe the protocols Sheeva Talebian used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
Honestly, I don't remember all the details. But she described everything well and I opted for the conservative choices and I paid extra expenses to try to maximize my potential success, including genetic testing and ICSI. My only regret (not her fault at all) is that I feel I spent too much time on IUIs and should have gone to IVF sooner. She had recommended this but was totally understanding of my choice not to.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
Locations were good. I did not like that monitoring only was early in the morning
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
This was a real pain at RMA! I had to go to Midtown Manhattan for certain procedures or on the weekends which was not as convenient and monitoring hours were only early in the morning and there were always tons of women waiting. At CCRM now, it's MUCH better. You can schedule monitoring any time!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sheeva Talebian at RMA of New York.
IUIs were about $1000 each (plus the cost of sperm). The whole IVF cycle was about $15,000 plus $5k for genetic testing and $5k for meds.
Describe Sheeva Talebian's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
She highly recommended single embryo transfer because I did genetic testing on the embryos.
Alan [Copperman] was very knowledgeable and always seemed completely committed to getting me pregnant. he does not show much compassion though and he didn't tell me about pre genetic testing, which I found out from a friend, and found it to be extremely valuable in my final successful IVF...We first tried two IUIs every cycle - no success. The 2nd IVF, the Dr. advised only putting in one good embryo, although I had asked for the previous embryo to be included. It was a frozen embryo with a different donor and therefore, he said the practice wouldn't put two embryos together from different donors. This is understandable but he didn't tell me until the day of transfer, but he did come personally to explain it to me.
RMA actually told me that my remaining embryo undergoing pre genetic testing was not good and 2 weeks later I realized the nurse was mistaken and it was good. That embryo turned out to be my son, but I had a rough 2 weeks in which I thought i had another unsuccessful treatment...Alan was very knowledgeable and always seemed completely committed to getting me pregnant. he does not show much compassion though and he didn't tell me about pre genetic testing, which I found out from a friend, and found it to be extremely valuable in my final successful IVF.
How was your experience with Alan Copperman at RMA of New York?
Alan was very knowledgeable and always seemed completely committed to getting me pregnant. he does not show much compassion though and he didn't tell me about pre genetic testing, which I found out from a friend, and found it to be extremely valuable in my final successful IVF.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alan Copperman at RMA of New York?
Ask a lot of questions about your options. The nurses are your friends, and the doctors do not generally have a lot of compassion.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alan Copperman at RMA of New York?
He was generally kind but showed little to no emotion. In my 2nd and final iVF I had a miscarriage scare while traveling for work in HK and a HK doctor had wrongly told me I had a miscarriage. Fortunately, a second doctor told me everything was fine, but when I got back to NYC, Dr. Cooperman was somehow mad at me for the whole thing, which was a little heartless and ridiculous.
Describe the protocols Alan Copperman used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
We first tried two IUIs every cycle - no success. The 2nd IVF, the Dr. advised only putting in one good embryo, although I had asked for the previous embryo to be included. It was a frozen embryo with a different donor and therefore, he said the practice wouldn't put two embryos together from different donors. This is understandable but he didn't tell me until the day of transfer, but he did come personally to explain it to me.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RMA of New York.
Very compassionate but not all could draw blood well and sometimes it took several times.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
Very knowledgeable and helpful but too big to receive personal attention.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
It was fine
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alan Copperman at RMA of New York.
not much because of my health insurance plan.
Describe Alan Copperman's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
None, he did a good job.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
RMA actually told me that my remaining embryo undergoing pre genetic testing was not good and 2 weeks later I realized the nurse was mistaken and it was good. That embryo turned out to be my son, but I had a rough 2 weeks in which I thought i had another unsuccessful treatment.
Initial impression was good. Over the course of several treatments, failed cycles and two attempts he became more distant. Second pregnancy I was made to feel as though I was more of an inconvenience than a patient... Ectopic preg was completely missed as a preg test was not done to confirm neg outcome of IUI.
Office staff was curt or even rude. Plan of care was "by the book" not necessarily to my specifics... Expect good results but not a lot of hand holding and warm cozy feelings. They run a very efficient factory with high ratings but not touchy-feely.
