[Dr. Rodgers] took the necessary steps to see why we couldn't get pregnant at home. I appreciate her thoroughness with the additional tests when she thought something might affect our fertility (or our chances). My experience has been ten stars, and I will come back again when we are ready for another baby! Allison connected on a deeper level, which I appreciated when going through this bout of infertility.
I loved this clinic [Fertility Centers of Illinois]! The staff was also super welcoming, even my first time coming into the clinic when I was so scared going into this journey, and I had no idea what was ahead. The financial coordinator was also phenomenal, promptly sending my bills to insurance so I didn't have to pay a lot out of pocket. Although she didn't answer the phone or call me back every time, it was fine (we chatted a few times). I recommend it 100% to anyone on an infertility journey.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Allison took the necessary steps to see why we couldn't get pregnant at home. I appreciate her thoroughness with the additional tests when she thought something might affect our fertility (or our chances). My experience has been ten stars, and I will come back again when we are ready for another baby! Allison connected on a deeper level, which I appreciated when going through this bout of infertility.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Take her advice to the fullest (I was overthinking it for a few months but finally got my mind right and started)! It will work; rest and take it slow during the treatment cycle. It is a long journey, but it is so worth it!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
She could connect more deeply and understood my concerns and how to proceed with getting the results we wanted in a quicker amount of time. Everyone who works in the office remembers me and has followed my journey. They are wonderful to work with and I definitely recommend them. It was so fast when I thought it would take years.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
IUI Cycle - CD 3-7 Letrozole 2.5 mg, Ovidrel 500 mg (two syringes), PIO (Progesterone in Oil) - a week after IUI every night
Produced two large follicles for an IUI - which eventually turned into a positive pregnancy
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Amanda)
She is very kind and knowledgeable. She is also willing to call you if you have any concerns. I appreciate that she calls and emails so I have the information from the call in the email if I cannot write everything down. She explains everything at a level I was able to understand and also answered all my questions in a timely manner. She is amazing!
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I loved this clinic! The staff was also super welcoming, even my first time coming into the clinic when I was so scared going into this journey, and I had no idea what was ahead. The financial coordinator was also phenomenal, promptly sending my bills to insurance so I didn't have to pay a lot out of pocket. Although she didn't answer the phone or call me back every time, it was fine (we chatted a few times). I recommend it 100% to anyone on an infertility journey.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
All were covered by our insurance except the actual IUI procedure. The IUI procedure was lumped into one line item at a flat rate of $625.
Dr. Rodgers always gave me her recommendations after each failed attempt but it was always my decision on what route I wanted to take or if I wanted to keep going. When we moved from IUI to IVF, she never gave up. She was realistic in my percentage of success but would modify her protocol to make sure my chance of success was better each time...I always talked to Dr. Rodgers herself after any procedure (iui, retrieval, hgc test, hysterocopy, transfer). And here on now 6 months along with twins. She really did her magic on what I thought might never happen for me, and would have never been possible without her as my Doctor.
I went to Hoffman [Fertility Centers of Illinois] office mostly for my blood work and ultrasound. Nora was amazing. Lauren who did blood work was great and Vida too. The were so friendly and I always would want to use that office. I also went to River North for my procedures, the staff was very friendly there as well...I was never left confused about next steps, there responses or calls were immediate.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
I got recommended to FCI & Dr. Rodgers through my gynecologist. I have worked with her for 2 years. My major issue was a very low AMH & my age. Two big things that were against me. Dr. Rodgers always gave me her recommendations after each failed attempt but it was always my decision on what route I wanted to take or if I wanted to keep going. When we moved from IUI to IVF, she never gave up. She was realistic in my percentage of success but would modify her protocol to make sure my chance of success was better each time. Yes, she is very busy, as most fertility doctors are. But I never went with a question unanswered by her nurses (Stephanie was a god sent) or her scheduler Shantel (talked me down a few times :p). I was never left confused about next steps, there responses or calls were immediate. And I always talked to Dr. Rodgers herself after any procedure (iui, retrieval, hgc test, hysterocopy, transfer). And here on now 6 months along with twins. She really did her magic on what I thought might never happen for me, and would have never been possible without her as my Doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Don’t let unsuccessful results deter you from your end goal. She won’t give up, if you don’t want to give up.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
she is very busy, as most fertility doctors are. But I never went with a question unanswered by her nurses (Stephanie was a god sent) or her scheduler Shantel (talked me down a few times :p). I was never left confused about next steps, there responses or calls were immediate. And I always talked to Dr. Rodgers herself after any procedure (iui, retrieval, hgc test, hysterocopy, transfer).
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
Protocol changed a little each time depending on results. Sometimes medication was given in higher doses or it was changed all together. And retrieval might be changed to iui if the eggs weren’t there.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I worked mostly with Stephanie, who answered any questions right away through portal or calls. Shantel was also great too.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I went to Hoffman office mostly for my blood work and ultrasound. Nora was amazing. Lauren who did blood work was great and Vida too. The were so friendly and I always would want to use that office. I also went to River North for my procedures, the staff was very friendly there as well.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Fertility treatments were expensive. Insurance covered a lot but some medicines were not covered.
We transitioned our care to Dr. Rodgers when our prior doctor retired. We were scared and worried about switching, but we were so blessed to start working with Dr. Rodgers for our frozen transfer. Her and her team are on top of things and always made us feel so cared for. She got the job done as we just delivered our baby girl all because of her - we love her for it.
It [Fertility Centers of Illinois] is a really busy clinic, so sometimes you feel like cattle being moved along the line. Overall, everyone is friendly and helpful. Each doctor we have encountered seems very knowledgeable and committed to patient success. After years of infertility we truly felt we would be successful here, and ultimately we were...Excellent with communication, coordination and patient care
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Impressed with her and her staff! We transitioned our care to Dr. Rodgers when our prior doctor retired. We were scared and worried about switching, but we were so blessed to start working with Dr. Rodgers for our frozen transfer. Her and her team are on top of things and always made us feel so cared for. She got the job done as we just delivered our baby girl all because of her - we love her for it.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
In general, try to ‘Google’ less and listen to your doctor, Dr. Rodgers in this case. I had been warned about all the awful things that could happen during IVF treatment and not one of those things happened to me. She’s an amazing doctor that cares about your success - let her do her job and guide you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
She took the time to really connect with my husband and I. She helped answer our questions and settle our nerves before our transfer.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
She did our embryo transfer for us. She lets us do a natural, gentle cycle, which I think was perfect for my body. I took minimal estrogen and started on progesterone. She timed the procedure perfectly and my first transfer took.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Amber)
Dr. Rodgers’ whole staff was amazing! Excellent with communication, coordination and patient care. I have been through my share of bad doctors and their staffs, and this was far from it. This team is excellent!
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
It is a really busy clinic, so sometimes you feel like cattle being moved along the line. Overall, everyone is friendly and helpful. Each doctor we have encountered seems very knowledgeable and committed to patient success. After years of infertility we truly felt we would be successful here, and ultimately we were. It took us time to wrap our heads around the fact we needed IVF, but once it was time we went to Dr. Jacobs first (who had since retired) and he did our retrieval where Dr. Rodgers carried out our transfer. For the both of them to get this right and have is be successful our first round of retrieval and transfer says everything to me. They get it and they got what seemed like an impossible job done. Go into appointments with questions and an open mind. This group of doctors know their stuff.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
We had good insurance so things never got too expensive for us. Dr. Jacobs was the one to educate us ahead of time on what policy to look for to cover more of our treatment. Transfer costs were fair.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Single transfer was definitely best in my case. I think we needed to see how my body would respond before even considering sticking multiples in.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I believe once I had to call back about a prescription refill, not a huge deal.
Dr Rogers would always call me after procedures to check on how I was doing and to review my results...I was never judged or treated differently due to my weight (bmi) or age for that matter. She always was encouraging and supportive during each step...Her presence on social media is so great for information and to see what’s really happening during these procedures...
All the nurses [at Fertility Centers of Illinois] were great. Quick and detailed responses in the portal...Appointments are every 15 minutes. They are on time and prepared for you. You do the ultrasound first and then to bloodwork. Nurses will call you with results later in the afternoon...you are able to go to different offices. Monitoring appointments are before work hours which is so nice. You are in and out of the office. They have a great portal which is a nice way to communicate with your nurse and keep track of appts...
