I had an egg freezing cycle. She [Dr. Ashley Wiltshire] monitored my hormones and my follicle size and adjusted the levels day by day and I responded appropriately. She has the medical expertise to get you to achieve your goal. It was nerve wracking for me since I have to pay out of pocket but I only had successful experiences with her...She was very kind, answered all my medical questions, was never inpatient with me...I was very afraid of how I would manage with my busy schedule but she accommodated every question I had an maneuvered my cycle so I would do it before my vacation and an important exam. I gladly did a second cycle with her because of how easy she made it the first time and because she explained to me the percentage of success with my first cycle. I like that she involved me with the process. She is incredibly smart and I’m so glad I got to experience her care as a patient.
[Columbia University's] strength was that there was 2 locations so I did my ultrasound in one location and the egg retrieval somewhere else which went smoothly with my job schedule. They also allowed me to meet with the doctors virtually. Also they gave me information on how to qualify for the medications with a discount program which was not done at the other fertility center I visited before this one. Basically everything that was initially going to be a barrier was resolved in this clinic (location, visits, and medications).First cycle $10,450. Second cycle $9700...
How was your experience with Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
I was very afraid of how I would manage with my busy schedule but she accommodated every question I had an maneuvered my cycle so I would do it before my vacation and an important exam. I gladly did a second cycle with her because of how easy she made it the first time and because she explained to me the percentage of success with my first cycle. I like that she involved me with the process. She is incredibly smart and I’m so glad I got to experience her care as a patient.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
Rest easy because you are in safe, knowledgeable, and kind hands. Any worries you have, she will tell you the truth and use her medical reasoning while being understanding. You lucked out as did I!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
She was very kind, answered all my medical questions, was never inpatient with me.
Describe the protocols Ashley Wiltshire used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
I had an egg freezing cycle. She monitored my hormones and my follicle size and adjusted the levels day by day and I responded appropriately. She has the medical expertise to get you to achieve your goal. It was nerve wracking for me since I have to pay out of pocket but I only had successful experiences with her.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Sakari Joseph)
I had many nurses but the main nurse always responded quickly and would reach out to Dr. Wiltshire if she needed to or to the Medication Coordinator or Appointment Coordinator in a timely manner
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The clinic’s strength was that there was 2 locations so I did my ultrasound in one location and the egg retrieval somewhere else which went smoothly with my job schedule. They also allowed me to meet with the doctors virtually. Also they gave me information on how to qualify for the medications with a discount program which was not done at the other fertility center I visited before this one. Basically everything that was initially going to be a barrier was resolved in this clinic (location, visits, and medications).
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University.
First cycle $10,450. Second cycle $9700
Describe Ashley Wiltshire's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
Dr. Wiltshire was super thorough and conscientious with my care...Dr. Wiltshire really pushed me to have as many mature follicles as possible while closely monitoring me for hyperstimulation. Several ultrasound techs/providers commented that I might be ready for triggering based on my ultrasounds, but she was super patient and wanted to keep going. I'm at a stage in my career/training where the egg retrieval was a big financial commitment for me, and I really appreciate her careful care so that I could get the most out of this cycle as possible...
[Columbia University] Very efficient and high volume. Doctor was easily reachable and communicative over email. Saw her a handful of times throughout monitoring, which is not necessarily a problem. Morning monitoring appointments very efficient---they were always on time and ultrasounds/bloodwork were always complete within 15 minutes. All of the phlebotomists and techs were very available. I also broke a menopur vial at home once and they gave me a replacement that was lying around, which I really appreciated.
How was your experience with Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
I would recommend Dr. Wiltshire to anyone! She was super communicative and available throughout the whole process, and was really patient and meticulous with my care. The entire clinic as well was well organized, and they offer very early morning monitoring appointments which was super helpful with my work schedule.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
Dr. Wiltshire was super thorough and conscientious with my care. I am a physician and am undergoing elective egg freezing, and Dr. Wiltshire really pushed me to have as many mature follicles as possible while closely monitoring me for hyperstimulation. Several ultrasound techs/providers commented that I might be ready for triggering based on my ultrasounds, but she was super patient and wanted to keep going. I'm at a stage in my career/training where the egg retrieval was a big financial commitment for me, and I really appreciate her careful care so that I could get the most out of this cycle as possible.
