Dr. Robles is really knowledgeable, organized, and proactive. He was really helpful and explained all my treatments really clearly. He also made a point of calling me and speaking to me personally when there was important new to share. He is super knowledgeable and shares information without judgement. He demystified a very complex process, and let me take things one step at a time...I always felt really well cared for.
The [Columbia University] clinic is nice, clean, and very organized. They offer help with insurance and medications, which is very appreciated. The Columbus Circle location is convenient to the trains, and nicely laid out. It's very busy, of course, but the waiting room always felt inviting and calm...All my nurses were amazing, super kind, and very efficient...Dr. Robles was so warm and kind, and always had lots of time to spend with me to answer my questions. I always felt really well cared for.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles is really knowledgeable, organized, and proactive. He was really helpful and explained all my treatments really clearly. He also made a point of calling me and speaking to me personally when there was important new to share. He is super knowledgeable and shares information without judgement. He demystified a very complex process, and let me take things one step at a time.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Take IVF and the FET one step at a time, don't spend energy and emotional bandwidth trying to anticipate all the possible outcomes that you might not be able to control. Be in the moment, listen to your body, and practice positive self-talk.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles was so warm and kind, and always had lots of time to spend with me to answer my questions. I always felt really well cared for.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
We went straight to IVF because of my age, and we used a pretty straightforward diagnostic process and egg retrieval process, which culminated in a very successful egg retrieval after about 10 days of stims. Dr. Lobo did my egg retrieval and we got 42 eggs, of which 30 were mature. We then waited a couple cycles for the PGTA testing to come back and for my body to recover from the stimulation of the egg retrieval process, so I felt much healthier and ready for the embryo transfer. The PGTA testing gave us 4 healthy embryos to work with, and though it was expensive to test 15 blastocysts, I'm glad we did! We did a "natural cycle" for the frozen embryo transfer with just progesterone supplementation, which helps with my short luteal phase. The transfer was successful, and we have monitored the pregnancy for 8.5 weeks with no issues.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Haley Roche)
All my nurses were amazing, super kind, and very efficient.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The clinic is nice, clean, and very organized. They offer help with insurance and medications, which is very appreciated. The Columbus Circle location is convenient to the trains, and nicely laid out. It's very busy, of course, but the waiting room always felt inviting and calm.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia University.
Because we could self-schedule through the portal, it was easy to organize my appointments (though sometimes earlier times would not be available if I has to schedule an appointment with 24-48 hours notice). Even weekend hours were convenient to schedule, which is so nice.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
I had to pay out of pocket because I have insurance through the exchange, which means I do not have access to IVF benefits. The cost was extremely expensive, all told I have spent more than $40,000 this year on IUIs with a midwife, donor sperm, and the IVF.FET process, of which over $30,000 was with Columbia.
Describe Alex Robles's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
I only wanted to transfer one embryo at a time, and Dr. Robles was completely supportive of that choice.
Dr. Robles was patient, detail oriented, and incredibly empathetic. I felt supported, listened to, and understood the whole way. I was at increased risk of hyper stimulation and Dr. Robles helped walk me through each care decision he...made to derisk any unpleasant symptoms...checked in frequently, including over his weekends and outside of typical office hours to see how I was feeling. Even post-retrieval, he sent helpful emails and resources about follow-up questions on my mind. 10/10 medical experience and would highly recommend anyone uncertain about their fertility journey to pay him a visit.
Columbia nursing staff was excellent including over email, via daily monitoring, and the phlebotomy team. I heard back promptly on any questions, had multiple methods to contact them (phone, email, etc.)...Top medical experience I have ever had. AM monitoring can be a bit busy/fast but I appreciated the speed and efficiency. 10/10 experience - highly professional, compassionate care the whole way. New patients should know that the Dr. may not be present at every single morning monitoring (although I did not ask them to be) but I felt in great hands with the nursing staff and the Dr. was always available when I asked or if I booked an AM monitoring appointment late enough that their day had started.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
I would recommend Dr. Robles and the entire team at Columbia without hesitation. Dr. Robles was patient, detail oriented, and incredibly empathetic. I felt supported, listened to, and understood the whole way. I was at increased risk of hyper stimulation and Dr. Robles helped walk me through each care decision he and his team made to derisk any unpleasant symptoms. In addition, Dr. Robles checked in frequently, including over his weekends and outside of typical office hours to see how I was feeling. Even post-retrieval, he sent helpful emails and resources about follow-up questions on my mind. 10/10 medical experience and would highly recommend anyone uncertain about their fertility journey to pay him a visit.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles was incredible - he remembered small details about my life/career plans not specifically related to treatment and you could tell he was always listening. He called multiple times outside of typical office hours to see how I was doing, emailed promptly, and called me on a weekend evening before my retrieval to check-in. Truly the most kind and attentive healthcare experience I have ever had.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia University.
Columbia nursing staff was excellent including over email, via daily monitoring, and the phlebotomy team. I heard back promptly on any questions, had multiple methods to contact them (phone, email, etc.), and felt true continuity of care even if I did not see same nurse for every AM monitoring.
AM monitoring was very efficient and when possible the Dr. would stop-in to visit and answer questions, especially at key visits.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Top medical experience I have ever had. AM monitoring can be a bit busy/fast but I appreciated the speed and efficiency. 10/10 experience - highly professional, compassionate care the whole way.
New patients should know that the Dr. may not be present at every single morning monitoring (although I did not ask them to be) but I felt in great hands with the nursing staff and the Dr. was always available when I asked or if I booked an AM monitoring appointment late enough that their day had started.
From our first consultation, I just knew I was in great hands. Dr. Robles’ in-depth knowledge was immediately apparent. With a sterling clarity of thought, he transformed medical terminologies into simple, comprehendible information. His empathetic and knowledgeable approach not only alleviated my anxiety but also filled me with hope for the future. Words cannot do justice to his level of care and expertise, and I can't imagine going through the experience with another doctor.
The entire [Columbia University] care team (coordinators and nurses) was exceptionally organized and consistently prompt in addressing my inquiries. They assisted me in scheduling appointments and guided me through the entire process, making sure I understood each step along the way... A key pillar of the clinic's strengths is its exceptional physician, Dr. Alex Robles, who harmoniously blends expertise with compassion. With a focus on personalized care
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
During the ups and downs of the fertility treatments, Dr. Robles was a constant source of support. He would be present at every single appointment, offering guidance and encouragement, which made even the most challenging days feel more manageable. I can vividly recall walking into his office feeling anxious and leaving with newfound hope and a smile, knowing that I was in the hands of someone who genuinely cared.
As mentioned before there was one particular moment that will forever stay with me. On the day of my scheduled egg retrieval, I received news that Dr. Robles wouldn't be available due to prior commitments. My heart sank at the thought of having someone else perform the procedure. I shared my concerns with Dr. Robles, and he listened with utmost compassion.
To my amazement, on the day of the procedure, which happened to be a weekend, Dr. Robles came in specifically to perform my egg retrieval. The relief and gratitude I felt were overwhelming. It was a clear testament to his dedication and unwavering commitment to his patients' care.
Dr. Robles prioritized understanding my medical history and tailored a protocol specifically suited for me. When I sent him my fertility medical records from another clinic, it was a significant amount of information, albeit disorganized and challenging to follow. Nonetheless, Dr. Robles dedicated time to thoroughly study and comprehend every record and data point from my fertility journey.