How was your experience with Jeffrey Klein at RMA of New York?
Initial impression was good. Over the course of several treatments, failed cycles and two attempts he became more distant. Second pregnancy I was made to feel as though I was more of an inconvenience than a patient. As if I were greedy wanting to try to have a second child.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jeffrey Klein at RMA of New York?
Expect good results but not a lot of hand holding and warm cozy feelings. They run a very efficient factory with high ratings but not touchy-feely.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jeffrey Klein at RMA of New York?
Office staff was curt or even rude. Plan of care was "by the book" not necessarily to my specifics. Ectopic preg was completely missed as a preg test was not done to confirm neg outcome of IUI.
Describe the protocols Jeffrey Klein used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
First cycle was just IUI, second used ovidrel and IUI, third was Clomid, Ovidril and IUI (I had severe reaction to Clomid), 4th was injectable with Ovidril and IUI (result ectopic). Last was injections, egg retrieval, IVF, 3 embryo transfer resulting in 1live birth, 1 embryo frozen. 1 year later, embryo transfer resulting in 1live birth.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RMA of New York.
They answered questions but I didn't get a lot of compassion at missed attempts or after ruptured ectopic that almost killed me.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
Usually convenient. I was there at odd hours but could be forced to wait, especially my second experience, almost as a vendetta even if I was the first patient there.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Jeffrey Klein at RMA of New York.
~15k
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Failed to call with results
Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Failed to consider drug intolerance
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
Office staff were quite rude. They would chat or take other patients in before me forcing me to wait extensively for what appeared to be personal dislike. I overheard them discussing me as "weird" as if that justified being unprofessional.
He [Dr. Copperman] is a talented doctor but definitely lacks bedside manner. You go to him for his expertise and success rates, not because he is going to make you feel warm and fuzzy. I liked seeing other doctors in the practice who were a little warmer, but knowing that he was reviewing all the blood work and sonograms was good.
It [RMA of New York] feels like a factory. the morning check-in for blood and ultrasound are very crowded. you have to wait, sometimes up to 45 minutes to get in for blood and then wait again for a doctor to come see you. then if you have additional questions you have to wait for a nurse. when you are cycling through for IVF and have to be there almost daily for 10 days its hard not to feel frustrated and just a number.
How was your experience with Alan Copperman at RMA of New York?
he is a talented doctor but definitely lacks bedside manner. You go to him for his expertise and success rates, not because he is going to make you feel warm and fuzzy. I liked seeing other doctors in the practice who were a little warmer, but knowing that he was reviewing all the blood work and sonograms was good. i did have some losses, one in particular that was devastating, and he was very helpful. at the end of the day i owe my two amazing sons to him.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alan Copperman at RMA of New York?
he is a clinician first with a high volume practice. you will get pregnant there but he won't be your best friend.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alan Copperman at RMA of New York?
it feels like a factory. the morning check-in for blood and ultrasound are very crowded. you have to wait, sometimes up to 45 minutes to get in for blood and then wait again for a doctor to come see you. then if you have additional questions you have to wait for a nurse. when you are cycling through for IVF and have to be there almost daily for 10 days its hard not to feel frustrated and just a number.
Describe the protocols Alan Copperman used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
i dont remember sorry. i think I blocked it all out.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of New York. (Assigned nurse: anne)
anne and hilde were absolutely amazing. they were my first cycles for my oldest. Second time around his staff was not nearly as good. HIlde was in midwifery school so wasn't as available and anne was out on maternity leave. one nurse gave me a dosage error during an iVF cycle and nearly destroyed the cycle.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
factory. front desk staff probably dealt with way too many hormonal women to count and now is in robot mode.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
ugh. you had to wait. you didnt know if it would be 10 minutes or 40 minutes. during a 10 day cycle its awful when you are racing to get to work. The waiting room is absolutely packed. And they make you go back into the waiting room between blood and doctor sonogram (in 2010/2011 you went right in). general impression of the difference between 2010/2011 and 2013/2014 was that they got too big too fast
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alan Copperman at RMA of New York.
we had 5 cycles. insurance paid for 2 and change but even after that the doctor's visits were covered by coinsurance. it was just the transfer, retrieval, ICSI, etc that wasn't covered. Probably 20K out of pocket for all of it
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
one of the nurses gave incorrect hormone information during an IVF cycle. it was caught when I asked a question to a different nurse as I contrasted what she said to my prior day's instructions. Doctor called me immediately and had me come in the next day. At the end of the day we were still able to do the retrieval.
