Ratings of 1 indicate that a clinic was poorly operated.
Ratings of 10 indicate that a clinic operated very well.
Scheduling
9
9
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
6.9
6.9
Billing Department
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory billing department.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent billing department.
Nursing Team
8.5
8.5
Nursing Team
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory nursing team.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent nursing team.
LGBTQ Care
8.3
8.3
LGBTQ Care
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory LGBTQ care.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent LGBTQ care.
Attention to Detail
7.3
7.3
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is on a 1 - 10 scale, and is scored based on the rate, and severity, of errors committed by the clinic according to the patients.
For example, a severe error might be failing to inform a patient of critical information, while a small error might be failing to call a patient with results.
CDC Success Rates
This is the most recent data from the CDC. The CDC cautions that it should not be used to compare doctors and clinics. This data represents the outcomes of IVF cycles when using a person's own eggs.
For more information please see our FAQs.
Where you see a “?” on the chart, a clinic has done fewer than 20 cycles in this category and age range, so the CDC says showing percentages from this small data set would be misleading and unreliable.
I did not like his [Dr. Michael Levy] bedside manner- I thought he was callous and not compassionate to the emotional turmoil. However, he helped me to concieve my son (17 months of treament) and ultimately my daughter (donor egg and gestational carrier) and I will always be eternally grateful for his success. I don't think he is "nice" but I think he knows what he is doing...As the intended mother I was not always made aware of what drugs were being prescribed and timelines for procedures with my donor and my gestational carrier. This was very frustrating.
The whole process was very emotional and the office [Shady Grove Fertility] didn't always communicate clearly and when I called to inquire (usually about a medication or timing) I was once told "to just wait" and that he wasn't doing the transfer until HE [Dr. Michael Levy] was ready. m(He later apologized)...As the intended mother I was not always made aware of what drugs were being prescribed and timelines for procedures with my donor and my gestational carrier. This was very frustrating.
How was your experience with Michael Levy at Shady Grove Fertility?
I did not like his bedside manner- I thought he was callous and not compassionate to the emotional turmoil. However, he helped me to concieve my son (17 months of treament) and ultimately my daughter (donor egg and gestational carrier) and I will always be eternally grateful for his success. I don't think he is "nice" but I think he knows what he is doing.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Levy at Shady Grove Fertility?
Do not expect warm and fuzzy and don't take it personally.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Levy at Shady Grove Fertility?
The whole process was very emotional and the office didn't always communicate clearly and when I called to inquire (usually about a medication or timing) I was once told "to just wait" and that he wasn't doing the transfer until HE was ready. m(He later apologized)
Describe the protocols Michael Levy used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
I spent seventeen months taking clomid and metformin until my son was concieved (2002) and then used an egg donor and a gestational carrer (3 transfers with 2 separate carriers) with my daughter born in 2009. I do not remember all the drugs used for the egg retrieval and insemination.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Shady Grove Fertility.
It was very hit or miss and some were definitely more compassionate than others.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
I think the clinic is a reflection of the doctor. Sometimes as a patient I was made to feel my questions or concerns were an inconvienience.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Levy at Shady Grove Fertility.
Insurance covered my 17 months of infertility.
Egg Donor and retrieval was about $20,000
Transfers were in the $10,000 range each if I remember correctly.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
As the intended mother I was not always made aware of what drugs were being prescribed and timelines for procedures with my donor and my gestational carrier. This was very frustrating.
[Dr. Nancy Durso is] given zero autonomy. If you don’t fit into their data mold, they don’t know what to do with you...She is the only doctor at the Fredericksburg location and the level of care shows that. Her nurses make up for it, but you won’t feel like a priority with her...Know what you want from a treatment cycle and be prepared to push for what you want. Ultimately she only decides the course of treatment and you’ll rarely if ever see her after that...Lowest dosage of all medications and we quickly had to shift to a higher dose over a weekend which led to a poor retrieval count.
Lowest dosage of all medications and we quickly had to shift to a higher dose over a weekend which led to a poor retrieval count [at Shady Grove Fertility]...Andrea [nurse] was fantastic and 100% the only reason we kept seeing Dr. Durso for so long. She is quick to respond, organized, and knows exactly what to say during stressful cycles...From what I understand, there is no option. They only allow eset [single transfer]...is a revolving door powered by data. You are a number. Because I am data driven this seemed fine at first, but when anything throws off their calculations they have no power to pivot or try anything that hasn’t had years of research behind it.
How was your experience with Nancy Durso at Shady Grove Fertility?
She is ready for retirement, you can tell she is tired and ready for a break. She is the only doctor at the Fredericksburg location and the level of care shows that. Her nurses make up for it, but you won’t feel like a priority with her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Nancy Durso at Shady Grove Fertility?
Do your homework. Know what you want from a treatment cycle and be prepared to push for what you want. Ultimately she only decides the course of treatment and you’ll rarely if ever see her after that.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Nancy Durso at Shady Grove Fertility?
Shady grove doctors are given zero autonomy. If you don’t fit into their data mold, they don’t know what to do with you.
Describe the protocols Nancy Durso used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Lowest dosage of all medications and we quickly had to shift to a higher dose over a weekend which led to a poor retrieval count.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Andrea)
Andrea was fantastic and 100% the only reason we kept seeing Dr. Durso for so long. She is quick to respond, organized, and knows exactly what to say during stressful cycles.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Shady Grove is a revolving door powered by data. You are a number. Because I am data driven this seemed fine at first, but when anything throws off their calculations they have no power to pivot or try anything that hasn’t had years of research behind it.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Shady Grove Fertility.
Efficient. Check in, get a blood draw within minutes. There was usually a good 15min wait for the ultrasound but all in all you were there for maybe 30 minutes.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Nancy Durso at Shady Grove Fertility.
100% covered by insurance
Describe Nancy Durso's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
From what I understand, there is no option. They only allow eset
She [Dr. Shruti Malik] was great and very detailed during one on one consultations, however, during treatment cycles she was MIA and we never heard from her directly. When she did call, we often would hear her typing in the background which often felt like she wasn't really paying attention...It doesn't feel like they take a good personal approach, rather, they try to apply the same to all.
The nursing staff [at Shady Grove] was great. They will end up being your primary points of contact. I could contact them on the phone and they would pick up as long as it was during business hours. I also had their e-mail address and they were very prompt to respond...They often provide papers with a list of instructions for medications, treatments, etc. If you look closely the some of the forms are dated years ago. It doesn't feel like they take a good personal approach, rather, they try to apply the same to all. The pros are that there are so many offices in the area, you can always go to one of the other locations if you aren't able to make it into yours for monitoring. There is also 24/7 phone lines and weekend monitoring, you just will likely deal with nurses and doctors you aren't as familiar with.
How was your experience with Shruti Malik at Shady Grove Fertility?
She was great and very detailed during one on one consultations, however, during treatment cycles she was MIA and we never heard from her directly. When she did call, we often would hear her typing in the background which often felt like she wasn't really paying attention.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Shruti Malik at Shady Grove Fertility?
Advocate for yourself. Just because they recommended something doesn't mean you have to go through with it. Stick with your gut.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility.
The nursing staff was great. They will end up being your primary points of contact. I could contact them on the phone and they would pick up as long as it was during business hours. I also had their e-mail address and they were very prompt to respond.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
It feels like they try to fit everyone into the same mold. They often provide papers with a list of instructions for medications, treatments, etc. If you look closely the some of the forms are dated years ago. It doesn't feel like they take a good personal approach, rather, they try to apply the same to all.