Despite the potentially tedious nature of regular check-ins, I found myself eagerly looking forward to each appointment under Dr. Robles' care. As time progressed, my trust and confidence in him only deepened. Dr. Robles demonstrated unparalleled attention to detail, recollecting every aspect of my case and monitoring my progress closely.
I always had numerous questions and a strong desire to know the results of my bloodwork at each appointment. Dr. Robles ensured that I received those numbers after every visit, providing a written summary of the session and clear instructions for the following days. He remained flexible, making adjustments to the treatment plan based on my body's responses.
One aspect that truly stood out was Dr. Robles' accessibility and responsiveness. He was always available and promptly replied to my emails. If I needed to talk to him, he would call me back the same day. This constant availability made me feel genuinely cared for and instilled confidence in the quality of care I was receiving.
Moreover, Dr. Robles displayed an extraordinary ability to remember even the minutest details about my case, following up on them during subsequent visits. This level of attentiveness made me feel valued as a patient, reinforcing the trust I had in his expertise.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Ensure complete openness about your medical history, concerns, expectations, and ultimate objectives. This level of transparency will enable Dr. Robles to customize your treatment plan for optimal results. It also facilitates the management of expectations, which I find to be quite reassuring. I highly encourage you to be as forthcoming as possible since Dr. Robles possesses an extraordinary ability to uncover solutions and make the most out of any situation. Rest assured, you won't be disappointed; it's akin to having both a trusted therapist and Reproductive Endocrinologist rolled into one.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
My experience with Dr. Alex Robles has been nothing short of spectacular. From our first consultation, I just knew I was in great hands. Dr. Robles’ in-depth knowledge was immediately apparent. With a sterling clarity of thought, he transformed medical terminologies into simple, comprehendible information. His empathetic and knowledgeable approach not only alleviated my anxiety but also filled me with hope for the future. Words cannot do justice to his level of care and expertise, and I can't imagine going through the experience with another doctor. The pronounced improvement in the number of eggs retrieved and eggs matured during my initial egg retrieval at another highly regarded fertility center was truly astounding. This only further underscored the efficacy of Dr. Robles' individualized approach and protocol, attesting to the fact that it genuinely works for each patient
Dr. Robles personally made sure I felt taken care of every step of the way. During our first consultation, I told him about my experience with my first fertility Doctor and my concerns about her lack of involvement during the whole process. Every appointment was delegated to a different nurse I never saw a doctor until the day of my retrieval and it wasn't performed by my doctor. I felt like a nuance through the process. From the very beginning, Dr. Alex Robles was there for every single appointment, from bloodwork to ultrasound, never relegating me to the care of someone less familiar with my case. He was always fully present, listening attentively to my concerns, and answering my questions with patience and thoroughness. There was a level of personal care and attention to detail that was so consistent, it was almost like he was entirely dedicated to my case alone. Moreover, his ability to recall specifics about my medical history without even a glance at his notes was astonishing. It created a sense of continuity and personal connection that was deeply reassuring. It was as though every nuance of my case was always at the forefront of his mind. He didn't just listen; he engaged, understanding my medical history and current concerns with the thoroughness that is a rare find in today's fast-paced medical environment. What I also greatly appreciated was Dr. Robles respect for my input. He valued my thoughts and perspective, making me feel like an active participant in my healthcare, rather than just a passive recipient of it. His approach was highly patient-centric.
What struck me most about Dr. Robles was his genuine interest in my well-being and his unwavering commitment to achieving excellent results. Throughout the entire process, I had the privilege of seeing Dr. Robles during every single one of my appointments. On challenging days, he was there to guide me, offering support and reassurance. After each visit, I always felt better, leaving with renewed hope and a smile. However, during the last consultation before my scheduled egg retrieval, I received unexpected news that another doctor would be performing the procedure as Dr. Robles was not available that weekend. I couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness, as I had grown so comfortable and confident with Dr. Robles by my side. Remarkably, on the day of the procedure, which was a Sunday, Dr. Robles surprised me by coming in solely to perform my egg retrieval. The relief and happiness I felt were beyond words. This act of kindness and dedication demonstrated just how much Dr. Robles truly cares about his patients and how he goes above and beyond to ensure their well-being and comfort.
I am forever grateful for Dr. Robles' exceptional care and commitment to my journey toward parenthood. He is more than just a remarkable physician; he is a compassionate and extraordinary human being.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Haley Roche)
The entire care team (coordinators and nurses) was exceptionally organized and consistently prompt in addressing my inquiries. They assisted me in scheduling appointments and guided me through the entire process, making sure I understood each step along the way. Their support was invaluable, and they exhibited remarkable patience and understanding throughout my journey. I am truly grateful for their dedication and assistance, which played a significant role in making my experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Strengths:
A key pillar of the clinic's strengths is its exceptional physician, Dr. Alex Robles, who harmoniously blends expertise with compassion. With a focus on personalized care, Dr. Robles tailors treatment protocols to suit each patient's specific needs, ensuring a supportive and effective fertility journey. Patients can rest assured that they are in the hands of a caring and dedicated specialist with a track record of achieving remarkable results.
Organized Care Team: The clinic's care team is highly organized, promptly responding to patient inquiries and providing support throughout the entire process. Their efficiency and responsiveness contribute to a seamless patient experience.
Comprehensive Support: From scheduling appointments to explaining treatment processes, the care team is dedicated to guiding patients and ensuring they have a clear understanding of each step. They exhibit patience and empathy, creating a nurturing environment for patients.
New patient:
As a new patient, it's important to understand that embarking on this fertility journey requires a significant time commitment. To ensure the best possible results, close monitoring of your hormone levels and regular ultrasounds are essential components of the process. These monitoring procedures play a crucial role in tracking the development of your fertility treatment. You will need to visit the clinic several times a week, and as you approach the end of your cycle, the visits will be required daily.
Dr. Robles was patient, understanding and supportive throughout the entire process. He always made sure to see if I had any questions and tailored treatment based on my needs and medical history...provided all the details & information I needed. Compassionate & understanding throughout the entire process. Always made sure I had what I needed and that communication was clear, transparent, and up to date.
[Columbia University] Clean, great location that is central to transportation. Procedures, blood work & monitoring also done on site (super convenient). Great staff. Integrated with all my other Columbia network doctors and took on progyny administration for me...[nursing staff] Sent me regular updates via encrypted email & gave me detailed instructions with video references as well. Was timely with responses to questions I had.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Detailed, provided all the details & information I needed. Compassionate & understanding throughout the entire process. Always made sure I had what I needed and that communication was clear, transparent, and up to date.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
No advice - Highly recommend!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles was patient, understanding and supportive throughout the entire process. He always made sure to see if I had any questions and tailored treatment based on my needs and medical history.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Got oversight from my endo. as I'm diabetic (type 1). Went in for monitoring to Columbia every few days for bloodwork & ultrasound. After cycle started and had 1st monitoring session (day 3), started 2 medications nightlight between 5-10PM. After about 5 days, started a 3rd medication. Once I was ready for a trigger shot, took that 36 hours before procedure, continued to come in for monitoring. One medication with dinner the night before the egg retrieval.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Haley)
Sent me regular updates via encrypted email & gave me detailed instructions with video references as well. Was timely with responses to questions I had. Took care of all progyny administration for me.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Clean, great location that is central to transportation. Procedures, blood work & monitoring also done on site (super convenient). Great staff. Integrated with all my other Columbia network doctors and took on progyny administration for me.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
Minor costs from prescriptions
Describe Alex Robles's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
Dr. Robles was always very responsive via e-mail and would call to follow-up as well. When I went into the office, he would make sure all my questions were answered and explained everything to me with kindness and care while recognizing this was an emotional journey. He ensured I could see the ultrasound at the same time as me, which was helpful and brought me along on the journey.