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Where do I begin! Dr Rogers has made our dreams come true. We are happily pregnant after our year fertility journey. I came to Dr Rogers because she was a size inclusive doctor. I was never judged or treated differently due to my weight (bmi) or age for that matter. She always was encouraging and supportive during each step. She advised what tests would be best and was always assuring me we would have our baby. Her presence on social media is so great for information and to see what’s really happening during these procedures. I strong recommend Dr Rogers if you are looking for start or restart your fertility journey
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Follow her on Instagram. You can your patent can learn so much. Soren Mondays are great!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr Rogers would always call me after procedures to check on how I was doing and to review my results. When I got Covid when I was newly pregnant I emailed her and she immediately emailed back with tips and things to watch for.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
My biggest take away was going to big tests. Due to my age we did the genetic testing. After my first retrieval we had 8 embryos and all were abnormal so we then did chromosome testing. When we did our first transfer did didn’t work so we did the Emma/Alice tests. These were mostly all out of pocket but made a big difference in my treatment and success.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
All the nurses were great. Quick and detailed responses in the portal.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
It’s nice that you are able to go to different offices. Monitoring appointments are before work hours which is so nice. You are in and out of the office. They have a great portal which is a nice way to communicate with your nurse and keep track of appts.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Appointments are every 15 minutes. They are on time and prepared for you. You do the ultrasound first and then to bloodwork. Nurses will call you with results later in the afternoon.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I met my insurance deductible pretty quick which covered my office and procedures. My out of pocket was for the elective testing like genetics and Emma/Alice. My meds were mostly covered but some did have some bigger copays.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
We had to transfer only one embryo since it was tested as normal
[Dr. Rodgers] uses a lot of technical jargon when talking with patients which is very overwhelming...Most of my procedures were completed by different doctors and I rarely had any immediate follow up from Dr Rodgers after a procedure....I had concerns during treatment regarding whether my doctor was individualizing my treatment or giving it the necessary time to analyze my results...she did try to get me medication samples to keep costs down which I appreciated.
[At Fertility Centers of Illinois] It is often extremely difficult to get a hold of someone via phone as messages aren’t returned promptly....The financial department is not transparent in the cost of services and will not provide a line item report of services. Costs are underestimated after additional fees are added. Keep track of every appointment and test to make sure you aren’t being charged twice or charged a different price for the same test.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Doctor Rodgers is an intelligent doctor with a long history in the field. She uses a lot of technical jargon when talking with patients which is very overwhelming. I had to begin studying fertility diagnostics and biology to better understand all the terms used by my doctor and the team. I had concerns during treatment regarding whether my doctor was individualizing my treatment or giving it the necessary time to analyze my results. Most of the treatment decisions seemed to be off the cuff decisions made during the consult. I am an out of pocket patient and she did try to get me medication samples to keep costs down which I appreciated. Most of my procedures were completed by different doctors and I rarely had any immediate follow up from Dr Rodgers after a procedure.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Be prepared to be your own advocate and study terminology and diagnostic tools.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
During my treatment I often felt like a number by my doctor as she would routinely need to look up my basic history while we spoke and she never had any recollection of things we previously discussed.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
Cycle 1: High dose of medications (Menopur, ganarelix, Follistim, hcg trigger)-26 eggs, 1 normal embryo (transfer unsuccessful) (long recovery and high discomfort/pain after retrieval)
Cycle 2: high dose of medication (Menopur, Ganarelix, Follisitim, Omnitrope, hcg trigger) 16 eggs, 1 normal embryo (chemical pregnancy) (long recovery after retrieval)
Cycle 3: high dose of medication: Letrozole, Dexamethasone, Follistim, Menopur, estrogen patches, hcg trigger)-28 eggs, 0 normal embryos (long recovery after retrieval, emergency room for pain)
Cycle 4: leuprolide, Menopur, low dose HCG, follistim-lower dose of medication, cycle cancelled due to high estrogen
Cycle 5: low dose meds-Ganarelix, follistim, Menopur, low dose HCG, Lupron trigger) 12 eggs (cycle in progress)
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Amber Kiddie)
Amber has been a great communicator and compassionate.
Overall, the nursing staff is friendly.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
It is often extremely difficult to get a hold of someone via phone as messages aren’t returned promptly. They encourage you to use the online patient portal but those messages are often not responded to promptly or only 1 of 3 questions will receive an answer.
The financial department is not transparent in the cost of services and will not provide a line item report of services. Costs are underestimated after additional fees are added. Keep track of every appointment and test to make sure you aren’t being charged twice or charged a different price for the same test.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
IVF (with monitoring)-$9300
Embryo biopsy-$2600
Cryo/storage-$1525
Average cycle medication-$4400
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I cannot answer this question as I have had only a few viable embryos.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Lost appointments
Failed to call with results
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
The system in place during IVF is not conducive to a stress-free cycle. For my first few cycles I had bloodwork and ultrasound completed at a local OBGYN office as I live in a different state from the clinic. I would receive calls at 6:30 PM from my FCI staff that results were not received from my local clinic. However, FCI would report that their own fax system was down but yet I would be reprimanded for faxes not being transferred. Also, these late night calls would mean I was unable to fix the mistake as my local office would be closed for the night.
They also often called with results in the evening and would sometimes have you increase your medication dosage or add a medication that wasn’t on your list and therefore you didn’t have said medication.
We did Clomid once, IUI twice, then IVF once and got our first pregnancy [with Dr Rodgers]. Our second pregnancy was after two negative IVF rounds. She was very helpful with how to modify my drugs and protocol due to how I was reacting to the Progesterone in Oil...She is kind, understanding (as she herself went through IVF) and personable. She made us feel heard and understood...was very willing to work within our unique requests. We were very cautious in how many embryos we created and how high of dose of drugs I was on. She explained everything very knowledgeable and was very understanding and kind to work with us with much compassion. And we got two healthy pregnancies with her.
[Fertility Centers of Illinois is a] "Well oiled machine" They got me in for appointments when needed and didn't make me feel an inconvenience. They got me in and out in very good time! Little wait time, especially compared to normal Dr. appointments. Weakness: we felt the costs for self pay weren't very clear.[The nurse is] Quick, kind, helpful responses. She took the time to care for me well...[monitoring appointments were] Great! the staff was so helpful...Our billing person forgot to send into insurance our request for coverage one round, but thankfully got it in right before we began. It was very stressful and frustrating process. But, Dr. Rodgers and our nurse Amber did all they could on their end to push it forward with their billing person.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers was very willing to work within our unique requests. We were very cautious in how many embryos we created and how high of dose of drugs I was on. She explained everything very knowledgeable and was very understanding and kind to work with us with much compassion. And we got two healthy pregnancies with her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Go to her! She's great!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers is amazing. She is kind, understanding (as she herself went through IVF) and personable. She made us feel heard and understood.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
We did Clomid once, IUI twice, then IVF once and got our first pregnancy. Our second pregnancy was after two negative IVF rounds. She was very helpful with how to modify my drugs and protocol due to how I was reacting to the Progesterone in Oil.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Amber Kiddie)
Quick, kind, helpful responses. She took the time to care for me well.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
"Well oiled machine" They got me in for appointments when needed and didn't make me feel an inconvenience. They got me in and out in very good time! Little wait time, especially compared to normal Dr. appointments. Weakness: we felt the costs for self pay weren't very clear.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Great! the staff was so helpful
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Depended on what our insurance was like that year! Clomid and IUI were self pay- cost sent to us were fussy. Thankfully it ended up being less than we expected. IVF in 2017 was very manageable because we had good insurance. 2019 it was very tricky since we had a different insurance plan that had a lifetime allowance on IVF procedure and IVF drugs. Our billing person forgot to send into insurance our request for coverage one round, but thankfully got it in right before we began. It was very stressful and frustrating process. But, Dr. Rodgers and our nurse Amber did all they could on their end to push it forward with their billing person.
My first cycle [with Dr. Allison Rodgers] was clomid. My next two cycles were letrozole. We switched from clomid to letrozole per my request. We are currently moving on to IUI... seems to care about what we want for treatment. She takes what we feel into consideration. She also respects our religious beliefs and doesn't push us into doing anything that we are uncomfortable with...is always willing to answer our questions. She never acts like we are bothering her by asking questions. I wanted to try a different medication and she was open to discussing that option with me.
Orders weren't ordered by the morning I went in [to Fertility Centers of Illinois], but they did the tests anyway and the nurse put the orders in when she came in. One cycle it was confusing as to which protocol I was doing. The doctor said one thing but the nurse said another. I had my nurse confirm with the doctor so we could get it figured out...You have to be really on top of billing. Keep track of all bills and when you make payments. Keep a detailed list! Also, advocate for yourself! If your doctor/nurse isn't in, someone else will need to fill in. If they tell you something that you think is incorrect or your nurse/doctor does it differently, mention it. It doesn't hurt to clarify and ask!