The pros are that there are so many offices in the area, you can always go to one of the other locations if you aren't able to make it into yours for monitoring. There is also 24/7 phone lines and weekend monitoring, you just will likely deal with nurses and doctors you aren't as familiar with.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Use of clomid to treat annovulation [protocol with Dr. Chason]. Completed two failed IUIs without much change to protocol...I was only seen by Dr. Chason a few times. I saw a different doctor or nurse almost every time I had an appointment...My husband and I have multiple factors effecting our fertility. We should have never been counseled to start with IUI first. It should have been recommended to go straight to IVF. She provided conflicting protocols, at first saying femara would be best because of my PCOS but then having me on clomid. The few appointments we did see her for she was always late and by more than 10-15 minutes.
You’re going to be doing a lot of waiting [at Shady Grove Fertility-Annapolis]...[Nurses are] Cold. No empathy. Not very understanding of all the factors going into this. Not considerate about the amount of time off required for all appointments...I had to constantly be on top of them to get results and get meds ordered and get appointments scheduled. It was exhausting...$2000 for two rounds IUI. Even though monitoring was basically the same every day, I had varying costs in bills due to how the procedures were coded to my insurance.
How was your experience with Rebecca Chason at Shady Grove Fertility?
My husband and I have multiple factors effecting our fertility. We should have never been counseled to start with IUI first. It should have been recommended to go straight to IVF. She provided conflicting protocols, at first saying femara would be best because of my PCOS but then having me on clomid. The few appointments we did see her for she was always late and by more than 10-15 minutes.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rebecca Chason at Shady Grove Fertility?
You’re going to be doing a lot of waiting. Make sure you ask about the chance of each procedure being effective for your situation and why she thinks the protocol is the best course of action.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rebecca Chason at Shady Grove Fertility?
I was only seen by Dr. Chason a few times. I saw a different doctor or nurse almost every time I had an appointment.
Describe the protocols Rebecca Chason used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Use of clomid to treat annovulation. Completed two failed IUIs without much change to protocol.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Jennifer Lavy)
Cold. No empathy. Not very understanding of all the factors going into this. Not considerate about the amount of time off required for all appointments.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Strength: there are many clinics to chose from, and have pretty flexible monitoring appointment slots.
Weakness: you’re just a number. You’ll hardly ever see the same doctor twice. They’re not very friendly.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rebecca Chason at Shady Grove Fertility.
$2000 for two rounds IUI. Even though monitoring was basically the same every day, I had varying costs in bills due to how the procedures were coded to my insurance.
Describe Rebecca Chason's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
NA.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Provided conflicting information
Failed to consider drug intolerance
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
I had to constantly be on top of them to get results and get meds ordered and get appointments scheduled. It was exhausting.
Dr. Browne never called us with results - either good or bad. The call we received to inform us that my beta test numbers were not good and I was miscarrying, was done so by a nurse. Dr. Browne didn’t follow up at all....Beginning with our first visit, we did not feel positive or hopeful after meeting with her. She conveyed a sense of bewilderment as to what our problems might be regarding our infertility. She also treated miscarriages with very little gravity.
Unfortunately after Dr. Greenhouse’s passing, the office [Shady Grove] became chaotic. The administrative team was in disarray. They made multiple mistakes when processing my insurance or updating my personal information in their files.... Laura was very kind and helpful. While she wasn’t the person who delivered all of my results, she was a fairly constant face.... Dr. Browne never called us with results - either good or bad. The call we received to inform us that my beta test numbers were not good and I was miscarrying, was done so by a nurse. Dr. Browne didn’t follow up at all.
How was your experience with Paulette Browne at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Browne was a fill in, as our original physician passed away unexpectedly. Beginning with our first visit, we did not feel positive or hopeful after meeting with her. She conveyed a sense of bewilderment as to what our problems might be regarding our infertility. She also treated miscarriages with very little gravity. She lacked compassion. In addition, after the front desk failed to process my new insurance, she made snide comments during future appointments about how hard her staff worked to fix the error (despite it being their error in the first place).
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Paulette Browne at Shady Grove Fertility?
Be clear about your expectations of communication.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Paulette Browne at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Browne never called us with results - either good or bad. The call we received to inform us that my beta test numbers were not good and I was miscarrying, was done so by a nurse. Dr. Browne didn’t follow up at all.
Describe the protocols Paulette Browne used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
She recommended Clomid and IUI. She did not explain why she thought this protocol would work, other than she figured that producing two eggs would improve our chances. If it didn’t work, then she said she would recommend IVF.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Laura)
Laura was very kind and helpful. While she wasn’t the person who delivered all of my results, she was a fairly constant face.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Unfortunately after Dr. Greenhouse’s passing, the office became chaotic. The administrative team was in disarray. They made multiple mistakes when processing my insurance or updating my personal information in their files.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Paulette Browne at Shady Grove Fertility.
We paid $1800 for each IUI cycle, for a total of $3600.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
We met with him for our initial consultation and after that we essentially never saw him again during treatment....He [Dr. McKeeby] seems like a nice guy, but there was never any real follow up or interest in my case. He arrived to an appointment unprepared and clearly didn’t review my test results... as they were incomplete and required a follow up exam...Dr. McKeeby was supposed to follow up with me after our final meeting regarding the next steps and he never did...
They’d say they’d call and then they [Shady Grove Salisbury] wouldn’t. They’d forget to relay test results. Ordering medication was a nightmare thanks to no help on their part. The nurses/staff don’t seem to really make a connection with the patients because it’s always a different nurse calling with results, or communicating the doctor’s orders....Provided medication charts were halfway completed, failed to be informed of exam results... which ultimately delayed starting treatment, issues with prescriptions being called in
How was your experience with Jeffrey McKeeby at Shady Grove Fertility?
He seems like a nice guy, but there was never any real follow up or interest in my case. He arrived to an appointment unprepared and clearly didn’t review my test results... as they were incomplete and required a follow up exam. This somehow slipped through the cracks (one of many times overall with this clinic). I’m still trying to figure out if this was the fault of Dr. Mckeeby, the nurses or the clinic’s organization. Either way, it’s super disappointing. Finally, Dr. McKeeby was supposed to follow up with me after our final meeting regarding the next steps and he never did...
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jeffrey McKeeby at Shady Grove Fertility?
We met with him for our initial consultation and after that we essentially never saw him again during treatment. During that time, I can 100% say he wouldn’t recognize me as a patient if he saw me in the waiting room.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Shady Grove Fertility.
They’d say they’d call and then they wouldn’t. They’d forget to relay test results. Ordering medication was a nightmare thanks to no help on their part. The nurses/staff don’t seem to really make a connection with the patients because it’s always a different nurse calling with results, or communicating the doctor’s orders. We are all just numbers.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
I was so hopeful that SGF would help my husband and I. Words can’t explain how disappointed I am with their organization as a whole. If I would have gotten pregnant right away I’d be happy because a) I wouldn’t have experienced the many weaknesses of their organization after treating there for a year, and b) I’d have a baby. This clinic is for women who get pregnent within two cycles. Anything more than that, you’ll learn that you’re just a number. The only reason I stayed for so long is because I was desperate and there a few other choices in the area.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Jeffrey McKeeby at Shady Grove Fertility.
Insurance covered most costs.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Failed to consider drug intolerance
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
Annapolis office - Provided medication charts were halfway completed, failed to be informed of exam results... which ultimately delayed starting treatment, issues with prescriptions being called in or lack thereof, was told by Nursing staff it wasn’t worth doing insurance appeal against doctor’s advice, getting in touch with nurses was difficult, lack of empathy from staff, lack of communication, etc, etc.
