Arlene Morales

Dr. Morales is incredibly smart and definitely is thorough in her initial diagnosis and game plan. Where we struggled was mainly due to scheduling and follow up on protocols. I would often leave with many questions unanswered and needing to call the office for clarity. She took really good notes in my chart, so we were always able to do a "play by play" after a failed procedure. But after 2nd IVF and poor blastulation, she kind of just shrugged, not knowing where to go next. She recommended egg donor, but in terms of protocol- not much else. We loved her sense of humor, even though biting at times, but she is a great doctor that could use some better scheduling and less patients.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Use the Carlsbad office, and make sure you come with a list of questions right away. Bring a notepad, even.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

The FSMG is very busy! I was seen at both the Carlsbad and Metro office. The team at the Carlsbad Office knew me at every visit and were VERY warm for my early appointments. Erika (who is not longer there) and Allie were SO warm and personal in their communication. It was only when visiting the Metro Office that I felt like I was being rushed in and rushed out. I also had some appointment scheduling issues where I would get calls from several people not knowing I had already set up appointments. Felt like they were overwhelmed at times.

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

My initial lab work showed decent ovarian reserve and normal hormone levels. I did have Uterine polyps which were addressed with my OBGYN in early 2019 before treatment began. We did 1 IUI to see if it would be a success, since both my husband and I tested normal for everything. In the IUI procedure, we almost missed my ovulation window - I ovulated on my own, even after they said that was impossible!! After that didn't work, we made the decision to do IVF. We did 75 Ganorelix, 150 Folistim, with Antogonist at the end. Got 7 mature eggs, 1 of which turned into embryo - PG tested very abnormal. **PANDEMIC HIT! Everything on pause**. In Mid May - they called us up letting us know they could resume cycles. Did second round with more aggressive antagonist protocol: Start with Ganorelix, then HGH, 300 Follistim, 150 Manopur. Ovulated on my own again ... then started over. Retrieved 4 eggs. None turned to embryos.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Allie, my first primary nurse and the nurses at the Carlsbad location were INCREDIBLE. SO warm and very empathetic to what I was going through. The main issues were with the front office teams mixing up my appointments and sending me to the wrong location. After the Pandemic, I was re-assigned to a new Nurse Alex who, while very sweet, dropped the ball on a few critical occasions. I felt very passed off at the end.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Strengths: Allie and the Carlsbad Nurses. That office was why we chose this clinic in the first place. Dr. Morales' humor. Weaknesses: Disorganization, over-scheduling, and follow up with the front office and Metro nursing staff. The Metro front office manager was VERY rude early on in 2019. They took my feedback about that very well and I believe she left? The team that took over was much nicer, but still disorganized.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

IUI - mis scheduled (as I mentioned above) IVF #1 - they were at the Carlsbad office at the same time every day and very easy stress wise. IVF #2 - late afternoons with Dr Morales per their pod scheduling.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

$12k starting for IVF. $4000 for drugs, $4000 PGT

What specific things went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Lost appointments
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Canceled a cycle due to clinic error

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Over the three procedures, there were some speed bumps. 1. During our IUI, the front office manager at the Metro clinic got very combative in what day I should schedule my ultrasound appointment after Letrasole. I was very concerned it was a day too late. Not only did she schedule me at the wrong location, but it turns out I was OVULATING on my own! Stressful. 2. First IVF went pretty smooth in terms of communication. 3. Second IVF was post pandemic and pretty chaotic. I had a new nurse, and she forgot to send me my protocol details before starting injections that first Saturday. Luckily I guessed correctly. Not much follow up for this round and every appointment felt so chaotic, which I understood - but maybe schedule less patients?

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2017, Unsuccessful

Age 34

1 IVF

1 Embryo Freezing

Poor Egg Quality

Architect

1st of 3 Docs

2 Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Doesn't Recommend

Unsuccessful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

It didn't seem she [Dr. Arlene Morales] was very invested in us and was more invested in opening up the second clinic...on day of egg retrieval as a shock to us, she was not going to be the one doing the procedure. She handed us off to a different doctor that we had never seen...to all of a sudden know that someone else who doesn't know your background and has never met you to do the retrieval did not sit well for us.

The location [Fertility Specialists Medical Group] was not ideal as traffic became an issue if had an appointment past 3pm. At times parking could be crowded and the clinic itself is not easy to get to...[nurses] were the only thing that we loved about the clinic... Dr. Morales didn't seem to really listen to us and our fears, questions...She knew this was our only shot, but yet the thought of being more aggressive the first time was never discussed

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

It started off well and then it became very frustrating. She's incredibly knowledgeable, but I'm not sure she really asks the right questions for the benefit of the patient. For example, AMH was low and so it was understood there could be an issue withe the response to injectables. After our failed IVF round (our embryos did not grow past 5 days) at that point she introduced a more aggressive protocol for those who typically have low AMH and suggested a list of supplements as well. She knew this was our only shot, but yet the thought of being more aggressive the first time was never discussed. It seemed to us that she just choose a protocol that is typical for all IVF patients.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Do your research as she may not give you all the information you need. I'm not sure how invested she is in her patients as I've heard other negative reviews about her.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

In speaking with Dr. Morales initially, we felt really comfortable. She was direct and knowledgeable. But unfortunately once we started our IVF cycle, things changed. And one thing they did not disclose to us is that they were opening up a second clinic in north county, 30-45 mins away. If we would of known this, we would of gone to a different doctor as we wanted someone who would be fully invested in us and our cycle. The doctor was later numerous times because she was commuting back and forth from the new clinic. Once we saw her to do ultrasounds and follow-up appointments, it seemed very rushed and she was very rushed to speak to us b/c she was already running late because of her commute. It didn't seem she was very invested in us and was more invested in opening up the second clinic. I will say the nurses were amazing, they were the only thing that we loved about the clinic.

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

Its been a few years so I can't remember specifics. But it did seem like she decided a protocol that is very common for those going through IVF. I understand that you learn from each cycle, but again the lack of listening to patients and investment seems lost. If I could go back, I would of asked to do a more aggressive protocol.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Our nurse was amazing. The most caring person we interacted at the clinic. She took us step through step w/o being frustrated with all our questions. She understood the emotional aspects of the process and was very comforting when the IVF cycle failed. She was more compassionate than Dr. Morales. She was a rock star!

