John Nichols
Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group
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Medical SchoolU. of Georgia
ResidencyBirmingham
FellowshipU. of Texas
Asheville
76 Peachtree Rd
Asheville, NC 28803
(828)-210-8284
Columbia
3 Medical Park Drive
Columbia, SC 29203
(803)-726-3600
Greenville
17 Caledon Ct.
Greenville, SC 29615
(864)-232-7734
Spartanburg
1330 Boiling Springs Rd.
Spartanburg, SC 29303
(864)-583-2669
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123 assessments
8
7
Age
33
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
7
He [Dr. Nichols] was prepared with all of my information prior to our appointment. He showed concern and sensitivity to my emotions and went over all of my options...supportive to the fact that I wanted to keep trying a few more rounds of IUI because it is covered by our insurance, but IVF is not covered. He explained in detail the IVF process and patiently answered my questions...performed my HSG test and had a calm/warm personality, which helped to calm me.
Didn't hear back from one of the doctors [at PREG] for over 2 days when waiting for instructions on what to do for my next cycle. Strengths: Almost always able to get in touch with someone on the phone, well trained sensitive/compassionate nursing staff, the 2nd doctor I saw was great, most of the secretaries are friendly and helpful, letting me schedule my IUI in advance to try and work around my work schedule
Age
33
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
7
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He performed my HSG test and had a calm/warm personality, which helped to calm me. For our consultation appointment to go over next steps, after 3 cycles with meds and timed intercourse and 2 IUI's, he was prepared with all of my previous treatment history and had already printed out information and stats IVF and how it would work for me. He was sensitive and supportive to the fact that I wanted to keep trying a few more rounds of IUI because it is covered by our insurance, but IVF is not covered. He explained in detail the IVF process and patiently answered my questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was prepared with all of my information prior to our appointment. He showed concern and sensitivity to my emotions and went over all of my options.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The two main nurses I've worked with were helpful and compassionate. One was more calm and seemed more caring than the other (but, it was probably a personality preference). Unfortunately, at our first IUI they were short staffed and someone who was filling in at the lab copied my husbands name wrong and wrote the wrong name on his sperm sample. It made for a pretty stressful and upsetting procedure, especially since it was our first time doing an IUI. The next two IUI's went really well and the calmer nurse did them. Overall, I think the nursing staff is sensitive and compassionate and do a great job.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Weaknesses: Way too cold in the clinic (especially when you're having to get undressed for procedures), have had to wait over an hour for a consultation and an IUI, unfriendly secretary when I expressed my concern about wait time (but the other two were friendly!), short window of time to get blood-work done when they were training a new staff member, Didn't hear back from one of the doctors for over 2 days when waiting for instructions on what to do for my next cycle.
Strengths: Almost always able to get in touch with someone on the phone, well trained sensitive/compassionate nursing staff, the 2nd doctor I saw was great, most of the secretaries are friendly and helpful, letting me schedule my IUI in advance to try and work around my work schedule
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
- Lost paperwork
- Failed to call with results
- Failed to convey critical information
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
7
6
Age
32 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
7
6
[Protocols with Dr. John Nichols] I tried about 3 TICs, 3 IUIs (only went through with 2 due to where the follicles were), 1 IVF (no transfer - all embryos died before freezing), and a laparoscopic surgery to look at Fallopian tubes... I wish he had suggested blood testing for genetic anomalies earlier without my having to bring it up late in the process...Unfortunately he couldn’t explain why all my embryos “fell apart” and I’m not sure if it’s because he truly did not know or if he didn’t feel like he had the time to look into it further.
Some of them [nurses at PREG] were helpful and informative, especially during TIC and IUI attempts. The main nurse assigned for IVF (Lynne) could be nice at times but mostly I found her to lack compassion and felt like she talked down to me. She seemed to be annoyed with her job and got tired of repeating herself, forgetting or not caring that I was in a stressful switching and trying something (IVF) I had never experienced before.
Age
32 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2019
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European, Latino
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
7
6
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols (when he was around) explained things very clearly and plainly throughout the TIC, IUI, and IVF process. Unfortunately he couldn’t explain why all my embryos “fell apart” and I’m not sure if it’s because he truly did not know or if he didn’t feel like he had the time to look into it further. Or perhaps because I don’t have money he knew I couldn’t pay for more experimentation. He was wishy-washy about recommending a second try which is why I haven’t pursued anything else yet. I wish he had suggested blood testing for genetic anomalies earlier without my having to bring it up late in the process.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He speaks plainly.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
For example, the day of egg retrieval it seemed as though they were herding a large number of women through the process like animals. There were probably 4-5 women in the same room at any time and they were herded in and out of the operating area. It felt very rushed and impersonal. I would have liked to have had more time to talk with the various people around about what was happening.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I tried about 3 TICs, 3 IUIs (only went through with 2 due to where the follicles were), 1 IVF (no transfer - all embryos died before freezing), and a laparoscopic surgery to look at Fallopian tubes which resulted in “everything looks fine and now you owe 4K that your insurance doesn’t cover too bad we couldn’t tell you that ahead of time”.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Some of them were helpful and informative, especially during TIC and IUI attempts. The main nurse assigned for IVF (Lynne) could be nice at times but mostly I found her to lack compassion and felt like she talked down to me. She seemed to be annoyed with her job and got tired of repeating herself, forgetting or not caring that I was in a stressful switching and trying something (IVF) I had never experienced before.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
They seem to run their schedule well. Most appointments were on time and lasted as expected. Weaknesses may be that a lot of the staff seemed annoyed or exhausted to be there which was challenging to deal with when I’m already facing depression about my infertility.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Drugs for TIC were fairly inexpensive due to insurance. IUI procedures were about 500 each, out of pocket. IVF including drugs was about 27,000 out of pocket. Got some refunded due to failure. Laparoscopic procedure was over 30,000 with most covered by insurance but about 4000 out of pocket.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My doctor did not believe it was safe to transfer more than one embryo at a time and I believe he will not perform those procedures.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to order appropriate test
- Provided conflicting information
- Failed to convey critical information
- Read less
0
0
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
0
0
hardly ever saw Dr. Nichols except for the consultations...I didn't feel warm or welcome from the start. Neither did my husband. We should have stopped there, but we continued on because we didn't think there was anyone else in the area to choose from (we used his office in Asheville, NC). Dr. Nichols did not ever follow up with us or make us feel valued. Again, we should have stopped before we started with him and his practice...
There were LOTS of problems with Dr. Nichols and his practice (PREG). We had issues with the following: billing (unclear and they even had a hard time explaining to us- - they seemed as confused as we were), insurance claims (would not communicate with our insurance company in a rapid manner - - took MONTHS to resolve an issues from nearly 6 months ago), nurses would sometimes call, but often NOT cal to inform us of what we needed to do when, hardly ever saw Dr. Nichols except for the consultations, I have an allergy to latex and nearly 80% of the time I would have to remind the staff of this before they went to do a check-up, procedure, etc. Overall, we (my husband and I ) felt the staff was only worried about the $ and not about the humans involved. I would NEVER recommend this practice to ANYONE! We were VERY dissatisfied and when letting them know this, they didn't seem to care - - no apologies or anything. Just "hate to hear that". FIND ANOTHER PRACTICE - - DO NOT USE PREG IN GREENVILLE, ASHEVILLE, SPARTANBURG, COLUMBIA, ETC.!!!
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
—
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
0
0
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
There were LOTS of problems with Dr. Nichols and his practice (PREG). We had issues with the following: billing (unclear and they even had a hard time explaining to us- - they seemed as confused as we were), insurance claims (would not communicate with our insurance company in a rapid manner - - took MONTHS to resolve an issues from nearly 6 months ago), nurses would sometimes call, but often NOT cal to inform us of what we needed to do when, hardly ever saw Dr. Nichols except for the consultations, I have an allergy to latex and nearly 80% of the time I would have to remind the staff of this before they went to do a check-up, procedure, etc. Overall, we (my husband and I ) felt the staff was only worried about the $ and not about the humans involved. I would NEVER recommend this practice to ANYONE! We were VERY dissatisfied and when letting them know this, they didn't seem to care - - no apologies or anything. Just "hate to hear that". FIND ANOTHER PRACTICE - - DO NOT USE PREG IN GREENVILLE, ASHEVILLE, SPARTANBURG, COLUMBIA, ETC.!!!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Go somewhere else - - anywhere else. Do not use John Nichols!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I didn't feel warm or welcome from the start. Neither did my husband. We should have stopped there, but we continued on because we didn't think there was anyone else in the area to choose from (we used his office in Asheville, NC). Dr. Nichols did not ever follow up with us or make us feel valued. Again, we should have stopped before we started with him and his practice.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Because my husband I were both "normal" in ALL aspects, we started first with using Letrozole and then the timed Trigger shot. We did this three times with negative results. During this time, they found a polyp and removed that from my uterus. Then, we moved into IUI's, which we tried twice. I was having REALLY negative side effects from the drugs, and we weren't happy with PREG so we quit treatment until we could find another practice.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
There was one nurse that was AWESOME, but I don't remember her name. She was the ONLY one that would call me back, seemed to GENUINELY care, and ALWAYS remembered my allergy to latex. The rest were VERY unimpressive.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Overall, it just wasn't the clinic for us. Again, I think if we had to do it all over again, we should have stopped before we began with them and gone somewhere else. Even when we quit treatment, we had to battle with them for MONTHS afterward due to billing issues.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to call with results
- Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
- Provided conflicting information
- Failed to convey critical information
- Lost or damaged samples
- Read less
9
10
Age
28
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
5 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
9
10
He [Dr. Nichols] was always very honest and open about plans and risk. He was motivating and put thing in real terms. He seems very smart in what he is doing. Seemed genuine and caring but also blunt, for me that’s a good thing. He encouraged me to quit smoking and I have officially put it down!... He was very direct with me on becoming as healthy as possible to prepare a baby in the womb. He was very strick with quitting smoking and months later I dropped smoking!
The clinic [PREG] has all very good strengths in every area. Every visit I had was so welcoming and comfortable in every way. To me, I saw no weaknesses. Seems like a very strong ran office! All the doctors I met and nursing staff are all well educated and have a ton of compassion for every visit they saw me. I even loved my nurse who would take my blood in some visits.... They showed me so much love and encouragement!
Age
28
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
5 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
9
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was always very honest and open about plans and risk. He was motivating and put thing in real terms. He seems very smart in what he is doing. Seemed genuine and caring but also blunt, for me that’s a good thing. He encouraged me to quit smoking and I have officially put it down! Great doctor that I would recommend!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He will give you all truths rather you want to hear it or not. Very honest.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was very direct with me on becoming as healthy as possible to prepare a baby in the womb. He was very strick with quitting smoking and months later I dropped smoking! He’s very encouraging.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Doctor had me use 7.5 (i think) of femara which was the perfect amount for me where my eggs would mature and I would ovulate. I took those for about 5 days starting on day 3 of my period. The first couple of months I would use a trigger shot to help with ovulation and it worked. I would also have an ultra sound around the time of ovulation to see how my eggs were maturing and they would give me the go on the trigger shot. I continued to ovulate every month but unfortunately with no pregnancy success!
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
So wonderful! I absolutely loved my nurses! They showed me so much love and encouragement! They are what made me comfortable with every visit and everything that I had to do.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic has all very good strengths in every area. Every visit I had was so welcoming and comfortable in every way. To me, I saw no weaknesses. Seems like a very strong ran office! All the doctors I met and nursing staff are all well educated and have a ton of compassion for every visit they saw me. I even loved my nurse who would take my blood in some visits.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I really hate that medical insurance does not cover any testing. The only thing insurance would pay for was some of the blood work.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Doctor suggested IVF May would be the next step we would have to do. He stated a single embryo would be the best choice because of my small size.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Lost appointments
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2
3
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
4 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
2
3
Dr. Nichols was nice at my consultation; however he did not spend a lot of time with me that day. Honestly he wanted to push IVF upfront since I had came from another doctor that did an iui already. It seemed he did not want me to try an iui. As stated before I only seem dr Nichols at my consultation as he primarily works out of the south Carolina office I was told and I went to the North Carolina office for my treatment. When the dosage of my fertility medication did not get results he didn't to my knowledge review and see if my dose needed to be increased to get better results.
The nurses [at PREG-Asheville] were wonderful, but it carried from nurse to nurse on the timing they would suggest for injections or when to preform the iui. It seemed sometimes they were doing treatments prematurely... Weakness would be re-evaluating treatment. I would suggest asking lots and lots of questions. And question things you do not understand. Ask why medication can't isn't being increased. Ask for kab work to be redone if needed.
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
5th of 5 Docs
Treatment
4 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
2
3
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols was nice at my consultation; however he did not spend a lot of time with me that day. Honestly he wanted to push IVF upfront since I had came from another doctor that did an iui already. It seemed he did not want me to try an iui. As stated before I only seem dr Nichols at my consultation as he primarily works out of the south Carolina office I was told and I went to the North Carolina office for my treatment. When the dosage of my fertility medication did not get results he didn't to my knowledge review and see if my dose needed to be increased to get better results. I was actually told on the days of my injections by the nurses that sometimes my follicles were on the small side, but they would go ahead and do my injections and have me come back for the iui. When I recieved my initial load result call from the nurse the only thing they found was low thyroid and low vitamin D. However after vitamin D supplements were started Dr Nichols never retested. As well I have had thyroid issues for 20 years. It seems to me that low thyroid could be a contributing factor in my infertility but they did not seem concerned about it.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Ask a lot of questions and ask for treatment to be re-evaluated through out the process. I literally felt like I flushed my money down the toilet
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
During my treatment I only saw Dr Nochols 1 time and that was during my consultation visit. After that I seen nurses on the practice. The nurses were wonderful, but I felt like when my treatment wasn't progressing that I should have seen face to face again with the doctor. So it felt like to me that I was just another number to him.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
First 3 cycles were letrozole only 7.5 mg
3 more cycles letrozole 7.5 mg and injection shot
Never once was it discussed to go up on the letrozole dose. Even though I was not getting pregnant
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nurses were wonderful, but it carried from nurse to nurse on the timing they would suggest for injections or when to preform the iui. It seemed sometimes they were doing treatments prematurely
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Weakness would be re-evaluating treatment. I would suggest asking lots and lots of questions. And question things you do not understand. Ask why medication can't isn't being increased. Ask for kab work to be redone if needed.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My total costs were a lot out of pocket. A good guess of my costs for my treatment there would be $6,000
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10
10
Age
30
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
I felt like a human because Dr. Nichols was very gentle, thorough, and explained all the procedures prior to my testing. ... His communication is simple to understand. ... He made sure to pause and ask if I had any questions or concerns. He made me feel comfortable and show compassion for his profession. ... He would show me the results on the monitor screen and explain to me what's going on in words I can understand.
I have had one of my prescriptions not called in on time and went to the pharmacy twice to check on it. ... Nurse pracrioter Tori is just amazing. She is extremely knowledgeable in her profession. She is the main nurse in charge of my fertility treatment and medications. ... Weakness: I wish the office [PREG] would stay open longer on fridays. ... Strength: welcoming greetings, clean environment, respectful staff, preserve my privacy, calls me right about my test results or any questions I should have
Age
30
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I saw Dr. Nichols for my HSG testing and he was very informative and compassionate. He was able to answer any questions I had and his genuine personality made the atmosphere and my anxiety feel relaxed. For example, my cervix was short so he had to reclamp it a couple of times. He showed his concern by asking how I was feeling and letting me know before hand, you will feel some pressure here or it will feel uncomfortable when I do this but it's not intolerable. He would show me the results on the monitor screen and explain to me what's going on in words I can understand.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is very gentle and will treat his patients with respect. His communication is simple to understand.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I felt like a human because Dr. Nichols was very gentle, thorough, and explained all the procedures prior to my testing. He made sure to pause and ask if I had any questions or concerns. He made me feel comfortable and show compassion for his profession.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
The treatment I had was HSG testing. My results were normal and both of my fallopian tubes were not blocked. Dr. Nichols also offered ibuprofen in the office prior to the testing due to side effects of stomach cramping that can occur afterwards.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Nurse pracrioter Tori is just amazing. She is extremely knowledgeable in her profession. She is the main nurse in charge of my fertility treatment and medications. During my initial consultation with her, she was able to explained the process of ovulation, reproduction, and IVF procedure with me in terms that I can easily understand, as English is not my 1st language. When my 1st cycle of femara did not work as expected she was respectful and help kepted me motivated and hopeful. Love nurse Tori!
Nurse practitioner Stephanie is so sweet. She conducted some of my ultrasounds appointments and is very comforting when my results turned out negative.
Nurse Lauren is awesome too! She always have a warm personality and calls in my prescriptions so I can pick it up right away.
Stephanie, one of the receptionist at the spartanburg office I go to, is the sweetest. She always greets me by name and with a beautiful smile. This is so important because it made me feel like a family member and welcome.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Strength: welcoming greetings, clean environment, respectful staff, preserve my privacy, calls me right about my test results or any questions I should have, well educated nurses, works around my work schedule and even stays open during lunch hours, because it is so hard for me to get in due to working 8-5.
Weakness: I wish the office would stay open longer on fridays.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My cost of care was under Dr. Nichols was the fee for HSG testing. It was out of pocket since my insurance do not cover any fertility treatments.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
None
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
- Read less
8
8
Age
34
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
8
8
Dr. Nichols is a very intelligent and thorough doctor. The only downfall is you only get to see him maybe once a month if you are a patient at a Preg clinic outside of Greenville, SC. I have been told he takes phone appointments but i have not had one so i can't really speak to that. ... Be aware of his schedule of only visiting Columbia once a month. I wish someone would of explained that to me when I first reached out to Preg.
Strengths: Clinic [PREG] was very nice and not a sterile office like some. The nurses and coordinators were nice but sometimes the wait times could be improved. ... Sometimes, on the busy days it was more rushed and you felt like a number. More so with the doctors and not with nurses. ... Weaknesses: Show more compassion when the cycle doesn't work and we have questions. We don't do this everyday so we have a lot of questions to ask and are looking for some sort of guidance on a scary and unfamiliar path. ...