Good experience overall, but I think clinics like Columbia could benefit from learning from KindBody and similar clinics to make the entire experience feel more human and not completely like a hospital...Dr. Robles was great in coordinating care and making me feel very comfortable about having consistent care from him and his immediate team. I do think it would be helpful to consider the process more about exercise, vitamins, and holistic health to factor in that could help with egg freezing process and the overall experience of the person going through it. I think he would be very responsive to this feedback, which is amazing!
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Overall, Dr. Robles was great in coordinating care and making me feel very comfortable about having consistent care from him and his immediate team. I do think it would be helpful to consider the process more about exercise, vitamins, and holistic health to factor in that could help with egg freezing process and the overall experience of the person going through it. I think he would be very responsive to this feedback, which is amazing!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Ensure you also do your own homework about what to expect on the journey and perhaps have a buddy who has experienced it to know what to expect each day.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles was always very responsive via e-mail and would call to follow-up as well. When I went into the office, he would make sure all my questions were answered and explained everything to me with kindness and care while recognizing this was an emotional journey. He ensured I could see the ultrasound at the same time as me, which was helpful and brought me along on the journey.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Overall, I worked with the nurse to ensure I knew how to inject myself. I would recommend that people use an ice pack which I learned from a friend and have a heating pad as well, which is helpful.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Good experience overall, but I think clinics like Columbia could benefit from learning from KindBody and similar clinics to make the entire experience feel more human and not completely like a hospital. People may want that, too, but just a suggestion.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
Dr. Robles is an amazing doctor. He is so warm and friendly which was so important during such a emotional time undergoing fertility treatments. My husband and I felt that he showed compassion, empathy, and true care for us and our situation the whole time. He truly listened to our concerns and took time to review our test results or take a call with us even when he was at home for the day. He never made us feel silly to ask a question and always answered emails quickly no matter how big or small the question. I felt that he really cared for us as people and always had a way of making us feel positive. I can’t say enough good things!
The Columbia Fertility Center is beautiful and a pleasant place to be. Appointments are fast and painless and every staff member is warm and friendly. The administrators are also very sweet and communicative. I couldn’t be happier with the facility...Dr. Robles made us feel seen and heard. He made my husband and I feel so cared for the entire process. He really goes the extra mile to answer any questions/concerns and never dismisses them.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles is an amazing doctor. He is so warm and friendly which was so important during such a emotional time undergoing fertility treatments. My husband and I felt that he showed compassion, empathy, and true care for us and our situation the whole time. He truly listened to our concerns and took time to review our test results or take a call with us even when he was at home for the day. He never made us feel silly to ask a question and always answered emails quickly no matter how big or small the question. I felt that he really cared for us as people and always had a way of making us feel positive. I can’t say enough good things!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Don’t be afraid to email him with questions or to ask questions about decisions being made under his care (timing of trigger shot/etc).
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles made us feel seen and heard. He made my husband and I feel so cared for the entire process. He really goes the extra mile to answer any questions/concerns and never dismisses them.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The Columbia Fertility Center is beautiful and a pleasant place to be. Appointments are fast and painless and every staff member is warm and friendly. The administrators are also very sweet and communicative. I couldn’t be happier with the facility.
I always felt like I was in good hands with Dr. Robles. He explained the procedures in details, was always available when I had questions, and he set realistic expectations for me. My results actually far exceeded what I had expected and I was very happy with the whole process. He has excellent bedside manner and always makes you feel comfortable and supported through what can be a very stressful and emotional process.
The [Columbia University] clinic is very clean and efficient. I work full-time and never had an issue getting my bloodwork/imaging done in a timely enough manner for me to make it to work. Very easy to navigate and schedule with use of the online portal. The staff are all very friendly...[nursing staff] Always provided me full detail of how I was progressing and clear instructions on what to do next.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
I always felt like I was in good hands with Dr. Robles. He explained the procedures in details, was always available when I had questions, and he set realistic expectations for me. My results actually far exceeded what I had expected and I was very happy with the whole process. He has excellent bedside manner and always makes you feel comfortable and supported through what can be a very stressful and emotional process.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles always made my visits feel very personal and I really did feel like he was invested and cared.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Follistim+ menopur with introduction of ganirelix. On letrozole during process dt h/o BRCA1+.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Haley Roche)
Always provided me full detail of how I was progressing and clear instructions on what to do next.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The clinic is very clean and efficient. I work full-time and never had an issue getting my bloodwork/imaging done in a timely enough manner for me to make it to work. Very easy to navigate and schedule with use of the online portal. The staff are all very friendly.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
Office visit copayments per insurance. Rest was covered by fertility insurance.
Describe Alex Robles's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
He [Dr. Robles] immediately made me feel at ease and explained everything thoroughly. He was very honest in terms of what to expect based on the numbers and the impact that the treatment would have on me physically. All in all it was really a breeze and I felt completely supported. On the visits where I did not see Dr. Robles directly, he reached out to me by phone or email almost immediately to follow up
For me the [Columbia University] clinic was so convenient and easy to get to which considering the frequency of visits was incredibly important - the scheduling was a breeze and I was typically in and out within 15-20 minutes. Everyone there was kind, very clean and highly efficient...I was recommended to the Columbia Fertility Clinic by my healthcare provider and I am so happy that I was scheduled with Dr. Robles. He immediately made me feel at ease and explained everything thoroughly. He was very honest in terms of what to expect based on the numbers and the impact that the treatment would have on me physically. All in all it was really a breeze and I felt completely supported. On the visits where I did not see Dr. Robles directly, he reached out to me by phone or email almost immediately to follow up
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
I had a lot of apprehension going into this procedure and had already seen another doctor previously who I really did not feel was the right fit. I was recommended to the Columbia Fertility Clinic by my healthcare provider and I am so happy that I was scheduled with Dr. Robles. He immediately made me feel at ease and explained everything thoroughly. He was very honest in terms of what to expect based on the numbers and the impact that the treatment would have on me physically. All in all it was really a breeze and I felt completely supported. On the visits where I did not see Dr. Robles directly, he reached out to me by phone or email almost immediately to follow up
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Considering how great my experience was I would say don't wait!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr Robles was incredibly kind and spent the time to ask questions, learn more about my fertility goals and explain the process in detail.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
For me the clinic was so convenient and easy to get to which considering the frequency of visits was incredibly important - the scheduling was a breeze and I was typically in and out within 15-20 minutes. Everyone there was kind, very clean and highly efficient.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia University.
Super easy and typically waited less than 5 mins after checking in
Dr. Robles was the doctor that we saw for every consultation, and he made an effort to be present for some of our ultrasounds and particularly for the retrieval, even though he wasn't working that day. He was very good at explaining both the general numbers of IVF and giving some predictions regarding how our individual circumstances might affect our chances. Throughout the injections we always felt he was available with last-minute concerns or setbacks, and he has since made an effort to get all information to us as soon as it is available to him. He seems very knowledgeable in his field, and was very open to learning about and working with our religious needs in this very sensitive area.