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Strengths- the nursing staff were amazing to work with; response times for returned phone calls were excellent; Weakness- Doctor not being invested was a big one for me. She tended to be late for appointments which was frustrating because we worked full-time jobs yet we were there on time but she could not be. We were paid for HER services yet she fell short overall. The location was not ideal as traffic became an issue if had an appointment past 3pm. At times parking could be crowded and the clinic itself is not easy to get to.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

The treatment was about $13K + $5K for drugs + add'l fees; all in all I believe we spent close to $20k

Describe Arlene Morales's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

We unfortunately never got to embryo transfers.

What specific things went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Failed to convey critical information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Another point was of her being not invested is that on day of egg retrieval as a shock to us, she was not going to be the one doing the procedure. She handed us off to a different doctor that we had never seen. At that point in the cycle you become very emotional and to all of a sudden know that someone else who doesn't know your background and has never met you to do the retrieval did not sit well for us. She's very knowledgeable, but again I'm not sure she looks into each patient as an individual and a unique case versus just another person needing her service and she writes a protocol that is very general. After the fact, I did some research and realized that one of the supplements to increase egg quality/ AMH is DHEA. Of course I cross-referenced this with the list they gave us AFTER the failed IVF and couldn't fathom why they wouldn't of mentioned this to us earlier. Why she didn't say how about you take these supplements for a month or two and then we do IVF cycle to better your chances. Again, no investment or forethought to help us. The experience was devastating because we came out of it with nothing, but the hardest part is that Dr. Morales didn't seem to really listen to us and our fears, questions.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2013 - 2014, Successful

Age 32 - 33

1 IVF

Unexplained

European

2nd of 2 Docs

2 IUI With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

She [Dr. Morales] addressed our concerns honestly and while being blunt she still showed compassion to our situation. She was extremely detailed oriented and kindly entertained and answered the page of questions and concerns we had. Throughout the duration of our treatment she spoke to us by name, always made eye contact, asked personal questions that were specific to us and genuinely showed sadness and concern when things didn't look good with our embryos.

Results came back quickly, the entire staff [Fertility Specialists Medical Group] was on the same page with our record and day-to-day details. We found their costs to be honest, up front, and they even gave us tips on where to get the discounted or less expensive meds. ... op notch doesn't even begin to explain the nursing staff. From the front desk to the phlebotomist, to our nurse at each visit and the nurses in the O.R. they were kind, compassionate, attentive and professional.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Dr Morales is a straight-to-the-point woman. She does not sugar coat anything, but still has the skill to show compassion. She is detail oriented and as many times as she has met new clients, she still managed to make us feel like we were her only clients. I've heard others say her bedside manner was cold, but I didn't find that to be true at all. My previous doctor treated us like a number and didn't care when our IUIs failed, Dr Morales was honest and kind. We appreciated her bedside manner and found it to be honest.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

The only thing I wished I had asked was what her failure rate was. I wouldn't expect her to offer that up, but I wish I had asked. Prior to our experience I had never met anyone who had a failed IVF experience and as we came close to that end I was shocked. A couple of years later when friends of ours underwent IVF and had zero embryos I was in shock again. I had never heard of that happening, but of course should have known better and asked.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Dr Morales had reviewed our file before our Consultation and as we discussed our options she was already prepared according to our specific needs and contents of our file. She addressed our concerns honestly and while being blunt she still showed compassion to our situation. She was extremely detailed oriented and kindly entertained and answered the page of questions and concerns we had. Throughout the duration of our treatment she spoke to us by name, always made eye contact, asked personal questions that were specific to us and genuinely showed sadness and concern when things didn't look good with our embryos. After our miracle embryo took she did a happy dance with us in the office to celebrate. She checked in with me during each blood draw and even made a personal call after I was no longer under their care and was transferred to my OBGYN.

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

I began by taking Progesterone + Estrogen/Estrace (2mg) 2x/day prior to and through my cycle. After my cycle ended I took Follistim (300IU) and Micro hCG (10 IU) for one week. After a blood draw at week 1 I took the Antagonist = Ganirelix 1x/day while being monitored. For Egg Retrieval I took HCG (3333 units) as a subcutaneous injection + Dostinex (.5mg) tablet daily for 7 days. Day before egg retrieval I had no injections or medications. Morning Day of egg retrieval I had no injections or medications. Evening of egg retrieval I began - Progesterone (400mg) vaginal capsule 2x/day which continued through first week of pregnancy. I also started Doxycycline (100mg) 2x/day for only 5 days + Estrace (2mg) tablet 2x/day + Aspirin (81mg) 1x/day + Dostinex (.5mg) 1x/day After positive pregnancy test I continued the Progesterone for a week.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Top notch doesn't even begin to explain the nursing staff. From the front desk to the phlebotomist, to our nurse at each visit and the nurses in the O.R. they were kind, compassionate, attentive and professional. We were greeted by name by each nurse we interacted with, I had various nurses checking in on my at blood draws, the nurses in the O.R. were EXTREMELY patient when I was emotionally a wreck. The nurse we had at the embryo transfer was a rock for us as we dealt this shocking news. A handful of nurses did a happy dance with us when we got a positive pregnancy test and the nurse who called to tell me about our positive pregnancy test cried with me over the phone. We couldn't have been more impressed with the nursing staff.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

The only thing I can think of that wasn't ideal was the wait to get in for a consultation. We waited maybe two months to get an appointment, but once we we decided to move forward we had no issues getting appointments. We both liked that they offered early a.m. appointments as we could go before work. We also appreciated they offered free parking and had a cozy waiting room. But I think we the fact that they were an all encompassing (had their own lab, could do all blood draws on-site, did egg retrievals and embryo transfers under the same room) was incredible. Results came back quickly, the entire staff was on the same page with our record and day-to-day details. We found their costs to be honest, up front, and they even gave us tips on where to get the discounted or less expensive meds. Really no complaints.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Clinic Fee $4500 + Surgery/O.R. (egg retrieval & embryo transfer) $6000 both due at start of agreement. Anesthesiologist for egg retrieval $460 and was paid directly to the anesthesiologist on the day of retrieval. We also chose to do an updated blood/hormone panel for me which cost $700. Our insurance helped with some of the over-the-counter medications ($6 for Aspirin & $6 for Estradiol). Injectables, needles, alcohol pads, progesterone, trigger shots, and other medications cost approximately $7000. Our insurance paid half of the cost for the egg retrieval so we were reimbursed roughly $1500 if I remember correctly. Had we need Cryopreservation for embryos it would have been $1100 and embryo storage would have been billed $65 monthly or $600 annually.