Age
34
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 3 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, Unexplained
8
8
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is a very intelligent and thorough doctor. The only downfall is you only get to see him maybe once a month if you are a patient at a Preg clinic outside of Greenville, SC. I have been told he takes phone appointments but i have not had one so i can't really speak to that.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be aware of his schedule of only visiting Columbia once a month. I wish someone would of explained that to me when I first reached out to Preg.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
While visiting Preg is was nice that the nurses and coordinators reminder your name and greet you with a smile. Sometimes, on the busy days it was more rushed and you felt like a number. More so with the doctors and not with nurses.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Protocol was IVF since I previously had 3 unsuccessful IUIs in another clinic in Columbia. However, Dr. Nichols and I talked and wanted to do one more IUI. It was a successful IUI in terms of getting pregnant but unfortunately I miscarried due to a missing chromosome for the fetus.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nurses and phlebotomist were always kind especially Deborah. She was always compassionate, understanding, and patient with the many questions I asked.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Strengths: Clinic was very nice and not a sterile office like some. The nurses and coordinators were nice but sometimes the wait times could be improved.
Weaknesses: Show more compassion when the cycle doesn't work and we have questions. We don't do this everyday so we have a lot of questions to ask and are looking for some sort of guidance on a scary and unfamiliar path.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Cost were cheaper than the other leading clinic in Columbia. But that didn't cheapen the service or the experience.
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8
8
Age
31 - 34
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Unexplained
8
8
As a patient the first round of IVF cycle I had different dr. for egg retreival, transfer and the ultrasounds [that Dr. John Nichols]. The 2nd time which I am still in the process of I have made sure to raise my questions and concerns and learning experiences from the first round to Dr. Nichols. I have ensured that all of the sessions in the second round has been performed by Dr. Nichols only. The second round so far has been less confusing since Dr. Nichols has explained the planning of egg retreival, but also added the ERA/biopsy testing this time.
[PREG- Greenville's] Strenghts: Caring staff understanding of patients needs responds to questions/concerns Weakness: Bedside care Always in a hurry The diffferent treatment plans for IVF can be very confusing.Doctor does not give any recommendation to these but rather you have to choose yourself.... 18,500 first IVF cycle 13,500 second IVF cycle Mock transfer costs routine costs during 2015-2017 Estimated total: $40,000 Total estimated:
Age
31 - 34
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
South Asian
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Accountant
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Unexplained
8
8
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
As a patient the first round of IVF cycle I had different dr. for egg retreival, transfer and the ultrasounds. The 2nd time which I am still in the process of I have made sure to raise my questions and concerns and learning experiences from the first round to Dr. Nichols. I have ensured that all of the sessions in the second round has been performed by Dr. Nichols only. The second round so far has been less confusing since Dr. Nichols has explained the planning of egg retreival, but also added the ERA/biopsy testing this time.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Perhaps little bit more of followup. A phone call from one of his nurses or himself would be appreciated after egg retreival, ERA/Biopsy or even embryo transfer.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols has always been very caring and listens to my concerns and answers the questions I may have.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Egg Retreival protocol:
Start Birthcontrol pill: 6/26/2018 (last pill 7/10/2018) Ultrasound/Baseline lab 7/11/2018
Day 1-4 (7/13/2018-7/16/2018)
Gonal F = 150 units
HCG 15 units
Keflex 500 MG (AM & PM)
Asprin low dose once daily
Day 5-10 (7/17/2018 - 7/22/2018)
Labs & Ultrasound on 7/17/2018
Gonal F = 225 units
HCG 15 units
Keflex 500 MG (AM & PM)
Asprin low dose once daily
Day 11 (7/23/2018)
Lab & Ultrasound
Gonal F = 150 units
HCG 15 units
Keflex 500 MG (AM & PM)
Asprin low dose once daily
7/24/2018
Retreival
Asprin low dose.
No keflex 500 MG in the AM of retreival.
ERA/Biopsy/Mock transfer protocol
Start Bithcontrol and asprin on 8/6/2018
Last birthcontrol pill on 9/3/2018
Lab & Ultrasound 9/4/2018
Day 1-2 (9/6/2018-9/7/2018
1 - Estradiol 1 mg tablet AM/PM
Asprin low dose
Day 3-4 (9/8/2018-9/9/2018
2 - Estradiol 1 mg tablet AM/PM
Asprin low dose
Day 5-19 (9/10/2018-9/24/2018
3 - Estradiol 1 mg tablet AM/PM
1 Estradiol 1 mg tablet vaginally at night
Day 15-24 (9/20/2018-9/25/2018
Progesterone in oil 100mg/cc (3/4 cc = 75 mg) IM AM
Biopsy/Mock transfer/ERA done on 9/25/2018
Asprin low dose
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay Polowczuk (IVF cord.))
excellent staff. very caring and also understanding. However, bedside care should be little better after egg retreival, mock transfer and embryo transfer. A phonecall the day after would be appreciated.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Strenghts:
Caring staff
understanding of patients needs
responds to questions/concerns
Weakness:
Bedside care
Always in a hurry
The diffferent treatment plans for IVF can be very confusing.Doctor does not give any recommendation to these but rather you have to choose yourself.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
18,500 first IVF cycle
13,500 second IVF cycle
Mock transfer costs
routine costs during 2015-2017
Estimated total: $40,000
Total estimated:
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
N/A have not reached to that point yet.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
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4
5
Age
46 - 48
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI, IVF, Donor Eggs
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Tubal Blockage, Uterine Fibroids
4
5
Dr. Nichols; when we first met I felt confident that we would be able to move forward and although I was just turned 45yr, that there was still hope for my fertility and that under his care we could turn a small percent into a true pregnancy. Since then I've read many things and in realization that some things could of been done to help me more efficiently. I have felt disappointed and let down.... Protocols were same with each IUI. I have only done one IVF and one Mock cycle to fine tune the pill and shot amounts.
The staff [at PREG] for appointments are great. I never felt forgotten. They got back to me in a timely manner so i could be on time for whatever was needed. Weaknesses would be that for my IUI and IVF cycle I had too many questions after going home as to why some things weren't checked. Another important matter is what we put in our bodies. There is no information other than online searching that fertility is tied to what supplements we take and food or bad food we eat.
Age
46 - 48
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
—
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, IVF, Donor Eggs
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Tubal Blockage, Uterine Fibroids
4
5
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols; when we first met I felt confident that we would be able to move forward and although I was just turned 45yr, that there was still hope for my fertility and that under his care we could turn a small percent into a true pregnancy. Since then I've read many things and in realization that some things could of been done to help me more efficiently. I have felt disappointed and let down.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Ask for ultrasound to look for polyps before anything else.
Ask to have husband tested before the day of IUI transfer.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Treatment was fine. I am aware that there are procedure that are followed in an elimination manner, however I feel that for my age I should of been tested for some things before my first IUI such as the HSG to see if my tubes were open. This was only done at my request after the #3 IUI's.
Secondly, while I was having ultrasound before my first IUI set for few days later, the nurse said she thought she saw a possible polyp. That being my first visit I didn't know that polyps were a cause of failed IUI. My cycle should of been postponed till after the surgery.
The office doesn't always follow through with making me aware of the next step and I have felt like I'm always chasing answers or requesting them to do extra measures that are being overlooked.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
The details for these things have changed each time as per milligrams and pill choices for fertility. Protocols were same with each IUI.
I have only done one IVF and one Mock cycle to fine tune the pill and shot amounts.
I also wish that I had been given a choice when it came to LUPRON injections or at least a pamphlet about the detreimental side effects before being prescribed for treatment.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nursing staff is great. I feel as women they understand the hopes of each visit. Compassion and understanding. I was always asked, are you doing ok when undergoing ultrasound.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The staff for appointments are great. I never felt forgotten. They got back to me in a timely manner so i could be on time for whatever was needed.
Weaknesses would be that for my IUI and IVF cycle I had too many questions after going home as to why some things weren't checked.
Another important matter is what we put in our bodies. There is no information other than online searching that fertility is tied to what supplements we take and food or bad food we eat.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
From my reading and comparing online prices and asking other women from other clinics, the pricing associated with PREG is mostly fair and cheaper than other states. I understand these are not cheap procedures, but some do feel higher than others. However my options are limited going anywhere else due to my age. I have one embryo left with Preg clinic and hope that it results in positive pregnancy. Im meant to start soon with next cycle and will have to request a sonogram to check for polyps.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
There was no option for this with me. We purchased 6 donor eggs and only 2 viable embryos were created. The wise choice is to do one transfer to have two possibilities.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to order appropriate test
- Failed to convey critical information
- Failed to consider drug intolerance
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10
10
Age
30 - 32
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Nichols has listened to me every step of the way, and has been extremely kind and caring as he tries to help me get pregnant. He explains everything in a clear concise way, and is willing to work with me on specific requests and feelings about my transfers and the processes. I could not ask for a more intune doctor.... If he doesn’t know something, he will find out and give you an answer, and he is always willing to move in a direction that YOU are comfortable with.
I have no complaints. They are efficient, kind, prompt and prepared for everything from check in to blood work to finance- this clinic will make your experience as stress free as possible. I highly recommend Preg Greenville to everyone ttc.... [nursing staff] are all the sweetest ladies I have ever met in my life. They put up with a lot of emotions from those of us ttc and they never lose their smiles or helpful attitude. They are willing to help you learn
Age
30 - 32
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
—
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is everything you would want in a doctor. He is knowledgeable in his field, kind, and considerate of his patients. He works hard to bring about the best positive results, and when things fail (as my 2 IVFs did), he is just as sad as his patient and more determined to make sure everything is adjusted and right for the next try. I would highly recommend him to any one trying to get pregnant.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and tell him what YOU want. If he doesn’t know something, he will find out and give you an answer, and he is always willing to move in a direction that YOU are comfortable with.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols has listened to me every step of the way, and has been extremely kind and caring as he tries to help me get pregnant. He explains everything in a clear concise way, and is willing to work with me on specific requests and feelings about my transfers and the processes. I could not ask for a more intune doctor.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
It’s been over a year since my IVF cycles with Dr. Nichols, but as best I can remember:
Egg retrieval- hormone injections, clomid for ovulation, ultra sounds to monitor my uterus and ovaries, blood work. Result: 12 embryos
Transfer #1: again clomid, injections for ovulation, I can’t remmeber what patches I wore a lot along my stomach, patches and vaginal progesterone (crinone), progesterone shots every three days, ultra sounds, blood work. Result: triggered low as pregnant, a few days later it was negative.
Transfer #2: same as above
Rationale about all things above was that it was what my body needed for its best chance to conceive.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
They are all the sweetest ladies I have ever met in my life. They put up with a lot of emotions from those of us ttc and they never lose their smiles or helpful attitude. They are willing to help you learn (like how to put a shot in your bum) and never complain about having to explain something to you a few times (because that’s a lot of stuff to process!) I love the gals at Preg Greenville from front desk to to finance, I trust them all completely.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I have no complaints. They are efficient, kind, prompt and prepared for everything from check in to blood work to finance- this clinic will make your experience as stress free as possible. I highly recommend Preg Greenville to everyone ttc.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
About 4K for the egg retrieval I think, additional money for medications and 2 transfers (a couple grand each I think) plus all the appointments for blood work and ultrasounds (don’t know the official total) and I’ve just had a hysteroscoy done and that was about $600.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
None
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8
10
Age
22 - 25
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
8
10
Dr. Nichols is extremely knowledgeable and very good at explaining what I needed him to explain...Don't expect any beating around the bush...We first tried ovulation inducing pills for a few cycles which did not help. He then recommended either IUI or IVF but the clinic was offering a new procedure called Simply IVF that we decided to try. We had to increase my Menopur dosage a couple times. Unfortunately I did not react well enough to the Menopur and we had to cancel that cycle
I just love this clinic [Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group] and believe they're so good at what they do. I was concerned when starting this journey that there may be clinics that just recommended the highest cost procedures or treated their patients cold at such a difficult time but I found the exact opposite with this clinic. I hope that one day we'll be able to send them a picture of our baby to hang on their bulletin boards!
Age
22 - 25
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Accountant
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
8
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is extremely knowledgeable and very good at explaining what I needed him to explain. I like that he is very straightforward but still shows empathy when called for. If there is a patient that is highly prone to getting their feelings hurt when told they should or should not pursue certain treatments then I may not recommend Dr. Nichols but if the patient strictly wants a doctor that will do their best to give them the results they want then I would highly recommend Dr. Nichols.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Even if he's giving you information you may not want to hear, he only gives you that information because he feels it will help you in achieving pregnancy. Don't expect any beating around the bush.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is very, very helpful and knowledgeable about everything I needed to know but was not at all afraid to be blunt if he felt the situation called for it (which it sometimes did).
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We first tried ovulation inducing pills for a few cycles which did not help. He then recommended either IUI or IVF but the clinic was offering a new procedure called Simply IVF that we decided to try. We had to increase my Menopur dosage a couple times. Unfortunately I did not react well enough to the Menopur and we had to cancel that cycle. Dr. Nichols recommended then trying regular IVF so that I could be more closely monitored throughout my cycle but my husband and I wanted to try one more round of the Simply IVF instead due to costs. We did the same procedure one more time with a higher dosage of Menopur starting out and I still was not reacting as quickly as we hoped and we increased my dosage even more as we neared ovulation. We only got a couple follicles near the correct size, retrieved one egg, did IPSI and unfortunately that egg did not fertilize.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
They were all SO kind and helpful with any questions or concerns I had. They always treated me like a friend and not just like a patient.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I just love this clinic and believe they're so good at what they do. I was concerned when starting this journey that there may be clinics that just recommended the highest cost procedures or treated their patients cold at such a difficult time but I found the exact opposite with this clinic. I hope that one day we'll be able to send them a picture of our baby to hang on their bulletin boards!
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Simply IVF: $6000
Simply IVF Medications: $2000-$3000 each cycle, but I needed much more Menopur than most women do
Femara: Covered by Insurance
Birth Control Pills (to regulate before IVF): covered by insurance
Consultations: $180
HCG: $500
Polyp Removals: I don't remember how much the first polyp removal was but the second polyp was removed during my egg retrieval so it was not an extra charge
ICSI was also done at no charge because they were only able to retrieve one egg and they wanted to give it the best chance for fertilization.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
We never got the opportunity to transfer any embryos but Dr. Nichols does highly recommend, depending on the age and health of the patient, doing single embryo transfer.
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10
10
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IVF, Donor Eggs
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, Male Factor, Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
10
10
Dr. NICHOLS always knew my case when I went in. He was quite blunt with his delivery of bad news but he was very informative and always made sure to answer my questions. ... He explained things very fast. Going in I didn't know much about the steps and process and I thought he went over everything really fast. He's very knowledgeable and I trusted everything he chose to do. After 1 failed attempt we went in with a different protocol and still did not get the results we wanted. Up next we're going to try and egg donor. He sounds optimistic about this next process.
Strengths are everyone's attitudes. Nurses are kind and the staff [PREG] is all on the same page. The clinic is very clean and neat. ...New patients would news to know that they will be taken care of. It's a scary process and the doctors and staff do a great job of making you feel safe and that you will be taken care of. ... [nurses] Very knowledgeable and understanding. Also very upbeat and positive
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European, Native American
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IVF, Donor Eggs
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, Male Factor, Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He explained things very fast. Going in I didn't know much about the steps and process and I thought he went over everything really fast. He's very knowledgeable and I trusted everything he chose to do. After 1 failed attempt we went in with a different protocol and still did not get the results we wanted. Up next we're going to try and egg donor. He sounds optimistic about this next process.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Have questions prepared because he throws a lot of info at you very quickly and it's difficult to process it all and think of questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. NICHOLS always knew my case when I went in. He was quite blunt with his delivery of bad news but he was very informative and always made sure to answer my questions.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We did injections of Gonal, microcode lupron, and low dose HCG. The first cycle had lower doses, the 2nd cycle had maximum dosages of the gonal. Similar results were achieved both times. First we retrieved 7 eggs and 2 fertilized. 2nd we retrieved 6 eggs and 1 fertilized. Neither time made it to blastocyst stage so no transfers.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay Polowitz)
Very knowledgeable and understanding. Also very upbeat and positive
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Strengths are everyone's attitudes. Nurses are kind and the staff is all on the same page. The clinic is very clean and neat. I can't think of any weakness. New patients would news to know that they will be taken care of. It's a scary process and the doctors and staff do a great job of making you feel safe and that you will be taken care of.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Insurance covered a great deal. We paid a little over 5,000 for the first round. Office visit prior to1st round were around $800 in total. $700 for medication the first round. The second round we paid a $150 office visit and $600 for medications.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
We wanted to do 2 eggs transferred. The doctor encourage just one.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
9
9
Age
25 - 26
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
9
9
Doctor Nichols is always prepared for our visits, having already reviewed test results and prepared literature for us to read. He always presents everything as an option with a recommendation but does not force us into any treatment we are uncomfortable with. .. He did not sugarcoat but was at the same time professional. I have not yet had the results I would like, but I’m confident I’ll get there with Dr. Nichols.
All of the equipment for treatment and diagnostics are on site which makes treatment convenient. It’s usually pretty easy to get appointment times that fit your schedule, even the same day or a day later. ... Once there was a case of a prescription not being called into the pharmacy but luckily it didn’t affect my treatment timeline. ... For the most part the nurses are wonderful. ... Some of the other nurses were a little less warm, but were always professional.