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers is always willing to answer our questions. She never acts like we are bothering her by asking questions. I wanted to try a different medication and she was open to discussing that option with me.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Go into an appointment with your questions written down. She doesn't rush you and will answer all your questions, but she sometimes talks fast. For me, it was easy to get sidetracked while in our meetings. Writing everything down kept me on track during our meetings and made sure all my questions were answered.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers seems to care about what we want for treatment. She takes what we feel into consideration. She also respects our religious beliefs and doesn't push us into doing anything that we are uncomfortable with.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
My first cycle was clomid. My next two cycles were letrozole. We switched from clomid to letrozole per my request. We are currently moving on to IUI.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Amber)
Amber was great. She always answered my questions the same day. Sometimes it was later in the day even if I submitted/called earlier in the day. However, she always called/messaged back. She seemed to really care about my questions and if she was ever unsure about anything she asked the doctor and called me back with answers.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
You have to be really on top of billing. Keep track of all bills and when you make payments. Keep a detailed list! Also, advocate for yourself! If your doctor/nurse isn't in, someone else will need to fill in. If they tell you something that you think is incorrect or your nurse/doctor does it differently, mention it. It doesn't hurt to clarify and ask!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I have insurance so it's just been my normal deductible for now until I reach my limit.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Failed to order appropriate test
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Orders weren't ordered by the morning I went in, but they did the tests anyway and the nurse put the orders in when she came in. One cycle it was confusing as to which protocol I was doing. The doctor said one thing but the nurse said another. I had my nurse confirm with the doctor so we could get it figured out.
She’s ok. I am irritated by the disingenuous way she always says “I’ll be with you every step of the way” and “let’s make you a baby.” It felt canned and ridiculous after a year of failure. She acted like she was always looking at my chart for the first time. ... For my IUIs, she had me on Letrozole (varying the amounts) and Ovidrel trigger, with Crinone, PIO, or Endometrin. For my IVF, she started me on a very conservative dose of Gonal-f, Menopur, and Ganirelix.
Front desk staff [FCI] is very nice. Phlebotomist Beth is great. Financial counselors are not very communicative, Gwen is not very good at explaining things. ... hey didn’t call my meds into the pharmacy because I owed some money. They knew I was leaving on a trip the next day. Instead of asking me for payment, they withheld my medication prescription.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
She’s ok. I am irritated by the disingenuous way she always says “I’ll be with you every step of the way” and “let’s make you a baby.” It felt canned and ridiculous after a year of failure. She acted like she was always looking at my chart for the first time. I wish she had spent more time on my treatment plans.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dont expect the nurse to help you. You have to advocate for yourself, do your own research, and count your medications every day.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Treatment plans were communicated vaguely and at the last minute. I didn’t feel like they were looking at my chart from all angles before making decisions.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
For my IUIs, she had me on Letrozole (varying the amounts) and Ovidrel trigger, with Crinone, PIO, or Endometrin. For my IVF, she started me on a very conservative dose of Gonal-f, Menopur, and Ganirelix. It resulted in a much smaller number of eggs than I was hoping for and I was unhappy that she didn’t increase my dosage sooner.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Ashley)
Ashley is nice. She never answers all my questions when I write in on the patient portal- if I ask 2 questions, she will half answer one. Medication instructions are sometimes confusing, and they are always disorganized. I wish they would provide clear calendars or have an option in the portal for you to see what you need to take each day, along with a reminder of when/how much of a refill you need to get. I found medication management very difficult while working a full time job.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Front desk staff is very nice. Phlebotomist Beth is great. Financial counselors are not very communicative, Gwen is not very good at explaining things. My nurse Ashley is not great - I’ve never felt more disorganized in my life than when I had to deal with her confusing ways of explaining what meds I should take.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
IVF was about $13,000. Genetic testing of embryos was $4,000 at the clinic plus $2,500 at RGI.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
They didn’t call my meds into the pharmacy because I owed some money. They knew I was leaving on a trip the next day. Instead of asking me for payment, they withheld my medication prescription. I paid immediately when I realized that I had a balance, and then had to find a pharmacy on my vacation to get the medication from - I had to call over a dozen pharmacies. It was infuriating.
Dr. Rodgers always remembered us and was prepared for every appointment....She is very determined to make you successful. I am one of 4 friends who has used her and we all have gotten pregnant. She takes time with you and is very blunt about her expectations.... Before egg retrievals she did not use birth control but instead waited for natural ovulation before starting estrogen patches and Lupron.
Everyone [at Fertility Centers of Illinois] was very friendly. My only negative would be that when booking appointments they would often transfer you back and forth to other clinics depending on availability and that became annoying to repeat yourself.... I could call the office and most times talk directly to my nurse. We also communicated via email almost daily. She was very present and responded to all emails.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
She is very determined to make you successful. I am one of 4 friends who has used her and we all have gotten pregnant. She takes time with you and is very blunt about her expectations. She is all business but is also very compassionate.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Make sure you are ready to hear the hard truth. She is willing to do whatever you want for the most part but does not want to waste your time or money.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers always remembered us and was prepared for every appointment. She always asked about our adopted son and remembered his name.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
Before egg retrievals she did not use birth control but instead waited for natural ovulation before starting estrogen patches and Lupron. Then after your period started, the stimulation meds began (follistim, ganirellix, menopur). I then had appointments every 2 days for monitoring. We also did ERA cycles to make sure Lining was receptive before frozen transfers. For transfers we used Lupron, estradiol patches, vaginal estrogen, and progesterone in oil.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Ashley)
I could call the office and most times talk directly to my nurse. We also communicated via email almost daily. She was very present and responded to all emails.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Everyone was very friendly. My only negative would be that when booking appointments they would often transfer you back and forth to other clinics depending on availability and that became annoying to repeat yourself.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
We were very lucky to have insurance coverage for IVF. We were only responsible for our copays until our deductible was met.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Dr. Rodgers is usually against multiple embryo transfer until several attempts have failed or embryo quality is not ideal.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
In regards to my pregnancy test results, no one called me that day with my results. Come to find out they had me down for a different day so we’re not looking for my results. Thankfully I was able to get the results from my OB that day.
[Dr. Allison Rodgers was] Never focused in consultations. Always typing her progress notes during our visits. Repeating herself each visit to make me feel even more like she had no idea what was going on...She has ordered incorrect medication for me more than once. She tries to fit each patient into a predetermined course of action instead of making a plan of action based off of the patient. She defended her nurses when they were clearly in the wrong on multiple occasions. She was sarcastic and completely tuned out during our face to face visits.
I tried the highland park location [of Fertility Centers of Illinois] and I had a hard time getting prompt communication from nursing. I then switched over to the Buffalo Grove location and communication was a little better, but the clinic was so busy it was difficult to feel truly cared for. Everything was rushed and nursing was only available via email or a call back. If you’re going to spend thousands of dollars, this is not how you want to be treated. The support staff (receptionists, phlebotomists and others were very nice).
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Will not take responsibility for negligent care even when confronted. She tries to multitask instead of paying attention to her patient. She has ordered incorrect medication for me more than once. She tries to fit each patient into a predetermined course of action instead of making a plan of action based off of the patient. She defended her nurses when they were clearly in the wrong on multiple occasions. She was sarcastic and completely tuned out during our face to face visits.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Run!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Never focused in consultations. Always typing her progress notes during our visits. Repeating herself each visit to make me feel even more like she had no idea what was going on.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
She prescribed me solely endometrin and my progesterone level did not rise because my body did not absorb it. She questioned if I was inserting it correctly and the documented in my medical chart that I had stopped taking it, which was untrue. Now that I have a better physician I know that research shows endometrin alone is rarely successful. I should have been prescribed PIO or a PIO and vag insert combo.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Nancy and Allison )
The communication between nursing staff and myself was horrendous. I would always have to follow up with Rxs, appointments and nothing was proactive about them. I did meet a few nurses with a very sweet disposition, but unfortunately that was not the norm. I felt as if I had to manage my own care.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
They seem to only be interested in making money not whether or not you have a baby. I tried the highland park location and I had a hard time getting prompt communication from nursing. I then switched over to the Buffalo Grove location and communication was a little better, but the clinic was so busy it was difficult to feel truly cared for. Everything was rushed and nursing was only available via email or a call back. If you’re going to spend thousands of dollars, this is not how you want to be treated. The support staff (receptionists, phlebotomists and others were very nice).
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
12,000
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
She didn’t seem to care one way or the other.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost paperwork
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Failed to consider drug intolerance
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
The wrong medication was ordered several times. The correct, essential medication was not ordered. Lots of discrepancies between the information relayed from nurses and the info from the doctor.