The [Columbia University] clinic is very professional. They did a great job of making us feel comfortable despite embarking on a new and scary chapter in our lives. The majority of the team - particularly our care coordinator and doctor - were excellent. Our biggest issue ended up being our financial coordinator. We had a complicated insurance situation, and we had a lot of trouble at times getting email responses or phone calls responding to our questions. Finance is known to be a big part of any IVF process, so this seemed like a rather large oversight.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles was the doctor that we saw for every consultation, and he made an effort to be present for some of our ultrasounds and particularly for the retrieval, even though he wasn't working that day. He was very good at explaining both the general numbers of IVF and giving some predictions regarding how our individual circumstances might affect our chances. Throughout the injections we always felt he was available with last-minute concerns or setbacks, and he has since made an effort to get all information to us as soon as it is available to him. He seems very knowledgeable in his field, and was very open to learning about and working with our religious needs in this very sensitive area.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Be as open and communicative as comfortable - if there's a change or adjustment you might want, he'll do his best to make it happen.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles has a very easy and open manner. While we worked with him, we were undergoing several external changes in our lives due to school, and he was very understanding of how this affected our needs and desires. Our treatment was affected by several religious restrictions, and he did his best to give us all the information we needed while allowing us to make the decisions we felt were best for us religiously. We also really appreciated his effort to be as present and involved in our process as possible, including calling us with our genetic results instead of waiting for us to make a later follow-up appointment.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
The protocol he used seemed to be pretty typical, since we were using IVF for genetic testing rather than a physical infertility issue. Since were were both in our early 20s and pretty healthy at the time (genetic issue notwithstanding), the medication worked very well, particularly since we had stopped hormonal birth control a few months prior. We got 27 eggs retrieved, 18 mature, 14 were successfully fertilized, 8 developed into embryos, and (pending one retest) 4 tested positive for the genetic condition.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia University.
Each of the nursing staff seemed excellent (we communicated with them primarily through email rather than face-to-face). The primary issue that we had was that the nursing duties, particularly around communication, seemed very decentralized - we got emails with medication instructions from different nurses each evening, and this made it difficult to understand who we were meant to email with questions and when they would be available to answer those questions.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The clinic is very professional. They did a great job of making us feel comfortable despite embarking on a new and scary chapter in our lives. The majority of the team - particularly our care coordinator and doctor - were excellent. Our biggest issue ended up being our financial coordinator. We had a complicated insurance situation, and we had a lot of trouble at times getting email responses or phone calls responding to our questions. Finance is known to be a big part of any IVF process, so this seemed like a rather large oversight.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
Around $20,000 for treatment
$600 for anesthesia
$400 per embryo for genetic testing
Around $2000 for medicine
$1,200 per year for embryo storage
Describe Alex Robles's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
We have not yet done a transfer.
What specific things went wrong at Columbia University?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia University.
This is pretty minor, but there were some miscommunication issues regarding some of our medications, particularly the Lupron trigger shot. Our medication coordinator told us not to order the trigger shot with the rest of the medication, due to its short shelf life, but were were never told when to order it. In the end, we learned that we should order it from the doctor after asking him, but due to weekends/federal holidays this resulted in our only getting the medication the day before it was needed, which could have been a very expensive accident.
Dr Alex Robles is an awesome doctor, patiently listen to what the patient is going through. Understand the end goal. Always very mannered and never get irritated with many questions...When in occassions he is not sure of right answers to my questions, he makes sure he contacts other doctors and get back to me with answers. He is very easily contactable and do not hesitate to speak to patients on phone or on email. Very responsive and knows what he is doing.
I loved the whole [Columbia University] ecosystem of care coordinator, scheduling coordinator and their approach towards patients. The nurse always listens to my issues and makes sure my queries are answered even if it is a weekend or after work hours, someone backup/oncall will reply to my query/my bloodwork with detailed explanation...Another important strength of this clinic is their timings when visiting doctor in NYC office...
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Approachable, never get irritated with silly questions. Ready to provide you answer after research and very speaks mannerly while talking to patients. Thank you Dr Robles. He has never refused me for a visit.
His patient and attentive demeanor make discussions incredibly productive. He not only listens intently but also demonstrates a keen understanding of the subject matter. It's evident that he possesses a deep knowledge of the field as he is always ready with precise answers to any questions that arise. What's truly impressive is his ability to foresee the next steps in our projects, providing seamless guidance and direction. Getting treatment under Dr. Robles has been a valuable and insightful experience, fostering a sense of confidence and clarity in every interaction.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Come to Dr Alex with an open mind. He is a trustworthy doctor and will take extensive care for you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr Alex Robles is an awesome doctor, patiently listen to what the patient is going through. Understand the end goal. Always very mannered and never get irritated with many questions sometimes personal. When in occassions he is not sure of right answers to my questions, he makes sure he contacts other doctors and get back to me with answers.
He is very easily contactable and do not hesitate to speak to patients on phone or on email. Very responsive and knows what he is doing.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
I made sure, I am seeing Dr Robles often so he is able to see my progress. I exchanged emails, visit his clinic and always be honest about my feelings. He has great knowledge about his subject and is thorough on the procedures. He does not believe in various myths/taboos exists in the world for trying to be pregnant or pregnant women.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Sophie, Haley, )
The nurse coordinator Haley was extremely detailed in all emails. It always gives a sense of relief when you have important medication/treatment in the email so you can refer to it again and again. I loved the whole ecosystem of care coordinator, scheduling coordinator and their approach towards patients. The nurse always listens to my issues and makes sure my queries are answered even if it is a weekend or after work hours, someone backup/oncall will reply to my query/my bloodwork with detailed explanation.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Best part is it has a clinic in White Plains where it was always convenient to go when I need to do just bloodwork or basic scan. For all important procedures, that happens in NYC, there were always planned.
Another important strength of this clinic is their timings when visiting doctor in NYC office. Most times other fertility clinics only ask the patients to come early morning like 9 AM or 10 AM which becomes difficult due to work commitments. They always had an afternoon slot which made it smooth sailing and I had to never call my work for a time off because of the doctor's visit.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia University.
It never ruined my schedule. I was always given extra care during scans, procedures and bloodwork
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
not sure covered by my insurance
Describe Alex Robles's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
He is great in helping you to make a decision. Trust his decision and go for it.
Dr. Robles was very open and honest with me. There were maybe 2 visits I had not seen him...He always spoke to me with respect and never treated me as if I was incapable of understanding what was going on. And he always answered my questions fully and honestly. Even repeating himself when there were things my mind wouldn’t allow me to understand. Just an overall amazing human being...It was very apparent that Dr. Robles had read my history and became familiar with how my body worked. He chose to take a more natural approach to my IVF and used some oral medications to assist my body in its natural cycles.