Age
25 - 26
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Engineer
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS
9
9
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
In one on one visits, Dr. Nichols was willing to talk about any concerns we had and listened to all of our concerns. He did not sugarcoat but was at the same time professional. I have not yet had the results I would like, but I’m confident I’ll get there with Dr. Nichols.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Come prepared with all of the test results and concerns that you have and be prepared to ask lots of questions if you have them. He will answer as many as you have.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Doctor Nichols is always prepared for our visits, having already reviewed test results and prepared literature for us to read. He always presents everything as an option with a recommendation but does not force us into any treatment we are uncomfortable with.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We started with Femara and Metformin, but I was not a good responder. We did a “step up” the first time where we added more Femara without waiting for another cycle. I added injectables since I was not a good responder and upped the dosage each time to get more than one follicle since I didn’t get pregnant with only one follicle. I used a trigger shot to trigger ovulation each cycle.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
For the most part the nurses are wonderful. Christina was always nice and sympathetic and gentle and never made me feel bad (even when I showed up thinking I was ovulating and I definitely wasn’t). Some of the other nurses were a little less warm, but were always professional.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic is wonderful. Clean, organized, and feels like a spa. All of the equipment for treatment and diagnostics are on site which makes treatment convenient. It’s usually pretty easy to get appointment times that fit your schedule, even the same day or a day later.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
33
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
He [Dr. John Nichols] is straightforward yet soft. This is refreshing! He does not dance around feelings and that provides so much more confidence in the process. He did not look at me like a wounded animal but rather just a bit more complex than the average lady. This was huge for my personal mental health as this process can be overwhelming.... I have a homogeneous folic acid mutation and thyroid issue. I am on folate, thyroid and baby aspirin every day now. My blood work is now normal after 6 weeks of taking the meds. I just finished 1 round of fermera and will take an injection tomorrow to help ovulation. I will then start with progesterone hoping for a positive.
[PREG- Ashevile is] Easy to find, clear communication and honest feedback. Make sure to call your insurance to find out how they handle infertility. From bloodwork to appointments, each one is diffrent. PREG lets you know what to call about beforehand and is very honest about cost structures.... I have a homogeneous folic acid mutation and thyroid issue. I am on folate, thyroid and baby aspirin every day now. My blood work is now normal after 6 weeks of taking the meds. I just finished 1 round of fermera and will take an injection tomorrow to help ovulation. I will then start with progesterone hoping for a positive.
Age
33
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Operations
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is straightforward yet soft. This is refreshing! He does not dance around feelings and that provides so much more confidence in the process. He did not look at me like a wounded animal but rather just a bit more complex than the average lady. This was huge for my personal mental health as this process can be overwhelming.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
No advice in particular. If you are looking for someone to give you a huge and cry with you every appointment. This is not the guy for you. If you are looking for honest and straightforward answers, that's who he is! He knows you don't want to waste any more time, nor does he.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Before we came to PREG we had 2 miscarriages and felt as if we were getting nowhere. In addition, my OBGYN and staff treated me like a wounded animal. This was SO different when going to PREG and seeing Dr. Nicoles. He was confident in his responses and assured me that he was going to help us figure this out. He did look at me like I was broken. He was direct yet soft. Trust me, after 3 years of trying and multiple pregnancy losses, you just want someone on your team with honest and straightforward communication. I felt heard yet he did not tiptoe around the facts, which was a breath of fresh air! Most importantly you hear horror stories of fertility clinics taking advantage of your desire for children so they charge you at every corner.....PREG is 100% not that. They are aware of the cost and the impact of your family at EVERY appointment. Even blood work. Being "new" to the infertility world it has been awesome to know they will be honest and fair. No mistruths or surprises.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I have a homogeneous folic acid mutation and thyroid issue. I am on folate, thyroid and baby aspirin every day now. My blood work is now normal after 6 weeks of taking the meds. I just finished 1 round of fermera and will take an injection tomorrow to help ovulation. I will then start with progesterone hoping for a positive.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Mikayla Carver)
She truly is AWESOME. Answers my questions as in a timely manner no matter how silly.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Easy to find, clear communication and honest feedback. Make sure to call your insurance to find out how they handle infertility. From bloodwork to appointments, each one is diffrent. PREG lets you know what to call about beforehand and is very honest about cost structures.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My copay is 100 per visit. Other than that my insurance covers everything else. My prescriptions are about 150/month
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10
10
Age
30
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
My husband and I decided to try 4 cycles of the Femara/Ovidrel + timed intercourse. We then completed 3 cycles of Femara/Ovidrel + IUI. Dr. Nichols recommended trying other options after several cycles of timed intercourse if we were ready. We chose to try IUI before moving on to IVF.... He sat with us in his office, explained every step of the process, and answered all of our questions. When it came time to move on to the next phase of treatment, Dr. Nichols was honest and encouraging but also made sure that we knew as patients that it was our decision. We appreciated Dr. Nichols being direct with us.
PREG strengths: multiple locations (Spartanburg and Greenville), flexibility of appointments/scheduling, and compassionate staff. The financial support staff have been very helpful too, and we appreciate that there are multiple financial counselors within each clinic. I have not noticed any weaknesses of this clinic.... PREG has the best nursing staff that I have ever experienced as a patient. They are compassionate and always available the same day if I ever have any questions. They have been encouraging and have really helped me move forward with treatment when I thought I couldn't do it anymore. When we had a miscarriage, they were supportive and even sent us a card in the mail. The entire staff at PREG is wonderful!
Age
30
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
We have felt comfortable at PREG from our very first appointment with Dr. Nichols. He sat with us in his office, explained every step of the process, and answered all of our questions. When it came time to move on to the next phase of treatment, Dr. Nichols was honest and encouraging but also made sure that we knew as patients that it was our decision. We appreciated Dr. Nichols being direct with us. We would recommend (and have) Dr. Nichols to anyone that we know that is going through the same infertility journey as us.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Make sure to have questions prepared prior to your visit. Dr. Nichols is very willing to answer any questions you have and provide his opinion.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols took the time to sit down with my husband and I multiple times to discuss our infertility. He took the time to explain to us the results from our tests/procedures and explain our options. Dr. Nichols, and his entire clinic, made us feel very welcome and hopeful during this infertility journey.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
My husband and I have been diagnosed with "unexplained infertility" meaning we haven't been able to identify anything wrong with either of us.
I started taking Femara to attempt to improve the strength of my ovulation since I ovulate on my own. I took 5 mg on cycle days 3-7 and underwent ultrasound on cycle day 12 to check follicles. I then used Ovidrel to stimulate ovulation. My husband and I decided to try 4 cycles of the Femara/Ovidrel + timed intercourse. We then completed 3 cycles of Femara/Ovidrel + IUI. Dr. Nichols recommended trying other options after several cycles of timed intercourse if we were ready. We chose to try IUI before moving on to IVF.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
PREG has the best nursing staff that I have ever experienced as a patient. They are compassionate and always available the same day if I ever have any questions. They have been encouraging and have really helped me move forward with treatment when I thought I couldn't do it anymore. When we had a miscarriage, they were supportive and even sent us a card in the mail. The entire staff at PREG is wonderful!
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
PREG strengths: multiple locations (Spartanburg and Greenville), flexibility of appointments/scheduling, and compassionate staff. The financial support staff have been very helpful too, and we appreciate that there are multiple financial counselors within each clinic.
I have not noticed any weaknesses of this clinic.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Medications: $20 or less (injection costs $110)
Ultrasound: $190 (self-pay; not covered under insurance)
IUI: $475
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
N/A
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10
10
Age
37
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
4 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Uterine Fibroids, Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Nichols is very personable and attentive to mine and my husbands needs. He was very thorough with his education to us making sure we fully understood the process and steps we have taken and will be taking....We started out having my husband tested first to make sure he is treating the correct person. Then he wanted to do unltrasounds at time of ovulation to see if I ovulated on my own. When that was identified, I was given ovulation medications to take during days 3-7 of my cycle.
All staff [PREG] that I have interacted with have been nice, cordial and addressed me by name. I had asked for further information on IVF and if my insurance would halp pay, but all I was told was insurance would not cover any. No follow up with me on other financial support has been pro ided. Its like they figured I wouldnt want more information.... I called to get another medication for my next cycle when my pregnancy test was negative. The ovulation medication was called in
Age
37
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
4 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Uterine Fibroids, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is very personable and attentive to mine and my husbands needs. He was very thorough with his education to us making sure we fully understood the process and steps we have taken and will be taking.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be patient. Sometimes things don't happen on our time but God's time.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He always rederred to me by my name. He asks questions on how my husband and I are doing related to other daily activities and not just about fertility.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We started out having my husband tested first to make sure he is treating the correct person. Then he wanted to do unltrasounds at time of ovulation to see if I ovulated on my own. When that was identified, I was given ovulation medications to take during days 3-7 of my cycle. That was followed up by another ultrasound to see if I had response. When I didn't respond, the medications were increased the next cycle with ultrasound and labs to determine if I responded. I am currently on my 4th cycle of ovulation medications with positive ovulations but no pregnancy.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Megen)
Megen is very personable, receptive to my comments, and overall wants whats best for me and my husband. She has answered all questions I have had without judgement. She has made sure I understood exactly what was going on and what to expect.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
All staff that I have interacted with have been nice, cordial and addressed me by name. I had asked for further information on IVF and if my insurance would halp pay, but all I was told was insurance would not cover any. No follow up with me on other financial support has been pro ided. Its like they figured I wouldnt want more information.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
$40 co pay for every visit.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
9
10
Age
31
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Unexplained
9
10
It was our very first time at a fertility clinic. We were very nervous and had no idea what to expect, however, Dr. Nichols was wonderful at explaining exactly what was going to happen next. He gave us realistic expectations and helped us develop a plan that we felt comfortable with. He also did a complete evaluation to get more information on what was going on with our bodies and why we couldn’t get pregnant. He didn’t jump to conclusions without the proper testing. He was great at communication or results and gave us several different options for treatment.
The nursin staff and the lab staff were amazing. They recognized us every time we walked into the office and they remembered little things about us. They celebrated with us as we went back in for bloodwork after the positive urine test.... We liked everything about this clinic [PREG] except sometimes it was hard to get someone in the phone from the Greenville clinic. Often the Columbia clinic or Asheville clinic would try to connect us on the phone.
Age
31
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Latino
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Entrepreneur
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Unexplained
9
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
It was our very first time at a fertility clinic. We were very nervous and had no idea what to expect, however, Dr. Nichols was wonderful at explaining exactly what was going to happen next. He gave us realistic expectations and helped us develop a plan that we felt comfortable with. He also did a complete evaluation to get more information on what was going on with our bodies and why we couldn’t get pregnant. He didn’t jump to conclusions without the proper testing. He was great at communication or results and gave us several different options for treatment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be honest. Go into the visit and explain exactly how you are feeling and what you are expecting. Dr. Nichols will be very upfront with you and he will be honest with you. He doesn’t give you unrealistic expectations, instead he provides you with facts and educates you about what options you have and provides you with the statistics for success. We always felt comfortable leaving and knowing what to expect.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr.Nichols was great at explaining all aspects of fertility and infertility in a way that anyone could understand. He showed us pictures and thoroughly explained testing and procedures. He asked us for our thoughts and how we were feeling about everything he explained to us. He gave us different options and let us make the decision with all of the information he provided. He made sure that we knew exactly what to expect.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
After two years of tryin to conceive, we decided to see Dr. Nichols. He completed a full diagnostic testing to see if he could find a possible reason to why we couldn’t get pregnant. He ran bloodwork, semen analysists, and also did an HSG procedure to check my Fallopian tubes. After the results came back, we got the diagnosis of unexplained infertility. There was no obvious reason they could find as to why we weren’t getting pregnant. He created a treatment plan that my husband and I felt comfortable with. We decided to try femera, the ovidrel shot, and timed intercourse. The cycle we were suppose to start the treatment, we actually found out we were pregnant.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nursin staff and the lab staff were amazing. They recognized us every time we walked into the office and they remembered little things about us. They celebrated with us as we went back in for bloodwork after the positive urine test.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
We liked everything about this clinic except sometimes it was hard to get someone in the phone from the Greenville clinic. Often the Columbia clinic or Asheville clinic would try to connect us on the phone.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
We didn’t hve insurance so we paid out of pocket for everything, however, they were aware of that and only ordered the necessary testing.l and helped us get good pricing on medications.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to order appropriate test
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10
10
Age
26 - 27
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS
10
10
Dr. Nichols is a very good communicator and listener he also shows compassion. While going over my husbands semen analysis test with us (which was not good) he explained all our options and the different steps he would like to do to try and help us be able to conceive using my husbands sperm. Instead of just going straight to donor sperm he is trying to do what he can so we can avoid donor. He didn't give up on us and that means so much!! He knows its important to us to be able to use my husbands sperm so he is going to let him do hcg shots to see if that can improve his count. I do not have anything bad to say about Dr.Nichols because he has always been excellent every time we've seen him.
I love that the nurses [at PREG] dont treat you like you're just another patient that they're seeing. They treat you like family and it makes the stress of the situation not feel so bad. When we go 90% of the nurses have smiles on their faces. The only negative thing I could say is that a few of the nurses that check you out could be a little more friendly and welcoming.
Age
26 - 27
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is a very good communicator and listener he also shows compassion. While going over my husbands semen analysis test with us (which was not good) he explained all our options and the different steps he would like to do to try and help us be able to conceive using my husbands sperm. Instead of just going straight to donor sperm he is trying to do what he can so we can avoid donor. He didn't give up on us and that means so much!! He knows its important to us to be able to use my husbands sperm so he is going to let him do hcg shots to see if that can improve his count. I do not have anything bad to say about Dr.Nichols because he has always been excellent every time we've seen him.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be straight forward with what you want and he will do everything he can to make that happen.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr.Nichols plus his staff are absolutely amazing! They never rush us during our appointments and always make sure they answer any questions we have. They remember who we are and call us by name when they see us. I couldn't ask for a better place to go to help my husband and I during this stressful time.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
I love that the nurses dont treat you like you're just another patient that they're seeing. They treat you like family and it makes the stress of the situation not feel so bad. When we go 90% of the nurses have smiles on their faces. The only negative thing I could say is that a few of the nurses that check you out could be a little more friendly and welcoming.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The staff is very nice and understanding. The office and the rooms are always clean and the waiting room always smells good. It is a easy location to get to and the suite is easy to find also. Im always taken back to be seen in less than 10 minutes.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
So far with my treatment its basically been blood work which runs me around $300. I had to have a ultra sound and dye ran into my uterus which I paid out of pocket $750. I had to have a polyp removed in the Greenville office and that was $475. The HCG shots my husband is going to start taking is going to be $320 a month.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Male Factor, Tubal Blockage
10
10
Dr. Nichols made me feel excited about our plan with real expectations. He gives the facts and does what is best for our journey. He really does what he can to help in anyway. Although our first cycle was not a success, I would not prefer anyone else to handle my care. He is a great doctor with an abundance of knowledge and I would recommend him to everyone.... Our first cycle with Dr. Nichols was a fairly new process called simply ivf.
PREG is always prompt with appointments and emailing or calling back. I never had to wait! I was able to work with my schedule for appointment times. Financial department was very informative and helpful with everything. I cannot complain about this clinic.... All of the nurses were great throughout the process. Several were in charge of my care but felt I comfortable with all. They were compassionate and helpful with any questions.
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Male Factor, Tubal Blockage
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols made me feel excited about our plan with real expectations. He gives the facts and does what is best for our journey. He really does what he can to help in anyway. Although our first cycle was not a success, I would not prefer anyone else to handle my care. He is a great doctor with an abundance of knowledge and I would recommend him to everyone.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Don’t worry! Dr. Nichols will have your best interest at heart and will guide you through the process in the best way.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr.Nichols wanted what was best for my husband and I and still does. Looking at every number before the process starts allows him to alter the cycle based on our infertility.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Our first cycle with Dr. Nichols was a fairly new process called simply ivf. After looking at my prior history, recent blood work, ultrasound and my husbands history, semen analysis and blood work, he felt this was a good plan for us along with my own interest. The process is very controlled and monitored throughout with blood work and ultrasounds to make sure we are at an optimum for a retrieval. If my follicles were not at an optimum state for retrieval we kept going until they were with more days of medicine to get them there. We had a good number of mature eggs for retrieval however my husbands sperm were not able to fertilize my eggs properly making my number of embryos low. We transferred the one good embryo we had and ended with a chemical pregnancy.
I agree with every decision made throughout the process and wouldn’t have changed the way the process went. If there is a failed treatment, the doctors come together to talk about a plan of action to get the best result moving forward. I agree with every decision and plan made for our journey.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
All of the nurses were great throughout the process. Several were in charge of my care but felt I comfortable with all. They were compassionate and helpful with any questions.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
PREG is always prompt with appointments and emailing or calling back. I never had to wait! I was able to work with my schedule for appointment times. Financial department was very informative and helpful with everything. I cannot complain about this clinic.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Monitoring appointments worked perfect with my schedule and I have a full time job. I never had to wait. I never felt like I was rushed. Very efficient office.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Simply ivf cost a standard $5000 plus $1000-$2000 of medicine. That covered monitoring appointments, retrieval, transfer, freezing etc. Stephanie in the financial department was amazing with helping me understand and went above and beyond to break everything down. VERY HELPFUL!!!
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Dr. Nichols does recommend a single embryo transfer is most cases, however will consider all things to allow he best option for the best outcome. I agree with his approach.
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9
10
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
Surrogacy
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
9
10
Dr. Nichols is very good at relating your individual condition with statics. He has a neutral way of communicating and helping one understand their condition what could take place after treatment begins....Be prepared for no nonsense and no sugar coated communication. Dr. Nichols will guide you through everything, but you have to be willing to let him do so....Dr. Nichols can be blunt at times, but you know he is only trying to convey all of the possible outcomes-- the good, the bad and the ugly.
The clinic [Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group] as a whole is 100% spot on. Every employee is very friendly and prepared for you when you come in. I always follow up to make sure that things have been followed through with, i.e. payments documented, appts scheduled, etc., but I really feel they don't need any checking up on!... Each and every person that we have come in contact with from the front desk staff to Dr. Nichols himself have been wonderful! It's a warm and inviting atmosphere, and that is so very important when you are going through somethings so emotionally and physically involved.