I cannot recommend her [Dr. Taraneh Nazem] enough. I absolutely love her. She was compassionate, diligent, and really understood my case and what was needed. I had had fertility treatment in a different country before - my results with Dr Nazem were much better because she tailored the program to me. Importantly she listened to my concerns and referred me for extra testing that I wanted, even when she was not sure I actually needed it. She put me at the centre of the process instead of being dismissive and curt as doctors often are
Overall had a very good experience [at RMA of New York]. The patient co-ordinator can be disorganised and needs frequent reminders. But everyone is professional and the processes are run smoothly. My highlight is definitely Dr Nazem - my main advice is make sure you have a doctor you feel comfortable with...being part of a large medical system in the US (like RMA) automatically makes you feel like a number, but not Dr Nazem.
How was your experience with Taraneh Nazem at RMA of New York?
I cannot recommend her enough. I absolutely love her. She was compassionate, diligent, and really understood my case and what was needed. I had had fertility treatment in a different country before - my results with Dr Nazem were much better because she tailored the program to me. Importantly she listened to my concerns and referred me for extra testing that I wanted, even when she was not sure I actually needed it. She put me at the centre of the process instead of being dismissive and curt as doctors often are
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Taraneh Nazem at RMA of New York?
Trust her and hopefully you will have a great outcome.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Taraneh Nazem at RMA of New York?
Dr Nazem is incredible. She is warm, kind, and she listens to her patients concerns and wants. I have to say though, being part of a large medical system in the US (like RMA) automatically makes you feel like a number, but not Dr Nazem.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
Overall had a very good experience. The patient co-ordinator can be disorganised and needs frequent reminders. But everyone is professional and the processes are run smoothly. My highlight is definitely Dr Nazem - my main advice is make sure you have a doctor you feel comfortable with. It’s ok to browse around until you are 100% certain.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Lost appointments
Failed to order appropriate test
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
I had one instance where an appointment mix up occurred. And I frequently had to chase patient care co-ordinator to get things on time.
Dr. Stein addressed my questions and concerns, but I felt a bit that they were brushed away (perhaps to ease my concerns) in an unhelpful way when I would've preferred a more serious, detailed response. The exam itself was very quick and I felt unnecessary since I already had results from a previous doctor and he seemed too in a rush anyway....I would've appreciated a more thorough consultation. My case isn't a particularly complicated one, but I felt that I was brushed off rather than engaged for what my concerns were.
The clinic [RMA of NY] had good communication with me over e-mail so far. I appreciated that I could ask whatever questions I had and expect a timely answer. The e-mail point person switched several times within the last year, which could be confusing, but the clinic was consistent in following up with me.... I would've appreciated a more thorough consultation. My case isn't a particularly complicated one, but I felt that I was brushed off rather than engaged for what my concerns were.
How was your experience with Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
I would've appreciated a more thorough consultation. My case isn't a particularly complicated one, but I felt that I was brushed off rather than engaged for what my concerns were. I also felt that my concerns were met with a don't-worry-about-it sort of response rather than answered more directly and thoroughly. I'm detailed oriented and felt that the response was a bit disconcerting.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
To not be afraid to act direct questions and follow up if the answers aren't as thorough as you'd like them to be.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
Dr. Stein addressed my questions and concerns, but I felt a bit that they were brushed away (perhaps to ease my concerns) in an unhelpful way when I would've preferred a more serious, detailed response. The exam itself was very quick and I felt unnecessary since I already had results from a previous doctor and he seemed too in a rush anyway.