Dr Doyle is absolutely amazing as a doctor and a person!!!! He really cares about his patients and he was always there for me when I needed him!... Dr Doyle is mild-mannered, friendly, carrying, informative, accomadating and more... He is always there for me! If I was not sure about something! ... I don't remember the first one but the second is called the Antagonist-Vivelle Protocol.
Now the nurses & staff on the other hand are not so friendly & flexible... We are all just a number in a very busy day for most people working at Shady Grove, Rockville!!! It's so upsetting to be going through all the stress & hormonal shots and to be dealing with inconsiderate people.... was unhappy with the nurse because she wasn't responding to my voicemails & emails!... Nice, clean and modern building with state of the art medical equipment!
How was your experience with Joseph Doyle at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr Doyle is mild-mannered, friendly, carrying, informative, accomadating and more.... :)
He is always there for me! If I was not sure about something! If I was unhappy with the nurse because she wasn't responding to my voicemails & emails! If I was too scared!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Joseph Doyle at Shady Grove Fertility?
Trust him! He's absolutely amazing!!!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Joseph Doyle at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr Doyle is absolutely amazing as a doctor and a person!!!! He really cares about his patients and he was always there for me when I needed him! :)
Now the nurses & staff on the other hand are not so friendly & flexible... We are all just a number in a very busy day for most people working at Shady Grove, Rockville!!! It's so upsetting to be going through all the stress & hormonal shots and to be dealing with inconsiderate people... :(
Describe the protocols Joseph Doyle used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
I don't remember the first one but the second is called the Antagonist-Vivelle Protocol. It's slightly different from the first one
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: I've had 5 different nurses since last year! Non of them worth remembering!! :()
I was just a number for most of them! They were professionally kind of polite but too busy to really pay enough attention to my case or me!!! :(
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Nice, clean and modern building with state of the art medical equipment!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Joseph Doyle at Shady Grove Fertility.
Around $35,000 for two IVF cycles or a pregnancy
Describe Joseph Doyle's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
For my age he strongly recommended a single transfer!
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
A couple of times I had to remind my nurses to send my prescriptions
[Dr. Kimberly Moon] Treated me as if I was a younger patient. I am older, so treatments selection may have been too harsh on my eggs. She adjusted protocol which yielded more, poor quality eggs. She didn't listen to my concerns and my money went down the drain along with precious time.... THe first cycle was standard protocol- Gonal F , menopur, centrotide. HGH. The second included the previously mentioned but also a lupron stop..yielded more eggs then previous protocol. Overall, over 41 eggs retrieved but none were of quality.
[Shady Grove-Washington DC has] old standard conservative methods- resistant to alternatives. Acupuncture and yoga are now being encouraged. When I had mentioned it during my cycle, I was told that it wouldn't make a difference .... THe first cycle was standard protocol- Gonal F , menopur, centrotide. HGH. The second included the previously mentioned but also a lupron stop..yielded more eggs then previous protocol. Overall, over 41 eggs retrieved but none were of quality.
How was your experience with Kimberly Moon at Shady Grove Fertility?
Treated me as if I was a younger patient. I am older, so treatments selection may have been too harsh on my eggs. She adjusted protocol which yielded more, poor quality eggs. She didn't listen to my concerns and my money went down the drain along with precious time.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Kimberly Moon at Shady Grove Fertility?
IF you're older, find someone else. If you're younger, you may stand a chance conceiving.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Kimberly Moon at Shady Grove Fertility?
Eventhough my hormone levels and AMH were that of a younger person, my protocol was not tailored for a person of advanced age and I feel the "standard" protocols I was going through possibly fried my eggs, hence further issues with egg quality. I kept insisting for other options and it wasn't considered at all.
Describe the protocols Kimberly Moon used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
THe first cycle was standard protocol- Gonal F , menopur, centrotide. HGH. The second included the previously mentioned but also a lupron stop..yielded more eggs then previous protocol. Overall, over 41 eggs retrieved but none were of quality.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Kate)
There were issues in the beginning but overall I think it she was better.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
old standard conservative methods- resistant to alternatives. Acupuncture and yoga are now being encouraged. When I had mentioned it during my cycle, I was told that it wouldn't make a difference . Older patients should really seek elsewhere for treatment.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Kimberly Moon at Shady Grove Fertility.
Over $25k
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
Slight issues with weekend nurses, but aside- clinic runs well.
He has a pleasant personality but as far as feeling like an important patient we felt like just another couple. We had and still have many unanswered questions and no baby. My protocol was wrong for me and never adjusted...My protocol remained the same as anyone else’s even though I was showing clear signs of hyper stimulation. Despite my questions I was shook off and told to continue as prescribed
Customer service [at Shady Grove] is good...Billing needs to be easier to access and understand...Nurses and doctors need to listen up when a patient says something is wrong...It’s not a horrible place...Overall we all have the same end goal. We just need to get there together with more communication and a better understanding of what’s right for many isn’t always right for one...She [nurse] was very good about responding and answering questions.
How was your experience with Jeffrey McKeeby at Shady Grove Fertility?
He has a pleasant personality but as far as feeling like an important patient we felt like just another couple. We had and still have many unanswered questions and no baby. My protocol was wrong for me and never adjusted and had dangerous post retrieval consequences.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jeffrey McKeeby at Shady Grove Fertility?
Ask questions and remind him that you are a person who is very important to someone not just another face in a practice. If you feel that something is wrong press the issue until you are satisfied with the answer.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jeffrey McKeeby at Shady Grove Fertility?
My protocol remained the same as anyone else’s even though I was showing clear signs of hyper stimulation. Despite my questions I was shook off and told to continue as prescribed As if my health and well being were less important than the money they were making. Sitting in the waiting room watching people come and go like a machine really set in how much money is involved in the process for each patient.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Jackie)
She was very good about responding and answering questions.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Customer service is good
Billing needs to be easier to access and understand
Nurses and doctors need to listen up when a patient says something is wrong.
It’s not a horrible place. Overall we all have the same end goal. We just need to get there together with more communication and a better understanding of what’s right for many isn’t always right for one.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Jeffrey McKeeby at Shady Grove Fertility.
Out of pocket we have spent over $20,000.
Describe Jeffrey McKeeby's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
While he was reluctant to transfer 2 embryos he still supported it.
Dr Kipersztok always seemed rushed. It's not that I don't think he cared, it just seemed like he was often overwhelmed...He doesn't have much compassion when things go wrong, he fails to communicate vital information and then blames you for "not reading all the paperwork" that you ever got on this fertility journey. He claims he had know way to know there was a problem with your progress during a treatment when it was a hormone level that was regularly checked. He is quick to pass blame on anyone but himself and not quick to come up with helpful alternatives...
Shady Grove Waldorf has an excellent staff. Dana is a rock star who always is helpful and has answers. The rest of the ladies in the office are always great to interact with. Love all of the Waldorf Staff except Dr. Kiperzstok which is unfortunate since he's the only dr at this location...Not all Shady Grove doctors are the same. It's worth the added drive to another Shady Grove location (added over an hour to my drive when I switched locations) but it was well worth it to get a Doctor who had compassion, organization, and good communication...
How was your experience with Simon Kipersztok (retired) at Shady Grove Fertility?
I don't know what all else he has going on in his life, but Dr K is not a good doctor. He doesn't have much compassion when things go wrong, he fails to communicate vital information and then blames you for "not reading all the paperwork" that you ever got on this fertility journey. He claims he had know way to know there was a problem with your progress during a treatment when it was a hormone level that was regularly checked. He is quick to pass blame on anyone but himself and not quick to come up with helpful alternatives. My experience with him was frustrating and disheartening to say the least
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Simon Kipersztok (retired) at Shady Grove Fertility?