Age
33 - 34
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
Surrogacy
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
9
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols can be blunt at times, but you know he is only trying to convey all of the possible outcomes-- the good, the bad and the ugly. We all know that IVF has all of the above!! At one time, Dr. Nichols was especially compassionate when I broke down while talking about having to ask another woman to carry my child. I always look forward to my visits because I feel I am being treated and cared for by a very knowledgeable doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be prepared for no nonsense and no sugar coated communication. Dr. Nichols will guide you through everything, but you have to be willing to let him do so.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is very good at relating your individual condition with statics. He has a neutral way of communicating and helping one understand their condition what could take place after treatment begins. He is stern but caring, and you know when you leave that he knew exactly which patient he was working with and has a plan for you as an individual/couple.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I will be taking birth control to start followed by Menopur and Lupron. I have not actually started the meds yet so I feel I cannot give much insight on this at this time.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Kelsey Forbes)
The staff at PREG are amazing!! That may sound cliche, but the first RE's office we visited could not hold a candle to them! We love going to our appointments because they are prepared for us. They have our files out ready and waiting for when we walk in the door! Each and every person that we have come in contact with from the front desk staff to Dr. Nichols himself have been wonderful! It's a warm and inviting atmosphere, and that is so very important when you are going through somethings so emotionally and physically involved.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic as a whole is 100% spot on. Every employee is very friendly and prepared for you when you come in. I always follow up to make sure that things have been followed through with, i.e. payments documented, appts scheduled, etc., but I really feel they don't need any checking up on! They're really great!
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
We are using the Simply IVF method, and I know the promotional rate that we were given is no longer available, but it is still just have the cost of traditional IVF-- between 5,000 and 6,000. Of course, we will have to use our gestational carrier for the transfer, and this will be an additional $8000 plus her medications.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
This office does allow you to chose whether you want to implant one or two embryos-- not more than two, but they do recommend only transferring one.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Lost paperwork
- Provided conflicting information
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10
10
Age
28
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
19 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
He [Dr. John Nichols] was amazing! I have been doing treatments for 5 1/2 years and he is the first doctor to straight out tell me the regular treatments aren’t going to work! He listens and thoroughly answers any questions or concerns. I feel he truely cares for his patience!... He does not hide his thoughts or feelings and I straight forward with you! He understands you are not just away for him to get paid but a human going through something.
I honestly don’t think they [PREG-Greenville] have any weaknesses. I have been 2 other places and this is by fast far the best. The communicate well, treat you like a human and not a number, care for your well-being. Even the financial department is on top of things with getting back to people and being on top of things with patience. I honestly could not have picked a better doctor.
Age
28
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European, Native American, Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
3rd of 3 Docs
Treatment
19 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was amazing! I have been doing treatments for 5 1/2 years and he is the first doctor to straight out tell me the regular treatments aren’t going to work! He listens and thoroughly answers any questions or concerns. I feel he truely cares for his patience!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Prepare for straight forward and honest but a simply amazing doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He does not hide his thoughts or feelings and I straight forward with you! He understands you are not just away for him to get paid but a human going through something.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Every treatment he started with progesterone to help start a cycle. Then follow up with clomed and the last cycle added gonal f.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Meagan )
The nurse I was assigned personally emails me so it’s a faster response than having to call in. If I email with a question I get a response with in an hr or 2. All the nurses are extremely caring and nice.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I honestly don’t think they have any weaknesses. I have been 2 other places and this is by fast far the best. The communicate well, treat you like a human and not a number, care for your well-being. Even the financial department is on top of things with getting back to people and being on top of things with patience. I honestly could not have picked a better doctor.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I have never had to big of a bill from this office. We are hopefully going to try IVF. We had an understanding we were covered with insurance and were ready to go with it and today got a call that our employer changed policies in the new year and we are no longer covered. The office is working diligently with us to figure out a solution.
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10
10
Age
35
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Nichols provided multiple options for my husband and me during our consultation appointment. We decided to try timed intercourse plus medications (letrozole + trigger shot with HCG) for 2-3 cycles prior to progressing to the next step. ... but for this next cycle, the dose of letrozole was increased from 2.5mg to 5mg. ... He used a patient-centered approach with us and encouraged us to be active participants in the care plan. ...
My husband and I have been very pleased with PREG. All our encounters with staff and personnel have been positive. Physicians and nursing are informative and caring. Any questions we have had are addressed promptly and fully. ... Education that was provided after our first visit was extremely informative and helpful. All our calls have been returned promptly and questions answered fully.
Age
35
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$200K - $499K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Our consultation visit with Dr. Nichols was very informative. We appreciated his direct approach and discussion of the pros/cons of each treatment option. The information presented can be very overwhelming in a consultation visit, but we left with a clear understanding of what to expect next, as well as optimism.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I would advise a new patient to have an idea of what they want in terms of treatment options and not to take a passive approach to these decisions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr.Nichols addressed my husband and I with respect and listened to our concerns and questions. He used a patient-centered approach with us and encouraged us to be active participants in the care plan.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
So far, we have only had one cycle with Dr. Nichols. Based on previous work-up with a fertility specialist the month before (whom referred us to PREG after initial work-up was inconclusive), Dr. Nichols provided multiple options for my husband and me during our consultation appointment. We decided to try timed intercourse plus medications (letrozole + trigger shot with HCG) for 2-3 cycles prior to progressing to the next step. Unfortunately we did not get pregnant this first cycle but for this next cycle, the dose of letrozole was increased from 2.5mg to 5mg.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Nursing staff has been wonderful. Education that was provided after our first visit was extremely informative and helpful. All our calls have been returned promptly and questions answered fully. Wonderful experience!
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My husband and I have been very pleased with PREG. All our encounters with staff and personnel have been positive. Physicians and nursing are informative and caring. Any questions we have had are addressed promptly and fully.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My insurance required a $40 copay for all visits. Insurance provided some coverage for medications and covered all diagnostic procedures; however insurance will not cover IVF.
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8
10
Age
36 - 37
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
—
8
10
Dr. Nichols used the Pre Univfy report to help determine the best options for fertility care. He went over the report and started with the basic treatment of clomid with ovidrel shot and timed intercourse. After two timed intercourse treatments failed, we then moved into the clomid/ovidrel/IUI treatment process. After two of those failed treatments and a year of trying to conceive, we met back with Dr. Nichols to discuss possible IVF treatments. During most of this time, treatment options and treatment procedures were carried out by nursing staff.
Every nurse and care coordinator [at PREG-Greenville] that I came into contact with was always friendly, welcoming, and willing to help me in any way possible. Makayla, the nurse who has mainly been responsible for my care plan, has been outstanding. She has answered all my questions and been a great support during the treatments. The nurses taking care of my treatments have seemed very knowledgeable in every process.
Age
36 - 37
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
—
8
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is very thorough with his explanations and answers all questions. Sometimes he goes a little too fast with all the information. As with any doctor's office, you have to be your own advocate and ask questions if you don't understand certain process/procedures. The whole fertility treatment process can be very overwhelming, and he is very helpful and knowledgeable.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Make sure you ask questions about anything you don't understand. He goes very fast with the information, and it can be a little overwhelming. Also, be aware that he doesn't do all the procedures himself. A lot of patient care and treatments are carried out by the nursing staff even though you pay co-pays as if you are seeing a specialist.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols and his staff are always friendly and willing to help you with anything you need. Any time you call with a question or concern, they are always helpful and get back to you in a timely manner.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Dr. Nichols used the Pre Univfy report to help determine the best options for fertility care. He went over the report and started with the basic treatment of clomid with ovidrel shot and timed intercourse. After two timed intercourse treatments failed, we then moved into the clomid/ovidrel/IUI treatment process. After two of those failed treatments and a year of trying to conceive, we met back with Dr. Nichols to discuss possible IVF treatments. During most of this time, treatment options and treatment procedures were carried out by nursing staff.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Makayla)
Every nurse and care coordinator that I came into contact with was always friendly, welcoming, and willing to help me in any way possible. Makayla, the nurse who has mainly been responsible for my care plan, has been outstanding. She has answered all my questions and been a great support during the treatments. The nurses taking care of my treatments have seemed very knowledgeable in every process.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Strengths are how well they help you plan and how fast they follow-up with any questions or concerns. A new patient would need to know that they will have to be flexible with schedule times. All of the treatments are scheduled on specific days, so if you work, you will need to possibly take time off for certain treatments. Sometimes, it's a hardship that the Asheville clinic is only open half a day on Fridays.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My insurance does not pay for many of the treatments at PREG. However, they did provide me with a Compassionate Care card to help save on ovidrel shots. They also have provided me with financing information if I proceed with IVF. Financial data was presented up front after my initial appointment.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Even though he didn't mention "eSET", he did discuss not transferring more than one embryo at a time to prevent multiples.
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7
8
Age
31
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Unexplained
7
8
Treated Like A Human Text
During our visits, I felt Dr. Nichols was very honest. Like myself, I believe he was frustrated that things were not progressing with me. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel a lot of positive energy at a time when I really needed it. I feel as if he really pushes towards IVF when sometimes there may be a simpler solution. I still do not know what is causing my infertility, and am not pregnant after trying for 2 years. I wish that I would have had more time to talk to him one-on-one, but during each visit I felt rushed. However, I do really appreciate him being honest and not giving me false hope.
The nurses were fantastic at PREG. They all spent time talking to me and lifting my spirits. If I ever called the office, they got back to me quickly, and with an answer. The clinic was nice and kept clean, and the office staff was also polite.... It would be awesome if the office had earlier or later hours. With my job, it was very hard to get an appointment, and I had to miss work often for visits. Overall they are all great. I feel like they are very quick to get back with you and explain everything well. I wish they were open to trying more patient specific care plans instead of sticking to protocols. Every patient t is different and therefore requires different elements and levels of care.
Age
31
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Unexplained
7
8
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols explained in previous comment sections. The nurses were fantastic at PREG. They all spent time talking to me and lifting my spirits. If I ever called the office, they got back to me quickly, and with an answer. The clinic was nice and kept clean, and the office staff was also polite.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I would tell someone to prepare themselves because nothing will be sugar coated. I left in tears after almost every visit at PREG. Not because of Dr. Nichols or the staff, but just due to whole situation. I would just tell them to prepare mentally and to stay positive during this difficult time!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
During our visits, I felt Dr. Nichols was very honest. Like myself, I believe he was frustrated that things were not progressing with me. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel a lot of positive energy at a time when I really needed it. I feel as if he really pushes towards IVF when sometimes there may be a simpler solution. I still do not know what is causing my infertility, and am not pregnant after trying for 2 years. I wish that I would have had more time to talk to him one-on-one, but during each visit I felt rushed. However, I do really appreciate him being honest and not giving me false hope.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I underswent 6 rounds of femara. A few of those included injectables and trigger shots. I also had an IUI with trigger shot. Towards the finally rounds I took femara for more days. He wanted me to start on day 3. I had very little response until my final round. I asked if I could also take prednisone with the femara ( I read that helps), and estrogen. He agreed to that and I had three mature follicles. Unfortunately, I never was able to get pregnant.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nursing staff is great! Very kind and thoughtful to patients situations. Description further in previous comment section.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
It would be awesome if the office had earlier or later hours. With my job, it was very hard to get an appointment, and I had to miss work often for visits. Overall they are all great. I feel like they are very quick to get back with you and explain everything well. I wish they were open to trying more patient specific care plans instead of sticking to protocols. Every patient t is different and therefore requires different elements and levels of care.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I believe I spent under 5k
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to call with results
- Failed to send your chart to another clinic
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10
10
Age
31 - 33
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS
10
10
I had already been to two doctors before Dr Nichols. I had been through timed intercourse and IUI. We first tried simply IVF because it was a new process that was cheaper and was known to work with PCOS. That resulted in no fertilized eggs. Next we moved to full IVF. We got 6 embryos and attempted a transfer. I was pregnant but miscarried at about 7 weeks. We just recently tried another FET and it resulted in a negative pregnancy test.
The staff at PREG is amazing. I can go to them and ask them anything. They get back to me quickly with answers.... Simply IVF was about $5000 and The first IVF with FET was about $10000 with $5000 in medications. The second FET was $3500 with about $2000 in medications. I expect our upcoming third try to be the same. I also had a D&C that was about $500.... Strengths are communication and knowledge. The only weakness I have found is that a previous doctor that was extremely rude to me is now working with them. Luckily I have not had to interact with her at all.
Age
31 - 33
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Sales Representative
Order & Number of Docs Seen
3rd of 4 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I don’t have any complaints about Dr Nichols. He has been great. He is straight forward and helpful. We are still going through the treatment process and we get explanations and updates every time we go into the office. If I want to just sit down with Dr Nichols he makes time for us.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Ask questions. Make sure you understand everything before you leave the office. He is extremely helpful and knowledgeable and will answer everything.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Doctor Nichols and his team take the time to sit with us and tell me and my husband every result and every chance we have. He’s honest but still shows how much hope we have.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I had already been to two doctors before Dr Nichols. I had been through timed intercourse and IUI. We first tried simply IVF because it was a new process that was cheaper and was known to work with PCOS. That resulted in no fertilized eggs. Next we moved to full IVF. We got 6 embryos and attempted a transfer. I was pregnant but miscarried at about 7 weeks. We just recently tried another FET and it resulted in a negative pregnancy test. We will be trying our third FET with two embryos in the next few months as our doctor thinks it will give us a better chance to go to full term.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Emilie)
The staff at PREG is amazing. I can go to them and ask them anything. They get back to me quickly with answers.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Strengths are communication and knowledge. The only weakness I have found is that a previous doctor that was extremely rude to me is now working with them. Luckily I have not had to interact with her at all.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My insurance does not cover IVF so I pay out of pocket. Simply IVF was about $5000 and The first IVF with FET was about $10000 with $5000 in medications. The second FET was $3500 with about $2000 in medications. I expect our upcoming third try to be the same. I also had a D&C that was about $500.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Our doctor was careful not to suggest multiple embryo transfers until we had two failed attempts. He has explained the risks and benefits in detail and did not pressure us to choose what he thought was best.
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4
6
Age
43
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
—
4
6
Be prepared to receive news in a “tell it like it is” manner. There’s no sugar coating or interest in getting to know you as a person. He [Dr. Nichols] seems to want to get you in and then out and on to the next patient...The only thing we discussed on the consultation appointment is that I needed to come back and get Cycle day 3 blood work done to make some determinations...The doctors bedside manner needs work. He seemed very rushed and a little disorganized. He could have been a bit more gentle with his delivery of words. He did not seem terribly concerned with me as a patient.
They [nurses at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group] were friendly and seemed caring, although they seemed VERY disorganized. They would call me to come back, then send me back to the front again while they sorted out a few things. It’s unprofessional and embarrassing really, seeing a staff being disorganized...It’s very clean looking and visually appealing on the inside on the front end. From the outside, it looks like an old Rite Aid or CVS converted into a clinic. The front end staff was very friendly and caring. The nurse who took my vitals was very loud and does not respect patient privacy.
Age
43
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
—
4
6
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
The doctor did not seem very concerned about me as a patient. He does not have a gentle manner with the way he communicates. I can say he was definitely a straight-shooter with what he had to tell me as far as my chances being lower of becoming pregnant due to age. I did appreciate him being candid and honest, but I feel a doctor should always be compassionate and show a genuine caring interest in his patients.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be prepared to receive news in a “tell it like it is” manner. There’s no sugar coating or interest in getting to know you as a person. He seems to want to get you in and then out and on to the next patient.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
The doctors bedside manner needs work. He seemed very rushed and a little disorganized. He could have been a bit more gentle with his delivery of words. He did not seem terribly concerned with me as a patient.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
The only thing we discussed on the consultation appointment is that I needed to come back and get Cycle day 3 blood work done to make some determinations.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
They were friendly and seemed caring, although they seemed VERY disorganized. They would call me to come back, then send me back to the front again while they sorted out a few things. It’s unprofessional and embarrassing really, seeing a staff being disorganized.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
It’s very clean looking and visually appealing on the inside on the front end. From the outside, it looks like an old Rite Aid or CVS converted into a clinic. The front end staff was very friendly and caring. The nurse who took my vitals was very loud and does not respect patient privacy.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Lost paperwork
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9
10
Age
37 - 38
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
4 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS
9
10
First, he recommended that my spouse see a doctor at the clinic so that we could get his count in a good place (great results and increase in count, motility, etc.) While my husband was going working on his side of things, Dr. Nichols made sure I was getting started with everything I needed to do for myself (prenatal vitamins, metformin, blood work, femara, etc). My follicle scans were planned and I responded favorably each time, which made me feel great.
The main weakness [at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group] would be communication. There were a couple of times when I did not get a call back and had to call again a day or two later because I did not ever hear back. When timing is so important in this journey, I feel like communication should be a priority. I had great responses using the online chat feature though. Some nurses and staff members are more compassionate than others, but overall I am pleased with the treatment I have received.
Age
37 - 38
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
4 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS
9
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols always provided me with all of the information I needed to make the best decisions regarding my course of treatment. He did not sugar coat anything or give me false hope and I appreciated his candidness. He also told me that sometimes all things can be in line and look great and it still just doesn't happen, but that doesn't mean it won't in the future.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I would say tell him your desires and then listen with an open mind as he goes over your test results with you and what he thinks might be the best choice for you as far as treatments go. He is so knowledgeable and I so appreciated his wisdom and expertise as I entered a world that I previously knew nothing about. It's a scary experience - but he makes it not so scary and easier to navigate.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols always treated me like a human, not just a numbered patient. There was a personal aspect to all of our interactions and I appreciated the fact that he always greeted me by name, asked how I was, and gave me genuine information to help me made the best decisions.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
First, he recommended that my spouse see a doctor at the clinic so that we could get his count in a good place (great results and increase in count, motility, etc.) While my husband was going working on his side of things, Dr. Nichols made sure I was getting started with everything I needed to do for myself (prenatal vitamins, metformin, blood work, femara, etc). My follicle scans were planned and I responded favorably each time, which made me feel great.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
I want to single out Meghan because she was so wonderful to me throughout my IUI treatments. I called multiple times with questions that would come up and she was always so responsive and kind in her replies and answers. I felt like she truly cared about me and my results. She showed compassion during visits when she was my nurse, and made me feel less afraid and disheartened.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
As far as strengths go, I feel like PREG is above and beyond when it comes to modern treatments and is a leader in reproductive health and education. I truly feel like it's the place to go when you want help to reach your dream of having children. The main weakness would be communication. There were a couple of times when I did not get a call back and had to call again a day or two later because I did not ever hear back. When timing is so important in this journey, I feel like communication should be a priority. I had great responses using the online chat feature though. Some nurses and staff members are more compassionate than others, but overall I am pleased with the treatment I have received.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Insurance did not cover any fertility treatments for me, so all of my expenses are out of pocket. It is quite expensive, but I was aware that fertility treatments are costly.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I did not participate in any of this.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to call with results
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8
8
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
8
Although he was blunt he did show compassion and understood our heartache and struggle. ... . He likes to make sure you understand why you are doing the procedures that you are and what to expect if they do not go as planned. He will then rethinking meds and procedures according to your history. He will let you know the options and give you the freedom to choose your next step without judgement.