Describe the protocols Daniel Stein used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
I went in only for an initial consultation for possible egg freezing.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
The clinic had good communication with me over e-mail so far. I appreciated that I could ask whatever questions I had and expect a timely answer. The e-mail point person switched several times within the last year, which could be confusing, but the clinic was consistent in following up with me.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Stein at RMA of New York.
I encountered only the initial consultation, which was covered by my insurance.
Dr. Kimberley A. Thornton is caring and kind. She answered all my questions and gave us suggestions for our treatments. She thought we had a good chance during our consultation. We had 2 IUIs and 4 IVFs with her for 10 months. My embryos didn't last until day 5 and I never had a transferred with total 50 eggs retrieved as RMA doesn't do day 3 transfer....Dr. Kimberley A. Thornton is sweet and she answered my emails usually within a day.
RMA is huge but each department is very organized. Monitor hours can be a bit crowded sometimes but it's good overall. The billing department is also helpful and responsive. The weakness is sometimes it's less customized but they're flexible in terms of operation schedule if you need to be out at a certain time....RMA doesn't do day 3 transfer....Nurses are always responsive and helpful....The billing department is nice to work with.
How was your experience with Kimberley Thornton at RMA of New York?
Dr. Kimberley A. Thornton is caring and kind. She answered all my questions and gave us suggestions for our treatments. She thought we had a good chance during our consultation. We had 2 IUIs and 4 IVFs with her for 10 months. My embryos didn't last until day 5 and I never had a transferred with total 50 eggs retrieved as RMA doesn't do day 3 transfer. We tried differnt protocols for my IVFs but still no good news. I feel she is supportive and responsive. I wished we tranferred to another clinic sooner.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Kimberley Thornton at RMA of New York?
If you're going to RMA, I would find a more experienced doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Kimberley Thornton at RMA of New York?
Dr. Kimberley A. Thornton is sweet and she answered my emails usually within a day.
Describe the protocols Kimberley Thornton used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
I had 4 cycles. 1st one we used antagonist protocol and Lupron flare protocol for rest of the cycles. I responded to better to Lupron flare and retrieved more eggs as well.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RMA of New York.
Nurses are always responsive and helpful.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
RMA is huge but each department is very organized. Monitor hours can be a bit crowded sometimes but it's good overall. The billing department is also helpful and responsive. The weakness is sometimes it's less customized but they're flexible in terms of operation schedule if you need to be out at a certain time.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
Monitoring hours are easy and efficient.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Kimberley Thornton at RMA of New York.
The billing department is nice to work with.
Describe Kimberley Thornton's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
She [Dr. Lekovich] is friendly and understanding. She took her time with my husband and I and gave us thorough explanations. She is excellent at putting me at ease, which I experienced when doing the saline sonogram...This cycle she upped the menopur, isnt doing lupron, and is doing cetrotide. She started this cycle earlier (I was on the pill for less time) This is the second IVF cycle I have done with her.
Office [RMA] was not completely on top of beginning the first cycle. They are fairly receptive. Every sonogram during monitoring I get a different doctor, most are fine but one is not gentle. Dr. Letterman - try not to get him...[Nursing Staff] Nice but do not always explain everything thoroughly...[Monitoring Appointments] Pretty efficient. It is from 7 - 8:30 in the morning,..osts are very expensive, over 15,000 per cycle, not including medications and the anesthesiologist.
How was your experience with Jovana Lekovich at RMA of New York?
She is friendly and understanding. She took her time with my husband and I and gave us thorough explanations. She is excellent at putting me at ease, which I experienced when doing the saline sonogram. Years ago I had a terrible experience with the hsg and was nervous. She is good at making conversation and is pleasant all around. I had Dr. Copperman before, she is a million times better.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jovana Lekovich at RMA of New York?
Nothing in particular
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jovana Lekovich at RMA of New York?
Very understanding, she explains well and has a great bedside manner.
Describe the protocols Jovana Lekovich used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
She has used gonal f, menopur, lupron. This cycle she upped the menopur, isnt doing lupron, and is doing cetrotide. She started this cycle earlier (I was on the pill for less time) This is the second IVF cycle I have done with her.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RMA of New York.