Describe Arlene Morales's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

My husband and I had decided we only wanted a single embryo transferred and since we had both been diagnosed with Unexplained Infertility Dr. Morales fully supported that decision.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2020 - 2021, Unsuccessful

Age 34 - 35

1 IVF

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Ashkenazi Jewish

Income $50K - $99K

1st of 2 Docs

4 Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Doesn't Recommend

Unsuccessful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

I personally felt like she [Dr. Arlene Morales] was a bully. I genuinely don’t think she feels that way and views herself as just a very experienced and blunt doctor. I think she has good intentions, but I had anxiety every time I had to meet with her. She would steamroll my questions...Our appointments were always insanely rushed.

They [Fertility Specialists Medical Group] plan your cycle around what’s best for the clinic and not your personal cycle. It doesn’t matter what the ideal day if your cycle would be to start a medication...The clinic was small, but fine. Small parking area, small rooms. Seemed a bit chaotic at times. Nurses always rushing in and out of rooms and trying to talk to the reception desk. Receptionists were nice and always attempted to remember my name.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

I personally felt like she was a bully. I genuinely don’t think she feels that way and views herself as just a very experienced and blunt doctor. I think she has good intentions, but I had anxiety every time I had to meet with her. She would steamroll my questions. Whenever I tried to present more current research as ask if she’d consider a different t approach since hers wasn’t working, she’d scoff and respond “I’ve been doing this for 30 years.” While I don’t want to diminish that, I think being a bit humble and trying to learn what’s current is what makes a good doctor. Our appointments were always insanely rushed. She would always try to push us to do many expensive “add-ons” even if we didn’t see the need. I felt like she really belittled the intense emotional and financial struggle we were enduring.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Don’t let her rush or talk over you. Trust your gut. If you feel like the cycle isn’t going well, it’s absolutely within your right to request to cancel and start a new one.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

They plan your cycle around what’s best for the clinic and not your personal cycle. It doesn’t matter what the ideal day if your cycle would be to start a medication- they just start you on Saturday to make it less likely that they’ll need to do a weekend retrieval. Multiple times I asked questions like “wouldn’t it be better on a different day” and was told “this is just our protocol”.

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

The first cycle she had us just do birth control pills, but on the day we were supposed to start, I already had one big dominant follicle. Cycle canceled. The next cycle we used ganirelix to stop me from ovulating, but that seemed to suppress my follicle growth completely. She still pushed to continue the cycle. They weren’t growing well so she kept upping my doses of follistim and menopur. Finally we had a bit of growth but it was small and slow. Eventually I had about 14 follicles, but they didn’t seem to be very similar in size or as large as I had read was ideal for retrieval. But she insisted we just continue this cycle and assured me she knew what she was doing and would likely get upwards of 10-14 eggs. I ended up getting 4 eggs from the retrieval. One egg made it to chromosome testing, but was abnormal. She called immediately trying to push for a new cycle, but we had no funds left. She said the money doesn’t matter and we should just do a new cycle and would likely get better results even doing what we had just done. We decided then to move to a different clinic.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Specialists Medical Group. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie)

Stephanie and the blood draw team were amazing. And I felt terrible for them because they seemed completely stressed and overworked. But they were incredibly kind, compassionate, and as thorough as they could be.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

The clinic was small, but fine. Small parking area, small rooms. Seemed a bit chaotic at times. Nurses always rushing in and out of rooms and trying to talk to the reception desk. Receptionists were nice and always attempted to remember my name.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

I believe we had to do a package for IVF. I think each retrieval cycle cost about $30,000. That didn’t include medication which cost us about $11,000. There were $200 fees for each cycle even if you never started. The convinced me to get an expensive package that covered testing, but then the doctor said I didn’t need all those tests so they didn’t let me do then but also wouldn’t refund the package.

What specific things went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Sometimes offered explanations of why we would or wouldn’t do something in my cycle very confidently, but then days later would say the opposite and would change my protocol. Things weren’t explained to me to the level that I even understood them. Just told “Nevermind we shouldn’t do that.”

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2020, Successful

Age 37

Male Factor

European

Income $200K - $499K

Teacher

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

Dr. Morales is kind, efficient, and knowledgeable. She spends so much time with you! When I needed appointments outside of normal hours, she didn't hesitate to schedule me at my convenience. She explains everything clearly and scientifically, and engaged with me when I had questions or wanted to discuss things I'd researched...Dr. Morales strongly prefers eSET.

it's a big enough clinic that there's [Fert Specs Med Group] always a nurse or doctor available and it's easy to make appointments - they give you a comprehensive binder and lots of information - their financial advisor is so so so helpful. Denise is super knowledgeable and worked tirelessly to figure out how to get us the best deal with a few insurance benefits. Weaknesses: I don't ever go in expecting to be seen AT my appointment time...they seem to usually be running behind. For morning blood tests, you can ask to be seen right away if you're in a rush, but you have to advocate for yourself.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Choose her if you're looking for someone who's caring but also efficient/to-the-point/practical.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Everyone in this office is incredibly competent, attentive, and caring. I've never once felt rushed. Everyone knows my name and recognizes me. I feel truly cared for!

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

Egg retrieval hormones: Cetrotide Gonal-F Menopur I cancelled my first cycle due to eggs not maturing well, and the next cycle will have growth hormone added. Dr. Morales adjusted my dosage and saw me extra as we went through this process; it was my decision to cancel the cycle since we are paying mostly out of pocket.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

So friendly, very good communicators/explainers. Efficient and competent.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Strengths: - price for what you get (incredible) compared to other SD clinics - Dr. Morales (amazing) - it's a big enough clinic that there's always a nurse or doctor available and it's easy to make appointments - they give you a comprehensive binder and lots of information - their financial advisor is so so so helpful. Denise is super knowledgeable and worked tirelessly to figure out how to get us the best deal with a few insurance benefits. Weaknesses: I don't ever go in expecting to be seen AT my appointment time...they seem to usually be running behind. For morning blood tests, you can ask to be seen right away if you're in a rush, but you have to advocate for yourself.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

$250 consultation $4400 clinic services, doctor, stimulation phase, ultrasounds, bloodwork $7100 egg retrieval with anaesthesia $4500 PGT for up to 10 embryos $1000 ERA $3300 FET (discounted to $2700 after a failed implantation) $65/month cryopreservation storage They make it very clear, and there's no nickel-and-diming. Medicine was $2000 for about half a cycle of stimulation (I cancelled this cycle). Used La Jolla Discount Pharmacy

Describe Arlene Morales's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Dr. Morales strongly prefers eSET.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2019, Unknown Success

Age 48

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Male Factor

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

European

Income $100K - $199K

Engineer

1st of 3 Docs

2 IUI With Other Docs

Doesn't Recommend

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

Be ready to receive a lot of information to digest later [from Dr. Morales]!...provides a lot of information. She as a booklet ready with all sort of information support to explain things. She is friendly and makes jokes (which may make you feel uncomfortable by times though....). However, we always had to wait at our appointments, and she is too fast and a bit overwhelming, there is no time to digest information when in an appointment...