Describe the protocols Ashley Wiltshire used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Egg retrieval:
follistim + menopur days 1,2
follistim + menopur+ganirelix days 3-10
Trigger: lupron only
Extraction on day 12
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Very efficient and high volume. Doctor was easily reachable and communicative over email. Saw her a handful of times throughout monitoring, which is not necessarily a problem. Morning monitoring appointments very efficient---they were always on time and ultrasounds/bloodwork were always complete within 15 minutes. All of the phlebotomists and techs were very available. I also broke a menopur vial at home once and they gave me a replacement that was lying around, which I really appreciated.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University.
cycle $8000
meds $2500
anethesia $600
storage first year free, then $1200 annually
Describe Ashley Wiltshire's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
Dr. Wiltshire took the time to answer my questions, sometimes multiple times during the process. She responded to my emails and/or requests for calls the same day. I was scared and emotional, yet she never made me feel stupid for asking a question and was always kind and patient with my questions...She gave her expert opinion that I needed a little more time to be as successful as possible, and she was right! I appreciated her expertise and encouragement...
Every check-up the nurses [at Columbia University] would ask me how I was feeling and encourage me in the process. Over time we developed relationships and they were cheering for me on my retrieval day. The nurses were also extremely responsive via phone and email if I had any questions... it's a professional staff, with clean and organized space and resources. The staff is kind and knowledgeable...
How was your experience with Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
I was TERRIFIED going into this process, but with Dr. Wiltshire felt supported overstep of the way. She answered all my questions and was patient when I was emotional. She encouraged me. She was extremely knowledgeable and kind. I felt like I was a real person, with support from another human, while going through the process. I felt safe and grew more and more comfortable with her expertise. She even checked in on me while she was on vacation!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
No advice needed. Based on my experience, I can imagine Dr. Wiltshire adjusting and meeting every patient's needs on a case by case basis. She is honest and kind. She will explain the process and re-explain if needed later down the line.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
Dr. Wiltshire took the time to answer my questions, sometimes multiple times during the process. She responded to my emails and/or requests for calls the same day. I was scared and emotional, yet she never made me feel stupid for asking a question and was always kind and patient with my questions.
Describe the protocols Ashley Wiltshire used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
I had a fairly uneventful egg retrieval and process. I will note that I expressed to Dr. Wiltshire, frequently, how expensive the process was and that this was my ONE shot doing it. I shared my fears and concerns about the process. When I was getting close to the end I was sore and tired and ready to give up, but she pushed me a little further along (an additional day or two of regular treatments vs. triggering too early). She reminded me about MY own goals of having a successful retrieval and was honest about weighing our options. She gave her expert opinion that I needed a little more time to be as successful as possible, and she was right! I appreciated her expertise and encouragement.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia University.
Every check-up the nurses would ask me how I was feeling and encourage me in the process. Over time we developed relationships and they were cheering for me on my retrieval day. The nurses were also extremely responsive via phone and email if I had any questions.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Strengths: it's a professional staff, with clean and organized space and resources. The staff is kind and knowledgeable.
There are no real weaknesses, other than the cost and no financial aid programs available (this is mostly an insurance issue, but Columbia could probably offer something).
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia University.
It was an easy process - I scheduled an appointment online or from my phone. My wait time was very short and I could be in and out in 30 minutes usually. Easy, professional and very manageable, especially while working.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University.
I was charged for the first two consultations. Once I decided to move forward with the process, I paid a lump sum which included all work during visits and any communication. I paid for my medication out of pocket and anesthesia out of pocket.
Describe Ashley Wiltshire's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
Dr. Wiltshire was very respectful of my time and my situation. She treated me with care and made sure I was well-informed of each step of the process. When a complication arose, she called me almost immediately to talk about next steps. I really felt like she had my back...she consulted with her senior colleagues at different points in the process; this shows me that she is able to let go of ego and make sure that the best interests of the patients are central to the care...
The clinic [Columbia University] was organized and seemed to run well...The first care coordinator, Daniella, was very on top of everything and clear with next steps. The second coordinator, Martha, needs to work on her attention to detail. For example, she scheduled my follow up saline ultrasound in a clinic that was very far away from my home and not accessible by public transportation. It was a huge inconvenience...