Nice but do not always explain everything thoroughly.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
Office was not completely on top of beginning the first cycle. They are fairly receptive. Every sonogram during monitoring I get a different doctor, most are fine but one is not gentle. Dr. Letterman - try not to get him.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
Pretty efficient. It is from 7 - 8:30 in the morning, which has been difficult as I live in queens.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Jovana Lekovich at RMA of New York.
Costs are very expensive, over 15,000 per cycle, not including medications and the anesthesiologist. I have gotten a discount through using Bonei Olam, but it is still very expensive.
Describe Jovana Lekovich's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
No comments
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Failed to call with results
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
The first doctor I had, Dr. Copperman, was not thorough in his explanations or the routine I would go through. I am lucky to have support from people outside of the clinic or I would not know what to expect.
We had a very straightforward experience with Dr. Thornton- - a successful FET. Overall, she was competent and pragmatic about the whole process, which we appreciated. She clearly explained and outlined all procedures in a digestible manner. Furthermore, she was accessible and available to answer our questions... While she was not the doctor that performed my retrieval, she took the time to thoroughly review my history and review everything with me so she was completely up to speed when she took over my case.
RMA downtown is a well-oiled and efficient operation. They have access to the midtown lab and facility, but it's a smaller operation, which I preferred. The strengths are that you have access to a range of services and expertise, the same thing can be a weakness because at midtown, you are one among many. At the downtown practice, I felt more like a person than a case number.
How was your experience with Kimberley Thornton at RMA of New York?
We had a very straightforward experience with Dr. Thornton- - a successful FET. Overall, she was competent and pragmatic about the whole process, which we appreciated. She clearly explained and outlined all procedures in a digestible manner. Furthermore, she was accessible and available to answer our questions.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Kimberley Thornton at RMA of New York?
She's a good RE, but I don't know how well she would handle complicated cases. Partly, that hesitation is because we didn't have a complicated case, but nevertheless, if I had an out of the box diagnosis, I might have gone elsewhere.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Kimberley Thornton at RMA of New York?
While she was not the doctor that performed my retrieval, she took the time to thoroughly review my history and review everything with me so she was completely up to speed when she took over my case.
Describe the protocols Kimberley Thornton used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
We had a straightforward eSET when we were trying for our second.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
RMA downtown is a well-oiled and efficient operation. They have access to the midtown lab and facility, but it's a smaller operation, which I preferred. The strengths are that you have access to a range of services and expertise, the same thing can be a weakness because at midtown, you are one among many. At the downtown practice, I felt more like a person than a case number.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Kimberley Thornton at RMA of New York.
We had copays and premiums for monitoring and procedures.
Describe Kimberley Thornton's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
[Dr. Joseph Davis has an] Excellent bedside manner; takes time to really listen to what you have to say and your concerns; really cares about his patients; and does not 'know best', let's you make your own treatment decisions and fully supports them. Doctor of osteopathic medicine and incorporated eastern medicine (Chinese herbs, other supplements (CoQ-10, baby ASA), and acupuncture)- all important to me and my partner.
Too big- it's a reproductive mill!!...Previously stated what I think are his [Dr. Joseph Davis] strengths. Weaknesses: working in a reproductive clinic [RMA of New York] this large makes personalization of attention and treatment hard. He did not perform all of the IUI, IVF procedures which would have been preferred. Overall we were more satisfied with him than another female doctor that we had.
How was your experience with Joseph Davis at RMA of New York?
Previously stated what I think are his strengths. Weaknesses: working in a reproductive clinic this large makes personalization of attention and treatment hard. He did not perform all of the IUI, IVF procedures which would have been preferred. Overall we were more satisfied with him than another female doctor that we had.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Joseph Davis at RMA of New York?
Do your research, ask questions, and do not take the first suggestion as the oracle.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Joseph Davis at RMA of New York?
Excellent bedside manner; takes time to really listen to what you have to say and your concerns; really cares about his patients; and does not 'know best', let's you make your own treatment decisions and fully supports them.
Doctor of osteopathic medicine and incorporated eastern medicine (Chinese herbs, other supplements (CoQ-10, baby ASA), and acupuncture)- all important to me and my partner.