Dr. Rodgers has provided a caring service. She really shows that she cares for patients success and wants to do anything to get them there. She is always staying up to date on the latest studies too. We have not had the success we have been looking for yet but Dr. Rodgers has made us aware of our options...will be there with you every step of the way. She is not at every appointment you might have but she is very open to you emailing her with any questions too!
Protocols
[Fertility Centers of Illinois] overall is responsive. Waiting times for appointments tend to be longer than I'd like. Sometimes it's been over a 30min wait. Billing is sometimes a little funky. I get balances each visit but nothing in the mail for a couple of months....I absolutely love my nurses at the clinic. I feel as though they are my friend but so supportive along the way. Fertility has touched them in some point of their life and they really understand. I couldn't ask for better nurses.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers has provided a caring service. She really shows that she cares for patients success and wants to do anything to get them there. She is always staying up to date on the latest studies too. We have not had the success we have been looking for yet but Dr. Rodgers has made us aware of our options.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers will be there with you every step of the way. She is not at every appointment you might have but she is very open to you emailing her with any questions too!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Allison Rodgers has been through a journey herself and really cares about her patients. She is open to listening and trying things to get her patients at a point of success.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
Dr. Rodgers really believes in the ERA biopsies to check when the body is receptive to receiving an embryo. We did an ERA before another transfer of my embryos from my first clinic. We found out I am receptive at the right time and moved on to a transfer. When that transfer failed we moved on two a fresh egg retrieval with transfer. I was on gonal f, letrozole, menopur and cetrotide. All these drugs were standard for producing healthy eggs.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Amber and Nancy)
I absolutely love my nurses at the clinic. I feel as though they are my friend but so supportive along the way. Fertility has touched them in some point of their life and they really understand. I couldn't ask for better nurses.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
The clinic overall is responsive. Waiting times for appointments tend to be longer than I'd like. Sometimes it's been over a 30min wait. Billing is sometimes a little funky. I get balances each visit but nothing in the mail for a couple of months.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
We had some IVF insurance coverage at this clinic. With two retrievals, we still have to pay for medication out of pocket and the coinsurance. Overall under $10,000.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Dr. Rodgers was open to transferring 2 untested but with pgs, transferring 1 was recommended.
When we had our consultations with Dr. Rodgers I felt like a human. After that I felt like a number. Or rather I didn't feel like I was high on the spectrum of concern, especially in our last cycle. New protocol was introduced by my nurse and not Dr. Rodgers. I felt like I was not important. It made me wonder if IUI patients were treated differently than IVF patients...For our third (canceled) IUI my cycle started off poorly due to my baseline testing but treatment was recommended anyway. I questioned it but was encouraged to continue. I felt like my personal case was not really being considered when these decisions were being made. It felt like they were trying to "pull out all the stops" without considering me as a whole person.
I loved my ultrasound technician at the Lindenhurst clinic [of Fertility Centers of Illinois]! She always made me feel comfortable. I appreciated that there were multiple locations that I could go to depending on my needs. The billing is not great. I would often not get bills in the mail but go to an appointment and be notified of an outstanding balance. The bills were very hard to read and understand. I tried to contact billing via patient portal and never got a reply.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Face to face interactions with Dr. Rodgers was great. We really clicked with her and were very happy to have her for our doctor, she felt like the right fit. My first two IUIs were fine, though I didn't see Dr. Rodgers for any of the treatments. I only spoke to her when she called to tell us the negative results.
For our third (canceled) IUI my cycle started off poorly due to my baseline testing but treatment was recommended anyway. I questioned it but was encouraged to continue. I felt like my personal case was not really being considered when these decisions were being made. It felt like they were trying to "pull out all the stops" without considering me as a whole person.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Reach out directly to her if you need to. I sort of missed the memo on that and only communicated with the nurses. Also speak up if something doesn't feel right. I regret not doing those things.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
When we had our consultations with Dr. Rodgers I felt like a human. After that I felt like a number. Or rather I didn't feel like I was high on the spectrum of concern, especially in our last cycle. New protocol was introduced by my nurse and not Dr. Rodgers. I felt like I was not important. It made me wonder if IUI patients were treated differently than IVF patients.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
I had a mass on my ovary. Dr. Rodgers recommended surgery first. She recommended a great surgeon who took out the benign tumor and minimal endometriosis. After that Dr. Rodgers recommended Letrozole IUI/timed intercourse or IVF. We chose to try THREE medicated IUI cycles. For the first one I took 2.5 mg for 5 days. I ended up with 1 follicle but it took a while and wasn't very large. I used ovidrel for the trigger shot. I was directed to take progesterone in oil daily. The cycle ended with a negative result. The next cycle was cancelled due to an estrogen producing cyst. Then we try again with 5 days of 5 mg of Letrozole. Again, it took a while and I only got one follicle, slightly larger. I used ovidrel for the trigger shot. I was on estrogen twice a day and progesterone once a day. It resulted in a negative test. For this cycle my FSH was high on baseline and was told I was less likely to respond to treatment but it was recommended we continued with the cycle. I took 7.5 mg for 5 days. I showed no results. I was recommended 100 IU of gonal-F/follistim for three days but that quickly changed to 300 IU for 4 days. I started showing a response and it as recommended to increase to 600 IU for 2 to 4 days. At that point we decided to stop treatment because the injectable medications were not a protocol we ever discussed with Dr. Rodgers and I had become increasingly uncomfortable with the way treatment was progressing.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie)
I had mixed reactions with the nurses. We went to two different clinics so we experienced I believe 4 different nurses. Nancy was great when I talked to her after a consultation. There was a nurse I did not know that talked to me during the cycle where I had the cyst who was rude (NOT Nancy, Stephanie or Amber). Stephanie was good at explaining when I asked her to go over details again. I know she relayed Dr. Rodgers treatment plan but I did feel like I was encouraged to go forward with treatment when it wasn't a great idea. I had a good talk with Amber and another nurse when we were deciding to stop the treatment cycle.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I loved my ultrasound technician at the Lindenhurst clinic! She always made me feel comfortable. I appreciated that there were multiple locations that I could go to depending on my needs. The billing is not great. I would often not get bills in the mail but go to an appointment and be notified of an outstanding balance. The bills were very hard to read and understand. I tried to contact billing via patient portal and never got a reply.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Honestly the billing was so confusing I don't think I could tell you how much different aspects cost. I will say it was in the estimated cost they provided. $2000 per IUI.
Dr. Rodgers is really a cheerleader for all her patients. She takes the time to answer all questions ... and personally calls you with good or bad news. I feel that she really has your back and tailors treatment based on each individual case. ... The only negative that I would say about her is that due to the amount of patients, she sometimes has to be reminded of things like meds, what protocol you followed for your last transfer but that should be probably expected as I am not her only patient.
Getting an appointment is pretty easy and the entire staff [Fertility Centers of Illinois] is super friendly. For monitoring, they try to adhere as close as possible to your appointment time. The most that I had to wait was approximately 15 minutes. It's super helpful that they are open as early as 6:30 am for appointment for those of us who have to get to work early. ... Ashley [nurse] is pretty amazing. Anytime that I had questions, she has made sure to call me or email me back the same day.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers is a compassionate and knowledgeable doctor. She may be younger than most RE's but I honestly thing she takes her time to really understand different treatment options and thinks outside the box. She is not afraid to be challenged and answers all questions and concerns with honesty and with data to back it up if needed. She will try anything and everything that makes sense for your treatment. The only negative that I would say about her is that due to the amount of patients, she sometimes has to be reminded of things like meds, what protocol you followed for your last transfer but that should be probably expected as I am not her only patient. I never have felt rushed during any consults with her and she makes sure to be there for all transfers and procedures. I really wish that I had done a cycle with her with my own eggs.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Once you are a patient and in treatment, make sure you remind her of things that could be important.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers is really a cheerleader for all her patients. She takes the time to answer all questions (even has answered emails on the weekends and when on vacation which i felt horrible about!) and personally calls you with good or bad news. I feel that she really has your back and tailors treatment based on each individual case.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
Before the first FET I had a saline sono and ERA done. FET #1 included an endometrial scratch, lupron, estrace, estrogen patches, antibiotic, baby asprin, and PIO. I got pregnant for the 1st time ever but sadly miscarried a couple weeks later. After the miscarriage we ran a couple of blood tests and everything was ok. Before FET #2, we did an endometrial biopsy to look for inflammation which came back negative so we proceed with the same protocol as the 1st FET and it was a negative. For our last FET, we added predisone and lovenox (everything but the kitchen sink) and sadly we had another negative. After this last negative, we decided to run a couple of more blood tests and will possibly do an EIP before our next transfer.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Ashley)
Ashley is pretty amazing. Anytime that I had questions, she has made sure to call me or email me back the same day. I never have felt rushed to get off the phone or to keep emails short with her. When she has not been available, all of her other nurses have been nothing short of amazing either. This is honestly the first group of nurses that I have felt the most comfortable and least stressed with. They are a HUGE group of cheerleader for all of Dr. Rodger's patients.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Many people don't like FCI and refer to it as a "cattle call" but I believe that's coming from those patients that visit the River North location which is the biggest and busiest with multiple doctors and not to mention where all the procedures take place. There are so many other locations that FCI has in the suburbs where you definitely don't get that feeling. Getting an appointment is pretty easy and the entire staff is super friendly. For monitoring, they try to adhere as close as possible to your appointment time. The most that I had to wait was approximately 15 minutes. It's super helpful that they are open as early as 6:30 am for appointment for those of us who have to get to work early.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Some of the things that went wrong was not with Dr. Rodgers and her team but with another Dr. at FCI. After that horrible and beyond frustrating experience, that's when I decided to switch over to Dr. Rodgers. It had anything to do with FCI it's self, but that Dr. and his completely unorganized staff.