[Fertility Specialists Medical Group] is a small clinic affiliated to a medical group inside our insurance network. This is the primary reason we started with them. The clinic otherwise is not particularly attractive and looks like a regular hospital department. There is waiting time every time we have an appointment but the personnel is usually friendly...We had one bad experience were a nurse interpreted a genetic test result over the phone and was wrong (said my wife had some disease and may show symptoms in the future, whereas she is a carrier but not affected), where she should not have stated anything expect we had results to review with the doctor....

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

She is no short of information on how things work, has documentation to support what she says. Although, at times it feels like she is using always the same speech and may be pointing towards certain treatments that are more beneficial to the clinic. She tries to be friendly, including making jokes (which I don't always find funny, so whether it is positive or negative depends on how you receive it...). At least the relationship is human and not mechanical...

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Be ready to receive a lot of information to digest later!

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Dr Morales provides a lot of information. She as a booklet ready with all sort of information support to explain things. She is friendly and makes jokes (which may make you feel uncomfortable by times though....). However, we always had to wait at our appointments, and she is too fast and a bit overwhelming, there is no time to digest information when in an appointment.

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

Not gone there yet

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Most conversations we had at this point were by email and phone, being in the evaluation stage. Nurses were normal (not particularly compassionate or rude). We had one bad experience were a nurse interpreted a genetic test result over the phone and was wrong (said my wife had some disease and may show symptoms in the future, whereas she is a carrier but not affected), where she should not have stated anything expect we had results to review with the doctor....

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

It is a small clinic affiliated to a medical group inside our insurance network. This is the primary reason we started with them. The clinic otherwise is not particularly attractive and looks like a regular hospital department. There is waiting time every time we have an appointment but the personnel is usually friendly.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

IUIs cost about 2500$ with no meds, 3000$ with oral meds, 8000$ with injectable, 4000$ with combo meds IVF is about 11,500$ up to egg retrieval, 7000$ for egg retrieval, 4500$ for embryo biopsy (optional) and 3500$ per transfer Those costs include estimated medication

What specific things went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Lost paperwork
Lost results
Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

We always carry our own set of lab results because several times the doctor didn't have the results we had sent them in their file. One time they also had the results from another person mixed with ours. We also had a call to inform about genetic tests that was misinforming us about the results. Furthermore, while calling, my wife said she was not in the right environment to receive the information but the nurse still gave it over the phone...

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2019, Unknown Success

Age 35

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Endometriosis

Poor Egg Quality

Uterine Fibroids

South Asian

Income $100K - $199K

Business Executive

1st of 3 Docs

2 IUI With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

Dr. Morales is unlike any other fertility doctor I have encountered. I felt she really took the time to review my medical history and was the only one to truly educated me on my situation. She never treated me like a number. She was also the only doctor to ask me how I was doing mentally. This was very important to me because she knows how infertility can affect someone and she wants to make sure she provides the best treatment possible including providing options for emotional and mental health.

My experience has been with their [Fert Specs Med Group] Carlsbad location. Upon my first visit I was greeted warmly by Alina at the front desk. She was so friendly and warm. Expect to wait during each appointment. This is nothing new. I experience this at all fertility clinics. All of the nurses, financial coordinators, front desk staff are unbelievably great. They have always treated me kindly and as if they have known me for years. I see they treat every patient this way.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

My only regret is that I did not find Dr. Morales sooner. She is the only provider to have studied my entire complicated and lengthy medical history. She educates you, is straight to the point and very thorough. She speaks fast, but always makes sure you understand and she is more than willing to go over information until you feel comfortable. She is blunt in her delivery, but she is kind hearted and compassionate. I feel she has genuinely taken an interest in mine and my husband's case and I am confident that we are in great hands. She is the only provider to ask how we were doing mentally and I could not appreciate that more.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

She takes her time and is very thorough with her appointments. She provides a lot of information which can be overwhelming especially during the first consultation. Don't be afraid to ask questions if there is something that you don't understand or if you need the information to be repeated.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

We are still in the early stages. After our first consultation Dr. Morales ordered an ovarian assessment report blood panel which would provide a clearer picture of my fertility and chances of a success. She also conducted two ultrasounds where she checked for cysts/fibroids, measured my lining and counted the number of follicles on each ovary. After her full workup she determined that the best course of action to take would be IVF. We will have our IVF inservice appointment in the near future.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Specialists Medical Group. (Assigned nurse: Jessica)

Jessica my primary nurse is very kind and calming. She takes her time to go over the checklist provided by Dr. Morales. She also does a great job at answering all of your questions. Often you will think of more questions after your meeting with Dr. Morales and Jessica has always helped me with that.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

My experience has been with their Carlsbad location. Upon my first visit I was greeted warmly by Alina at the front desk. She was so friendly and warm. Expect to wait during each appointment. This is nothing new. I experience this at all fertility clinics. All of the nurses, financial coordinators, front desk staff are unbelievably great. They have always treated me kindly and as if they have known me for years. I see they treat every patient this way.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

The initial consultation is complimentary. Dr. Morales suggested an ultrasound ($200) and AMH blood test ($75). I also purchased a global package for $475 which included 3 appointments with Dr. Morales, 2 blood draw fees, 1 semen analysis, 2 ultrasounds and a hysterocopy. All items in package must be done within 6 months of the purchase date. In addition, Dr. Morales suggested an Ovarian Assessment Report blood panel which cost $175.

Describe Arlene Morales's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

For me, Dr. Morales recommended single embryo transfers. She said she would prefer to not put me at a higher risk pregnancy.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

Carlsbad

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2019, Unsuccessful

Age 35

3 IUI

Unexplained

European

Latinx

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Unsuccessful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

Dr. Morales was and is truly invested in our fertility journey. She is honest and straightforward but in a way that puts you at ease. ... We looked “good on paper” so she felt confident in trying 3 rounds of IUI. She prescribed letrozole instead of clomid based on discussion with me and my medical history review. I felt confident and though it did not work for us, she kept us motivated through the process with honest and realistic but still positive feedback.