Describe the protocols Joseph Davis used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
Agonist protocol, standard treatment for woman of my age.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
Too big- it's a reproductive mill!!
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
Variable, but usually able to get in with little wait time or difficulty.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Joseph Davis at RMA of New York.
IVF per cycle ~$7 vs. IUI per cycle ~$300
Describe Joseph Davis's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
At my age, multiple embryo transfer should be the standard, to increase the chances of success. I know it also increases chances of multiples, but that can be sorted out later down the road in my opnion.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
Nothing major, could happen anywhere. Definitely running very efficiently considering the size of the clinic/ volume of patients that they are seeing.
Dr. Stein did not take me seriously as a patient from the moment I met him.... I had explained my desire to pursue embryo cryopreservation with my partner's sperm. Dr. Stein asked me how long I have been with my partner and his age, and proceeded to tell me that it would be a mistake to proceed with embryo cryopreservation. I felt that it was extremely inappropriate and none of his business.... Draw your own conclusion and try not to get persuaded by doctor's opinion.
Clinic [RMA of NY] is well organized and professional. They informed me of the grants available through NYS and the information pertaining to IVF protocols. They have spent time to explain the various steps of the process.... The costs of IVF cycle were reasonable compared to other clinics in NYC (15k), and the clinic offered to help with grants. I was able to obtain a reduced rate on medication which resulted in $4K savings
How was your experience with Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
Dr. Stein did not take me seriously as a patient from the moment I met him. When he opened a chart with his assistant, they asked me if I was a lesbian and laughed when I said this is not the case. I had explained my desire to pursue embryo cryopreservation with my partner's sperm. Dr. Stein asked me how long I have been with my partner and his age, and proceeded to tell me that it would be a mistake to proceed with embryo cryopreservation. I felt that it was extremely inappropriate and none of his business.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
Draw your own conclusion and try not to get persuaded by doctor's opinion.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
Dr Stein was questioning my decision to undergo IVF for the purpose of embryo cryopreservation due to my partner's age. I thought it was very inappropriate.
Describe the protocols Daniel Stein used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
IFV for egg cryopreservation
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of New York.
Care coordinator was very helpful and organized
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
Clinic is well organized and professional. They informed me of the grants available through NYS and the information pertaining to IVF protocols. They have spent time to explain the various steps of the process.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Stein at RMA of New York.
The costs of IVF cycle were reasonable compared to other clinics in NYC (15k), and the clinic offered to help with grants. I was able to obtain a reduced rate on medication which resulted in $4K savings
Describe Daniel Stein's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
He [Dr Matthew Lederman] is available 24 X 7 by phone or email. He will ALWAYS return my calls and spend time answering my questions. After miscarrying my first every pregnancy after IVF I was devastated and looking for someone to blame, but he has been there for me every step of the way...[Nurse] Martha is very kind. Sometimes it seems the staff is overwhelmed with too many people, but she is helpful.
I love Dr. Lederman and his nurse Martha [at RMA White Plains]. The finance staff is terrible and the phone system is frustrating, but Dr. Lederman really gives 100%...The clinic is very large and when you have to go to NYC location it is incredibly overwhelming, plus parking is awful....There have been times where the billing staff has been awful and made major mistakes that I have corrected. Sometimes I do feel like a number.
How was your experience with Matthew Lederman at RMA of New York?
I love Dr. Lederman and his nurse Martha. The finance staff is terrible and the phone system is frustrating, but Dr. Lederman really gives 100%.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Matthew Lederman at RMA of New York?
He can be very clinical, so you may have to ask him to explain things in a more simple way. Just know that you can ask him anything at anytime and he will get back to you, even when he is on vacation.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Matthew Lederman at RMA of New York?
He is available 24 X 7 by phone or email. He will ALWAYS return my calls and spend time answering my questions. After miscarrying my first every pregnancy after IVF I was devastated and looking for someone to blame, but he has been there for me every step of the way.