Dr. Rodger’s always explains things in a way that is easy to understand. She always encourages questions and she’s great at what she does. ... So far I am taking Levothryoxine, a prenatal vitamin, vitamin D, inostisol, and other supplements to prepare my body and hormones before starting the IVF process. ... Because at the end of every appointment Dr. Rodger’s has said “let’s get you pregnant” and she is so kind every time I consult with her.
One weakness is the distance - I travel to Buffalo Grove [Fertility Centers of Illinois] and live in Crystal Lake. Other than that, everything is great. The office is clean, the staff is very nice. Everyone is knowledgeable and compassionate. ... Stephanie is great at working around my schedule to communicate with me either through the patient portal or over the phone. She always makes sure my questions are answered. And she is reassuring every time I talk to her. She is also great at communicating with my husband (who is not in the health care business).
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodger’s always explains things in a way that is easy to understand. She always encourages questions and she’s great at what she does. She had to go through treatments herself and she’s living proof that IVF is successful.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Ask questions. Be an advocate for your care.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Because at the end of every appointment Dr. Rodger’s has said “let’s get you pregnant” and she is so kind every time I consult with her.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
I haven’t started IVF yet but I know we will have to do egg and sperm retrieval. So far I am taking Levothryoxine, a prenatal vitamin, vitamin D, inostisol, and other supplements to prepare my body and hormones before starting the IVF process.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie )
Stephanie is great at working around my schedule to communicate with me either through the patient portal or over the phone. She always makes sure my questions are answered. And she is reassuring every time I talk to her. She is also great at communicating with my husband (who is not in the health care business).
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
One weakness is the distance - I travel to Buffalo Grove and live in Crystal Lake.
Other than that, everything is great. The office is clean, the staff is very nice. Everyone is knowledgeable and compassionate.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
My total estimated treatment cost is $10,181-$13,361. The deposit to start treatment is $2,500. I’ve already spent >$1,000 on appointments, lab work, medication, and supplements. The treatment will include IVF (early monitoring, monitoring, retrieval, embryology, and transfer), cryopreservation, sperm storage, progresterone, etc.
My husband had a vericocele procedure done and between that and medication, his sperm quality wasn't improving. Dr. Rodgers found that I had a low egg count for my age. She didn't want us to waste time or money on IUIs so she suggested we jump right to IVF. ... Dr. Rodgers was kind and honest. She explained everything clearly and truly helped us make the hardest of decisions.
I always was able to easily schedule appointments unless it was with Lindenhurst [FCI]. Make sure to just schedule an appointment before you leave because they don't always have their phones on due to it being a lower volume clinic. ... I visited 4 different FCI clinics and most of the staff was genuinely kind and caring. My favorite was nurse Amber Kiddie at the Highland Park office.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers was kind and honest. She explained everything clearly and truly helped us make the hardest of decisions. She didn't perform any of my procedures unfortunately but I was happy with the other doctors that treated me on those days.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Be prepared to be overwhelmed and take notes. She has gone through infertility herself and will tell you what's up!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Many of the staff remembered me and called me by name.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
My husband had a vericocele procedure done and between that and medication, his sperm quality wasn't improving. Dr. Rodgers found that I had a low egg count for my age. She didn't want us to waste time or money on IUIs so she suggested we jump right to IVF.
Our first cycle consisted of a prep cycle with cetritide and patches then the stimulation contained Gonal F, Menopur and Cetrotide. Unfortunately all 4 embryos that survived at first were only compact embryos and had a much lower chance of survival. No embryos were able to be frozen and we got a negative pregnancy test.
Cycle #2 also consisted of a prep cycle with patches and Cetrotide. The simulation was changed by adding the Lupron protocol which made the cycle a little longer. It also contained Gonal F and Menopur. This cycle we had the best of embryos! We have 3 frozen embryos and I'm currently 12 wks pregnant with our 1st place embryo.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Amber Kiddie)
I visited 4 different FCI clinics and most of the staff was genuinely kind and caring. My favorite was nurse Amber Kiddie at the Highland Park office. She was so friendly and she always promptly responded to my emails or phone calls. The only issue I sometimes had was with over confident nurses who did my blood draws and didn't believe I was a difficult stick.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Highland Park and Lindenhurst was where I spent most of my time and they were very pleasant. I always was able to easily schedule appointments unless it was with Lindenhurst. Make sure to just schedule an appointment before you leave because they don't always have their phones on due to it being a lower volume clinic.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
We did not have insurance coverage for our treatments but there was partial coverage for diagnostic testing and consultations. I believe it was less than $100 per consultation visit with Dr. Rodgers.
Dr. Rodgers will only do a single embryo transfer when the embryo is tested. Because we did not test and had multiple failures we transferred two embryos and became pregnant with our son...had a good bedside manner, but at the same time didn't sugar coat stuff and made sure she was clear on her expectations/next steps. After multiple failures she was a breathe of fresh air with a new approach. Not afraid to try new things and took the time to really talk through multiple options.
[Fertility Centers of Illinois has] Good processes, and great lab, but just a lot of patients, so some doctors just have too much volume to keep clear track. Most days I was in and out for monitoring appointments within 45 minutes, but there were definitely busy days where it was an hour or more... the nursing staff is great...it was not a month plus wait to get on her [Dr. Rodger's] schedule like it seems to be with a lot of other doctors.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr Rodgers had a good bedside manner, but at the same time didn't sugar coat stuff and made sure she was clear on her expectations/next steps. After multiple failures she was a breathe of fresh air with a new approach. Not afraid to try new things and took the time to really talk through multiple options.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
She likes to run tests and is a big fan of the ERA. She will talk through all of the options with you. While you wont regularly communicate directly with her, the nursing staff is great. I did also love that when I did need to meet with her it was not a month plus wait to get on her schedule like it seems to be with a lot of other doctors.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr Rodgers and her nursing staff are extremely personable and follow up on everything in an extremely timely manner.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
IVF retrieval, ERA, and then a frozen transfer protocol that was a "stimulated cycle."
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Amber)
The nursing staff, specifically Amber was amazing! She was always quick to get back to me and took the time to clearly answer all of my questions. I also loved that she typically called to talk through things.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Good processes, and great lab, but just a lot of patients, so some doctors just have too much volume to keep clear track. Most days I was in and out for monitoring appointments within 45 minutes, but there were definitely busy days where it was an hour or more.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I was lucky and had insurance cover a lot of our costs.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Dr. Rodgers will only do a single embryo transfer when the embryo is tested. Because we did not test and had multiple failures we transferred two embryos and became pregnant with our son.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
There were times when a nurse (not Dr. Rogers team - different doctor) called with the incorrect details on my protocol.
Dr. Rodgers is compassionate, and focused. She tailors each treatment protocol based on the individual she is treating, and is first and foremost concerned with the wellbeing of her patients, both physically and mentally. She has acted as both doctor and therapist during our experience, and never rushes her appointments no matter how busy she is. She is honest, yet optimistic, which is critical for me as I tend to expect the worst. I wish I had found her sooner. She is a true blessing. I know that if we do not have a child out of this, Dr. Rodgers has truely given it everything she’s got.