The clinic [Fertility Specialists Med Group] is clean, professional, and welcoming. My only issue was follow up on one billing confusion with a third party, I had to follow up a few times to get the information I needed but beyond that they were on top of everything else. The staff greeted everyone upon entering, answered questions and kept appointments flowing.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Dr. Morales was and is truly invested in our fertility journey. She is honest and straightforward but in a way that puts you at ease. Sometimes I did feel that I had to wait awhile for a short procedure but she did all of the procedures and I did feel that she was willing to take her time and answer my questions when needed.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

She will throw a lot of information at you at once so be prepared with questions ahead of time. But also don’t be afraid to call later to ask questions.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Dr. Morales and her team were always warm and extremely welcoming. They remembered us from each appointment and it felt like they were truly invested in our journey.

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

We looked “good on paper” so she felt confident in trying 3 rounds of IUI. She prescribed letrozole instead of clomid based on discussion with me and my medical history review. I felt confident and though it did not work for us, she kept us motivated through the process with honest and realistic but still positive feedback.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

The nurses are amazing. They are all incredibly sweet, professional, and friendly. I felt completely comfortable with each one I had and knew that they were also invested in our journey.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

The clinic is clean, professional, and welcoming. My only issue was follow up on one billing confusion with a third party, I had to follow up a few times to get the information I needed but beyond that they were on top of everything else. The staff greeted everyone upon entering, answered questions and kept appointments flowing.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Our IUI procedures were about $1100 each round

Describe Arlene Morales's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

N/a

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2015 - 2018, Unsuccessful

Age 40 - 43

Donor Eggs

Income $50K - $99K

2nd of 2 Docs

1 IVF With Other Docs

Donor Sperm

Doesn't Recommend

Unsuccessful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

She [Dr. Morales] explains things and seems to know what she is talking about and backs up the information with recent research. She speaks very fast and uses medical terms that I don't always understand so a lot of the time I leave feeling confused or overwhelmed. I don't feel she takes patients situations case by case and treats everyone the same as she has her own agenda in mind...very smart and experienced.

Every time I go [to Fertility Specialists Medical Group] it seems I have a different nurse. For my first cycle I had a care coordinator that I mainly spoke to via phone or email and did not see her often st the office. This cycle I have a new care coordinator and she is new to the office, and seems inexperienced. My last appointment I saw someone different. It makes it difficult when it seems there are so many people involved and no one really knows you or your situation other than what is written in the chart.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Dr. Morales is very smart and experienced. She explains things and seems to know what she is talking about and backs up the information with recent research. She speaks very fast and uses medical terms that I don't always understand so a lot of the time I leave feeling confused or overwhelmed. I don't feel she takes patients situations case by case and treats everyone the same as she has her own agenda in mind .

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Be prepared with your own questions to ask and do research before hand to know what to ask for.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

She and her office are very busy. When I meet with her it is always very rushed. She has very little bedside manner.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Specialists Medical Group. (Assigned nurse: I was but rarely saw her. Now I have someone new, Kelly )

Every time I go it seems I have a different nurse. For my first cycle I had a care coordinator that I mainly spoke to via phone or email and did not see her often st the office. This cycle I have a new care coordinator and she is new to the office, and seems inexperienced. My last appointment I saw someone different. It makes it difficult when it seems there are so many people involved and no one really knows you or your situation other than what is written in the chart. The clinic I was at before I had one care coordinator and mostly one nurse that I dealt with for all of my care.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

For the most part everyone is nice and friendly . I have never had any problems getting appointments and for most appointments I am seen right at my appointment time. There is a lot of staff which is good, but at the same time makes it confusing as to who is your main point of contact for questions or concerns. With so many people being involved in your care, it can feel at times like you are just a number and no one really knows you or your case.

Describe Arlene Morales's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

I did a single embryo ivf transfer with a donor embryo. I think her reasoning behind doing one is because I only had two. The first one failed and I am about to two the second transfer. Hoping for better results.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2016 - 2017, Unsuccessful

Age 32 - 33

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Teacher

1st of 2 Docs

2 IUI With Other Docs

1 IVF With Other Docs

Doesn't Recommend

Unsuccessful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

Anytime I called they [Fertility Specialists Med Group] said they lost my file and would have to call back when they found it. They also told me I'm a carrier for Cystic Fibrosis, and it turned out they were looking at the wrong chart, and I'm NOT a carrier. They also failed to provide us with their binder for IVF procedures, then told us to make sure we understood everything inside it and sign the paperwork that goes with it. When we said we never got the binder, they said we could just sign the papers next time we come in without actually reading through it.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Dr. Morales does not have good bedside manner. She was rushed and rude. She didn't seem to care about our treatment or individual needs. We felt like cattle being herded through the baby making machine.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Pick a different doctor and clinic.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

We could tell that Dr. Morales was very busy, and she seemed distracted when we met with her. She spoke very quickly and didn't really give us a chance to speak at all. She seemed to have a rehearsed speech that she gives all new patients. We did not feel good after leaving her office. She also told us to just keep trying on our own and it would happen. We did that for a year after meeting with her. It didn't matter to her that we had already done that for a year. After almost 5 years of trying every fertility option out there we still have not conceived, so clearly she was wrong about that.

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

We left this doctor before beginning treatment because our experience with her and her staff was so bad.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

They were terrible! They were so disorganized. Anytime I called they said they lost my file and would have to call back when they found it. They also told me I'm a carrier for Cystic Fibrosis, and it turned out they were looking at the wrong chart, and I'm NOT a carrier. They also failed to provide us with their binder for IVF procedures, then told us to make sure we understood everything inside it and sign the paperwork that goes with it. When we said we never got the binder, they said we could just sign the papers next time we come in without actually reading through it. This was the last straw for us, and we left the clinic after this.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

I was very unhappy with this clinic. We only went there because our insurance referred us there. The clinic seemed to have way more patients than they could effectively manage. Lots of things seemed to fall through the cracks. I would never tell anyone I care about to go to this clinic.

What specific things went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Lost paperwork
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Lost results
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

I hated this clinic. They are so disorganized. They constantly lost my file and shared the personal information of others with me by mistake. They didn't take my fertility issues seriously, and I lost a year and a half because of them saying my issues would resolve themselves. They did not. The doctor did not seem to care about my fertility success, she just went through the motions without considering my personal needs.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2017, Unsuccessful

Age 31

3 IUI

Male Factor

PCOS

Income $100K - $199K

1st of 2 Docs

1 Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Doesn't Recommend

Unsuccessful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

She [Dr. Arlene Morales] did not recommend he see a urologist and when I suggested it could not give any recommendations of who to see. Instead she continued to go on with IUIs and was ready to jump right into IVF when all 3 IUIs failed which we now know would have also been wasted since my husband has some abnormalities that need to be addressed by a male infertility urologist.