Find a different doctor. Not all Shady Grove doctors are the same. It's worth the added drive to another Shady Grove location (added over an hour to my drive when I switched locations) but it was well worth it to get a Doctor who had compassion, organization, and good communication.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Simon Kipersztok (retired) at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr K always seemed rushed. It's not that I don't think he cared, it just seemed like he was often overwhelmed
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Shady Grove Waldorf has an excellent staff. Dana is a rock star who always is helpful and has answers. The rest of the ladies in the office are always great to interact with. Love all of the Waldorf Staff except Dr. Kiperzstok which is unfortunate since he's the only dr at this location
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Barnard is probably the most kind, compassionate doctor I've ever had. She's extremely warm and always took time to listen to my concerns and answer any questions. Never made me feel like she was trying to just rush me through. I always felt like she was truly on my side and genuinely excited and happy for me when our cycle ended with a positive result. She called after every cycle to discuss results and next steps, which is very different from my previous RE...
They [Shady Grove Fertility] use a team nursing model at the clinic, so I wasn't assigned one specific nurse. I didn't find this worked well for clear communications or building a rapport with my nurses...It did have a bit of a 'factory' feel. Things were often disorganized, especially with billing, but also on the clinical side. The nurses typically responded quickly through the online patient portal and returned phone calls on the after hours line quickly...
How was your experience with Emily Barnard at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Barnard not only knows her stuff, but she has phenomenal bedside manner. I truly felt like she cared about me as a patient. She's such a warm-hearted person and never made me feel like just a number. Such a gem of a doctor! Can't recommend her enough!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Emily Barnard at Shady Grove Fertility?
You're in great hands with Dr. Barnard.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Emily Barnard at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Barnard is probably the most kind, compassionate doctor I've ever had. She's extremely warm and always took time to listen to my concerns and answer any questions. Never made me feel like she was trying to just rush me through. I always felt like she was truly on my side and genuinely excited and happy for me when our cycle ended with a positive result. She called after every cycle to discuss results and next steps, which is very different from my previous RE.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Shady Grove Fertility.
They use a team nursing model at the clinic, so I wasn't assigned one specific nurse. I didn't find this worked well for clear communications or building a rapport with my nurses.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
It did have a bit of a 'factory' feel. Things were often disorganized, especially with billing, but also on the clinical side. The nurses typically responded quickly through the online patient portal and returned phone calls on the after hours line quickly.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Emily Barnard at Shady Grove Fertility.
Covered under insurance with co-pay
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
While I was pregnant, she [Dr Lorna Timmreck] ordered me to stop taking endometrin, because she did not think my Beta's were high enough and could not see the sack in my uterus. I begged her to give me more medication, but she refused. Shortly afterwards, I started bleding and lost the baby. Afterwards, I showed my Betas to two other fertility clinics - both were shocked at Timmreck's decision to stop a potentially viable pregnancy.
The good [at Shady Grove fertility of Columbia] : Lots of locations and (almost) convenient hours. Many doctors to choose from with pretty brochures in nice offices. The support groups are great. The bad: patients are just numbers - no individual treatment plans. Patients are mostly seen by nurses and rushed staff members.
How was your experience with Lorna Timmreck at Shady Grove Fertility?
While I was pregnant, she ordered me to stop taking endometrin, because she did not think my Beta's were high enough and could not see the sack in my uterus. I begged her to give me more medication, but she refused. Shortly afterwards, I started bleding and lost the baby.
Afterwards, I showed my Betas to two other fertility clinics - both were shocked at Timmreck's decision to stop a potentially viable pregnancy.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lorna Timmreck at Shady Grove Fertility?
Get a new doctor - I did and was treated MUCH better by someone else. Plus, I now have a baby!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lorna Timmreck at Shady Grove Fertility?
Despite being her patient for years, she did not even remember my husband's name and seemed to care more about my shoes than us, as human beings.
Describe the protocols Lorna Timmreck used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Started with a natural iui, then progressed to three standard iui's, then to two ivf's with ganeralix, gonal f and menopur. Second ivf resulted in a pregnancy, but Timmreck had me stop the endometrin due to low Betas, so I lost the baby.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie)
She was kind, but nervous. The staff was ok and there was one phlembotomist who was great. The other one I tried to avoid.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
The good: Lots of locations and (almost) convenient hours. Many doctors to choose from with pretty brochures in nice offices. The support groups are great.
The bad: patients are just numbers - no individual treatment plans. Patients are mostly seen by nurses and rushed staff members.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Lorna Timmreck at Shady Grove Fertility.
I was mostly covered by insurance and had to only pay for medications, which ended up to be a few thousand dollars in total.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
I believe I lost a baby due to my doctor's decision.
I could not have treatment [with Dr. Stephanie Beall] because I did not fall under their BMI limit...I was given hope, was told to go through testing only to find out DURING a transvaginal ultrasound that they would not perform an HSG because they ‘wouldn’t be able to see through the fat’. And that I would not even be able to discuss results of any of the testing unless I had the hsg...She was very dismissive during initial consultation and only discussed what we had questions about. Did not offer to explain or talk about options we did not bring up. Did mention that it would be best for me to lose weight. Did not tell me it would prevent treatment.
[Shady Grove Fertility has] Decent hours, clean office, good ultrasound techs. Won’t treat women over their arbitrary BMI limit. (Upper limit only, no lower limit) Fairly easy to get in contact with for scheduling appts...I did not find out until much later that it is a company policy that they do not treat overweight women (based solely on BMI). Not upfront with information...Care coordinator Alisha was caring and compassionate and made me feel welcome and cared for.
How was your experience with Stephanie Beall at Shady Grove Fertility?
She was fairly rude, dismissive, and seemingly uncaring. I did not find out until much later that it is a company policy that they do not treat overweight women (based solely on BMI). Not upfront with information.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Stephanie Beall at Shady Grove Fertility?
Know that you are treated as a walking BMI, not a person.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Stephanie Beall at Shady Grove Fertility?
She was very dismissive during initial consultation and only discussed what we had questions about. Did not offer to explain or talk about options we did not bring up. Did mention that it would be best for me to lose weight. Did not tell me it would prevent treatment.
Describe the protocols Stephanie Beall used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
I could not have treatment because I did not fall under their BMI limit.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Alisha)
Care coordinator Alisha was caring and compassionate and made me feel welcome and cared for.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Decent hours, clean office, good ultrasound techs. Won’t treat women over their arbitrary BMI limit. (Upper limit only, no lower limit) Fairly easy to get in contact with for scheduling appts. Fairly continent location near 695.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Stephanie Beall at Shady Grove Fertility.
Pending
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
I was given hope, was told to go through testing only to find out DURING a transvaginal ultrasound that they would not perform an HSG because they ‘wouldn’t be able to see through the fat’. And that I would not even be able to discuss results of any of the testing unless I had the hsg.
Dr. Bromer did a good job of explaining the process to us. He was personable and candid about our choices which I liked...The doctor did a great job of explaining everything to us and we felt well prepared. I would definitely recommend him to a friend looking for a fertility doctor. I haven't seen him much but nurses handled monitoring appointments in an expedient manner with few exceptions.
The clinic [Shady Grove Fertility] works fine, not great, as long as you don't deviate from their routine. My body works differently and Dr. Bromer prescribed a different routine for me. I ended up receiving a lot of resistance and blank stares from nurses for my insistance on checking my chart. I definitely felt like a number sometimes...Dr. Bromer did a good job of explaining the process to us. He was personable and candid about our choices which I liked...The doctor did a great job of explaining everything to us and we felt well prepared. I would definitely recommend him to a friend looking for a fertility doctor. I haven't seen him much but nurses handled monitoring appointments in an expedient manner with few exceptions.