The [Columbia University] clinic itself could use a little work in the communication department. In the beginning of my treatment there were more than a few hiccups with communicating between their office and the OB/GYN office. There were times where it was my job to bring information to either office when they were the ones referring me back and forth...Both [nurses] Haley and Sophie were an amazing duo. I appreciate all the hard work Haley put into my care. I cannot thank her enough for keeping up with my incessant phone calls and overload of emails. Never once did they make me feel like a burden.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles was very open and honest with me. There were maybe 2 visits I had not seen him. One was a sonogram where I was not expecting to see him and when I was advised he would not be there was surprised that he attended them to begin with. And the second he himself actually called me to let me know and fervently apologized for being ill. I thought that was not only honorable but over the top caring. What doctor calls you to tell you that? He really is a phenomenally caring doctor. He always spoke to me with respect and never treated me as if I was incapable of understanding what was going on. And he always answered my questions fully and honestly. Even repeating himself when there were things my mind wouldn’t allow me to understand. Just an overall amazing human being.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
This wasn’t the first time I’ve gone through IVF or fertility treatments in general. It was very apparent that Dr. Robles had read my history and became familiar with how my body worked. He chose to take a more natural approach to my IVF and used some oral medications to assist my body in its natural cycles.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Haley Roche)
Both Haley and Sophie were an amazing duo. I appreciate all the hard work Haley put into my care. I cannot thank her enough for keeping up with my incessant phone calls and overload of emails. Never once did they make me feel like a burden.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The clinic itself could use a little work in the communication department. In the beginning of my treatment there were more than a few hiccups with communicating between their office and the OB/GYN office. There were times where it was my job to bring information to either office when they were the ones referring me back and forth. I think that if they’re sister clinics and work under the same umbrella it would probably be easier for the front staff the retrieve said records rather than me, call back and forth and fax and email. I would still like to talk with someone in the office in regards to this situation. However everything did work out in the end and I am more than thankful. It’s one of those situations where you just have to count your blessings.
What specific things went wrong at Columbia University?
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia University.
The day of my egg transfer they had been behind by over an hour and no one from the office called to advise. And had I known I would have arranged child care differently. It was a whole thing that’s too much to type
From my first consultation he [Dr. Alex Robles] was extremely thorough, informative, and available. He set very realistic expectations for me and my results were exactly as expected if not slightly better...wonderful bedside manner, fun sense of humor, and consistently present and positive attitude. Every time I saw Dr. Robles I was left with the distinct sense that he deeply loves his work and genuinely cares about every patient's outcome.
During the first cycle [at Columbia University] all of my monitoring appointments were, for the most part, prompt and timely. The clinic was organized and efficient. During my second cycle a number of my appointments started late, there was a wait time between bloodwork and ultrasound, rooms weren't fully prepared (machines unplugged), doctors appeared rushed and nurses flustered.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
If I had to go through this process again, I would not do it with anyone other than Dr. Robles. From my first consultation he was extremely thorough, informative, and available. He set very realistic expectations for me and my results were exactly as expected if not slightly better. I struggled during my first cycle and felt mentally and emotionally defeated post-retrieval. Dr. Robles was wonderfully compassionate, supportive, and empathetic. He outlined all of my options and their subsequent timelines then gave me time to process and decide how I wanted to move forward. When I was ready to move forward he responded promptly and quickly got me set up for my second round. This meant I could focus on other areas of my life and enjoy my off time between cycles. The icing on the cake is Dr. Roble's wonderful bedside manner, fun sense of humor, and consistently present and positive attitude. Every time I saw Dr. Robles I was left with the distinct sense that he deeply loves his work and genuinely cares about every patient's outcome.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Don't be dismayed if you have a few monitoring appointments with other doctors. Without fail, Dr. Robles will call to check in and discuss progress.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles called me several times during each cycle to check in on my mental and emotional health, relay where we were in the process, explain what he was seeing, and discuss expectations based on most recent test results. Dr. Robles also called me the night before my retrieval to ensure I felt comfortable and prepared, and he went out of his way to make himself available to do my procedure.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Incredibly, Dr. Robles had all of my medications and dosages correct from day one during both cycles. Each cycle lasted 12 days.
Cycle 1: 12 days long. 7 eggs retrieved, 6 mature and frozen.
Cycle 2: 12 days long. 18 eggs retrieved, 15 mature and frozen.
Gonal-F: 300 units. Days 1-9.
Menopur: 150 units. Days 1-9.
Cetrotide (antagonist): 1 kit. Days 4-9.
HCG (trigger): 1,500 IU. Day 10.
Lupron - Leuprolide Acetate (trigger): 40 units. Day 10.
Azithromycin (antibiotic): 1,000 mg. Day 11.
In order to slow my dominant follicle's growth and allow my non-dominant follicles time to form, Dr. Robles reduced my Gonal-F dosage to 225 units 6 days into the cycle, then 200 units on day 8. Otherwise, all medications were taken subcutaneously on the days and in the dosages listed above. Azithromycin was taken the night before the retrieval procedure to prevent infection.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Haley Roche)
Haley Roche, my nurse, was extremely thorough, organized, and attentive. She was completely attentive and available during our appointment to walk through everything related to hormones and medications. She encouraged me to open up all of the boxes and bags and miscellaneous tools and items live on Zoom with her and she provided excellent tips for how to stay organized and avoid overwhelm. The first time I had the pleasure of meeting her in the office she enthusiastically greeted me, asked how I was doing, and expressed clear interest in my wellbeing. I never felt like I was a number or a series of test results; rather, I felt like I was Haley's only patient.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
During the first cycle all of my monitoring appointments were, for the most part, prompt and timely. The clinic was organized and efficient. During my second cycle a number of my appointments started late, there was a wait time between bloodwork and ultrasound, rooms weren't fully prepared (machines unplugged), doctors appeared rushed and nurses flustered.
There aren’t enough words in the dictionary to describe how great my experience was with Dr. Robles. Throughout each step of this journey, Dr. Robles took the time to explain (both verbally and via PowerPoint) everything we would need to know to ensure the best possible outcome for us. He helped us make informed decisions, showed us he cared about our outcome, treated us with the utmost respect always, took time to see me when I was in the office (even when I knew he was busy), and never left us feeling like we missed a detail. I will not say that this process was easy, however, Dr. Robles’s sense of humanity and kindness gave me comfort every step of the way.
This clinic [Columbia University] is excellent. Everyone is professional and respectful. Every staff member cares about your journey. Most of my appointments were before work and they would always ensure that I was in and out on time...Haley and the nursing staff were organized and attentive. They were always available when I had questions or concerns...Everyone’s fertility journey is different. Dr. Robles will ensure that you will make the best decision for you and your family. He will also make sure you are confident with your decision and be there with any questions you have.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
There aren’t enough words in the dictionary to describe how great my experience was with Dr. Robles. Throughout each step of this journey, Dr. Robles took the time to explain (both verbally and via PowerPoint) everything we would need to know to ensure the best possible outcome for us. He helped us make informed decisions, showed us he cared about our outcome, treated us with the utmost respect always, took time to see me when I was in the office (even when I knew he was busy), and never left us feeling like we missed a detail. I will not say that this process was easy, however, Dr. Robles’s sense of humanity and kindness gave me comfort every step of the way.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Everyone’s fertility journey is different. Dr. Robles will ensure that you will make the best decision for you and your family. He will also make sure you are confident with your decision and be there with any questions you have.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
From the very start, Dr. Robles took the time to explain each detail of every step during this process (sometime more than once). He was extremely responsive to any questions or concerns we had, whether it was via email or by phone. He cares about his patients and it truly shows through his demeanor.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
After the initial consultation, I had a fertility evaluation which included blood labs, ultrasound, genetic testing (not required) and a hysteroscopy. Note, although the genetic testing was not required, I am extremely happy we did them. We found out that I am a genetic carrier for an X-liked disease. With this genetic test and Dr. Robles’s guidance, we determined that the best way for us to have a health baby was though IVF.