I did not like that there was always a new nurse [at Fertility Specialists Medical Group]. I had a difficult time ever getting through to speak with someone. They would send me to their voicemail and it could take days for a response. For our first IUI they wrote the wrong date for the trigger which luckily I caught within hours of almost giving myself the injection too early. The nurses are very nice but both my husband and I had a difficult time with many mistakes by the nurses

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

My initial impression was not a good one with her running 90 minutes late for my first assessment. When she finally came in she was very frazzled. Then when I returned for follow up with my husband she was again all over the place and did not even introduce herself or acknowledge him for the first 30 minutes. Those are minor compared to the fact that she gave us inaccurate information on my husband’s SA results that essentially should have made her stop with all of our IUIs and proceed with further testing. She did not recommend he see a urologist and when I suggested it could not give any recommendations of who to see. Instead she continued to go on with IUIs and was ready to jump right into IVF when all 3 IUIs failed which we now know would have also been wasted since my husband has some abnormalities that need to be addressed by a male infertility urologist. We are with a new RE now and still trying to sort out what our best options are to maximize success vs Dr. Morales who was ready to just go through all the motions without considering what would give us the best likelihood for success.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Make sure you ask lots of questions and rationale for why she is doing things. Also, get a second opinion.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

The front desk made frequent errors as did the doctor who often would say the wrong medication that I was taking, the wrong cycle day I was on and the wrong IUI cycle we were doing. Even when she was directly looking at the chart.

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

I was on letrozole 7.5 mg for all 3 IUIs which worked for me produce 1-2 follicles. We had to cancel 1 cycle because my husband had high WBC suddenly. She said this would not be a problem if we were doing IVF which I now know is false. The high WBC damage the DNA so would have been a huge issue if we were doing IVF.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

I did not like that there was always a new nurse. I had a difficult time ever getting through to speak with someone. They would send me to their voicemail and it could take days for a response. For our first IUI they wrote the wrong date for the trigger which luckily I caught within hours of almost giving myself the injection too early. The nurses are very nice but both my husband and I had a difficult time with many mistakes by the nurses

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

I do think that everyone was nice but in the world of infertility I think that is a bit irrelevant. I liked that I saw the doctor every time but in retrospect I was rushed through and she was so frazzled I was surprised she even know who I was. Knowing what I know now through interaction with our new RE my top complaints are with Dr. Morales not explaining the importance of certain tests or the rationale behind them and that she was not up to date with what to do for male factor problems and did not refer us appropriately to someone who was more knowledgeable on this issue. The front desk was very disorganized with paperwork, billing us too much on several occasions and forgetting to have us sign papers that then required us to return for additional visits just to sign. The nurses were caring but with a new face each time they didn’t really know our situation.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

We did have coverage for IUIs so with copays and meds it came out to about $200 per cycle. We had 3 IUIs and 1 cancelled cycle plus one frozen sample for my husband so in total around $1,000

What specific things went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost paperwork
Lost appointments
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Lost results
Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Mentioned in previous section

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2016 - 2017, Successful

Age 33 - 34

1 IVF

Male Factor

European

Income $500K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

Dr. Morales made this experience so great for us! I had all the confidence in the world with her and the team. She reassured me on occasions when I was worried, joked with me to lighten the mood and was our biggest cheerleader. She guided us through the process but never pressured us to do any test or procedure etc we did not feel comfortable with. She showed genuine care and compassion to my husband and I and I will be forever grateful for her.

The ivf coordinator Martha [at Fertility Specialists Medical Group]was amazing. She is the first nurse we met and went through lots of the logistics of ivf with. She herself has been through the process so it was very comforting to hear her story. She was so thorough in explaining doses, how to give yourself a shot and what to expect. All of the nurses I came across throughout the process were great and very helpful and caring.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Trust the process. Dr.Morales knows her stuff and is always working with your best interest at heart.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Everyone from the front desk to the ma's to nurses and especially Dr. Morales made us feel so special and loved. We developed a close relationship with a lot of the staff at FSMG!

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

I was on injectable hormones to stimulate follicles for egg retrieval. Based on tests Morales had me relatively high on dose which we ended up increasing even more over the course of two weeks as my follicles were "sleepy" after egg retrieval we did a FET due to my progesterone being a little too elevated.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Specialists Medical Group. (Assigned nurse: Martha)

The ivf coordinator Martha was amazing. She is the first nurse we met and went through lots of the logistics of ivf with. She herself has been through the process so it was very comforting to hear her story. She was so thorough in explaining doses, how to give yourself a shot and what to expect. All of the nurses I came across throughout the process were great and very helpful and caring.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Very comfortable office. By the time you are released from their care it feels like home!

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

About 13 grand

Describe Arlene Morales's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

For our purposes and only having 4 embroyos we decided one at a time was best for us.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2015 - 2016, Successful

Age 33 - 34

1 IVF

Tubal Blockage

East Asian

Latinx

Income $50K - $99K

Nurse or HC Services

Only Doc Seen

Neutral

Successful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

Dr. Morales was very professional. She explained everything, in a fast almost ‘over your head’ kind of way because all the infertility lingo & process is new but also because she was probably rushed as her clinic is very busy. But she made she sure she answered all of your questions. During her consultation she asks you what you expect & how many kids you want & I truly believe she tries to make that happen....She will see you at all your visits & makes sure your questions are answered but she will not hold your hand through the visits & process.