How was your experience with Jason Bromer at Shady Grove Fertility?
The doctor did a great job of explaining everything to us and we felt well prepared. I would definitely recommend him to a friend looking for a fertility doctor. I haven't seen him much but nurses handled monitoring appointments in an expedient manner with few exceptions.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jason Bromer at Shady Grove Fertility?
Don't despair and keep trying!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jason Bromer at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Bromer did a good job of explaining the process to us. He was personable and candid about our choices which I liked.
Describe the protocols Jason Bromer used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Letrozol, 6 IUIs
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Toni)
She was great as long as you don't have to deviate from the established routine. Somewhat slow with responding to critical emails and phone calls. Several of my prescriptions required advanced approval from the insurance company, the approvals got expired and never extended. I happened to review my paperwork after the expiration date right before the next treatment.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
The clinic works fine, not great, as long as you don't deviate from their routine. My body works differently and Dr. Bromer prescribed a different routine for me. I ended up receiving a lot of resistance and blank stares from nurses for my insistance on checking my chart. I definitely felt like a number sometimes.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Jason Bromer at Shady Grove Fertility.
$3000 deductible each year plus $50 a visit.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
He [Dr. Bromer] made me feel like I was just money to be made at shady grove. He missed diagnosing me with endometriosis even though I had the symptoms and complained about a very specific pain. I had a second opinion and right away she found an endometrial cyst and said it appeared (based on my pain) that I had endometriosis.... He said since nothing was found wrong that IUI and IVF would be our only chance at getting pregnant.
Never saw the same nurses. Very impersonal. I always felt that I was bothering them [Shady Grove Fertility- Frederick]. My main contact nurse never seemed to care or show any compassion. The financial advisor was no help and was very hard to reach.... The nursing staff was very short and never seemed to care. The ladies that did the blood draws seemed the kindest.... Very expensive testing and procedures. IUIs were $1800 plus medication.
How was your experience with Jason Bromer at Shady Grove Fertility?
He made me feel like I was just money to be made at shady grove. He missed diagnosing me with endometriosis even though I had the symptoms and complained about a very specific pain. I had a second opinion and right away she found an endometrial cyst and said it appeared (based on my pain) that I had endometriosis. She suggested a laparoscopy which confirmed her diagnosis.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Jason Bromer at Shady Grove Fertility?
Find another doctor
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Jason Bromer at Shady Grove Fertility?
Lack of personal relationship and did not listen to my issues and complaints. He suggest IVF at our very first consult.
Describe the protocols Jason Bromer used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
He said since nothing was found wrong that IUI and IVF would be our only chance at getting pregnant.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility.
The nursing staff was very short and never seemed to care. The ladies that did the blood draws seemed the kindest.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Never saw the same nurses. Very impersonal. I always felt that I was bothering them. My main contact nurse never seemed to care or show any compassion. The financial advisor was no help and was very hard to reach.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Jason Bromer at Shady Grove Fertility.
Very expensive testing and procedures. IUIs were $1800 plus medication.
With regard to our specific treatment by Dr. Levy, I thought he was very quick to jump the gun after our second failed IVF and suggest thinking about donor eggs. Not only did this seem premature to me, but it made me feel like my doctor was willing to go to bat for me.
I was happy with the efficiency of the Shady Grove process, however, the waiting room area can feel very impersonal and crowded at times. Jordan was our point person for everything. She was on the ball, cheerful and genuinely wanted to see us succeed for us and not for the statistics of the clinic.
How was your experience with Michael Levy at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Levy has a long track record of several decades treating patients for infertility. He is affable and personable and confident in his abilities. For those with less challenging or complex fertility issues, I believe he would be a good fit. I did not feel in our case, as we discovered we discovered we had challenges, that he was flexible or open-minded in our chances for a successful round.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Levy at Shady Grove Fertility?
He has a long history of treating patients and I believe there is something to be said for this depth of experience. However, if you discover you are a more challenging case, I would encourage exploring other doctors.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Levy at Shady Grove Fertility?
I was happy with the efficiency of the Shady Grove process, however, the waiting room area can feel very impersonal and crowded at times.
With regard to our specific treatment by Dr. Levy, I thought he was very quick to jump the gun after our second failed IVF and suggest thinking about donor eggs. Not only did this seem premature to me, but it made me feel like my doctor was willing to go to bat for me.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Jordan Blades)
Jordan was our point person for everything. She was on the ball, cheerful and genuinely wanted to see us succeed for us and not for the statistics of the clinic.
Dr. Yazigi retired he was not heavily invested in my treatment. He was kind and friendly. He over prescribed tests that were already performed elsewhere. I had to go back to my obgyn for a second opinion of his diagnosis...He was friendly, humorous, & personable...[new patient advice] Do your research, you are your own best advocate.
[the Shady Grove Fertility clinic was] Dry, cold, frigid, distracted. The patient portal is effective but could be more timely. Answer the phone please you are a large corporation you should have phone reception easily accessible. Information is provided as you go, not ahead of time...$15k for one in vitro cycle. 25k for two in vitro cycles. $3000 for embryo testing.
How was your experience with Ricardo Yazigi (retired) at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Yazigi retired he was not heavily invested in my treatment. He was kind and friendly. He over prescribed tests that were already performed elsewhere. I had to go back to my obgyn for a second opinion of his diagnosis.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ricardo Yazigi (retired) at Shady Grove Fertility?
Do your research, you are your own best advocate.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ricardo Yazigi (retired) at Shady Grove Fertility?
He was friendly, humorous, & personable.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Dry, cold, frigid, distracted. The patient portal is effective but could be more timely. Answer the phone please you are a large corporation you should have phone reception easily accessible. Information is provided as you go, not ahead of time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ricardo Yazigi (retired) at Shady Grove Fertility.
$15k for one in vitro cycle. 25k for two in vitro cycles. $3000 for embryo testing.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Our first visit, we really liked Dr Mottla. He has a warm manner and was reassuring...We had issues as time went on, particularly with communication and with my partner being included in the process...I was disappointed with the lack of explanation when plans would change after an IUI cycle didn't work...we didn't feel like our unique situation or past conversations were being taken into account...
I go to both the Annaoplis and Columbia clinics [Shady Grove Fertility] due to where I work. Staff at both are friendly and helpful...At the Annapolis clinic, they have me meet with the nurse at the end of each labs/US appt which is VERY helpful and helps me feel comfortable with the plan. However, this is not done at the Columbia office, so there have been some miscommunication and confusion...
How was your experience with Gilbert Mottla at Shady Grove Fertility?