Embryo retrieval: about 10-11 night of injections with the last being your trigger shot. Also accompanied by morning monitoring appointments (with blood labs and ultrasounds). Dr. Robles did my egg retrieval. He kept me up to date during the waiting period, where the final results would like us know how many viable embryos we were going to freeze to later transfer. Our embryos underwent PGT-M (pre genetic testing) to see which, if any, were a carrier for the x-linked disease.
Transfer cycle: after several appointments with Dr. Robles, we decided that a natural transfer cycle would be best for us. This included one trigger shot (1-2 nights before the transfer) and 10 weeks of progesterone suppositories. Dr. Robles provided us with every single detail so that we could make the best decision for us.
Follow up care after transfer: Dr. Robles popped in for most of my follow up appointments and stay so that all of our questions were answered.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Haley Roche)
Haley and the nursing staff were organized and attentive. They were always available when I had questions or concerns
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
This clinic is excellent. Everyone is professional and respectful. Every staff member cares about your journey. Most of my appointments were before work and they would always ensure that I was in and out on time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
The most expensive portion was the pre implantation genetic testing (genetic testing of the embryo). Fortunately, our health insurance covered about 80% of this process. We did one cycle with a transfer. After one cycle, we got the results we wanted- which is great because our coverage would have run out if we had to do a second IVF cycle.
Describe Alex Robles's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
Dr Robles is a thoughtful and knowledgable doctor. He goes above and beyond for this patients and ensured he was there for all my appointments, for ultrasounds to my IUI procedure. He took the time to thoroughly explain information in a way that's understandable and was always happy to answer all our questions. He is easy to talk to, gentle and kind...From the start Dr Robles helped us feel very comfortable. He was incredibly kind and treated us with care, while informing us of our options and results in an honest and truthful way...
Both the nurse and care coordinator [at Columbia University] were prompt with emails and helpful relaying questions to the team...they're organized and have an efficient system in place for when you come in for an appointment; most appointments are quick...they organize the day into chunks according to your status as a patient and it can be difficult to get an appointment at a time that is convenient for you...
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr Robles is a thoughtful and knowledgable doctor. He goes above and beyond for this patients and ensured he was there for all my appointments, for ultrasounds to my IUI procedure. He took the time to thoroughly explain information in a way that's understandable and was always happy to answer all our questions. He is easy to talk to, gentle and kind. A true gem in the field of fertility!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
You can feel comfortable asking lots of questions and should! I found this to be helpful
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
From the start Dr Robles helped us feel very comfortable. He was incredibly kind and treated us with care, while informing us of our options and results in an honest and truthful way.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
One cycle of IUI - 5 days on clomid, no injection (my choice), IUI insemination + unprotected sex around the time of insemination = successful pregnancy
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Haley Roche and Sophie Clark)
Both the nurse and care coordinator were prompt with emails and helpful relaying questions to the team. However, I didn't get to develop a close relationship with them like I did with my doctor, and actually never met my nurse in person.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Strengths: they're organized and have an efficient system in place for when you come in for an appointment; most appointments are quick; the clinic is quiet, clean and has calming decor in the lobby
Weaknesses: they organize the day into chunks according to your status as a patient and it can be difficult to get an appointment at a time that is convenient for you. For example if you are coming in for bloodwork and an ultrasound for monitoring, you're able to come in early in the morning up to 10 am. Once you're pregnant and need to return for bloodwork and an ultrasound, you are no longer able to come first thing in the morning - your only options are mid-day, excluding lunch time, during weekdays (weekends are no longer an option). This was quite challenging with my work schedule.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
fully covered under my fertility benefits through my partner's job
Describe Alex Robles's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
Dr. Alex Robles embodies the qualities of a truly remarkable physician - passionate, caring, and thorough. Alex exudes a genuine passion for medicine and patient care that is evident in every interaction. From the moment my husband and I connect with him, we felt welcomed and valued as a patients...Every consultation was conducted with great attention to detail, leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.
I recently had the privilege of experiencing the exceptional care and service provided by Columbia University staff, and I must say, it was an outstanding experience from start to finish. From the moment I entered the hospital, I was impressed by the warm and welcoming atmosphere that greeted me. The staff's dedication to patient care was evident from the first interaction, and it continued throughout my entire stay.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
I had the privilege of being under the care of Dr. Alex Robles, and I cannot stress enough how incredible my experience has been. From the very first appointment, it was evident that Dr. Alex Robles embodies the qualities of a truly remarkable physician - passionate, caring, and thorough.
Alex exudes a genuine passion for medicine and patient care that is evident in every interaction. From the moment my husband and I connect with him, we felt welcomed and valued as a patients. His enthusiasm and dedication to his profession is evident, instilling a sense of confidence and comfort in me.
But what truly sets Alex apart is their exceptional level of compassion. His compassion created a safe space where we could openly discuss our concerns and fears, knowing that they would be met with understanding and support.
Every consultation was conducted with great attention to detail, leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans. Alex took the time to explain complex medical concepts in a way that was easy to understand, actively involving me in the decision-making process and empowering me to take charge of my husband and I health.
Beyond their medical expertise, Robles has a remarkable ability to connect with their patients on a personal level. We really appreciate the way he connect with us in our mother language, knowing he was doing an effort to speak and use precise concepts in that language.
We felt so happy to have him in this process.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Don't hesitate not even one second to choose him as your doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Alex Robles is super professional, but also really human and warm person. For my husband and I have him as our doctor during this process was a bless. He really spend time and dedication explaining us every detail, with a ton of patience and care.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
I recently had the privilege of experiencing the exceptional care and service provided by Columbia University staff, and I must say, it was an outstanding experience from start to finish. From the moment I entered the hospital, I was impressed by the warm and welcoming atmosphere that greeted me. The staff's dedication to patient care was evident from the first interaction, and it continued throughout my entire stay.
Alex Robles was an amazing fertility doctor. I had a terrible experience with a previous practice and he made this experience SO MUCH better by just caring and being thorough with the egg freeze process. He would always follow up with me with any questions, the surgery went amazing and I felt less nervous under his care. I would highly recommend him to all my friends/family or anyone considering fertility treatments.
The strengths [of Columbia University] are the people, doctors, and nurses - amazing staff! The weakness is it can get very busy but I’m glad to see so many people are using them. The waiting room can be crowded sometimes. I really thought the communication was great compared to other places I went to- they were very responsive (including my doctor), the other fertility places I was barely able to get a hold of my doctor and was told contractions so was very pleased that it seemed like everyone here was on the same page and knew what they were doing. Great experience overall!