They [PREG] are very friendly, they learn your name quickly. ... Because they do this everyday I think they forget the newbies do not know all of they terms, and that can be scary. ... She does an excellent job explaining what they are doing and why. She is always friendly and willing to answer any questions. This is time when we went in for an IUI I had great follicles but my husband's sperm count was very low. She knew I was concerned so she gave her option and told us she would give us a my minute to decide. She was not pushy at all. The first thing she asks every time we meet is " how are you feeling? How did you do this month? Do you have any questions?"
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
8
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is very factual and can answer the questions that you ask. He likes to make sure you understand why you are doing the procedures that you are and what to expect if they do not go as planned. He will then rethinking meds and procedures according to your history. He will let you know the options and give you the freedom to choose your next step without judgement.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Have questions ready to ask ahead of time. Let him know up front your concerns.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Although he was blunt he did show compassion and understood our heartache and struggle.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Every month when I start my period I call. They then send in my famara to my local pharmacy and my gonal f / ovidrel injections to Mandel's pharmacy. On days 3- 8 I take famara, on days 6-9 I take my gonal f injections. On day 10 I go in for an ultrasound ( because I'm an early ovulater) if I have mature follicles they will give me my ovidrel injections. I then go back 24hr later for my IUI procedure. One week from then I go to get blood work done to check my progesterone level to make sure I ovulated. A week later I am to take a pregnancy test.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Michaela)
She does an excellent job explaining what they are doing and why. She is always friendly and willing to answer any questions. This is time when we went in for an IUI I had great follicles but my husband's sperm count was very low. She knew I was concerned so she gave her option and told us she would give us a my minute to decide. She was not pushy at all. The first thing she asks every time we meet is " how are you feeling? How did you do this month? Do you have any questions?"
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
They are very friendly, they learn your name quickly. You as a patient need to research as much as you can about what you are going through so that you can be prepared to ask questions. Make sure you fully understand what all the blood work means and the lingo. Because they do this everyday I think they forget the newbies do not know all of they terms, and that can be scary.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Doctor visits are about $80, untrasounds $50, IUI $575, gonal f $375, ovidrel $107, famara $6.
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9
10
Age
29
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
8 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Other
9
10
Sometimes it feels like he can rush just a little. It's nothing I would mention to him but I can feel like he has others waiting on me. My husband does not feel this way, I would like to add. ... I have a tendency to be anxious and have some strong emotions so with that in mind we choose not to put me on Clomid. ... He is very knowledgeable about fertility medicine, I don't doubt that if I am able to get pregnant that he will be the doctor to help me.
PREG is a wonderful clinic with great staff. I would recommend them to anyone who is having difficulty conceiving a child. I have been blown away by the compassion and care I have received during my months with them. ... She is very comforting and walked me through my most recent ultrasound with precision. I fell very comfortable in her care. ... Minimal [costs] currently, except for my genetic testing. I was unprepared for that cost. It was about $650.00 out of pocket
Age
29
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
3rd of 3 Docs
Treatment
8 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Other
9
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is very knowledgeable about fertility medicine, I don't doubt that if I am able to get pregnant that he will be the doctor to help me.
Sometimes it feels like he can rush just a little. It's nothing I would mention to him but I can feel like he has others waiting on me. My husband does not feel this way, I would like to add. I always prefer working with an NP/PA and that is why I started with Victoria in the office, she seemed to move at a little slower pace. I also had a bad experience as a young adult with a male OB/GYN during a procedure and that might also be some of the underlying issue.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be prepared for a lot of information at once.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is very knowledgeable but when my care was transferred to him from the NP in the office (who I requested originally) he was preforming the HSG test. He diagnosed me with a unicorniate uterus but it was very unexpected and he was also caught off guard. It was a hard little while.
Other than that experience (which was not totally 100% his fault in that situation) he has been great!
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I am on two Ovidril pills in the evening during my early cycle days and time intercourse. I have a tendency to be anxious and have some strong emotions so with that in mind we choose not to put me on Clomid.
I am also on a trigger shot, this is because I have trouble ovulating.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
She is very comforting and walked me through my most recent ultrasound with precision. I fell very comfortable in her care.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
PREG is a wonderful clinic with great staff. I would recommend them to anyone who is having difficulty conceiving a child. I have been blown away by the compassion and care I have received during my months with them.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Minimal currently, except for my genetic testing. I was unprepared for that cost. It was about $650.00 out of pocket
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
No
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10
10
Age
29
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
6 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
Dr Nichols was very warm, friendly, attentive and caring when it came to such a sensitive matter of infertility and not understanding why we have not had a pregnancy yet when all our results came back with normal numbers.... He always took the time to assess our needs, desires and wants- along with respecting our desire to take a break after 6 months of treatment with no positive pregnancy tests... We started our first month with femera and ovidrill trigger shots
Everyone in the office [PREG] is so friendly and positive! I love the energy!... Be prepared to meet the happiest, positive outlooking, genuine people you’ll ever meet! From the moment walking in the door, I was nervous as this is not something easy to discuss with someone and everyone met with me a smile and asking genuinely how we are and let us know through every step, they’re here for us. I loved knowing that a lot of people working there started as patients so they’ve been in our shoes and understand where we are in this stage of life compared to someone not knowing what struggles come with infertility
Age
29
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Sales Representative
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
6 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Nichols was very warm, friendly, attentive and caring when it came to such a sensitive matter of infertility and not understanding why we have not had a pregnancy yet when all our results came back with normal numbers.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Spend more time with clients, we only visited a few times and both times were under 15 minutes since he knew our chart and name
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He always took the time to assess our needs, desires and wants- along with respecting our desire to take a break after 6 months of treatment with no positive pregnancy tests
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We started our first month with femera and ovidrill trigger shots, throughout the next 6 months we adjusted dosage of femera to promote more eggs, this was taken on days 5-10 of my cycle- we followed up with the shot on the first day of a positive ovulation test. I came in for routine ultra sounds to also know when to trigger and time inter course. We have not had any success with this. Dr Nichols suggested our next step being IUI or IVF, we just cannot afford the extra $600/month for this.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Everyone in the office is so friendly and positive! I love the energy!
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Be prepared to meet the happiest, positive outlooking, genuine people you’ll ever meet! From the moment walking in the door, I was nervous as this is not something easy to discuss with someone and everyone met with me a smile and asking genuinely how we are and let us know through every step, they’re here for us. I loved knowing that a lot of people working there started as patients so they’ve been in our shoes and understand where we are in this stage of life compared to someone not knowing what struggles come with infertility
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Our insurance does not cover infertility treatments, everything has been out of pocket and on average costing $500/month for medications, ultra sounds, appointments, and blood draws- our next steps are IVF or IUI but we’d be looking at a minimum additional $600/month on top of what we were already paying.
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8
9
Age
29 - 31
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
—
8
9
His [Dr. John Nichols] first treatment strategy for me was IVF- he said due to a previous surgery I probably had scar tissue preventing me from getting pregnant. I got pregnant that month without his treatment, but had a miscarriage. The pregnancy was normal- in my uterus. I took a break, and felt like Dr. Nichols must have been pushing for IVF since obviously I could get pregnant. I later learned that was not the case. After about 10 months I returned to Dr. Nichols and asked to do meds and timed intercourse, and he agreed. I did about 3 cycles with good tests, but not pregnancy. I also developed polyps that had to be removed. I did one cycle of meds and IUI, but it was not successful despite great numbers for my husband and me. The meds were Femara and Ovidrel. He is willing to listen and let me do the treatments I am comfortable with. I plan on beginning the IVF process soon under his care.
I love the nurses I saw at PREG. Lynne and Meagan were always friendly, and I looked forward to seeing them on my visits. They showed kindness and were very professional. They went above and beyond to explain exactly what I needed to do and how I needed to do it.... Costs weren’t too expensive for meds and IUI, but I don’t remember exactly, maybe around $200 per cycle with meds and $300 for meds and IUI. My two uterine polyp removal surgeries cost around $900 a piece with anesthesia being around $475 of the cost. All of the mentioned costs were after insurance.
Age
29 - 31
Treated
2016 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
—
8
9
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I think that Dr Nichols is a great doctor with a ton of experience. He wants to help me and his other patients get results. His goal is a baby, and whatever method I have asked to do, he has let me do. I wanted to wait on IVF and he has let me try meds and meds and IUI. I have had some issues that he has helped me with, uterine polyps. He has been a great surgeon and is much more personable in the OR. I was not sure about him at our first visit, but now I know he does care. He wants results, and he gives advice from his experience.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Trust his judgement- he is a very smart man!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I felt like Dr. Nichols takes too little time to get to know my situation specifically. I realize he is busy, but a little small talk about life can give him more insight into my infertility that what my file says.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
His first treatment strategy for me was IVF- he said due to a previous surgery I probably had scar tissue preventing me from getting pregnant. I got pregnant that month without his treatment, but had a miscarriage. The pregnancy was normal- in my uterus. I took a break, and felt like Dr. Nichols must have been pushing for IVF since obviously I could get pregnant. I later learned that was not the case. After about 10 months I returned to Dr. Nichols and asked to do meds and timed intercourse, and he agreed. I did about 3 cycles with good tests, but not pregnancy. I also developed polyps that had to be removed. I did one cycle of meds and IUI, but it was not successful despite great numbers for my husband and me. The meds were Femara and Ovidrel. He is willing to listen and let me do the treatments I am comfortable with. I plan on beginning the IVF process soon under his care.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
I love the nurses I saw at PREG. Lynne and Meagan were always friendly, and I looked forward to seeing them on my visits. They showed kindness and were very professional. They went above and beyond to explain exactly what I needed to do and how I needed to do it.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Overall I think PREG is a great place to go for fertility treatment. They are friendly and try their best to help in any way they can. This type of treatment can be awkward at times, but everyone is professional and helped to make me feel comfortable. The only weakness of note was communication over the phone- sometimes the person receiving the call would be confused or unable to find the doctors notes in a timely manner- adding stress to an already stressful time in my life.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Costs weren’t too expensive for meds and IUI, but I don’t remember exactly, maybe around $200 per cycle with meds and $300 for meds and IUI. My two uterine polyp removal surgeries cost around $900 a piece with anesthesia being around $475 of the cost. All of the mentioned costs were after insurance.
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3
6
Age
27 - 29
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
6 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
3
6
Before even doing any testing infertility testing [Dr. Nichols] said we should skip right to embryo donation. Without knowing any of my history, I felt like skipping straight to embryo donation would help his clinics numbers rather than actually trying to help my husband and me conceive...creates the treatment plan, but any doctor performs the treatment. It’s the luck of the draw on who you get. He only treated us for one IUI. I hardly saw him at all during our IVF. He was blunt and to the point with treatment options, which is what I initially thought I wanted, however this process is emotional and he comes off very cold after failures, which wasn’t encouraging for us.
I just wasn’t kept in the loop on any of my bloodwork results [at PREG]. I never got far enough along for them to have to call me for a pregnancy result, but I’m sure if I had gotten pregnant with them, I would have. One doctor would tell me one thing, the other doctor another. It already makes a very emotional time, no need to add more confusion or hurt on the patient... expect to pay anywhere from $2-3k for testing, $1k per IUI and $12-15k for IVF (including drugs)
Age
27 - 29
Treated
2015 - 2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Marketer or PR
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
6 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
3
6
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Nichols creates the treatment plan, but any doctor performs the treatment. It’s the luck of the draw on who you get. He only treated us for one IUI. I hardly saw him at all during our IVF. He was blunt and to the point with treatment options, which is what I initially thought I wanted, however this process is emotional and he comes off very cold after failures, which wasn’t encouraging for us.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be prepared, he’s not warm and fuzzy
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Before even doing any testing infertility testing Nichols said we should skip right to embryo donation. Without knowing any of my history, I felt like skipping straight to embryo donation would help his clinics numbers rather than actually trying to help my husband and me conceive.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Initially he starts you on the lowest dosages and then works his way up. After 3 cycles if the protocol doesn’t work, he changes the protocol for the next 3 in relations to IUIs. For IVF he had me on Menopur and Lupron.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay Polowczuk & Lynn Fowler)
The entire nursing staff was fantastic, couldn’t praise them more
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinics strengths would be the fantastic nursing staff. They are compassionate and really care about you, from your first experience until your last. I’ve had one really great doctor there and two not so great doctors in terms of bedside manner. As far as the doctors keeping you in the loop on your numbers (AMH, FSH, TSH, etc), they don’t tell you unless you ask. Front desk is nice, keep in mind they are very busy when you try to schedule appointments via phone, so have patience with them.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
No insurance coverage, expect to pay anywhere from $2-3k for testing, $1k per IUI and $12-15k for IVF (including drugs)
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
He does it based on age, 30 and younger he only likes to transfer one and for 30 and above he will do 2.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to call with results
- Provided conflicting information
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10
10
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage
10
10
Dr Nichols was straightforward with us, gave us the facts and our options, and the likelihood of those options working. He never made us feel rushed during our appointments and explained everything thoroughly. We felt very lucky to have had him as our doctor. ... . Once it was time to decide on a course of action, he clearly laid out our different options and the success rates of each of those options.
Kelsey was amazing. She’s the kind of nurse I always wish to have. She answered all of our questions, never left us waiting during our appointmentments, and was always super friendly. ... The [PREG] clinic in Asheville was small, though I think they moved locations since we last went. It was always clean and the staff friendly. We never had to wait long for our appointments and any questions we thought of after leaving were answered promptly by phone or email.
Age
31 - 32
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European, Native American
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Sales Representative
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Tubal Blockage
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Nichols explained the results of all of our testing thoroughly and in ways we could clearly understand. Once it was time to decide on a course of action, he clearly laid out our different options and the success rates of each of those options. When our first embryo transfer failed he gave us a few options moving forward and didn’t push us to go a specific way, he just laid out the options and left it up to us to decide. Our second transfer was successful and we now have a beautiful baby boy.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Ask a lot of questions and trust in his medical expertise.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Nichols was straightforward with us, gave us the facts and our options, and the likelihood of those options working. He never made us feel rushed during our appointments and explained everything thoroughly. We felt very lucky to have had him as our doctor.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We didn’t do a fresh transfer because we wanted to do genetic testing on our embryos. After testing we were left with 7 frozen embryos. Our first cycle I was on 7 estrogen pills a day, 6 oral and 1 vaginal, and .5cc of PIO. That cycle failed even though my lining and hormone levels were all excellent. The second FET cycle we did Dr Nichols advised us to do a scraping of the uterine lining to promote new cell growth so we did that. My progesterone was a little low so in addition to the 7 estrogen pills a day, he upped my PIO dosage to 1cc and I was also on a progesterone suppository. That cycle resulted in a live birth.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Kelsey Forbes)
Kelsey was amazing. She’s the kind of nurse I always wish to have. She answered all of our questions, never left us waiting during our appointmentments, and was always super friendly.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic in Asheville was small, though I think they moved locations since we last went. It was always clean and the staff friendly. We never had to wait long for our appointments and any questions we thought of after leaving were answered promptly by phone or email.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Egg retrieval through the first pregnancy test was around $15,000. The second FET was $3000 not including the cost of medications. We paid for everything out of pocket.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Dr Nichols advised us to transfer one embryo at a time. My only issue was tubal blockage so he seemed pretty confident that we wouldn’t have any issues getting pregnant by FET. He advised that transferring multiple embryos could result in a multiple birth which is higher risk. We opted to only do a single embryo for each transfer because of his advice.
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2
7
Age
39
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
—
2
7
I wanted tubal reversal, and thought maybe we were going that route. But by my next visit, he [Dr. John Nichols] strongly suggested IVF. I wish he would have elaborated more on why he didn't want to do a tubal reversal on me. It is like everything shifted, on my next visit. I know it was a few months after my initial work up, but I felt & still feel like I still have a chance with tubal reversal. He was excellent with my ultrasound though. He also explains things very well despite his being blunt. I can deal with that.
[PREG- Greenville's] Strengths: Courteous, calm, professional, they followed up with any requests I had. I met with a lady in the back (I cannot remember her name at present), but she was very understanding and told us about options as far as payment plans/options. She also shared with us that she had IVF. She went into detail about how sometimes the hormones have certain side effects, but it was well worth it bc she has her child now.
Age
39
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Black or African-American
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
—
2
7
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I wanted tubal reversal, and thought maybe we were going that route. But by my next visit, he strongly suggested IVF. I wish he would have elaborated more on why he didn't want to do a tubal reversal on me. It is like everything shifted, on my next visit. I know it was a few months after my initial work up, but I felt & still feel like I still have a chance with tubal reversal. He was excellent with my ultrasound though. He also explains things very well despite his being blunt. I can deal with that.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Know that he is smart, yet blunt. My only hang up is that he just didn't want to really hear about doing a tubal reversal by the second visit with me. My situation was a little different. My husband (fiancé at the time) was working in Maryland, and we didn't want to actually do a lot until he moved to SC. But by this time, like I mentioned earlier, Dr. Nichols didn't want to do a tubal reversal on me.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
For the most part, I felt like a human. He is, however, very blunt.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I didn't make it to any treatments. I only had an ultrasound. He was excellent at the Ultrasound.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Everyone I came in contact with was extremely friendly and professional.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Strengths: Courteous, calm, professional, they followed up with any requests I had. I met with a lady in the back (I cannot remember her name at present), but she was very understanding and told us about options as far as payment plans/options. She also shared with us that she had IVF. She went into detail about how sometimes the hormones have certain side effects, but it was well worth it bc she has her child now.