Describe the protocols Matthew Lederman used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
I used the "standard" protocol for my first IVF and did not respond well, resulting in only 4 eggs and 2 making it for PGD testing. He now changed the protocol and I'm hoping to start again. He has also done a lot of testing to find out why I miscarried at PGD/PGS tested embryo.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of New York. (Assigned nurse: Martha)
Martha is very kind. Sometimes it seems the staff is overwhelmed with too many people, but she is helpful.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
The clinic is very large and when you have to go to NYC location it is incredibly overwhelming, plus parking is awful.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Matthew Lederman at RMA of New York.
We have insurance, thank god! So it has costs us about 7K with medication.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
There have been times where the billing staff has been awful and made major mistakes that I have corrected. Sometimes I do feel like a number.
I found DR Stein to be very available, he explained things well. he managed my expectations but not in a damaging way. he was very kind and warm. he spent the time with me needed during crisis situations...the doctor was always available either by phone, or email...I did 2 types of cycles. first without BCP and then with. based on first 2 cycle results, went on to do only cycles without bcp. the strategies ere aimed at increasing number of aggs without sacrificing quality.
There are several nurses who work with this team [at RMA]. I did have one primary nurse. I have found her to be compassionate and knowledgeable. calls were always answered same day within a few hours. emails were answered even quicker then that. sometimes she had to ask the doctor and got back to me in a timely manner always...billing dept is terrible. the front staff are kind. nobody enforces the rule of "no kids" in the office yet, it is written in a few places.
How was your experience with Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
I found DR Stein to be very available, he explained things well. he managed my expectations but not in a damaging way. he was very kind and warm. he spent the time with me needed during crisis situations
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
to make sure you fully understand the expectations of the cycle proposed
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Stein at RMA of New York?
the doctor was always available either by phone, or email. the nursing staff was knowledgeable and superb in returning both emails and phone calls
Describe the protocols Daniel Stein used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
I did 2 types of cycles. first without BCP and then with. based on first 2 cycle results, went on to do only cycles without bcp. the strategies ere aimed at increasing number of aggs without sacrificing quality.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of New York.
there are several nurses who work with this team. I did have one primary nurse. I have found her to be compassionate and knowledgeable. calls were always answered same day within a few hours. emails were answered even quicker then that. sometimes she had to ask the doctor and got back to me in a timely manner always.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
billing dept is terrible. the front staff are kind. nobody enforces the rule of "no kids" in the office yet, it is written in a few places.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
some days it was terrible other days it was nice and quick. if you get there early around 7, it is always quick--under 30 minutes
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Stein at RMA of New York.
around 15,000$ per cycle
Describe Daniel Stein's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
Dr McAvey had a warm bedside manner, emailed and called me personally, didn't make me feel rushed, and seemed genuinely concerned with my success...Be communicative with Dr.McAvey regarding your care. She helped me when the clinic failed me. I appreciated her involvement... I appreciated her bedside manner and her level of involvement in my care. I would definitely recommend.
The IVF coordinator [at RMA] was unresponsive and failed to provide critical information. My cycle was delayed as a result. Additionally, there was a billing error that almost delayed my cycle for a second time. Despite the errors, the clinic did step up to make things right and I appreciated that effort...[Nurses] Seemed to be informative, patient and thorough. I felt confident in my care. Not overly warm, but kind enough.
How was your experience with Beth McAvey at RMA of New York?
Dr. McAvey was very warm, optimistic, thorough and personal. Dr McAvey was very warm, optimistic, thorough, and personal. I appreciated her bedside manner and her level of involvement in my care. I would definitely recommend.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Beth McAvey at RMA of New York?
Be communicative with Dr.McAvey regarding your care. She helped me when the clinic failed me. I appreciated her involvement.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Beth McAvey at RMA of New York?
Dr McAvey had a warm bedside manner, emailed and called me personally, didn't make me feel rushed, and seemed genuinely concerned with my success.
Describe the protocols Beth McAvey used in your cycles at RMA of New York and their degree of success.
Traditional IVF with ICSI
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RMA of New York.
Seemed to be informative, patient and thorough. I felt confident in my care. Not overly warm, but kind enough.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
The IVF coordinator was horrible. My cycle was delayed because of her lack of communication and errors. That said, the clinic did come through for me to try to make things right. I was reassigned and prioritized in my care going forward and I truly appreciated that effort.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Beth McAvey at RMA of New York.