Every question, every need, every concern my husband or I had was met with enthusiasm and urgency [by the nursing staff at Fertility Centers of Illinois]...Monitoring appointments were always quick and efficient. I would arrive and be back in my car to leave within 10-15 minutes usually...Due to my age and quality of embryos, we have decided with Dr. Rodgers advice to transfer 1 embryo for our first transfer.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers is compassionate, and focused. She tailors each treatment protocol based on the individual she is treating, and is first and foremost concerned with the wellbeing of her patients, both physically and mentally. She has acted as both doctor and therapist during our experience, and never rushes her appointments no matter how busy she is. She is honest, yet optimistic, which is critical for me as I tend to expect the worst. I wish I had found her sooner. She is a true blessing. I know that if we do not have a child out of this, Dr. Rodgers has truely given it everything she’s got.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Don’t hesitate. Go see her now. She will change your life!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers experienced infertility first hand, and underwent IVF to have her daughter. I can see the pain in her eyes when I discuss my struggle thus far. After my egg retrieval, I experienced OHSS and Dr. Rodgers personally called to check on me. Upon arriving to my post retrieval consultation, she hugged my husband and I and took time to discuss our results, the next step, and any concerns we may have.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
I have a high ovarian reserve and my husbands sperm quality is wonderful. I just have severely blocked tubes which couldn’t be fixed via surgery. She began my dosage very low to try to prevent OHSS. I was on 75 unita of Menopur and 100 units of Gonal-F to start treatment. We slowly increased my dosage until my ovaries responded correctly. At retrevial we got 27 eggs, fertilized 20 with conventional insemination, and got 14 total embryos (8 1aa, 2 1ab, and 4 1bb). I ended up with OHSS so we had to put off transfer to be safe. We never expected this outcome.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie)
Every question, every need, every concern my husband or I had was met with enthusiasm and urgency.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
The whole system utilized the same nursing staff seamlessly between each of the different locations. No matter which location we were to visit, the staff was completely up to date with our case. My only complaint would be regarding the parking options at the River North location. Street parking was our only option on a few occasions which would leave us walking a couple blocks to get to the clinic. It was well worth it though.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Monitoring appointments were always quick and efficient. I would arrive and be back in my car to leave within 10-15 minutes usually.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Insurance covered some of my expenses, however a retrieval cycle came to around $12,00
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Due to my age and quality of embryos, we have decided with Dr. Rodgers advice to transfer 1 embryo for our first transfer.
I loved her hugs and she [Dr. Rodgers] was so caring. She always gave me the strength to continue to try another cycle. She wanted me to get pregnant just as much as I did. I would recommend her to anyone...She was there for me the entire time. Any questions I had she answered, and I had a lot. I went through 7 IVF cycles. I came to Dr Rodger after my 2nd egg retrieval that did not make it to a transfer. I was told I had bad egg quality but we she was going to try her best to help me become a mother. We tried so many different protocols. After every unsuccessful cycle we had a consultation to review my results and how well my body reacted to the meds.
Dr Rodgers and her team of nurses and colleagues [at Fertility Center of Illinois] were amazing. They were with me every step of the way...She [nurse] was so sweet with her southern accent. She was always there for me anytime. Especially when I freaked out about my meds. If she was not available I could always reach her by voicemail or email. If she was not available someone else always was. They have a great team of doctors and nurses. I never felt alone.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers had to go through fertility treatments herself so she knew what was going through. She was there for me the entire time. Any questions I had she answered, and I had a lot. I went through 7 IVF cycles. I came to Dr Rodger after my 2nd egg retrieval that did not make it to a transfer. I was told I had bad egg quality but we she was going to try her best to help me become a mother. We tried so many different protocols. After every unsuccessful cycle we had a consultation to review my results and how well my body reacted to the meds. Then we came up with a new plan for the next cycle. I loved her hugs and she was so caring. She always gave me the strength to continue to try another cycle. She wanted me to get pregnant just as much as I did. I would recommend her to anyone.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Just be open and honest about your wants and fears. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr Rodgers and her team of nurses and colleagues were amazing. They were with me every step of the way. She held my hand the hold time. Every time I saw her she gave me a hug. They were hug that were needed, especially after every unsuccessful cycle. During every consultation she would say to me " let's get you a baby". She gave me courage to not give up when I wasn't sure what to do next.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
I had so many different protocols that I can't remember them all. I was on several daily supplements to improve my egg quality plus a prenatal vitamin. My daily injections varied cycle by cycle based on how my body reacted to the previous cycles.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie Crissie)
She was so sweet with her southern accent. She was always there for me anytime. Especially when I freaked out about my meds. If she was not available I could always reach her by voicemail or email. If she was not available someone else always was. They have a great team of doctors and nurses. I never felt alone.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
They were always so courteous and caring. They always made me feel like they were on my team. I was always able to get an appointment even if I had to go to a different location. They have so many locations.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I always did multiple embryo transfers due to my age and poor egg quality. I was terrified at first because how I going to take care of more multiple children at one time. Then I realized that everything was going to work out the way it was supposed to. I wanted to become a mother and I would accept any little blessing.
Dr. Rodgers always called with any negative pregnancy test to discuss next steps. She was very easy to reach by email and would call to discuss questions over the phone if anything needed clarification. She was very compassionate and seemed personally invested in every case...Once IVF begins, there is frequent phone calls and appointments with her. I never felt like a number.
Amber [nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois] is great! She is compassionate and also very good at her job. She always explained things thoroughly and was easy to reach if I ever needed clarification...Highland Park is much smaller and has a much more personal feel so you feel like less of a number. The staff is very friendly. The Chicago location is convenient and has very flexible hours, but is huge and seems to crank patients in and out. It is a less “cozy” environment. Overall, I wouldn’t say I like one or the other better because I didn’t mind the anonymity of the Chicago location. It just depends on preference.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers was so easy to work with. She is confident and extremely knowledgeable. She is up front and honest about prognosis, while also being caring and compassionate. If you do IUI before moving to IVF, you rarely see Dr. Rodgers because the nursing staff perform the inseminations, but she always calls with pregnancy results and to discuss next steps. Once IVF begins, there is frequent phone calls and appointments with her. I never felt like a number.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
I think you can trust Dr. Rodgers. She is knowledgeable and up to date on evidence based research. Don’t be afraid to reach out to her and ask questions because she is very responsive.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers always called with any negative pregnancy test to discuss next steps. She was very easy to reach by email and would call to discuss questions over the phone if anything needed clarification. She was very compassionate and seemed personally invested in every case.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
I started out with three IUI’s with 150mg of Letrazole. None were successful because Dr. Rodgers believes I have endometriosis that might be interfering with the egg being able to travel through my fallopian tubes. She did not want to do injectables with IUI because I have PCOS and would be at risk for producing too many eggs. We moved to IVF after the three failed IUI’s. I was on birth control for three weeks to suppress my ovaries, then was prescribed an antagonist protocol, including approximately 10 days of Gonal-F and Menopur shots. After careful monitoring my Gonal-F was decreased because my ovaries were responding very well to the medication and there was concern for OHSS. My HCG trigger was decreased to 5,000iu instead of 10,000 to prevent OHSS. During retrieval, they were able to get 29 eggs, 21 of which were mature. We were concerned about having leftover embryos so we only fertilized 8 eggs with ICSI, and froze the other 13 eggs. We wound up with 4 beautiful embryos! Three are graded 1AA and the fourth is 1AB. We did a fresh transfer with one of the 1AA embryos and it worked! I am now 16 weeks pregnant. I want to say that with the number of eggs that were retrieved my risk of OHSS was pretty high, but Dr. Rodgers was so careful with my medications and monitored me so closely that I had a picture perfect recovery and was able to do a fresh transfer. Dr. Rodgers educated me really well on the symptoms of OHSS and helpful tips to prevent it. She also called me several times after the retrieval to check on me. I could not have imagined IVF going any better than it did.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Amber)
Amber is great! She is compassionate and also very good at her job. She always explained things thoroughly and was easy to reach if I ever needed clarification.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I saw Dr. Rodgers at the Highland Park Clinic, but I live in the city so I would go to the Chicago location for most of my monitoring appointments. Dr. Rodgers also typically works one day a week at the Chicago location so she would see me there occasionally when it was convenient as well. Highland Park is much smaller and has a much more personal feel so you feel like less of a number. The staff is very friendly. The Chicago location is convenient and has very flexible hours, but is huge and seems to crank patients in and out. It is a less “cozy” environment. Overall, I wouldn’t say I like one or the other better because I didn’t mind the anonymity of the Chicago location. It just depends on preference.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Luckily in IL it is mandated for insurance companies to cover fertility treatments, though we have a pretty high out of pocket max. Our IUI’s each cost around $500. IVF cost $3,600 after insurance and then an additional $1,200 for embryo freezing because insurance did not cover that. My medications we mostly covered.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Dr. Rodgers recommended a single embryo transfer due to my age and the high quality of our embryos. She said the chance of implantation of one embryo was very high and the goal is to produce one healthy baby. She went over this with us in detail so there were no questions come transfer day.