Strength: For the most every time I needed to speak to someone, I always got a call back back within a day. The clinic [Fertility Specialists Med Group] was attentive. Weakness: you can tell the clinic was busy. They never made you feel rushed or hurried but Dr. Morales was always on the move. She was the only person that you would have to wait on. You wouldn’t wait long.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

I really liked Dr. Morales but she was always so rushed & busy. I’m glad her clinic is booming but I would have liked for her to not be so rushed in my appointments. She did get straight to the point during our time together & even had time for small talk. She is very smart women, but very text book smart. I guess in this field, you have to go with statistics & data. I stimulated pretty quickly on my meds & brought that up to Dr. Morales, but insisted to ‘see what happens’ & continue on course rather. I think if she took a minute longer to think about how I stimulated quickly & possibly think about a different course of action, we may have had more ‘normal’ Day 5 embryos. Overall I did like Dr. Morales & would see her again for baby #2 only because I already had 1 successful pregnancy even though I would have to go through IVF all over again.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Her clinic is busy, so be prepared to have a limited time with Dr. Morales. She will see you at all your visits & makes sure your questions are answered but she will not hold your hand through the visits & process.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

I don’t remember exactly what meds I was on for stimulation, but I did a 5 day embryos transfer & I miscarried. It was devastating. Dr. Morales recommended I do a uterine receptivity which tested if my uterus lining was ready for the embryo to transfer & implant on the current protocol I was on. I was hesitant because it would cost an additional $1k & push back my protocol for one month. The results revealed that if I was on progesterone for 6-12hrs longer than when I did my first 5 day transfer, my implantation rate was 90% more successful & it worked!!!

Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Specialists Medical Group. (Assigned nurse: Martha, RN)

The nursing staff is amazing!!! They were always pleasant & nice. Returned calls, remembered what they talked about you during your last visit (even if it’s personal & not related to ivf).

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Strength: For the most every time I needed to speak to someone, I always got a call back back within a day. The clinic was attentive. Weakness: you can tell the clinic was busy. They never made you feel rushed or hurried but Dr. Morales was always on the move. She was the only person that you would have to wait on. You wouldn’t wait long.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Monitoring was fairly easy. I work full time but only 4 days a week, so some times I sacrificed sleep to go in for monitoring but for the most part, I was able to fit it in when it was convenient.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

My insurance covered 50% of IVF (which I included monitoring, ultrasounds, & blood draws): $10k Anesthesia for egg retrieval (must be a written check: $1500 (honestly I forgot) PGS: I was able to qualify for a study so it was free but so think it’s $2500 Uterine receptivity test: $1000 2nd 5 day embryo transfer (because of 1st embryo transfer miscarriage): $2500 I paid the low end of stimulation meds because I stimulated quickly: $2500

Describe Arlene Morales's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Since I had my eggs PGS tested, Dr. Morales recommends that we do a single embryo transfer. She said she was willing to do a multiple transfer if the first transfer wasn’t successful.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2015 - 2016, Successful

Age 29 - 30

2 IVF

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Poor Egg Quality

European

Income $100K - $199K

Sales Representative

1st of 2 Docs

2 IUI With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

Although it is clear Dr. Morales has many patients (the clinic was typically pretty busy when we were there), I saw her every single visit... for every ultrasound, every procedure, every consult, and never felt rushed or brushed aside...I felt that Dr. Morales took the time to make sure I understood all of the treatments and reasons behind each treatment decision. The entire staff was always warm, remembered my name (and my husband's name) and truly become good friends.

The nursing staff [Fertility Specialists Medical Group] was great! They answered all of our questions, even calls and emails quickly (emails we especially valued). They are also wonderful patient advocates - always looking for the best value on medications, making sure if anything could be covered by insurance that it was, etc.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Dr. Morales was always very honest about my diagnosis and treatment options- something I valued. In a process that can be very frustrating and leave you feeling out of control, it is nice to have a clear plan of action! Although it is clear Dr. Morales has many patients (the clinic was typically pretty busy when we were there), I saw her every single visit... for every ultrasound, every procedure, every consult, and never felt rushed or brushed aside.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

It is scary.... but go to that first consult, listen to what the doctors have to say, and ask lots of questions! We cancelled our initial consult a couple of times because we were so nervous to hear bad news. But the more we learned- the better we felt!

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

I felt that Dr. Morales took the time to make sure I understood all of the treatments and reasons behind each treatment decision. The entire staff was always warm, remembered my name (and my husband's name) and truly become good friends.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

The nursing staff was great! They answered all of our questions, even calls and emails quickly (emails we especially valued). They are also wonderful patient advocates - always looking for the best value on medications, making sure if anything could be covered by insurance that it was, etc.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Although a bit tricky to find the first time, the clinic is great. Very nice, clean, and inviting. The front desk staff (who will remember your name after your first visit - it's amazing!) always has a smile on their face and is ready to greet you. Great coffee in the waiting room too!

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

I was pleasantly surprised to see the doctor (not a nurse or medical assistant) for every monitoring appointment. It was also nice they started them so early in the morning (7:00 AM)

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2013 - 2015, Unknown Success

Age 30 - 32

3 IUI

3 Egg Freezing

European

Income $200K - $499K

Only Doc Seen

IVF With Other Docs

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

I trust her competence with all the decisions we've made and procedures we've had done. She has also let meetings go long after we've had failures. All that said, this is a busy practice and she is on the move.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Dr. Morales seems up to date on the newest practices, especially when it comes to genetic screening and various genetic diagnostic procedures -- this is one of the reasons we chose to go to her. I trust her competence with all the decisions we've made and procedures we've had done. She has also let meetings go long after we've had failures and are going over results and next steps. All that said, this is a busy practice and she is on the move. When you come in for an ultrasound, it is friendly but quick and in small talk Dr. Morales may mix up a few personal details (not important to treatment -- but things like "How was your trip to Europe?" and I'm like "What trip?"). If you are looking for a doctor to ponder the meaning of life with at each appointment, you might prefer a different practice.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

I consider the practice as a whole to be run extremely well. From the receptionists to the MAs to the nurses, I feel that everyone there quickly got to know me as a person and it was actually very pleasant being around the office/clinic and interacting with them. Dr. Morales' manner is a little scattered, though she very clearly cares about our outcome. I would consider that the practice as a whole is very well staffed and personable.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

I have worked with several of the nurses and they all knew our case extremely well, were easy to get in touch with, happy to answer questions, good at explaining things and very personable.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2019 - 2021, Successful

Age 35 - 37

4 IUI

1 IVF

PCOS

Unexplained

Latinx

Income $100K - $199K

Nurse or HC Services

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

It is a long process, but Dr. Morales is very knowledgeable in all aspects of fertility treatment...Loved Dr. Morales but it was sometimes hard for my husband to understand all the medical terminology. I’m a nurse and he didn’t always understand it all. She would break it down for him whenever he asked or needed something repeated.

It [Fertility Specialists Medical Group] is a very busy office, so sometimes there’s a longer wait than expected. There were times where you would show up for your appointment and you’d get right in, but other times where it could take 30 minutes before being seen...Nursing staff was always kind and compassionate...Dr. Morales is very knowledgeable in all aspects of fertility treatment.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Loved Dr. Morales but it was sometimes hard for my husband to understand all the medical terminology. I’m a nurse and he didn’t always understand it all. She would break it down for him whenever he asked or needed something repeated.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

It is a long process, but Dr. Morales is very knowledgeable in all aspects of fertility treatment.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

She got to know me and was so happy when we finally got pregnant.