I believe it was $12,500 for an IVF package including one FET if the fresh transfer failed. Plus $2500 for ICSI and around $5000 for meds.
Describe Beth McAvey's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of New York.
She recommended SET based on my age, diagnosis, and past success.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?
Lost paperwork
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of New York.
The IVF coordinator was unresponsive and failed to provide critical information. My cycle was delayed as a result. Additionally, there was a billing error that almost delayed my cycle for a second time. Despite the errors, the clinic did step up to make things right and I appreciated that effort.
....from the getgo Dr. Sandler was very honest...He did not want to continue a cycle if it wasn't looking good, and was cognizant of me as a person.
Keri was the nurse I worked with...She was unbelievable...[Monitoring appointments] very long waits unless there right when the doors opened. VERY long.
How was your experience with Benjamin Sandler at RMA of New York?
I think Dr. Sandler was a very smart doctor who handled a pretty textbook case of diagnosed infertility very well. I was a VERY nervous patient, and he handled me well, was very honest and practical, and got me to where I needed to be. Sometimes I wanted more compassion, but also understood our goals were aligned, and he was doing everything he could to get me to where I wanted to be,
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Benjamin Sandler at RMA of New York?
He is not going to hold your hand, but he will do whatever he can to get the best otucome.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Benjamin Sandler at RMA of New York?
I felt like from the getgo Dr. Sandler was very honest- never giving me false hope, but making me believe he would do anything he could to ensure I was successful. He spent over an hour with me at our first meeting, and was always patient, honest, and practical. He did not want to continue a cycle if it wasn't looking good, and was cognizant of me as a person. He is not what I would describe as "warm and fuzzy" but inspired confidence in me as a patient that he would do whatever he could to ensure the best out come.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of New York. (Assigned nurse: Keri Bergin)
Keri was the nurse I worked with primarily in between my first series of IVF when I had twins and when I went back for a singleton embryo transfer. She was unbelievable. She left for med school which was very sad for me, but she made me feel empowered, confident, comfortable and supported. I adored her
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of New York.
Horrible. Very long waits unless there right when the doors opened. VERY long
Dr. Jackson-Bey felt transparent and patient. She spoke to me with respect and did not automatically assume I understood the medical terminology and treatments she was describing. I walked away feeling a sense of trust in her guidance...She is clearly trained in LGBTQ+ family building support and approached my relationship and family-building goals with compassion...
This clinic [RMA of New York] claims to be highly LGBTQ+ competent but the front desk staff misgendered my partner multiple times. To the clinic's credit, when I sent feedback about these encounters to one of the Patient Liaisons they were very thoughtful in their response. An additional weakness was their lack of transparency around their BMI protocols...after my consultation and monitoring, I found out the clinic would *not* actually freeze my eggs due to their anesthesia policies related to BMI...
How was your experience with Tia Jackson-Bey at RMA of New York?
To me, Dr. Jackson-Bey felt transparent and patient. She spoke to me with respect and did not automatically assume I understood the medical terminology and treatments she was describing. I walked away feeling a sense of trust in her guidance.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Tia Jackson-Bey at RMA of New York?
Dr. Jackson-Bey was kind and patient with my questions! She even drew me a diagram to help visualize the concepts she was describing. She is clearly trained in LGBTQ+ family building support and approached my relationship and family-building goals with compassion.
Describe your experience with RMA of New York.
This clinic claims to be highly LGBTQ+ competent but the front desk staff misgendered my partner multiple times. To the clinic's credit, when I sent feedback about these encounters to one of the Patient Liaisons they were very thoughtful in their response. An additional weakness was their lack of transparency around their BMI protocols. I asked upfront and was told there was no restriction or cut-off on care based on BMI. Then, after my consultation and monitoring, I found out the clinic would *not* actually freeze my eggs due to their anesthesia policies related to BMI. That was the worst part of my experience with RMA.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Tia Jackson-Bey at RMA of New York.
Approximately $2,000 for initial consultation and diagnostics.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of New York?