After the surgery [with Dr. Allison Rodgers], they told me that the eggs were “granular” because they had given me too much medication too fast. Basically they told me that the eggs were low quality because I’d been cooked on high. I am about to start the second round and they have adjusted my dosage. This second round I will have 150 IU Menopur and will start at 175 IU Follistim. It is anticipated that the cycle will last slightly longer.
The front desk staff [at Fertility Centers of Illinois] is sort of aloof. The wait time is always 20-30 minutes, even if it’s just a blood draw!! It doesn’t matter if you are early or late, the wait is always there. Don’t get anxious about it, that’s just how it is. Overall, the clinic itself is not my favorite. If I felt like it was possible to switch, I might, but I like the doctor enough that I will stay...I felt like the clinic did not make good effort to get things covered by insuance. My insurance plan was eventually willing to cover everything, but it ended up requiring me to put in my own pre-certification.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers has a lot of experience treating patients with PCOS and was fully equipped to handle my condition. My treatment plan appeared to take into account the PCOS and she took over my metformin treatment as well.
It was a little challenging that she chose not to be the treating doctor for my hypothyroidism. My main Endocrinologist still had to order her own bloodwork and adjust medications. During the IVF cycle, when I was already being poked so many times, it was challenging to then have to be poked again separately for TSH/T4 tests.
During consultation visits, Dr. Rodgers makes decisions very quickly. Sometimes I felt like she left me out of the decisions. The decisions were medically sound, but her thought process was not well explained.
I was happy that she was the doctor on call for my first egg retrieval. It was comforting to know that she already knew me. I would have liked her to check back on me post-op before I left. She did call me a day later to give results.
Her explainations about the eggs/embryos were a little misleading. Her words confused me and concerned me, although when i talked with the Embryologist from her office, they were able to describe things a lot better.
Overall, I think Dr. Rodgers is a good doctor and has good follow through with her patients, but could work on improving her communication skills about the treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers’ explainations are not the end-all. If you are confused, ask her supportig staff and they will offer more explainations.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
I was assigned to a singular nurse (Stephanie) who handled all of my care. I could shoot her an email and she would respond back the same day or the next day. She was intimately involved with my care and did not seem to be constantly referencing records to decide what to do next.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
The first cycle included 21 days of Orthocyclen, then baseline ultrasound, then on the first day of my period I started with 2.5 MG Letrozole, 75 IU Menopur, and 225 IU Follistim.
At the first ultrasound they upped the dose to 250 IU Follistim. Later it was upped to 300 IU Follistim and added Ganirelix. They explained that the increased Follistim would help the eggs get bigger.
Monitoring was every other day at first, and then every day. Monitoring on the weekend is downtown at the River North office (over 1 hour away from the main clinic).
36 hours before the surgery I was instructed to take an IM shot of Pregnyl.
After the surgery, they told me that the eggs were “granular” because they had given me too much medication too fast. Basically they told me that the eggs were low quality because I’d been cooked on high.
I am about to start the second round and they have adjusted my dosage.
This second round I will have 150 IU Menopur and will start at 175 IU Follistim.
It is anticipated that the cycle will last slightly longer.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie Crissie)
She responded to emails pretty quickly, but often placed the blame on other people for why paperwork was not recorded correctly or why things hadn’t worked out like planned.
Additionally I felt like she was relatively judgey of my personal life and made me jump through additional hoops when my personal life did not fit what she anticipated it would be.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I felt like the clinic did not make good effort to get things covered by insuance. My insurance plan was eventually willing to cover everything, but it ended up requiring me to put in my own pre-certification.
A boiling point was after I had gotten a denial mid-cycle while my hormones were all crazy where I was basically crying on the phone with the billing department about how they weren’t trying hard enough to get things covered.
After I accused them of not trying to get things covered because they would get more money if I paid out of pocket, they transfered me to a supervisor who was miraculously able to call the insurance to get a peer-to-peer scheduled.
In terms of the clinical staff, I like the main woman who does the ultrasounds, but her backup is a little clueless. The woman who draws the blood leaves bruises, but the backup persom is very good. The other backups seem to make me anxious. The front desk staff is sort of aloof. The wait time is always 20-30 minutes, even if it’s just a blood draw!! It doesn’t matter if you are early or late, the wait is always there. Don’t get anxious about it, that’s just how it is.
Overall, the clinic itself is not my favorite. If I felt like it was possible to switch, I might, but I like the doctor enough that I will stay.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
$1700 for the cryopreservation and storage for 1 year. Additional years of storage are $500. Everything else was covered by insurance.
Semen analysis (at the beginning) was $100.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
My doctor believes that only one embryo can be transfered at a time because it is already a high risk pregnancy.
I have done IVF with Pre-Implantation Genetic Diagnosis for my BRCA1 mutation. She considers all PGD or PGS patients high risk and will not implant more than one at a time.
Since I have depression, my therapist told me to ask if I could do two at a time (because it is anticipated that I will have post-partum depression), but Dr. Rodgers did not think this was possible.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost paperwork
Lost results
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
There is an “issue” with their fax machine. They frequently claim they didn’t receive things that had been sent to them. They also sometimes don’t actually send out items they claim to have sent. This is an ongoing issue. It does not appear to matter how well the items are labeled. I had to send the results to my genetic testing at least 4 times.
Additionally, the office always seems to lose letters from the insurance company. They always end up calling me for me to scan and send them a copy of the letter.
In the beginning I was more of a number but as time & problems have gone on I feel like I am getting treated more like a human. She [Dr. Rodgers] does have great bedside manner and really cares for her patients....She has been a great doctor for me. I know she cares and tries her best. We have had many setbacks and she is willing to fight with us....First retrieval was an antagonist protocol with 300 Gonal F & 300 Menopur along with Cetrotide.
The financial coordinator [at FCI] is very good with communication and responding. The billing department is sloppy and you don't get good statements especially if you have anything prepaid with them. The clinic does not use HGH...My third egg retrieval I was not told I ovulated on the table and had only 2 eggs retrieved...I could always get an appointment time that was convenient. Some days you are in and out and others they are backed up.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
She has been a great doctor for me. I know she cares and tries her best. We have had many setbacks and she is willing to fight with us. The negatives are FCI does not prescribe HGH. You do have to be very vigilant in getting your concerns and information to everyone you work with.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Make sure you remind her of important details especially during the phone calls.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
In the beginning I was more of a number but as time & problems have gone on I feel like I am getting treated more like a human. She does have great bedside manner and really cares for her patients.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
First retrieval was an antagonist protocol with 300 Gonal F & 300 Menopur along with Cetrotide. I retrieved 10 eggs, 8 fertilized and all 8 arrested by day 3 so no transfer. My second retrieval I did a lupron protocol with Gonal F & Menopur doses changing almost daily. I retrieved 11 eggs, 6 fertilized, and 1 embryo had to be frozen as my progesterone was too high for a fresh transfer. My third retrieval was lupron, 300 gonal F & 300 Menopur. I had 16 follicles going into retrieval and ended up ovulating during the procedure. 2 follicles were retrieved, 1 fertilized and I don't know yet if it makes it or not to be frozen. We found out during our second & third retrieval due to an ERA that I am pre-receptive by 12 hours so going forward I always have to freeze embryos.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie Crissie)
She is good for the most part but I do need to keep on top of details and question potential mistakes at times. I think she care but on an overall basis she seems very overwhelmed and this is getting reflected in the quality and care of her work.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
The financial coordinator is very good with communication and responding. The billing department is sloppy and you don't get good statements especially if you have anything prepaid with them. The clinic does not use HGH. Also retrievals at River North you need to stay on top of timing there as you are getting pushed around with many people and your doctor is most likely not there.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I could always get an appointment time that was convenient. Some days you are in and out and others they are backed up.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I am running around $12,000 per retrieval cycle which includes meds, monitoring & retrieval. I do have some insurance but no coverage for meds.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
We have not transferred anything yet but we have discussed positives & negatives to both.
What specific things went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
My third egg retrieval I was not told I ovulated on the table and had only 2 eggs retrieved. I had to call after I was already gone to find this out.
When I sat with her from the beginning she gave me lots of re-assurance. We went over in great detail mine and my husbands medical history and what our next steps were. Since the very beginning she has never pushed us into doing anything we didn’t want to do and she has always advocated for what we wanted.... Dr Rodgers and her team of nurses are absolutely amazing. Since the very first appointment they have made me feel so at ease.