Our first visit, we really liked Dr Mottla. He has a warm manner and was reassuring. He was pretty realistic about success rates, which I appreciated, though I did have to press him for specific numbers. We had issues as time went on, particularly with communication and with my partner being included in the process. I am a Primary Care Doctor, so I may have been seeking more explanation of treatment plans than other people, but I was disappointed with the lack of explanation when plans would change after an IUI cycle didn't work; for example why we were switching medications. There was also a big misunderstanding where my partner and I thought we were only doing one cycle of IUI and then moving onto IVF, but after our first cycle of IUI didn't work, Dr. Mottla just created a treatment plan for a second cycle of IUI with new medications and his nurse told us as if this was the plan all along, so we didn't feel like our unique situation or past conversations were being taken into account, ie, we felt like a number. It is also fairly difficult to get timely appointments with a provider to discuss our questions and treatment plans; it definitely has not been offered or recommended and we have had to advocate for ourselves to schedule and schedule pretty far in advance, which can be stressful during the very uncertain journey of infertility treatment.Once I voiced my concerns about wanting more explanation for treatment decisions, Dr Mottla and our nurse did try to share more of the clinical thought process with me, which I appreciate greatly. I would like to see the default approach be to ask patients what level of information and explanation they appreciate. The staff at the Annapolis location also provides more explanation than the Columbia office. At the Annapolis office, the nurse meets with me after each labs/US visit to go over the plan and see if I have questions, which I LOVE, but the Columbia office doesn't do that, and I have to go to both offices due to where I work, so there have been miscommunication and misunderstandings esp when I go to the Columbia office. Finally, my partner has felt very removed from the process which has been hard on both of us. For reasons still somewhat unclear to me, Dr. Mottla called me initially to discuss my partner's semen analysis results instead of my partner, and wasn't planning on calling my partner until I asked him to; this felt very inappropriate to us and like an effort wasn't being made to include him. They say that they treat us "like a team", but all that really means is that everything falls on the woman, which leaves me feeling stressed and alone and him feeling excluded and ignored. Citing COVID protocols, my partner was excluded from my IUI ultrasound. We had been excited for him to be more involved and he is scientifically-minded, so I thought it would be cool for him to see the dominant follicle and be more involved in the process, as well as to be there to support me. Unfortunately, we didn't realize he couldn't come in until we were at the appt, so he spent the appt stewing in the car for 45 mins and I felt more alone than ever. I take COVID very seriously, but it is April 2022, he is fully vaccinated including booster, and I know firsthand that most offices and hospitals are lifting their restrictions, so it was all around upsetting and seemed to have little medical reasoning.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Gilbert Mottla at Shady Grove Fertility?
Advocate for yourself early and often. If you want to see him/discuss your treatment plan, schedule an appointment with plenty of advance notice. If you want to know the actual chances of success, ask for specific numbers; fertility care in general tends to default to toxic positivity which was counterproductive and upsetting for my partner and me.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Gilbert Mottla at Shady Grove Fertility?
I am a Primary Care Doctor, so I may have been seeking more explanation of treatment plans than other people, but I was disappointed with the lack of explanation when plans would change after an IUI cycle didn't work; for example why we were switching medications. There was also a big misunderstanding where my partner and I thought we were only doing one cycle of IUI and then moving onto IVF, but after our first cycle of IUI didn't work, Dr. Mottla just created a treatment plan for a second cycle of IUI with new medications and his nurse told us as if this was the plan all along, so we didn't feel like our unique situation or past conversations were being taken into account, ie, we felt like a number. It is also fairly difficult to get timely appointments with a provider to discuss our questions and treatment plans; it definitely has not been offered or recommended and we have had to advocate for ourselves to schedule and schedule pretty far in advance, which can be stressful during the very uncertain journey of infertility treatment.Once I voiced my concerns about wanting more explanation for treatment decisions, Dr Mottla and our nurse did try to share more of the clinical thought process with me, which I appreciate greatly. I would like to see the default approach be to ask patients what level of information and explanation they appreciate. The staff at the Annapolis location also provides more explanation than the Columbia office. At the Annapolis office, the nurse meets with me after each labs/US visit to go over the plan and see if I have questions, which I LOVE, but the Columbia office doesn't do that, and I have to go to both offices due to where I work, so there have been miscommunication and misunderstandings esp when I go to the Columbia office. Finally, my partner has felt very removed from the process which has been hard on both of us. For reasons still somewhat unclear to me, Dr. Mottla called me initially to discuss my partner's semen analysis results instead of my partner, and wasn't planning on calling my partner until I asked him to; this felt very inappropriate to us and like an effort wasn't being made to include him. They say that they treat us "like a team", but all that really means is that everything falls on the woman, which leaves me feeling stressed and alone and him feeling excluded and ignored. Citing COVID protocols, my partner was excluded from my IUI ultrasound. We had been excited for him to be more involved and he is scientifically-minded, so I thought it would be cool for him to see the dominant follicle and be more involved in the process, as well as to be there to support me. Unfortunately, we didn't realize he couldn't come in until we were at the appt, so he spent the appt stewing in the car for 45 mins and I felt more alone than ever. I take COVID very seriously, but it is April 2022, he is fully vaccinated including booster, and I know firsthand that most offices and hospitals are lifting their restrictions, so it was all around upsetting and seemed to have little medical reasoning.
Describe the protocols Gilbert Mottla used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
IUI x3, first clomid, then letrazole for last two cycles due to thin uterine lining (6mm) at day 8-9. Also used vaginal estrogen for first two cycles and menopur for last cycle. HCG trigger shot and vaginal progesterone used for all three cycles.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Ashley Hall)
Ashley is a little newer to fertility care, so there were some miscommunications initially, but she listened to my feedback and since then, she has been proactive with communicating treatment plans and explanations with me. She is very professional, respectful, and compassionate.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
I go to both the Annaoplis and Columbia clinics due to where I work. Staff at both are friendly and helpful. Toxic positivity has sometimes been an issue; for example staff telling me "that's so exciting" at the start of IUI, which was actually a pretty stressful and confusing time for us. At the Annapolis clinic, they have me meet with the nurse at the end of each labs/US appt which is VERY helpful and helps me feel comfortable with the plan. However, this is not done at the Columbia office, so there have been some miscommunication and confusion. I strongly recommend that patients advocate for themselves and ask questions as much as possible.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Gilbert Mottla at Shady Grove Fertility.
No insurance coverage, paid $1440 for each IUI cycle and extra for meds
Describe Gilbert Mottla's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
Unknown
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Failed to call with results
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
We have gotten conflicting information at times for treatment plans and reasoning, eg nurse told us that doctor recommended switching medications but didn't know why; one nurse told us a medication was for one thing and another nurse told us it was for something different. When my husband had his first semen analysis, there was an abnormal result but we didn't realize till he signed up for the portal 2 wks later; no one had called with the results, and when the doctor did call, they called me instead of my husband.
Soon as she [Dr. Sandy Li] realized my husband had siblings with sickle cell she and her nurse sent repeatedly asked me to reconsider undergoing genetic testing. I declined initially due to the timing of the test. I am not a carrier and am not opposed to genetic testing. Even with a signed decline form, they asked 3-4 times for me to reconsider. Dr. Li herself called and asked me to reconsider taking the testing and that later on, I might not want to keep embryos that have the trait for sickle cell anemia. These delays brought us from October to December. Then they told me they won't start a cycle in December due to the lab undergoing quality assurance. I never heard from her or the nurse again. I reached out and requested a different team in February.
Advocate for yourself [at Shady Grove Fertility]...They had me repeat initial workup tests and then stalled my treatment when I declined genetic testing...Initial workup was 2000 for the testing and repeated tests. Mostly covered by insurance. They quoted me 10000 for IVF...A strength is that they have multiple locations in the DMV area. There are many doctors. Ideally, if one doctor is not a good fit you may switch to another doctor. Weaknesses are that they push hard for eSET, they treat you like a number, be prepared to ask them to explain their protocol.
How was your experience with Sandy Li at Shady Grove Fertility?
Strengths are that she makes herself available to her patients. Weaknesses is that she doesn't review charts appropriately and has patients repeat the same tests multiple times. She also allows her personal bias to cross ethical boundaries. She essentially delayed my treatment because I refused to approve genetic testing. I am African-American they screen for sickle cell anemia at birth. She heard my husband say he has a history of it on his side of the family and took it upon herself to tell me she wouldn't select an embryo with sickle cell trait or sickle cell anemia for transfer. This is beyond medical advice and crossed into telling a client what they should and shouldn't do with their own embryos. At this point imaginary embryos that have not possibility of developing sickle cell anemia. I essentially was discarded to the side because I didn't sign a consent form for genetic testing.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sandy Li at Shady Grove Fertility?