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Alex Robles was an amazing fertility doctor. I had a terrible experience with a previous practice and he made this experience SO MUCH better by just caring and being thorough with the egg freeze process. He would always follow up with me with any questions, the surgery went amazing and I felt less nervous under his care. I would highly recommend him to all my friends/family or anyone considering fertility treatments.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Don’t be affeiad to be as open about what your expectations or past experiences has been, Alex will do his best to help you and he truly cares.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Alex Robles was an amazing doctor, extremely personal on zoom consultation but even nicer in person! He was very thorough in the process and extremely good at his job. He got to know my goals and personal story and I felt like a human being in his care.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
We did egg freezing, I was trained on injecting the shots as well as came in during the 10 day retrieval for multiple sonograms and bloodtests to make sure everything was going great. The surgery was a very quick 15-20 minute procedure and I was in and out of the hospital in only an hour and half. I had a lot of follicles and was able to produce 23 eggs of which 20 were frozen.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Sophie and a few others who were great!)
The nurse who went over my shots did an awesome job of teaching me about the medicine and showing me what to do. All the nurses were great!!!
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The strengths are the people, doctors, and nurses - amazing staff! The weakness is it can get very busy but I’m glad to see so many people are using them. The waiting room can be crowded sometimes. I really thought the communication was great compared to other places I went to- they were very responsive (including my doctor), the other fertility places I was barely able to get a hold of my doctor and was told contractions so was very pleased that it seemed like everyone here was on the same page and knew what they were doing. Great experience overall!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
Surgery was around 11,000, medicine was around $15,000 to order
Describe Alex Robles's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
He [Dr. Robles] was always available to answer any questions that I had and also had a generally supportive, gentle and kind demeanor throughout. He was always optimistic although he never overset my expectations, and never gave me any sales pitches or pressured me into any making any decisions...he was consistently available to provide information and support throughout my journey, while encouraging me to make my own choices...
I was assigned both a care coordinator and a nurse [at Columbia University]! Both were always on top of the appointments and treatment...The nursing staff works closely together as a team during my actual physical visits, so I was always monitored very carefully...I also appreciated the collaborative aspect of the staff, and Dr. Robles' willingness to leverage the different skills of his colleagues to optimize my treatment. I also worked with Dr. Briana Rudick and briefly met the embryologist, both of whom were also very positive, reassuring and skilled...
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles was excellent to work with and had excellent bedside manners. For example, he consulted me about the dosage level to ensure that I understood and was on board with his process. At all times, I was confident that he was familiar with the most up to date protocols. Dr. Robles is meticulous and knowledgeable. And I had full confidence that he treated me with the full institutional knowledge and protocols of the Columbia University Fertility Center at his disposal. Once or twice, he informed me that he consulted with his medical colleagues on certain issues, to double check his protocols. His openness and receptiveness, and willingness to consult his colleagues, made me confident in his abilities.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles is very agreeable and is willing to answer questions. Patients should feel encouraged to reach out to the doctor with any questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles remembered details about my medical history from previous treatments at another clinic, even though he had not treated me throughout the entire infertility process. He was always available to answer any questions that I had and also had a generally supportive, gentle and kind demeanor throughout. He was always optimistic although he never overset my expectations, and never gave me any sales pitches or pressured me into any making any decisions. In fact, he was consistently available to provide information and support throughout my journey, while encouraging me to make my own choices. When I told Dr. Robles that I wanted to attempt a transfer during an upcoming cycle, he and the Columbia staff operated under a short timeline to ensure that they could satisfy my request. When I made a special medical request, Dr. Robles abided with courtesy and deference. In another instance, I emailed him on a Sunday morning, concerned about bleeding, and he responded immediately with reassurance, and put me at ease. I always felt that he was available to answer any questions and he was great to have on my team.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
My FET cycle consisted of 2 mg tablets of Estrace twice daily, along with 1 ml progesterone in oil injected once per day preceding the FET (the latter started about 6 days before the FET procedure). I will continue this until the 10th week of pregnancy. This has resulted in an ongoing pregnancy - I am between the 8th and 9th weeks of my pregnancy.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Haley Roche/Sophie Clark)
I was assigned both a care coordinator and a nurse! Both were always on top of the appointments and treatment. Nurse Haley Roche provided detailed instructions and answered my questions. My contact with Nurse Roche was limited to email correspondence but she provided detailed and deliberate instructions and information throughout my treatment. The nursing staff works closely together as a team during my actual physical visits, so I was always monitored very carefully.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The clinic operates very efficiently, and the entire process was very streamlined. Except for my visits with the doctors, there was not an over emphasis on face to face personal contact with the staff. But for me, I was more interested in the success of my treatment, whether I was being properly monitored and tracked, and whether the staff was complying with best practices. For me, it appeared that all of these boxes were checked, and that was what mattered to me at the end of the day. I also appreciated the collaborative aspect of the staff, and Dr. Robles' willingness to leverage the different skills of his colleagues to optimize my treatment. I also worked with Dr. Briana Rudick and briefly met the embryologist, both of whom were also very positive, reassuring and skilled. For those who are new to the fertility process, some questions may remain unanswered through the process. I would not hesitate to reach out to the staff to get those questions answered.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
My treatment was insured.
Describe Alex Robles's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
I believe that this clinic leans towards single embryo transfers, under normal circumstances, although it is best to check with the clinic and doctor.
He [Dr. Robles] always listened to me and not rush to the next patient and made sure that I asked all my questions. I was very nervous when I started the process but every time when I saw him I alway felt calm and had confidence in him and that the cycle would go well...he would always tried to meet with me even though he did not need to when I had to come in for things such as morning monitoring or egg retrieval...
the coordinator and financial specialist [at Columbia University] are very responsive...all the nurses are very friendly and considerate...it is very clean inside it might be crowded sometimes so I needed to wait for 5-15 minutes when I was doing egg monitoring in the morning because everyone come to this place for their good reputation Not all doctors are as nice as dr. Robles, all the doctors are very busy. There was one doctor, which I only saw once and he rushed to the next patient so I did not even get the chance to ask questions...
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles is the best doctor that I have met. Dr. Robles is an amazing, wonderful doctor because he cares about his patients. He is very professional. He always listened to me and not rush to the next patient and made sure that I asked all my questions. I was very nervous when I started the process but every time when I saw him I alway felt calm and had confidence in him and that the cycle would go well.
Back then he was not certified, but he would always tried to meet with me even though he did not need to when I had to come in for things such as morning monitoring or egg retrieval.
I picked a day that he was in the office to do embroyer transfer. I felt awesome after the transfer and I knew it would be a success.
I think trust between patient and doctor is extremely important because it really affects your mood. Positive emotions and attitudes greatly affect the transfer success rate.
I highly recommend Dr. Robles to everyone, and I am 100% sure that I will come back to him for my second baby.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
trust your doctor
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
He always listened to me and did not rush to the next patient and made sure that I asked all my questions. I was very nervous when I started the process but every time when I saw him I always felt calm and had confidence in him and that the cycle would go well.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Egg retrieval -- I took pills and injections daily for about a week. I came in to do morning monitoring every other day. When the eggs matured, we did the egg retrieval. We had 26 eggs. With donor sperm, we fertilized 11 eggs. After five days, only four embryos were frozen. We also did the PSG test.
IVF (frozen cycle) -- Due to hormone issues, we did not perform a fresh cycle. After the egg retrieval cycle, I was ready for IVF. We did more progesterone injections. After the IVF procedure, we did about 30 more progesterone injections. At about day 10 after IVF, we had a positive pregnancy test at the clinic.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Organize: the coordinator and financial specialist are very responsive
Friendly: all the nurses are very friendly and considerate
Clean: it is very clean inside
it might be crowded sometimes so I needed to wait for 5-15 minutes when I was doing egg monitoring in the morning because everyone come to this place for their good reputation
Not all doctors are as nice as dr. Robles, all the doctors are very busy. There was one doctor, which I only saw once and he rushed to the next patient so I did not even get the chance to ask questions.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia University.