They [Fertility Centers of Illinois- Highland Park] are a great clinic! I really think they need to work on scheduling, and especially with there patients. Sometimes it is really hard for me to schedule early morning appointments with them due to already being booked...They always call me same day with results, or questions that I may have asked. & they are quick to get me anything I need. They have held me and hugged me while I cried, and have been my rock.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
As stated previously, she is a miracle. When I walked into her office in April of 2017 I was so nervous. I had no idea what to expect. When I sat with her from the beginning she gave me lots of re-assurance. We went over in great detail mine and my husbands medical history and what our next steps were. Since the very beginning she has never pushed us into doing anything we didn’t want to do and she has always advocated for what we wanted. Almost a year later and I wouldn’t want anyone else as my doctor!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Do your research. Research articles, new things being done, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. No question is stupid and that’s what they are there for. You got this.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr Rodgers and her team of nurses are absolutely amazing. Since the very first appointment they have made me feel so at ease. They answer all of my questions, get back to me same day with results, are very friendly and open and answer any stupid question I have. Dr Rodgers and her team of nurses have comforted me and soothed me in some of my darkest times through this process. I am so appreciative of them!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Ashley Million and Stephanie Crissie)
They are just as amazing as Dr Rodgers! They always call me same day with results, or questions that I may have asked. & they are quick to get me anything I need. They have held me and hugged me while I cried, and have been my rock.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
They are a great clinic! I really think they need to work on scheduling, and especially with there patients. Sometimes it is really hard for me to schedule early morning appointments with them due to already being booked
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Honestly, I couldn’t tell you. When we started with Dr Rodgers we had fertility coverage, so all I had to pay were deductibles.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
You don't see her [Dr. Rodgers] at each appointment. ... She doesn't explain a lot of why she's doing what she's doing so if you have questions you need to ask and she'll definitely answer. Her treatments are not the same for each person. She tailors treatments to each patient. ... I did multiple embryo transfer due to my age and no pgs testing. ... Used estrogen priming and high dosages of stimulants. No birth control due to my age and not wanting to over suppress. No PGS as I have no history of miscarriages.
I felt like I received personal treatment at the suburban location [Fertility Centers of Illinois]. Although it doesn't bother me, some might not like that your doctor might not be doing your transfer or retrieval depending. Also, nurses do the iuis. ... Staff were like friends and always rooting me on. ... [Nursing staff] Very efficient and on top of everything. Quick to get back to you with answers and results. Not warm and fuzzy but cares. ...
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
You don't see her at each appointment. Only for consultations and follow ups after treatments. I was ok with that, as the other nurses and doctors are more than competent. She doesn't explain a lot of why she's doing what she's doing so if you have questions you need to ask and she'll definitely answer. Her treatments are not the same for each person. She tailors treatments to each patient.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Don't expect to see her at each appointment for blood work and ultra sounds.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Staff were like friends and always rooting me on.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
Used estrogen priming and high dosages of stimulants. No birth control due to my age and not wanting to over suppress. No PGS as I have no history of miscarriages. Fresh transfer because I had few embryos. 1st cycle transferred 2 embryos fresh on day 5. Negative. 2nd cycle transferred 2 embryos fresh on day 5. Positive pregnancy test. Healthy baby girl born end of 2018.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Amber)
Very efficient and on top of everything. Quick to get back to you with answers and results. Not warm and fuzzy but cares.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
There are several locations and I think people feel lost in the shuffle at the main clinic in downtown chicago. I felt like I received personal treatment at the suburban location. Although it doesn't bother me, some might not like that your doctor might not be doing your transfer or retrieval depending. Also, nurses do the iuis. Dr Rodgers was also a infertility patient herself so I think this makes her a better doctor to get patients.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I don't remember the total cost but I shopped around so I know they were competitively priced.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I did multiple embryo transfer due to my age and no pgs testing.
Dr. Rodgers is very open with her communication. She personally calls to speak with us, even after we have already spoken to our nurse. When we did our egg retrieval, she sounded so excited for us! She always answers any questions that we may have in great detail, and is always so kind....For fresh transfer we used agonist protocol....I have PCOS, and my husband has low morphology, so we used ICSI....Dr. Rodgers has experienced infertility herself, I think it gives her the compassion and understanding that some other doctors may not necessarily have.
Everyone [FCI - Lindenhurt] is so friendly and it makes the entire process less scary! There is even a financial advisor who helps you set up plans if you need to, so you can afford your treatment if insurance doesn’t help much....Very well oiled machine!!!! That’s for sure. I loved that I could schedule my appointments early in the morning. That way I would not have to keep leaving work for monitoring appointments. I was always in and out within 25 minutes of arriving.
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers is very open with her communication. She personally calls to speak with us, even after we have already spoken to our nurse. When we did our egg retrieval, she sounded so excited for us! She always answers any questions that we may have in great detail, and is always so kind.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Trust her! She really knows her stuff!!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Dr. Rodgers and my nurse Amber personally contacted me frequently. They’ve met my first son. I feel like they truly care to help us grow our family, and as Dr. Rodgers has experienced infertility herself, I think it gives her the compassion and understanding that some other doctors may not necessarily have.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
For fresh transfer we used agonist protocol. Can’t remember all of he drugs used that cycle, but I remember crinone, estrace, lupron, menupur.
For our frozen cycle for baby number two, we are using lupron acetate, baby aspirin, minivelle, and progesterone in oil, and crinone if needed-as well as estrace as needed. I have PCOS, and my husband has low morphology, so we used ICSI. Our first fresh cycle resulted in our beautiful baby boy with one embryo transferred. We are in the middle of our frozen transfer now for baby number 2.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Amber )
Very friendly, prompt, and easy to communicate with. We love that we can email and receive quick replys. Amber is amazing!
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Organized, kind, patient, and even the receptionists get to know you by name. Everyone is so friendly and it makes the entire process less scary! There is even a financial advisor who helps you set up plans if you need to, so you can afford your treatment if insurance doesn’t help much.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Very well oiled machine!!!! That’s for sure. I loved that I could schedule my appointments early in the morning. That way I would not have to keep leaving work for monitoring appointments. I was always in and out within 25 minutes of arriving.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
With my insurance, embryo freezing, and spleen freezing, I think we paid a total of $5000 after insurance. We pay $500 annually for the frozen embryos and $500 for the frozen sperm.
Describe Allison Rodgers's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
Dr. Rodgers always asks what we are comfortable with, but always reminds us that the human body is made to safely carry one baby at a time
I would ask questions, but get answers like ‘I don’t know’ [from Dr. Rodgers]. She would then tell me to come in for a consultation and talk , but she wasn’t ready to give me answers over the phone. Always ending the coversation with ‘we are here for you, let us know if you need anything’...having her as my IUI doctor I did not feel she was paying attention to my case at all...I went through cycle with Clomid & IUI, And 2 rounds of Letrozole & timed intercourse. With each medication I would have follicles, but never a positive pregnancy.
I has asked for an estimate on IUI cycle [with Fertility Centers of Illinois] because my insurance would not pay for it. I was given the wrong estimate of $200-$300. I then received bills of $1000s. The office would then only call me to confirm my appointment when they wanted more $$. I explained to them I was wrongfully estimated, they continued to push and threaten to cancel my cycle. All the while saying ‘we are here for you’
How was your experience with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
When I was called with bad resluts. I would ask questions, but get answers like ‘I don’t know’. She would then tell me to come in for a consultation and talk , but she wasn’t ready to give me answers over the phone. Always ending the coversation with ‘we are here for you, let us know if you need anything’. When l had just asked for help, and got an ‘i don’t know’ response.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Maybe your experience will be better with her as your IVF doctor. But having her as my IUI doctor I did not feel she was paying attention to my case at all
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Allison Rodgers at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
When I was called with bad resluts. I would ask questions, but get answers like ‘I don’t know’. She would then tell me to come in for a consultation and talk , but she wasn’t ready to give me answers over the phone. Always ending the coversation with ‘we are here for you, let us know if you need anything’. When l had just asked for help, and got an ‘i don’t know’ response.
Describe the protocols Allison Rodgers used in your cycles at Fertility Centers of Illinois and their degree of success.
I went through cycle with Clomid & IUI, And 2 rounds of Letrozole & timed intercourse. With each medication I would have follicles, but never a positive pregnancy.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Centers of Illinois. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie )
Stephanie was also programmed to say ‘we are here for you’.
Describe your experience with Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I has asked for an estimate on IUI cycle because my insurance would not pay for it. I was given the wrong estimate of $200-$300. I then received bills of $1000s.
The office would then only call me to confirm my appointment when they wanted more $$. I explained to them I was wrongfully estimated, they continued to push and threaten to cancel my cycle. All the while saying ‘we are here for you’
What specific things went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost results
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Centers of Illinois.
I was told by the nurse the wrong dosage of meds to take. I had remembered from my previous conversation with the doctor. The nurse went back and double checked and I was correct she called in the wrong dosage