Advocate for yourself.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sandy Li at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr. Li treated my like a sub-human. She had me repeat initial work-up testing 2 to 3 times and never approved of a treatment cycle. Soon as she realized my husband had siblings with sickle cell she and her nurse sent repeatedly asked me to reconsider undergoing genetic testing. I declined initially due to the timing of the test. I am not a carrier and am not opposed to genetic testing. Even with a signed decline form, they asked 3-4 times for me to reconsider. Dr. Li herself called and asked me to reconsider taking the testing and that later on, I might not want to keep embryos that have the trait for sickle cell anemia. These delays brought us from October to December. Then they told me they won't start a cycle in December due to the lab undergoing quality assurance. I never heard from her or the nurse again. I reached out and requested a different team in February.
Describe the protocols Sandy Li used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Didn't make it this far. Dr. Li and her nurse gave me the runaround and then disappeared before the lab closed for quality assurance.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Jenny Wang)
Same as Dr. Li. They had me repeat initial workup tests and then stalled my treatment when I declined genetic testing.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
A strength is that they have multiple locations in the DMV area. There are many doctors. Ideally, if one doctor is not a good fit you may switch to another doctor. Weaknesses are that they push hard for eSET, they treat you like a number, be prepared to ask them to explain their protocol.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Sandy Li at Shady Grove Fertility.
Initial workup was 2000 for the testing and repeated tests. Mostly covered by insurance. They quoted me 10000 for IVF.
Describe Sandy Li's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Shady Grove Fertility.
N/A
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
As a patient I felt protected under her care. I felt that she [Dr. Stephanie Beall] had our best interest at heart. She was patient and kind. She made sure every question we had had a response. she was overall great. She made sure we left every appointment with a clear understanding of every step in the process...My protocol included Gonal F, Menepur, Progesterone and a trigger shot
at the Harbor location [of Shady Grove Fertility] while under the care of Dr. McClamrock we experienced discrimination from the receptionist/financial rep. We had appointment errors because the financial rep wasn't comfortable with us being a same sex couple. At the Harbor location our previous Dr., Dr. McClamrock wasn't interpersonal he was rude... She [coordinator] responds to voicemails and emails in a timely matter. If she doesn't know the answer to any concern you have she will find out.
How was your experience with Stephanie Beall at Shady Grove Fertility?
As a patient I felt protected under her care. I felt that she had our best interest at heart. She was patient and kind. She made sure every question we had had a response. she was overall great. She unfortunately spent a lot of time apologizing for the mistakes that a shady grove fertility location had when it comes to my care. She made sure we left every appointment with a clear understanding of every step in the process
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Stephanie Beall at Shady Grove Fertility?
No advice. She's a great doctor
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Stephanie Beall at Shady Grove Fertility?
Compared to my previous Dr. with Shady Grove Fertility who did not treat my wife and myself fairly. Dr. Beall was an angel.. In her care we felt like she had our best interest at heart
Describe the protocols Stephanie Beall used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
My protocol included Gonal F, Menepur, Progesterone and a trigger shot
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Tina Yingling)
Shes an amazing communicator. She responds to voicemails and emails in a timely matter. If she doesn't know the answer to any concern you have she will find out.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Strength is the location. Both the Towson and Harbor Locations are within 10 minutes of my home.
Weakness: is at the Harbor location while under the care of Dr. McClamrock we experienced discrimination from the receptionist/financial rep. We had appointment errors because the financial rep wasn't comfortable with us being a same sex couple. At the Harbor location our previous Dr., Dr. McClamrock wasn't interpersonal he was rude. He blamed me for my eggs dying in a cycle. If I would refer Shady Grove Fertility to anyone I would say go to the Columbia MD or The Rockville locations
Describe the costs associated with your care under Stephanie Beall at Shady Grove Fertility.
My cost was covered under my insurance. I paid for donor sperm which was $600 each we purchased 3. I also paid for medication first cycle it was a few thousand 2nd and 3rd cycle it was covered
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Lost appointments
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Scheduled the wrong procedure
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
We had an Injection class error. Which led to me injecting myself with the wrong needles or an entire cycle. Discrimination from the receptionist/finaincial rep, Rude Dr. Dr. McClamrock yelled and completely destroyed my faith in the process. it was a very stressful time
On the first visit in the office with my wife, the doctor [Dr. Yazigi] took one look at me and implied that we would never be able to conceive because of my weight...you would think a doctor with several years in fertility medicine would use more sensitivity, candor, tact and professionalism when dealing with families that are having issues conceiving naturally....
the staff at this facility [Shady Grove Fertility] informed us on the last visit that our insurance would not cover fertility treatments. It seems to me that health insurance should of been the first thing that was checked but it was not...Nurses were ok definitely not as rude as the doctor...It was disheartening to go through all the testing, lose weight, and pay multiple co pays and out of pocket expenses... to then be treated like a number...
How was your experience with Ricardo Yazigi (retired) at Shady Grove Fertility?
On the first visit in the office with my wife, the doctor took one look at me and implied that we would never be able to conceive because of my weight. As if this was enough of a slap to the face the staff at this facility informed us on the last visit that our insurance would not cover fertility treatments. It seems to me that health insurance should of been the first thing that was checked but it was not. Ultimately you would think a doctor with several years in fertility medicine would use more sensitivity, candor, tact and professionalism when dealing with families that are having issues conceiving naturally.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ricardo Yazigi (retired) at Shady Grove Fertility?
Find another clinic if you don't feel comfortable in your first interaction.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ricardo Yazigi (retired) at Shady Grove Fertility?
On the first visit in the office with my wife, the doctor took one look at me and implied that we would never be able to conceive because of my weight. As if this was enough of a slap to the face the staff at this facility informed us on the last visit that our insurance would not cover fertility treatments. It seems to me that health insurance should of been the first thing that was checked but it was not. Ultimately you would think a doctor with several years in fertility medicine would use more sensitivity, candor, tact and professionalism when dealing with families that are having issues conceiving naturally.
Describe the protocols Ricardo Yazigi (retired) used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Never made it past testing and consulting phase.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Shady Grove Fertility.
Nurses were ok definitely not as rude as the doctor.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
No strengths in my humble opinion. Several weaknesses but primarily not personable at all. It was disheartening to go through all the testing, lose weight, and pay multiple co pays and out of pocket expenses... to then be treated like a number.
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
I was scheduled for a procedure, then was called the same day and told the machine was down and I would either have to reschedule the following month to wait for my cycle again or drive an hour away to another facility. I get to there other facility and they had no idea I was coming. They have to squeeze me in.
It was mainly consultation [with Dr, Kimberly Moon]...She is a bit cold and not terribly helpful, but the thing that bothers me the most is that she knew that we lived in Maryland and never asked if we had thought about getting secondary insurance through the state (MD is 1 of 4 states that offers this option). The practice's financial representatives hounded us for over a year and never mentioned this option either. It made us feel like the practice is a business first and care provider second. We never felt great about Dr. Moon, so we ended up going to George Washington University IVF & Fertility instead. It was the FIRST thing our new doctor mentioned. This saved us an incredible amount of money and gave us peace of mind as we weighed our options. I want other Shady Grove patients to know about this option and I thought that FertilityIQ was a good way to share.
They kept trying to sell us on the fixed price option [at Shady Grove Fertility]. The tricky thing about the fixed price option is that it does not include medication which is a very expensive part of each round. I want other Shady Grove patients to know about this option and I thought that FertilityIQ was a good way to share...Our doctor knew that we lived in Maryland and never asked if we had thought about getting secondary insurance through the state (MD is 1 of 4 states that offers this option). The practice's financial representatives hounded us for over a year and never mentioned this option either. It made us feel like the practice is a business first and care provider second.