Weaknesses: None that I can think of at the moment.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Some of my labs and I think my ultrasound was covered under insurance. I believe everything else was out of pocket.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
N/A
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
43 - 44
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, IVF, Donor Eggs
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Tubal Blockage
10
10
As a patient, I felt that Dr Nichols was with us 100% of the way. I felt that I was the most important and only patient he was treating, even though I knew I wasn't. ... My chances of getting pregnant at 43 and way overweight, weren't great, and Dr Nichols told me that in a very friendly way. I felt that he and I connected right then because he could see and hear how badly I wanted a child and he treated me like I needed to know the facts, and I needed a doctor who would be there for me. He and his team were wonderful.
Everyone [at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group-Greenville] is very friendly and wonderful to be around. From the person who signs you in to the person at check out, every person is smiling, saying hello to you and shows compassion when they can see that you need it.... As a patient, I felt that Dr Nichols was with us 100% of the way. I felt that I was the most important and only patient he was treating, even though I knew I wasn't. The entire IVF journey is very emotional and having Dr. Nichols as my doctor, I really lucked out.
Age
43 - 44
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Marketer or PR
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, IVF, Donor Eggs
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Tubal Blockage
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
As a patient, I felt that Dr Nichols was with us 100% of the way. I felt that I was the most important and only patient he was treating, even though I knew I wasn't. The entire IVF journey is very emotional and having Dr. Nichols as my doctor, I really lucked out.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He will tell you the truth, and not sugar coat it. But he's not being abrupt, he's telling you what you need to hear and not what you always want to hear. You need a doctor that in on your side like Dr. Nichols, because he really is wanting to help.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
We scheduled a consult with him before we committed to anything. My chances of getting pregnant at 43 and way overweight, weren't great, and Dr Nichols told me that in a very friendly way. I felt that he and I connected right then because he could see and hear how badly I wanted a child and he treated me like I needed to know the facts, and I needed a doctor who would be there for me. He and his team were wonderful.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I had lots of shots and lots of medicine. I know I had Clomid, and I can't recall the name of everything. Did one embryo transfer and it was unsuccessful. Dr Nichols adjusted the medications. We then did 2 embryo transfers and resulted in pregnancy with one.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: I don't recall names, but I had a few)
The staff was fantastic. I highly recommend this clinic.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Everyone is very friendly and wonderful to be around. From the person who signs you in to the person at check out, every person is smiling, saying hello to you and shows compassion when they can see that you need it.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
It was expensive, but it was expected. I can't recall the exact cost, but I had seen a doctor in Colorado and the Colorado doctor was way more expensive and she was all about the money.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
He told me all the facts and let me decide.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
42 - 43
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Tubal Blockage
10
10
Dr. Nichols was very honest and very caring during my treatments. With Diminished Ovarian Reserve the prognosis of having a baby was slim. Dr. Nichols allowed me to choose to continue the IVF, even though he thought our chances were only 10%. He not only helped create one baby - but twins with one egg!!... Dr. Nichols is a very knowledgeable and compassionate doctor of infertility. He thoroughly explained my situation and grim outlook on becoming pregnant. However, grim the outlook- Dr. Nichols allowed us to try IVF to conceive.
The clinic [Piedmont Reproduction Endocrinology Group] is very together. They handled all my needs effectively and efficiently. T Staff was very friendly. The clinic has all the necessary lab equipment there, so you didn't have to go other places to get labs done. They were even there on Saturdays and Sundays if needed.... The nursing staff was excellent, caring and compassionate.... Cost was reasonable. Medication, which they have not control over, was very expensive.
Age
42 - 43
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Tubal Blockage
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is a very knowledgeable and compassionate doctor of infertility. He thoroughly explained my situation and grim outlook on becoming pregnant. However, grim the outlook- Dr. Nichols allowed us to try IVF to conceive. I have DOR and only produced 6 eggs the last cycle. 3 were retrieved and one was transferred. We ended up pregnant with twins. I am so grateful that Dr. Nichols allowed us the opportunity to help in the decision to try to conceive. He was very straight-forward in my diagnosis and prognosis. Yet when we decided to try, he did everything in his power to help us be successful in becoming pregnant.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Trust him. He knows what he is doing.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols was very honest and very caring during my treatments. With Diminished Ovarian Reserve the prognosis of having a baby was slim. Dr. Nichols allowed me to choose to continue the IVF, even though he thought our chances were only 10%. He not only helped create one baby - but twins with one egg!!
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
My treatment strategies were IVF without birth control for stimulation because of DOR. unfortunately don't remember the medicines used.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nursing staff was excellent, caring and compassionate.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic is very together. They handled all my needs effectively and efficiently. T Staff was very friendly. The clinic has all the necessary lab equipment there, so you didn't have to go other places to get labs done. They were even there on Saturdays and Sundays if needed.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Cost was reasonable. Medication, which they have not control over, was very expensive.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Because we only harvested 3 eggs, and because of my DOR Dr. Nichols was open to transfer more embryos. Only one embryo made it to day 5 and was transferred.
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8
9
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI, 2 IVF, 2 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Poor Egg Quality
8
9
Dr. Nichols has been a great doctor. I was previously at another clinic and one of the first things I noticed here is that I actually get to see my assigned doctor quite a bit. I feel he is familiar with my situation. He takes time to answer all of my questions and even came in on a day he was not scheduled to work to perform an unexpected surgery. He is open to hearing my suggestions and feedback as well.
I cannot say enough good things about the staff at PREG. From my very first phone call inquiring about the practice, to now having gone through a year of treatment, they have been an absolute blessing. The staff at my previous clinic were cold and robotic, and nothing could be further from the truth here. I love that I have the ability to reach my nurse via phone at most times without having to leave a message and wait for a call back. Emails are returned promptly. Scheduling is easy as my nurse is able to do that as well. The nursing staff that draws blood and the nurses who are in the room during ultrasounds, egg retrievals, and transfers are all so warm and caring. They actually know who I am and remember me when I come back in for my next visit. I drive out of state for treatment at PREG and the staff is definitely one of the reasons that it's worth it.
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 2 IVF, 2 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Anovulation, PCOS, Poor Egg Quality
8
9
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols has been a great doctor. I was previously at another clinic and one of the first things I noticed here is that I actually get to see my assigned doctor quite a bit. I feel he is familiar with my situation. He takes time to answer all of my questions and even came in on a day he was not scheduled to work to perform an unexpected surgery. He is open to hearing my suggestions and feedback as well.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
You will get good medical care but you will also feel like you are more than a number, which is very important.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I had previously come from a large fertility center in Atlanta where I was just a number to most of the staff. Coming here, I felt that the clinic was small enough that everyone knew who I was. That includes everyone from front desk staff all the way up to my assigned doctor. I can get questions answered quickly because the staff is friendly and is familiar with me as a patient.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I first had an antagonist protocol using gonal-f and low dose HCG. I transferred 1 embryo fresh, it led to a chemical pregnancy. We PGS tested and transferred one of the tested embryos. That led to an ectopic pregnancy. We then went into our 2nd retrieval, again using an antagonist protocol with gonal-f and low dose HCG. This time at higher doses of gonal-f.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay)
I cannot say enough good things about the staff at PREG. From my very first phone call inquiring about the practice, to now having gone through a year of treatment, they have been an absolute blessing. The staff at my previous clinic were cold and robotic, and nothing could be further from the truth here. I love that I have the ability to reach my nurse via phone at most times without having to leave a message and wait for a call back. Emails are returned promptly. Scheduling is easy as my nurse is able to do that as well. The nursing staff that draws blood and the nurses who are in the room during ultrasounds, egg retrievals, and transfers are all so warm and caring. They actually know who I am and remember me when I come back in for my next visit. I drive out of state for treatment at PREG and the staff is definitely one of the reasons that it's worth it.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
PREG is a smaller clinic. I personally have loved this because I get a lot of personalized attention and have easy access to my doctor and nurse. They also have great people on staff who are warm and caring. On the occasions when I don't see my doctor, I am typically seen by one of the other doctors (Dr. Payne). At my old clinic, it was not uncommon to just see a nurse or a nurse practitioner. I like that I am typically seen by a physician here. I also have to say that Dr. Payne is an amazing doctor as well and I feel just as comfortable with him as I do with Dr. Nichols.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
the cost for IVF at PREG was significantly lower than at clinics in Atlanta
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My doctor was willing to transfer more than one embryo, but suggested one, especially once we had PGS tested. My husband and I agreed with his recommendation.
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10
10
Age
34
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IVF
Diagnosis
Other
10
10
He [Dr. Nichols] set my protocol to one of the most aggressive ones bc my last few rounds of ivf resulted in only 2 and 3 eggs retrieved. ... He changed my protocol from what I had previously done and was ready to start the process with me all while being very upfront, honest, and hopeful with me. ... He was very honest and direct with me about my odds of having a successful cycle given my history and diagnosis. But he listened to me when I told him I wasn’t ready to give up.
Clean, comfortable and lots of rooms. Everything seemed very organized. ... I only had good experiences here [PREG] so I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a clinic ... Every one of them [nursing staff] were compassionate and kind. And some had a wonderful sense of humor which was very much appreciated throughout the process. ... I researched him [Dr. Nichols] and the clinic extensively beforehand. They lived up to all my expectations. So glad I found him and the practice.
Age
34
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IVF
Diagnosis
Other
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was the first dr I saw at the practice. I didn’t see much of him after that but he was always reachable and available for questions. The rest of the team took great care of me through the whole process
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I would recommend seeing him. He was my second fertility dr and I researched him and the clinic extensively beforehand. They lived up to all my expectations. So glad I found him and the practice.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was very honest and direct with me about my odds of having a successful cycle given my history and diagnosis. But he listened to me when I told him I wasn’t ready to give up. He changed my protocol from what I had previously done and was ready to start the process with me all while being very upfront, honest, and hopeful with me.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
All I remember is my ovaries needed to be stimulated a lot due to a diminished reserve. He set my protocol to one of the most aggressive ones bc my last few rounds of ivf resulted in only 2 and 3 eggs retrieved.
I got 8 from my cycle with Dr. Nichols! I mean etveven thought that was possible for me. I now have an 11month old son from this cycle! He helped us to complete our family.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
So amazing. Every one of them were compassionate and kind. And some had a wonderful sense of humor which was very much appreciated throughout the process.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Clean, comfortable and lots of rooms. Everything seemed very organized. I have nothing bad to say about the clinic at all.
I only had good experiences here so I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a clinic
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My insurance had already been used for one cycle of IVF at a different clinic before. So most of my cycle was not covered here. They were great at helping me figure out what would be covered and what would have to come out of pocket. I know I paid full price for all of the medications
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10
10
Age
28 - 31
Treated
2013 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Male Factor
10
10
Dr. Nichols seemed to genuinely care for my health and pregnancy...He was very straight forward with me about my endometriosis, age, and possibility of getting pregnant naturally. He advised me that IVF was best in my case and I should not waste time or money on another round of clomid or trying IUI. He believed they would not be successful. I had surgery under his care as well for my endometriosis. When I had an issue post-op I was able to call him at home and he met us at the hospital.
The only weakness of the clinic [Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group] is the lady who sits at the front. She is not very friendly. She usually does the checkout in the greenville office. Everyone else was nice and helpful. She seems to not enjoy her job very much...She [nurse] was genuine and explained everything to me thoroughly...I had a payment upfront and then the rest was due on transfer day.
Age
28 - 31
Treated
2013 - 2016
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF, 1 Egg Freezing
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Male Factor
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. NIichols was very caring and compassionate. He was very straight forward with me about my endometriosis, age, and possibility of getting pregnant naturally. He advised me that IVF was best in my case and I should not waste time or money on another round of clomid or trying IUI. He believed they would not be successful. I had surgery under his care as well for my endometriosis. When I had an issue post-op I was able to call him at home and he met us at the hospital. He worked with me as far as time frame for the IVF so that I could utilize the maximum amount of insurance benefits before the end of the year. He was concerned for my health and told me not to push forward just because of my benefits if I was not feeling well. That my health and the possibility of overstimulation was more important. He is a great physician and I plan to go back someday for our second miracle baby. He helped us achieve our dream of having a child after trying for 8 years. He is amazing and we will forever be grateful!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Don't give up! Have faith in science, the physicians, and God. It will happen and it is so worth it!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols seemed to genuinely care for my health and pregnancy.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I cant remember specifically any drugs except for Ovidrel. I was able to have a successful IVF cycle and my son is now 2.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay)
She was genuine and explained everything to me thoroughly.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The only weakness of the clinic is the lady who sits at the front. She is not very friendly. She usually does the checkout in the greenville office. Everyone else was nice and helpful. She seems to not enjoy her job very much.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Altogether I think it was about $14,000. I had a payment upfront and then the rest was due on transfer day.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I am glad that I was only able to have 1 embryo transferred. I don't know what I would have done with multiples. My insurance also had stipulations about the number tranferred.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
10
10
Age
30 - 32
Treated
2014 - 2016
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
2 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS
10
10
Dr. Nichols wanted to hear what other doctors have done or not done then he explained to me the different options that he could do for me to help me achieve my goal of having a baby. Then he asked me were I felt comfortable starting and how many times we would like to try that option before deciding to move on to the next option.... I have PCOS so he started me on metformin I think 2,000 mg a day and Provera to help start my period and when I started my period I would call in and the nurse would call Clomid in to the pharmacy and tell me what day to take it and when to check for ovulation and when to come in for ultrasounds and when to have intercourse or when to come in for the IUI.
Everyone in both Preg offices are amazing and compassionate.... There offices are amazingly beautiful, clean and welcoming. I love seeing pictures on the walls of previous miracle babies conceived with help of the amazing staff at PREG. The rooms are nicer then most doctors office rooms they really try to make you as comfortable as possible.... The IUI I believe was $550 each try plus I paid $800 for donor sperm....
Age
30 - 32
Treated
2014 - 2016
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Other
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
5th of 7 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Male Factor, PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols wanted to hear what other doctors have done or not done then he explained to me the different options that he could do for me to help me achieve my goal of having a baby. Then he asked me were I felt comfortable starting and how many times we would like to try that option before deciding to move on to the next option. He made me very comfortable and I completely trusted everything he said he knows what he’s talking about. He was the first doctor that I’ve seen that took the time to listen to me and value my opinion.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is amazing and he wants nothing more than you to end up with your miracle baby at the end of everything and he will do everything in his power to help you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols wanted to hear what other doctors have done or not done then he explained to me the different options that he could do for me to help me achieve my goal of having a baby. Then he asked me were I felt comfortable starting and how many times we would like to try that option before deciding to move on to the next option.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Well I have PCOS so he started me on metformin I think 2,000 mg a day and Provera to help start my period and when I started my period I would call in and the nurse would call Clomid in to the pharmacy and tell me what day to take it and when to check for ovulation and when to come in for ultrasounds and when to have intercourse or when to come in for the IUI. The first couple times the clomid wasn’t helping so he upped my dose and I also did gonal-f and it helped we did IUI with donor sperm my choice to try and better my odds of conceiving. It unfortunately did not work either. I decided to take a break and think of my next options and I really feel like IVF is the next best option.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie Biggerstaff )
Everyone in both Preg offices are amazing and compassionate.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
There offices are amazingly beautiful, clean and welcoming. I love seeing pictures on the walls of previous miracle babies conceived with help of the amazing staff at PREG. The rooms are nicer then most doctors office rooms they really try to make you as comfortable as possible.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The I Ovadril shots were not to pricey in the office I think maybe $50 for one shot and my insurance covered all but $10 of the clomid and all but $5 for the metformin. The IUI I believe was $550 each try plus I paid $800 for donor sperm.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
We never got that far.
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10
10
Age
34 - 35
Treated
2014 - 2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Other
10
10
I saw Dr. Nichols for the initial consult, the HSG, and my 2nd IUI. He was respectful and clearly optimistic about my prospects of achieving pregnancy. He initially recommended Clomid due to my history of unsuccessful home inseminations, but he told me it was may choice. I chose to do an unmedicated cycle first, but when that didn't work and my post-ovulation progesterone came back low, I agreed to try Clomid for the 2nd try, which is the one that worked.
I loved the intimacy of the [Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group] Spartanburg office, and it was an easy drive from where I live. My only complaint is that I couldn't do the IUI's there (because I was using donor sperm, and they could only store that at the Greenville office)...The nurses were mostly nice and helpful. One nurse was somewhat negative when doing my follicle scan for the medicated cycle, as she seemed disappointed that I only had one mature follicle with two smaller ones. I was happy with those results, however, because I had been concerned about the risk of multiples.
Age
34 - 35
Treated
2014 - 2015
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Other
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I saw Dr. Nichols for the initial consult, the HSG, and my 2nd IUI. He was respectful and clearly optimistic about my prospects of achieving pregnancy. He initially recommended Clomid due to my history of unsuccessful home inseminations, but he told me it was may choice. I chose to do an unmedicated cycle first, but when that didn't work and my post-ovulation progesterone came back low, I agreed to try Clomid for the 2nd try, which is the one that worked.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Do your own research ahead of time so that he won't have to spend a lot of time going over "the basics" and can focus on your individual situation.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Office staff was friendly and remembered me when I came for follow-up visits. Dr. Nichols listened, took me seriously, and seemed to genuinely care about helping me get pregnant. He could tell I had done a lot of research ahead of time, and he did not question my decision to pursue IUI and a single woman.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
He recommended I start with a medicated IUI cycle using Clomid, based on my history of 4 unsuccessful home inseminations, but he made it clear that it was my choice whether or not to use medication. I chose not to use Clomid for my first IUI, but I did use a trigger shot. When that cycle didn't work, I agreed to a prescription for 50mg Clomid to take cycle days 3-7, and that IUI resulted in my daughter.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nurses were mostly nice and helpful. One nurse was somewhat negative when doing my follicle scan for the medicated cycle, as she seemed disappointed that I only had one mature follicle with two smaller ones. I was happy with those results, however, because I had been concerned about the risk of multiples.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I loved the intimacy of the Spartanburg office, and it was an easy drive from where I live. My only complaint is that I couldn't do the IUI's there (because I was using donor sperm, and they could only store that at the Greenville office).
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My insurance covered all office visits (consult, blood work, HSG, IUIs, and ultrasounds) with a copay. I had to pay out-of-pocket for sperm processing, which I think was $100, and for the trigger shot, which was $50 each time.