I came in for morning and it was very easy, although sometimes it might be crowded and i needed to wait for some time
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
I can get discounts for my medications, and it was much cheaper than what I expected. I spent about 2000-3000 on the medication
Dr. Robles was very kind and informative throughout the whole process with great demeanor and bedside manner. I felt very well taken care of and was surprised he did some of my ultrasounds himself as well as made sure to attend my procedures...was very sensitive to the issue of my decreased egg count as well as my age I think. He was very helpful throughout the process and his optimism was refreshing...
everyone [at Columbia University] was very detail oriented in their communications and patient with me in person...there was a general time window where you could schedule appointments, i was late or early numerous times because of work but the staff was extremely accommodating...The one thing i would like to change is more information at the beginning as to specific prices of meds and ordering of medications. I live in New jersey and specifically with the trigger shot (since you had to pick it up close to the procedure) i had trouble traveling to or waiting in the city for it to be ordered and even knowing when i would need it felt very last minute...
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles was very kind and informative throughout the whole process with great demeanor and bedside manner. I felt very well taken care of and was surprised he did some of my ultrasounds himself as well as made sure to attend my procedures.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Alex Robles was very sensitive to the issue of my decreased egg count as well as my age I think. He was very helpful throughout the process and his optimism was refreshing.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Haley Roche)
everyone was very detail oriented in their communications and patient with me in person.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The one thing i would like to change is more information at the beginning as to specific prices of meds and ordering of medications. I live in New jersey and specifically with the trigger shot (since you had to pick it up close to the procedure) i had trouble traveling to or waiting in the city for it to be ordered and even knowing when i would need it felt very last minute.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia University.
there was a general time window where you could schedule appointments, i was late or early numerous times because of work but the staff was extremely accommodating
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
i did my program through livestrong. With medications it cost approximately 10,000 per cycle
What specific things went wrong at Columbia University?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia University.
On my second cycle the trigger shot was mistakingly not prescribed, I assume because most of my medications for my second cycle were ordered during my first.
Dr. Robles was very kind and had lots of patience when it came to explaining each step. He was very helpful and not only did he “care” for us during our visits but he was always there outside of office answering any questions we had. We were blessed to have Dr. Robles...Every question I had was never dismissed. I had an EXCELLENT experience with Dr. Robles. He made me comfortable and had so much patience explaining each and every step of the journey we had ahead of us.
Very happy with the [Columbia University] clinic. I am a teacher so I needed to be in and out to be able to return to work. There are no long waits like in other clinics. People in front greet you with kindness, register you and you’re off to go. Excellent experience...Dr. Robles was very kind and had lots of patience when it came to explaining each step. He was very helpful and not only did he “care” for us during our visits but he was always there outside of office answering any questions we had. We were blessed to have Dr. Robles and his team.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
We have never had an experience like this one! Dr. Robles was very kind and had lots of patience when it came to explaining each step. He was very helpful and not only did he “care” for us during our visits but he was always there outside of office answering any questions we had. We were blessed to have Dr. Robles and his team.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Please feel free to ask any question. No question is bad and trust me you don’t want to go home and google to still stay wondering. Dr. Robles will answer and give clarity to any question you have no matter how big or small it is. Communication with Dr Robles has been excellent!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Every question I had was never dismissed. I had an EXCELLENT experience with Dr. Robles. He made me comfortable and had so much patience explaining each and every step of the journey we had ahead of us.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Very happy with the clinic. I am a teacher so I needed to be in and out to be able to return to work. There are no long waits like in other clinics. People in front greet you with kindness, register you and you’re off to go. Excellent experience.
We had a great experience with Dr Robles. He was very empathetic and had great communication skills. It was easy to reach out to him to ask questions even outside of doctor visits. He made me feel comfortable before each procedure and was good at managing our expectations...Great communication, very responsive to emails, empathetic, took time to explain everything about the treatment and procedure
[Columbia University is] organised, no waiting, efficient process for booking appointments, clean facilities. in terms of weakness, the only negative experience I had was one time when a nurse in training did not succeed in drawing blood from my arm and it was painful and it took so long...[nurses] provided detailed instructions for the treatment and was available to help when needed
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
We had a great experience with Dr Robles. He was very empathetic and had great communication skills. It was easy to reach out to him to ask questions even outside of doctor visits. He made me feel comfortable before each procedure and was good at managing our expectations.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
do not hesitate to reach out whenever you have any questions anytime during the process
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Great communication, very responsive to emails, empathetic, took time to explain everything about the treatment and procedure
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Dr Robles recommended to do a banking cycle as we only had one viable embryo during the first cycle. The second cycle produced one more viable embryo. It helped increasing the chances especially because one of the embryos died during thawing right before the embryo transfer.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Haley )
provided detailed instructions for the treatment and was available to help when needed
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
organised, no waiting, efficient process for booking appointments, clean facilities.
in terms of weakness, the only negative experience I had was one time when a nurse in training did not succeed in drawing blood from my arm and it was painful and it took so long.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
I cannot remember
Describe Alex Robles's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
eSET preferable for us because we wanted to avoid multiple pregnancies
Dr. Robles was intelligent, patient, and respectful of our time and feelings throughout the process. He made us feel in control and in the loop. I was thrilled with how smoothly everything went and how supported I felt...was always warm and personable. He engaged with me and answered all my questions and helped me find a custom approach to maintaining my exercise routine during the entire process. I always felt comfortable, informed and in good hands.
This clinic [Columbia University] did a great job making me feel safe and comfortable. In the past I worked with another clinic (RMA) that had poor communication and logistical setup. My experience with Columbia was much better...nurse Jenny was always very friendly and caring. The rest of the staff was efficient and competent and helped make the process as smooth as possible...Dr. Robles was intelligent, patient, and respectful of our time and feelings throughout the process. He made us feel in control and in the loop. I was thrilled with how smoothly everything went and how supported I felt.
How was your experience with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles was intelligent, patient, and respectful of our time and feelings throughout the process. He made us feel in control and in the loop. I was thrilled with how smoothly everything went and how supported I felt.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Alex Robles at Columbia University?
I would say that you can trust him to take good care of you!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Alex Robles at Columbia University?
Dr. Robles was always warm and personable. He engaged with me and answered all my questions and helped me find a custom approach to maintaining my exercise routine during the entire process. I always felt comfortable, informed and in good hands.
Describe the protocols Alex Robles used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Dr. Robles would have me come every couple days to check the follicle size and then make any necessary adjustments to the medication. He did a great job timing things because we ended up with a lot of eggs and a great number of embryos!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: The nurse Jenny was always a pleasure)
The nurse Jenny was always very friendly and caring. The rest of the staff was efficient and competent and helped make the process as smooth as possible.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
This clinic did a great job making me feel safe and comfortable. In the past I worked with another clinic (RMA) that had poor communication and logistical setup. My experience with Columbia was much better!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Alex Robles at Columbia University.
My insurance fortunately covered the bulk of our expenses
Describe Alex Robles's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