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

We did a cycle using progesterone shots and estrogen pills as well as a cycle using Letrozole when I produced my own estrogen to thicken my lining. The estrogen pills weren’t thickening my lining as much as when I produced my own estrogen.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Nursing staff was always kind and compassionate.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

It is a very busy office, so sometimes there’s a longer wait than expected. There were times where you would show up for your appointment and you’d get right in, but other times where it could take 30 minutes before being seen.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

My insurance covered part of it, but still was needed to pay for all my meds and most of the procedures.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2016 - 2017, Unknown Success

Age 33 - 34

3 IUI

Unexplained

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Not sure

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

She [Dr. Arlene Morales] really took the time to cover everything with you, really listened when she asked about how you responded to medications. She really wants to get to help you expand your family. She will also tell you exactly what will happen (if you do IUI/ IVF treatments and what to expect after them.... She took the time to get to know us, answered any and all of our concerns, and would explain everything in details. Plus she has a great sense of humor!

All of the nurses [at Fertility Specialists Medical Group] are fantastic. They cheer with you when you succeed (if you lost some weight); helped you when the tests were negative. Very caring.... Make sure to bring your new patient forms filled out before hand-they are very long and it's easier to have them completed beforehand.... They always made you aware of the costs upfront.... She will tell you the truth.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

She really took the time to cover everything with you, really listened when she asked about how you responded to medications. She really wants to get to help you expand your family. She will also tell you exactly what will happen (if you do IUI/ IVF treatments and what to expect after them.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

She will tell you the truth. She wants to help you achieve your dreams.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

She took the time to get to know us, answered any and all of our concerns, and would explain everything in details. Plus she has a great sense of humor!

Describe the protocols Arlene Morales used in your cycles at Fertility Specialists Medical Group and their degree of success.

She recommend IVF to begin with (due to the length of time we've been trying); we wanted to start with IuIs first. She did as we asked, and would look at one cycle vs the next to see how the numbers would change (follicle size/ how many developed and on which side). She also asked about side affects from the medications clomid vs. letrezule.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

All of the nurses are fantastic. They cheer with you when you succeed (if you lost some weight); helped you when the tests were negative. Very caring.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Make sure to bring your new patient forms filled out before hand-they are very long and it's easier to have them completed beforehand.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Insurance did not pay for any treatment. They always made you aware of the costs upfront.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2021, Consult

Age 46

5 Fertility Medications

Latinx

Black or African-American

Income $50K - $99K

Operations

2nd of 2 Docs

2 IVF With Other Docs

Donor Eggs With Other Docs

Donor Sperm

Surrogacy With Other Docs

LGBTQ

Doesn't Recommend

Unsuccessful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

I feel they [Dr. Arlene Morales} are very respectful and caring. Unfortunately we had very bad luck with our two egg donors, both our sperm, and the three gestational carriers we have used. We feel positive that others might have a meaningful and positive experience...I wish it was more acceptable to transfer more than one embryo. With all our pre genetic tested embryos our outcomes were not positive either.

The [Fertility Specialists Medical Group] strengths are communication and understanding of infertility issues. I wish there was a bigger educational process. If I repeated this process I would advocate more for myself and my understanding of the process...Our sperm was left out. Our pregnancy test results call took all day to receive. They left it for end of business day. We feel nobody wanted to give us the bad news. We wish we had a different 3rd party coordinator.

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

I feel they are very respectful and caring. Unfortunately we had very bad luck with our two egg donors, both our sperm, and the three gestational carriers we have used. We feel positive that others might have a meaningful and positive experience.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Take your time learning about all your options. Get educated.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Because my partner and I feel they were caring but realistic. We were told we are very unlucky and no matter what we try the results would not be favorable.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Fertility Specialists Medical Group. (Assigned nurse: Marianne )

I feel this is where things did not go well.

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

The strengths are communication and understanding of infertility issues. I wish there was a bigger educational process. If I repeated this process I would advocate more for myself and my understanding of the process.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

The costs were excessive. My heart pounds every time I think about it. We are in debt for the next decade.

Describe Arlene Morales's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

I wish it was more acceptable to transfer more than one embryo. With all our pre genetic tested embryos our outcomes were not positive either.

What specific things went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Lost or damaged samples
Canceled a cycle due to clinic error

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

Our sperm was left out. Our pregnancy test results call took all day to receive. They left it for end of business day. We feel nobody wanted to give us the bad news. We wish we had a different 3rd party coordinator.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Frequency Seen

LGBTQ Care

Trustworthiness

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

LGBTQ Care

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

2017 - 2020, Successful

Age 32 - 35

3 IUI

2 IVF

2 Embryo Freezing

Male Factor

Poor Egg Quality

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Marketer or PR

1st of 2 Docs

Neutral

Successful

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

Dr. Morales is a brilliant physician, but not the warmest. I would recommend her if the latter doesn't matter to you. There is no doubt about her skill when it comes to fertility treatment. After several years as her patient, and not having the results we hoped for, we felt defeated and wanted a doctor who showed us compassion. It wasn't that Dr. Morales isn't compassionate; I would just say she's a bit more blunt than some other physicians. But again, her skill is top notch...

This is a good clinic [Fertility Specialists Medical Group]. I didn't find it to be the warmest or most compassionate, but they produce results and that's most important to a lot of patients. They have a very good embryology lab run by Kate...Dr. Morales is a brilliant physician, but not the warmest. I would recommend her if the latter doesn't matter to you. There is no doubt about her skill when it comes to fertility treatment...

How was your experience with Arlene Morales at Fertility Specialists Medical Group?

Describe your experience with Fertility Specialists Medical Group.

This is a good clinic. I didn't find it to be the warmest or most compassionate, but they produce results and that's most important to a lot of patients. They have a very good embryology lab run by Kate.

Doctor

Arlene Morales

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

San Diego

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Arlene Morales Fertility Specialists Medical Group

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Arlene Morales

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

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Fertility Specialists Medical Group
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Arlene Morales

Fertility Specialists Medical Group

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How Doctor Communicates

Fertility Specialists Medical GroupRated 7.6Strongly recommend: 57%Neutral: 19%Don't recommend: 25%7.6

19 patient reviews

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Fertility Specialists Medical Group
Rated 7.6