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0
10
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2011 - 2012
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
0
10
Dr. Nichols was the first doctor that I saw at PREG, but I ended up switching to a different doctor later because I liked him better. I felt that Dr. Nichols did not have a great bedside manner and did not always say things in a caring and compassionate way. However he is a very skilled doctor and he did do both of the transfers that were successful.... I wouldn't exactly say I was treated like a number, but I didn't feel like he had a very good bedside manner.
The staff at PREG's Spartanburg office are very caring and compassionate! I have been a patient there since 2011, and the faces have changed.... I highly recommend PREG to anyone dealing with infertility. The staff is very compassionate. My phone calls or emails have always been returned promptly, usually the same day. I especially love nurse Stephanie at the Spartanburg office. She and the rest of the staff really go the extra mile to make sure you receive the best care!
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2011 - 2012
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Male Factor
0
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols was the first doctor that I saw at PREG, but I ended up switching to a different doctor later because I liked him better. I felt that Dr. Nichols did not have a great bedside manner and did not always say things in a caring and compassionate way. However he is a very skilled doctor and he did do both of the transfers that were successful.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I would recommend seeing Dr. Payne instead.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I wouldn't exactly say I was treated like a number, but I didn't feel like he had a very good bedside manner.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
The cycle that I was a patient of Dr. Nichols was a full cycle. I don't remember exact doses but I can give the drugs that were used. Birth control first, then Lupron to shut down the ovaries. Then I took Gonal-F, estrogen patches, and progesterone shots. Doses of the Gonal-F were increased as needed after each monitoring appointment. I did really well with this protocol as it resulted in our first son!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The staff at PREG's Spartanburg office are very caring and compassionate! I have been a patient there since 2011, and the faces have changed. Like the primary nurse when I did my first cycle had retired by the time I went back to try for our second child. But I have never received anything but the best care.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I highly recommend PREG to anyone dealing with infertility. The staff is very compassionate. My phone calls or emails have always been returned promptly, usually the same day. I especially love nurse Stephanie at the Spartanburg office. She and the rest of the staff really go the extra mile to make sure you receive the best care!
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The monitoring appointments are always first thing in the morning, but they have to do it that way so they can get the blood work to the lab and be able to tell you that day if there will be any changes to your meds. There were usually not very many other people waiting and my wait was not more than 15 minutes.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I believe I paid about $2300 for a full IVF cycle. That didn't include meds. I don't remember exactly how much I paid for those. I had infertility coverage for the medical and the medications.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I don't think my doctor had a preference. I doubt he would have supported transferring more than 2, not that we would have wanted to. We were educated on the risks.
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10
10
Age
33 - 40
Treated
2005 - 2012
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis
10
10
Dr. Nichols was absolute the perfect combination of a doctor with great bedside manner and blunt honesty. With each failed pregnancy attempt, before a successful pregnancy, Dr. Nichols would call me to check on me and encourage me. He was simply the best!... Every concern I had Dr. Nichols addressed and ultimately, made me feel better about. It was my favorite thing about him. I trusted his opinion and expertise and I felt confident in each step in my journey.
Everyone [PREG] treated my husband and myself with compassion and concern.... The absolute hardest part was payment. I had excellent insurance and was considered "one of the lucky ones." However, I still had to pay 20% and all of my medications. It was a huge financial strain and sometimes, I did not feel the compassion in the billing department.... Dr. Nichols was absolute the perfect combination of a doctor with great bedside manner and blunt honesty.
Age
33 - 40
Treated
2005 - 2012
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Marketer or PR
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, 2 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I honestly do not feel like there were any weaknesses to speak of. Every concern I had Dr. Nichols addressed and ultimately, made me feel better about. It was my favorite thing about him. I trusted his opinion and expertise and I felt confident in each step in my journey.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Tell him everything that scares you or concerns you. He really wants to know.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols was absolute the perfect combination of a doctor with great bedside manner and blunt honesty. With each failed pregnancy attempt, before a successful pregnancy, Dr. Nichols would call me to check on me and encourage me. He was simply the best!
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I went through a couple of cycles of ovulation "stimulator" drugs. Then, we did exploratory surgery to confirm that I had endometriosis. Soon after, I went through IUI as failed attempts. After a year of failed pregnancies, we discovered that my endometriosis was just as bas as it was in the beginning. I had another surgery to "clean" me out and then we decided to go straight to In vitro for best results. The first attempt was failed, but we had frozen embryos. The second IVF was performed as soon as possible and it was successful.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
It has been so long that I do not remember their names, but I never once felt like I was not cared for. Everyone treated my husband and myself with compassion and concern.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The absolute hardest part was payment. I had excellent insurance and was considered "one of the lucky ones." However, I still had to pay 20% and all of my medications. It was a huge financial strain and sometimes, I did not feel the compassion in the billing department. :)
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I do not remember the total....It was too daunting to think about. :) However, my insurance covered 80% of my treatment, otherwise there is no way we could have gone through with IVF. I have a beautiful 16 yr. old because of Dr. Nichols and that 80%.
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10
10
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Male Factor, PCOS
10
10
Two FET cycles so far [with Dr. John Nichols]- BC pills for a few weeks, then estrogen, metformin, prenatal vitamins, PIO...makes sure I understand everything before I leave...I never had to question anything once I left the office. Every visit Dr. Nichols made sure I understood what we were doing and what I would be doing next to get me the results we wanted. He is always compassionate and never leaves me feeling confused.
Lindsay [nurse at PREG] always finds time to check in on me during my two week waits, and is always very quick to respond to my phone calls and emails. If she isn't available she makes sure I have spoken to someone upon her return...Egg retrieval/FET cycle 1- $12,000 before medications. FET second- $3200 before medications...So far they only transferred one each cycle. They don't want to transfer multiples as it doesn't seem to help increase the chance of pregnancy just the chance of multiples.
Clinic Description
Age
32 - 33
Treated
2018 - 2019
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
Endometriosis, Male Factor, PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I never had to question anything once I left the office. Every visit Dr. Nichols made sure I understood what we were doing and what I would be doing next to get me the results we wanted. He is always compassionate and never leaves me feeling confused.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Make sure you always ask questions so you have a full understanding of everything that is going on with your IVF cycle.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Everyone in the office takes the time to get to know you and your case. Dr. Nichols makes sure I understand everything before I leave.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Egg retrieval- do not remember the medications. Two FET cycles so far- BC pills for a few weeks, then estrogen, metformin, prenatal vitamins, PIO.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Lindsay Polowzcuk)
Lindsay always finds time to check in on me during my two week waits, and is always very quick to respond to my phone calls and emails. If she isn't available she makes sure I have spoken to someone upon her return.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I don't have any weaknesses to list. They have all been very helpful to me and my husband through the course of IVF. Everyone makes sure we are well taken care of and all of our needs are met. As a new patient I would recommend doing your research ahead of time just to get an idea of what may/may not take place.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Egg retrieval/FET cycle 1- $12,000 before medications. FET second- $3200 before medications.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
So far they only transferred one each cycle. They don't want to transfer multiples as it doesn't seem to help increase the chance of pregnancy just the chance of multiples.
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8
10
Age
34 - 35
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
8
10
He [Dr. Nichols] has now met with me on 3 occasions and each time presents everything in a clear manner and answers all of my questions. ... He is personable and presents things in a way that I can understand. He answered all of my questions. Though he encouraged IVF, once I explained I could not afford that treatment, he provided alternatives and changed my course of treatment just with medications. ...He completed several tests and labs prior to starting treatment.
They [PREG] are all polite, empathetic, provide understanding and clarification, and always make themselves available. I did have to request to see the doctor one time; however, since that time I have seen him without having to request it. So I would encourage anyone to speak up and dont be affraid to ask for an appointment with the doctor or any questions. ... I like that I for the most part am always seen by Mckayla. She is always polite and empathetic. She also makes sure to answer all of my questions and is always open to calling her directly through the week.
Age
34 - 35
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS, Unexplained
8
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is personable and presents things in a way that I can understand. He answered all of my questions. Though he encouraged IVF, once I explained I could not afford that treatment, he provided alternatives and changed my course of treatment just with medications.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dont be afraid to ask questions or ask to meet with your doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He has now met with me on 3 occasions and each time presents everything in a clear manner and answers all of my questions.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
He completed several tests and labs prior to starting treatment. We started with medication and following each cycle I would have an ultrasound and labs. After this was unsuccessful, we met and discussed IUI. We increased medications and attempted IUI. However, these were last unsuccessful, so we met again and though IVF was recommended we are unable to afford this, so we changed the course of treatment to just include an increase in medications.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Mckayla )
I like that I for the most part am always seen by Mckayla. She is always polite and empathetic. She also makes sure to answer all of my questions and is always open to calling her directly through the week.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
They are all polite, empathetic, provide understanding and clarification, and always make themselves available. I did have to request to see the doctor one time; however, since that time I have seen him without having to request it. So I would encourage anyone to speak up and dont be affraid to ask for an appointment with the doctor or any questions.
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8
10
Age
39 - 40
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor
8
10
Dr. Nichols was very up front about the tests and procedures and also explained some of the possibilities as to why things were happening. He also explained very thorough anything that was going to be done.... Dr. Nichols is very knowledgeable and has loads of experience. He is very up front and could possibly be too blunt for some individuals, but I would rather a doctor be honest and not sugar coat anything.
PREG has several offices in NC and SC and most procedures are done in the office. The staff is great to work with and very friendly and caring. They also get you into appointments as needed and work around your schedule as must as they can.... My husband was prescribed HCG and every 3 days and clomid, 25 mg, due to having no sperm from being on testosterone for several years. I was prescribed Letrozole when my cycles were being monitored. We found that my husbands sperm count soared after being washed so we opted for IUI treatment after the first IUI.
Age
39 - 40
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor
8
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is very knowledgeable and has loads of experience. He is very up front and could possibly be too blunt for some individuals, but I would rather a doctor be honest and not sugar coat anything.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be up front and honest with him and take any advice that he gives you. He is a great doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols was very up front about the tests and procedures and also explained some of the possibilities as to why things were happening. He also explained very thorough anything that was going to be done.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
My husband was prescribed HCG and every 3 days and clomid, 25 mg, due to having no sperm from being on testosterone for several years. I was prescribed Letrozole when my cycles were being monitored. We found that my husbands sperm count soared after being washed so we opted for IUI treatment after the first IUI.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Mikayla and Deborah)
All of the staff at PREG are super nice and great to work with. They are sweet and compassionate people. They feel like family when we are there.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
PREG has several offices in NC and SC and most procedures are done in the office. The staff is great to work with and very friendly and caring. They also get you into appointments as needed and work around your schedule as must as they can.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The costs were pretty reasonable. My insurance was filed for me and if IVF was needed they helped with financing.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
We have not discussed embryo transfer yet, but will in the future if this IUI is not successful.
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10
10
Age
34
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
2 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
10
Dr Nichols is very compassionate and caring. He explains everything in detail gives us our options and also his honest opinion which helps with decision making. Any questions we have he is more than happy to answer. He goes over next steps very clearly so we know what to expect.... Dr Nichols is very compassionate and caring. He answered all my questions and was very knowledgeable.
The Drs and nurses are very friendly and helpful every time we are there [at Piedmont Reproductive Endo Group-Asheville]. They are always ready to greet us when we walk in the office. The clinic is very clean and inviting. The pictures they having hanging on the walls give you hope and the atmosphere is always pleasant... The nursing staff has been wonderful. They are very nice Everytime I call to ask a simple question. When we are at the clinic they are always right there willing to help or answer any questions we may have. They are always smiling and happy to see their patients.
Age
34
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European, Native American
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 3 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Nichols is very compassionate and caring. He explains everything in detail gives us our options and also his honest opinion which helps with decision making. Any questions we have he is more than happy to answer. He goes over next steps very clearly so we know what to expect.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
To make sure you make a list of all the questions you have and feel free to ask him anything. He is very knowledgeable and explains things very well.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Nichols is very compassionate and caring. He answered all my questions and was very knowledgeable.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nursing staff has been wonderful. They are very nice Everytime I call to ask a simple question. When we are at the clinic they are always right there willing to help or answer any questions we may have. They are always smiling and happy to see their patients.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The Drs and nurses are very friendly and helpful every time we are there. They are always ready to greet us when we walk in the office. The clinic is very clean and inviting. The pictures they having hanging on the walls give you hope and the atmosphere is always pleasant.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I have just started seeing Dr Nichols and just recently went over cost for the procedure we are looking at doing. He gave us a detailed list of information about pricing and nutse was able to sit down and talk to us in more depth about the financial part.
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Verified
This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.
5
9
Age
40
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
5
9
Dr. Nichols is very good at what he does. Sometimes his delivery comes across as harsh. I think he is very thorough and straightforward. ... I was told basically I am running against my bodies clock and time is of the essence. I need to follow the suggestions provided: Exercise, vitamins, health, acupuncture, and following the prescribed medicine's instructions. ... The nurses [PREG] have performed the majority of my IUI's.
I would say the weakness is the access to the portal does not have everything like My Chart does. That could be improved. ... For some reason I do not get the emails. My husband does. I would encourage to ask questions and to take notes. ... I absolutely love the nursing staff [PREG]. They are awesome. They are so good at giving clear instructions. They show compassion and are gracious. The nurses have performed the majority of my IUI's. I do wish the doctor on call had done more.
Age
40
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Business Executive
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
5
9
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is very good at what he does. Sometimes his delivery comes across as harsh. I think he is very thorough and straightforward. I think he could show more compassion when delivering hard news. People dealing with infertility are extremely vulnerable and most of the time dealing with raw emotions. He needs to be mindful of that.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Take what he says as very helpful diagnosis and information.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I think it is his nature to be very straight forward and explain all possibilities. At times that can be a bit alarming.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I was told basically I am running against my bodies clock and time is of the essence. I need to follow the suggestions provided: Exercise, vitamins, health, acupuncture, and following the prescribed medicine's instructions.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
I absolutely love the nursing staff. They are awesome. They are so good at giving clear instructions. They show compassion and are gracious. The nurses have performed the majority of my IUI's. I do wish the doctor on call had done more.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
For some reason I do not get the emails. My husband does. I would encourage to ask questions and to take notes. I would say the weakness is the access to the portal does not have everything like My Chart does. That could be improved.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Costs include: Follicle scans, Blood work, medication, supplements, ovidrel injection, IUI, at home urine tests, in office urine tests.
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8
10
Age
37
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
10
He [Dr. Nichols] seems very compassionate and explains things clearly. He understands what a trying procedure it is, and never rushes you or pressures you into anything. When I call the clinic with a question, it's not always the doctor that responds, but on our next visit he does follow up with my concerns.... First we ran tests on myself and my husband to eliminate what we could. I had to do several blood tests, ultrasounds, and a dye-scan. I was diagnosed as "unexplained infertility." then we tried Clomid oral tablets and fertility boost injection. Ihad lots of side effects, but did not get pregnant from the first try, so we are upping the dose. This is where we are now.
Everyone [PREG] has been very kind and compassionate. They understand what the patients are going through. The phlebotomist was honestly the best I've had in my life : normally I pass out when my blood is drawn, but with her I didn't even feel a thing.... I go to the Asheville branch, so when I need something "bigger" done, I have to drive to the Greenville branch, because our clinic doesn't have things like dye-scan. I'm uninsured, so it can be pricey, though I don't know how it compares to other clinics.
Age
37
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
Unexplained
8
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He seems very compassionate and explains things clearly. He understands what a trying procedure it is, and never rushes you or pressures you into anything. When I call the clinic with a question, it's not always the doctor that responds, but on our next visit he does follow up with my concerns.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Give it time.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He actually takes the time to listen to and address concerns, from both myself and my partner.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
First we ran tests on myself and my husband to eliminate what we could. I had to do several blood tests, ultrasounds, and a dye-scan. I was diagnosed as "unexplained infertility." then we tried Clomid oral tablets and fertility boost injection. Ihad lots of side effects, but did not get pregnant from the first try, so we are upping the dose. This is where we are now.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Everyone has been very kind and compassionate. They understand what the patients are going through. The phlebotomist was honestly the best I've had in my life : normally I pass out when my blood is drawn, but with her I didn't even feel a thing.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I go to the Asheville branch, so when I need something "bigger" done, I have to drive to the Greenville branch, because our clinic doesn't have things like dye-scan. I'm uninsured, so it can be pricey, though I don't know how it compares to other clinics.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
$90 for office visits and small tests like blood and seen. Closer to $300 for scans and ultrasounds.
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9
9
Age
39
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Unexplained
9
9
He [Dr. John Nicols] has been very thorough with explaining everything in detail and always making sure we felt comfortable. I always felt like I was talking to a family member and felt comfortable. He has gone above and beyond with meeting with us about any concerns we have. He is very compassionate and reassured us with any setbacks we had. He kept up my confidence!!
[PREG's] weaknesses- did not give us IVF protocol in enough time to research options of buying drugs. We would have saves thousands if not more if we had ample time to research. There was a lot of waiting time at appointments... Megan- I cannot say enough wonderful things about her- I mean she has been such a blessing!!! I could joke with her and she made me feel completely at ease when some things were uncomfortable. She is the best nurse that I have ever had in my life!!!!!
Age
39
Treated
2018
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Professor
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
IVF
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Unexplained
9
9
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He has been very thorough with explaining everything in detail and always making sure we felt comfortable. I always felt like I was talking to a family member and felt comfortable. He has gone above and beyond with meeting with us about any concerns we have. He is very compassionate and reassured us with any setbacks we had. He kept up my confidence!!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Tell him everything- he will try his best to figure out a solution
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Answered any questions we had. Followed up with us regarding concerns and made us feel like family!!
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Trying clomid and femaera first before injectables.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Megan Vazant)
Megan- I cannot say enough wonderful things about her- I mean she has been such a blessing!!! I could joke with her and she made me feel completely at ease when some things were uncomfortable. She is the best nurse that I have ever had in my life!!!!!
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
weaknesses- did not give us IVF protocol in enough time to research options of buying drugs. We would have saves thousands if not more if we had ample time to research. There was a lot of waiting time at appointments.