How was your experience with Kimberly Moon at Shady Grove Fertility?
She is a bit cold and not terribly helpful, but the thing that bothers me the most is that she knew that we lived in Maryland and never asked if we had thought about getting secondary insurance through the state (MD is 1 of 4 states that offers this option). The practice's financial representatives hounded us for over a year and never mentioned this option either. It made us feel like the practice is a business first and care provider second. We never felt great about Dr. Moon, so we ended up going to George Washington University IVF & Fertility instead. It was the FIRST thing our new doctor mentioned. This saved us an incredible amount of money and gave us peace of mind as we weighed our options. I want other Shady Grove patients to know about this option and I thought that FertilityIQ was a good way to share.
Describe the protocols Kimberly Moon used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
It was mainly consultation.
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Our doctor knew that we lived in Maryland and never asked if we had thought about getting secondary insurance through the state (MD is 1 of 4 states that offers this option). The practice's financial representatives hounded us for over a year and never mentioned this option either. It made us feel like the practice is a business first and care provider second. We never felt great about Dr. Moon, so we ended up going to George Washington University IVF & Fertility instead. It was the FIRST thing our new doctor mentioned. This saved us an incredible amount of money and gave us peace of mind as we weighed our options. I believe it's unethical that the practice did not share this information. They kept trying to sell us on the fixed price option. The tricky thing about the fixed price option is that it does not include medication which is a very expensive part of each round. I want other Shady Grove patients to know about this option and I thought that FertilityIQ was a good way to share.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Kimberly Moon at Shady Grove Fertility.
I believe it was a $50 consulatation
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Not only was she [Dr. Timmreck] cold and not interested in listening to my concerns she abruptly ended our conversation and stated she was busy and other patients to see. She mentioned numerous times throughout our conversations that she was busy. It was clear that I was not her priority during my appointment. Not only did she dismiss my concerns but she made feel as though I was just number going through a factory...
The clinic [Shady Grove Fertility] had tons of appointments openings, very easy to schedule testing. The ease of scheduling appointments was very nice. The clinic was easy to fine and had a huge waiting room. However, the long wait time once you arrive to your appointment can be a little frustrating...Very impersonal experience. Recommendations were not unique yo my situation and just though I brought up very specific concerns, she [Dr. Timmreck] brushed over them and said she had zero experience in treating my condition...
How was your experience with Lorna Timmreck at Shady Grove Fertility?
I had a traumatic experience meeting with Dr. Timmreck. She lacks compassion and experience with diverse patients. Not only was she cold and not interested in listening to my concerns she abruptly ended our conversation and stated she was busy and other patients to see. She mentioned numerous times throughout our conversations that she was busy. It was clear that I was not her priority during my appointment. Not only did she dismiss my concerns but she made feel as though I was just number going through a factory. She stated she did not have experience with patients like me and that she is not at expert. I not recommend her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lorna Timmreck at Shady Grove Fertility?
Get another doctor, do not work with her.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lorna Timmreck at Shady Grove Fertility?
Very impersonal experience. Recommendations were not unique yo my situation and just though I brought up very specific concerns, she brushed over them and said she had zero experience in treating my condition
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
The clinic had tons of appointments openings, very easy to schedule testing. The ease of scheduling appointments was very nice. The clinic was easy to fine and had a huge waiting room. However, the long wait time once you arrive to your appointment can be a little frustrating
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
[Dr. Eric Levens] was great. I wish we spoke more. When we did speak he was kind, helpful and full of answers to my million questions. But we only spoke before the process started. After that it’s onlu been 2 phone calls where he gave me results...Egg retrieval with genetic testing due to my many miscarriages...As I sobbed in his office, he was kind and understanding. But in the past 4 months of this process, we only spoke to him maybe 3 times. I only saw him before we began the process
Its been a huge disaster [at Shady Grove Fertility-Fairfax]. It makes me reconsider recommending shady grove it’s been so bad. Even though The facilities, nurses, techs, and doctors are all great...I love chris. [nurse] She’s the best! Full of kindness and compassion. She’s awesome...The financial side is a total mess!!! They have done nothing right...The financial counselors are RUBBISH. Total shit show. Being over charged, not getting insurance claims right, messing up our info.
How was your experience with Eric Levens at Shady Grove Fertility?
Dr levens was great. I wish we spoke more. When we did speak he was kind, helpful and full of answers to my million questions. But we only spoke before the process started. After that it’s onlu been 2 phone calls where he gave me results
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Eric Levens at Shady Grove Fertility?
As I sobbed in his office, he was kind and understanding. But in the past 4 months of this process, we only spoke to him maybe 3 times. I only saw him before we began the process
Describe the protocols Eric Levens used in your cycles at Shady Grove Fertility and their degree of success.
Egg retrieval with genetic testing due to my many miscarriages
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: Chris Lewis )
I love chris. She’s the best! Full of kindness and compassion. She’s awesome
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
The financial counselors are RUBBISH. Total shit show. Being over charged, not getting insurance claims right, messing up our info. Its been a huge disaster. It makes me reconsider recommending shady grove it’s been so bad. Even though The facilities, nurses, techs, and doctors are all great.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Shady Grove Fertility.
Thumbs up.easy In and out.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Eric Levens at Shady Grove Fertility.
$6-$8k with insurance and genetic testing covered by participating with a study
What specific things went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Shady Grove Fertility.
The financial side is a total mess!!! They have done nothing right.
I want the IUI procedure to be done by Dr.Browne.. she takes interest in doing the right way! My first 2 IUI’s were performed by a nurse in Fairfax hospital as my dates were on a weekend. The nurse did not care as much as Dr. Browne did. Dr. Browne was very specific to get it right. I could literally see the compassion between a nurse practitioner and Dr. Browne. I feel all my pain has gone waste for my 1st 2 IUI’s.
Nurse practitioner [at Shady Grove] is not doing a good job. I prefer IUI procedure to be done by Dr and not a nurse. I could see the difference how Dr performed the IUI. Nurse practitioner doesn’t do it well. I go through so much pain and at the end.. IUI is performed by Nurse. Dr. Was so keen on doing it right, my Dr. took time until she felt she’s doing it right. Nurse practitioner was just doing it for the sake of her job.
How was your experience with Paulette Browne at Shady Grove Fertility?
I want the IUI procedure to be done by Dr.Browne.. she takes interest in doing the right way! My first 2 IUI’s were performed by a nurse in Fairfax hospital as my dates were on a weekend. The nurse did not care as much as Dr. Browne did. Dr. Browne was very specific to get it right. I could literally see the compassion between a nurse practitioner and Dr. Browne. I feel all my pain has gone waste for my 1st 2 IUI’s.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Paulette Browne at Shady Grove Fertility?
I want IUI procedure to be performed by Dr.Browne. She’s very particular and makes sure she’s doing it right. I couldn’t see the same thing in the nurse practitioner. The nurse did iui in <5 mins.. Dr. Browne was so specific while doing the procedure.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Paulette Browne at Shady Grove Fertility?
She’s good
Describe your experience with your nurse at Shady Grove Fertility. (Assigned nurse: I don’t remember but she wasn’t any good)
Marci
Describe your experience with Shady Grove Fertility.
Nurse practitioner is not doing a good job. I prefer IUI procedure to be done by Dr and not a nurse. I could see the difference how Dr performed the IUI. Nurse practitioner doesn’t do it well. I go through so much pain and at the end.. IUI is performed by Nurse. Dr. Was so keen on doing it right, my Dr. took time until she felt she’s doing it right. Nurse practitioner was just doing it for the sake of her job.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Paulette Browne at Shady Grove Fertility.