How was your experience with Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
I had a great experience with Dr. Wiltshire. She was very responsive at every step of the way, explained next steps clearly, and answered my questions with patience and care. When a complication arose, she made sure I was aware right away and together we made a plan for next steps. I appreciated that she consulted with her senior colleagues at different points in the process; this shows me that she is able to let go of ego and make sure that the best interests of the patients are central to the care. I feel very grateful to have found Dr. Wiltshire to help me walk through this unknown time in my life.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
Take deep breaths and trust that she is on your team and will do whatever she can to help you meet your goals.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
Dr. Wiltshire was very respectful of my time and my situation. She treated me with care and made sure I was well-informed of each step of the process. When a complication arose, she called me almost immediately to talk about next steps. I really felt like she had my back.
Describe the protocols Ashley Wiltshire used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Basic lab work and consultation which was normal. An abnormal HSG, in-office hysteroscopy to confirm adhesions and operative hysteroscopy, then a follow up ultrasound to confirm that surgery was successful.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: First Daniella, then Martha )
The first care coordinator, Daniella, was very on top of everything and clear with next steps. The second coordinator, Martha, needs to work on her attention to detail. For example, she scheduled my follow up saline ultrasound in a clinic that was very far away from my home and not accessible by public transportation. It was a huge inconvenience.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The clinic was organized and seemed
to run well.
Area for improvement: the coordination of sperm analysis was very confusing and stressful for my partner. He was told to find a sterile container himself which no pharmacy carried. Once a container was finally obtained, the process of bringing it to the clinic himself was also nerve wracking. Why not just have the option to give the sample at the clinic as a first option if people want that?
Dr. Wiltshire's bedside manner was exceptional. I'm a professional but not in medicine and she always struck the right tone when explaining things to me without dumbing it down or using too much medical jargon. She was very accessible and affirmatively checked in during the process between appointments and after the procedure to make sure she answered any additional questions...I always felt fully informed about my treatment and I trusted her...
It [Columbia University] was very organized and I didn't have to wait long for appointments. I have difficult veins and there were only two times that I had to be stuck a second time. It was initially hard to navigate the administrative process because the billing department was not responsive...I received information about next steps from various people and the person with billing information was initially unresponsive to my questions...
How was your experience with Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
Dr. Wiltshire was absolutely amazing! She is an exceptional communicator, taking time to clearly explain what was happening in terms that made sense to me. Striking the right tone can be so hard for doctors but she nailed it without dumbing things down or relying only on medical jargon. She reached out throughout the process to make sure she answered all my questions and always felt accessible. I never felt rushed and she listened carefully to my concerns to make sure she offered options that met my needs.
Dr. Wiltshire was extremely knowledgeable. Because she explained the process so well, I always felt fully informed about my treatment and I trusted her. When there were decisions I needed to make about how to proceed, she equipped me with the necessary information to weigh my options and make the best choice.
Dr. Wiltshire demonstrated she cared about me as a patient. She came in on a holiday to perform my procedure, which I really appreciated. Also, I mentioned having difficulty reaching someone for an administrative issue and she made sure they reached out to me so things moved forward, which was super helpful.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
Ask all your questions. She wanted me to feel knowledgeable and comfortable with the process.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Ashley Wiltshire at Columbia University?
Dr. Wiltshire's bedside manner was exceptional. I'm a professional but not in medicine and she always struck the right tone when explaining things to me without dumbing it down or using too much medical jargon. She was very accessible and affirmatively checked in during the process between appointments and after the procedure to make sure she answered any additional questions. When I was having a hard time navigating the administrative side of things, she ensured those processes were moving forward to me.
Describe the protocols Ashley Wiltshire used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
We started outside of my cycle because it was delayed so she adjusted my medicines. My cycle also ran long (I did injections for 14 days) because she wanted to be sure as many of my eggs were mature as possible.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Sakari)
Sakari was great. She answered all my questions. I was scared about the injections but felt like she was rooting for me.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The clinic was great. It was very organized and I didn't have to wait long for appointments. I have difficult veins and there were only two times that I had to be stuck a second time. It was initially hard to navigate the administrative process because the billing department was not responsive.
What specific things went wrong at Columbia University?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia University.
I received information about next steps from various people and the person with billing information was initially unresponsive to my questions. This was straightened out on the front end but was confusing because I wasn't clear on the steps I needed to complete in order to begin the process.