I would NOT recommend LINDSAY POLOWCZUK- she was one of the nurses that treated us like we were 5 years old and reprimanded us for things.
strengths- worked as much as they could with our work schedules.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
drugs were very expensive and we should have know what we needed in advance so we could buy cheaper
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
They suggested we transfer 1 or 2 but not any more
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Failed to send your chart to another clinic
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10
10
Age
38 - 41
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
10
He [Dr. Nichols] sat us down and thoroughly explained everything in detail. He told us everything that could and couldn't happen. He's not the most enthusiastic or charismatic person. However, he is very honest and forthcoming about infertility, pregnancy and everything that comes along with it. I knew pretty much exactly what to expect each time going into it and was pretty confident about the procedure.
Everyone [PREG] is beyond friendly and compassionate and really act like they care about you. This place is amazing. Everyone from the financial team to the receptionists. EVERY single employee I encountered was amazing, and loving. I absolutely love this place.... Kelsey was my absolute favorite before she got transferred to Asheville. However ALL of the staff is amazing!
Age
38 - 41
Treated
2015 - 2018
Success with this Doc
No
Race
—
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
5 IUI
Diagnosis
Male Factor
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
We were referred to him by a couple different friends. When we went in and took all the tests, needed. He sat us down and thoroughly explained everything in detail. He told us everything that could and couldn't happen. He's not the most enthusiastic or charismatic person. However, he is very honest and forthcoming about infertility, pregnancy and everything that comes along with it. I knew pretty much exactly what to expect each time going into it and was pretty confident about the procedure.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Trust the process and know he will hand it to you straight up and not candy coat anything.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He explained everything very well. While he wasn't over excited he was very honest and upfront and I appreciated that.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
My thyroid was a little low so he put me on meds to raise it to keep it norma. I had 5 IUI's and they were pretty routine.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Kelsey)
Kelsey was my absolute favorite before she got transferred to Asheville. However ALL of the staff is amazing!
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Everyone is beyond friendly and compassionate and really act like they care about you. This place is amazing. Everyone from the financial team to the receptionists. EVERY single employee I encountered was amazing, and loving. I absolutely love this place.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Clomid,, Trigger SHOTS, BLOOD work, ovulation testing, IUI's
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9
9
Age
23 - 24
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
9
9
He [Dr. Nichols] is very kind and to the point and that’s what I Love about him. Always answers all my questions and is willing to help in any way. A great doctor very caring. He sat me down after my first set of labs and went through and explained each one and what they meant, trying to give me some answers as to all of my losses. I would recommend him highly to anyone struggling with infertility... He started me on femara to induce ovulation,because I had been on clomid for way to long.
Strengths: very kind offices and compassionate and very tentative. Weakness: I really don’t have any complaints honestly, it would be nice to see the doctor more often but not always necessary. I think this [PREG] is a great clinic and would refer anyone... [Nursing Staff] They are all so very kind and compassionate. They always call back promptly after leaving messages answers every question in detail, always explain procedures and results
Age
23 - 24
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Other
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
PCOS, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
9
9
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is very kind and to the point and that’s what I Love about him. Always answers all my questions and is willing to help in any way. A great doctor very caring. He sat me down after my first set of labs and went through and explained each one and what they meant, trying to give me some answers as to all of my losses. I would recommend him highly to anyone struggling with infertility
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
To listen to his advice and try to do everything he says
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is always very kind and understanding, explains everything in detail and answers all my questions.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
He started me on femara to induce ovulation,because I had been on clomid for way to long. Then I come in for a follicle scab on day 11, based on that I will do an hcg trigger shot, then 3 days post ovulation I will start progesterone suppositories to help try and prevent miscarriage. I also am on daily aspirin and metformin due to pcos and pregnancy loss.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
They are all so very kind and compassionate. They always call back promptly after leaving messages answers every question in detail, always explain procedures and results
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Strengths: very kind offices and compassionate and very tentative.
Weakness: I really don’t have any complaints honestly, it would be nice to see the doctor more often but not always necessary. I think this is a great clinic and would refer anyone
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Iui:475$
Hcg shot 80$
Ultrasound copay:50$
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8
7
Age
33 - 45
Treated
2006 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
8
7
Dr Nichols is blunt and to the point but his beside manner is pretty good. The only time that I felt like a number is when I was refused ivf based upon my age. ... He is not as receptive to women over 40 or 41. At least one ivf cycle should be offered to women over 40 who are still ovulating as long as the woman is well informed of her chances. It should not be the Dr or clinics [PREG] place to deny treatment with her own eggs.
I think this clinic [PREG] needs to be more on the cutting edge of helping women use their own eggs over 40. ... At least one ivf cycle should be offered to women over 40 who are still ovulating as long as the woman is well informed of her chances. It should not be the Dr or clinics place to deny treatment with her own eggs. ... Stephanie Biggerstaff went out of her way to help me. She has the patience of Job. All of the nurses were super nice.
Age
33 - 45
Treated
2006 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
European
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
IUI, 1 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
8
7
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Nichols is positive and upbeat when you are within the age bracket to where a live birth is more likely. He is not as receptive to women over 40 or 41. At least one ivf cycle should be offered to women over 40 who are still ovulating as long as the woman is well informed of her chances. It should not be the Dr or clinics place to deny treatment with her own eggs.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Nichols gave me my son for which I am truly grateful. If you are under 40, he will help you with your own eggs and you will likely have a positive experience.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Nichols is blunt and to the point but his beside manner is pretty good. The only time that I felt like a number is when I was refused ivf based upon my age.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I used ivf with ICSI but I don't remember the protocol. I was on birth control pills for a few weeks prior to stimulation.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Stephanie Biggerstaff went out of her way to help me. She has the patience of Job. All of the nurses were super nice.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I think this clinic needs to be more on the cutting edge of helping women use their own eggs over 40. There are no clinics in the area that will listen and work with them. PREG is not interested and claims to be looking out for their best interest, however if the client knows their chances, it should not be up to the doctor.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I would say between PREG and the sperms bank I've spent around $45,000 out of pocket. PREG received an additional $15,000 from my insurance company. I have one child but wanted two.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I don't have an opinion in this area.
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10
10
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
4 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS, Tubal Blockage
10
10
He [Dr. John Nichols] is absolutely amazing, so straight forward and makes every appointment comfortable. He makes sure we understand everything he said to us and is so honest with his words. He has helped me so much in little time and when I never thought I could get great help he was there to pick up the pieces another doctor left behind.... I have not started any treatments yet. Because I had to have surgery first and get both my Fallopian tubes removed. As they were swollen and infected. It was one of the most scariest times of my life as I thought after that I would never get pregnant. But he said I can have a chance with IVF.
They [the staff at Piedmont Reproductive Endo Group- Greenville] are patient and kind. They listen and review everything you spoke about. They make sure you feel very comfortable. They work with all your needs. They stay in touch after every surgery, health problems and see how you are feeling.... I have not started any treatments yet. Because I had to have surgery first and get both my Fallopian tubes removed. As they were swollen and infected. It was one of the most scariest times of my life as I thought after that I would never get pregnant. But he said I can have a chance with IVF.
Age
29 - 30
Treated
2017 - 2018
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Latino
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
Sales Representative
Order & Number of Docs Seen
2nd of 2 Docs
Treatment
4 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS, Tubal Blockage
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is absolutely amazing, so straight forward and makes every appointment comfortable. He makes sure we understand everything he said to us and is so honest with his words. He has helped me so much in little time and when I never thought I could get great help he was there to pick up the pieces another doctor left behind.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Keep faith because he works miracles.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was very patient but also so honest and straight forward. I love that about him.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I have not started any treatments yet. Because I had to have surgery first and get both my Fallopian tubes removed. As they were swollen and infected. It was one of the most scariest times of my life as I thought after that I would never get pregnant. But he said I can have a chance with IVF. I’m just praying a miracle happens, I have lost so much hope because I can not afford this treatment. My insurance does not cover anything for IVF. Everything will be out of pocket.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Amazing team.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
They are patient and kind. They listen and review everything you spoke about. They make sure you feel very comfortable. They work with all your needs. They stay in touch after every surgery, health problems and see how you are feeling.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Very expensive, $12,500 for my IVF and that’s ball park. They said it may can be more. I’m praying it is not that much because I don’t have them at all.
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I have not experienced this yet
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8
6
Age
43
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
8
6
Dr. Nichols was very pleasant and talked to me like I was a human being. He wasn’t just trying to convince me to do things his way he actually listened.... Was told I had to use donor eggs. Currently trying to find a donor and move forward now. Dr. Nichols explained his recommendations based on his experience but I wanted to try with my own eggs so I saw a different doctor. That didn’t work using my own eggs. So now, we are back seeing Dr. Nichols. He’s a great doctor and the only one I prefer seeing at the clinic as thee others are rude and don’t have good manners.
The clinic [PREG] is nice, Dr. Whitman is a doctor I would not recommend anyone seeing at the clinic. Her bedside manners is horrible, she lacks tact and is rude. Out side of that the staff is good but can be a bit slow with replying to messages and sending back information.... Donor egg cost for one kit is approximately $15,000 - $28,000 and is not covered by insurance. The doctors office cost and procedures are approximately an additional $10,000 - $15,000. Plus medications.
Age
43
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Black or African-American
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve, Endometriosis, Poor Egg Quality, Unexplained
8
6
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
We never got to a treatment still in the process of trying to do that. Was told I had to use donor eggs. Currently trying to find a donor and move forward now. Dr. Nichols explained his recommendations based on his experience but I wanted to try with my own eggs so I saw a different doctor. That didn’t work using my own eggs. So now, we are back seeing Dr. Nichols. He’s a great doctor and the only one I prefer seeing at the clinic as thee others are rude and don’t have good manners.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Giving him all of your information and allow him to provide you with his best medical advise.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols was very pleasant and talked to me like I was a human being. He wasn’t just trying to convince me to do things his way he actually listened.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
No treatment has been provided at this time, we are in the process of moving forward.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic is nice, Dr. Whitman is a doctor I would not recommend anyone seeing at the clinic. Her bedside manners is horrible, she lacks tact and is rude.
Out side of that the staff is good but can be a bit slow with replying to messages and sending back information.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Donor egg cost for one kit is approximately $15,000 - $28,000 and is not covered by insurance. The doctors office cost and procedures are approximately an additional $10,000 - $15,000. Plus medications. Fresh egg cycle with donors are a bit more expensive, approximately an additional $10,000 plus the donors medication and procedure cost.
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10
10
Age
30
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Treatment
12 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
He [Dr. Nichols] took the time to be real with me about my situation. I feel like my previous doctor sugar coated everything which didnt help in a serious situation such as infertility. He really got down to the bottom of my problem to help me.... I was also experiencing excrutiating pain that he was able to diagnose as a block fallopian tube and treat it surgically... He occasionally comes across as blunt and it can seem harsh at times. However, I feel like I needed that from someone by the time I came to see him so it honestly didnt even bother me.
Always on time. Very friendly and compassionate. Very personable. I have not noticed weaknesses. They [PREG] also are very flexible with your schedule. They get you in as soon as possible. The nurse line always responds in a timely manner. Always impressed.... He is very smart and knowledgable. He makes you feel very comfortable with his decision making. I never questioned anything he told me. He speaks with confidence. He occasionally comes across as blunt and it can seem harsh at times.
Age
30
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
?
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
12 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is very smart and knowledgable. He makes you feel very comfortable with his decision making. I never questioned anything he told me. He speaks with confidence. He occasionally comes across as blunt and it can seem harsh at times. However, I feel like I needed that from someone by the time I came to see him so it honestly didnt even bother me.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Trust him. He knows what hes doing.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He took the time to be real with me about my situation. I feel like my previous doctor sugar coated everything which didnt help in a serious situation such as infertility. He really got down to the bottom of my problem to help me.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I have not pursued treatment for fertility yet but plan on doing so in 2019. After multiple failed treatments from another facility and 3 endometriosis surgeries I came to Dr. Nichols for a 2nd opinion. I was also experiencing excrutiating pain that he was able to diagnose as a block fallopian tube and treat it surgically. We have discussed simply IVF. I feel certain I will need IVF of some sort because of my history with clomid, femara, and even injectables with no success.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Very caring and friendly.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Always on time. Very friendly and compassionate. Very personable. I have not noticed weaknesses. They also are very flexible with your schedule. They get you in as soon as possible. The nurse line always responds in a timely manner. Always impressed.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Not sure
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
N/a
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6
8
Age
33
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
6
8
Dr. Nicholas was very knowledgeable. He did a wonderful job of explaining what we were to expect from baseline blood work to pregnancy test. However, he didn't necessarily take as much of a hands on approach as we'd hoped. Another doctor performed our mock retrieval and I wish Dr. Nicholas would have completed this. I think it would have assisted with the actual retrieval. Nevertheless, I think he set realistic expectations and provided us with decent care.
The clinic [PREG] was accommodating. It was comfortable and welcoming. It seemed pretty standard. It was easy to locate and yet inconspicuous enough. The temperature was just as you would expect of any medical facility. By far the best part were the adorable baby pictures and birth notices....The nurses were all wonderful. The were kind and understanding. They explained things clearly. I had a great experience with the nurses.
Age
33
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
No
Race
Prefer not to answer
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
1 IVF
Diagnosis
—
6
8
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nicholas was very knowledgeable. He did a wonderful job of explaining what we were to expect from baseline blood work to pregnancy test. However, he didn't necessarily take as much of a hands on approach as we'd hoped. Another doctor performed our mock retrieval and I wish Dr. Nicholas would have completed this. I think it would have assisted with the actual retrieval. Nevertheless, I think he set realistic expectations and provided us with decent care. I would probably try another doctor on future IVF attempts.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
As with any doctor or service provider; do your own research and don't be afraid to ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nicholas was informative and thorough in answering questions. He didn't seem overly friendly, didn't attempt to build rapport, and at times seemed disinterested in our fertility journey.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nurses were all wonderful. The were kind and understanding. They explained things clearly. I had a great experience with the nurses.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic was accommodating. It was comfortable and welcoming. It seemed pretty standard. It was easy to locate and yet inconspicuous enough. The temperature was just as you would expect of any medical facility. By far the best part were the adorable baby pictures and birth notices. Always a reason to smile!
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
$5,000 for 1 round of Invocell.
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10
10
Age
38
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Endometriosis, PCOS, Unexplained
10
10
Dr. Nichols is very direct and cut to the point type of doctor. He never gave up on helping my husband and I conceive. We had tried every medication and nothing worked. He called me one evening with one last option we could try and it worked.... Dr. Nichol has a very dry personality and at times it comes off as rude but after time with him he begin to understand him. He's straight to the point and will explain everything so you understand. He won't make false promises but will do everything he can to help you have a baby. I
I love how they [PREG] keep you updated and call to let you know the results of lab work or test. I felt like family every time I walked in the door, being greeted by name. I had a say in my care and everything was explained to me where I can understand. When I would get discouraged I was reminded to stay positive and knew they were providing me the best care possible. After 10 months of trying we finally got pregnant with twins and even when we lost them at 26 weeks. We received a card. That ment so much because they cared. I will use Dr. Nichols again
Age
38
Treated
2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
—
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
2 IUI
Diagnosis
Anovulation, Endometriosis, PCOS, Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichol has a very dry personality and at times it comes off as rude but after time with him he begin to understand him. He's straight to the point and will explain everything so you understand. He won't make false promises but will do everything he can to help you have a baby. I highly recommend him
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be patient and trust the process
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is very direct and cut to the point type of doctor. He never gave up on helping my husband and I conceive. We had tried every medication and nothing worked. He called me one evening with one last option we could try and it worked.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We used several different medication and injections. I can't remember the names if all of them
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
I wish I could remember all the names but I love the whole staff from check in, to the lab, the nurses and check out they made me feel like family not just another patient
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I love how they keep you updated and call to let you know the results of lab work or test. I felt like family every time I walked in the door, being greeted by name. I had a say in my care and everything was explained to me where I can understand. When I would get discouraged I was reminded to stay positive and knew they were providing me the best care possible. After 10 months of trying we finally got pregnant with twins and even when we lost them at 26 weeks. We received a card. That ment so much because they cared. I will use Dr. Nichols again
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
It was a little over $3000
Describe John Nichols's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I recommend multiple
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10
10
Age
30 - 31
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
He [Dr. Nichols] was very clear and straight forward but at the same time very nice. I could tell he’s really busy, but he was not demeaning or rude unlike other doctors we had interviewed at another clinics. We were very pleased!!... He was quick to come up with a plan of action to rule out any factors causing infertility and then once we ruled out, he quickly devised a plan of action for trying to achieve pregnancy. I appreciated that he never rushed us.
They [PREG] made the financial and medical very clear. We met with a counselor when we needed financial information. The nurses were organized and helped us get through beach appt. the IUI was as smooth as it could go. Another doctor did our ultrasounds and he had great bedside manner, which eased our nervousness.... Loved them. Very conscious that infertility is hard. Very knowledgeable and good at their jobs!
Age
30 - 31
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
—
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 2 Docs
Treatment
1 IUI
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was straight forward with his method of testing and treatment. We felt confident in his ability and knowledge. He was quick to come up with a plan of action to rule out any factors causing infertility and then once we ruled out, he quickly devised a plan of action for trying to achieve pregnancy. I appreciated that he never rushed us.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He’s not warm and fuzzy, but he’s very smart and good at what he does. he is kind and appears to enjoy his work for his patients.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was very clear and straight forward but at the same time very nice. I could tell he’s really busy, but he was not demeaning or rude unlike other doctors we had interviewed at another clinics. We were very pleased!!
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Blood tests, laparoscopy, HSG, and then IUI with use of letrazole and a hormone trigger shot.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Loved them. Very conscious that infertility is hard. Very knowledgeable and good at their jobs!
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I have nothing negative to say... it was a positive experience for us. They made the financial and medical very clear. We met with a counselor when we needed financial information. The nurses were organized and helped us get through beach appt. the IUI was as smooth as it could go. Another doctor did our ultrasounds and he had great bedside manner, which eased our nervousness.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Blood tests, drugs, the IUI, and the ultrasounds
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10
10
Age
24 - 25
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
He [Dr. Nichols] is a Compassionate, caring, and understanding doctor. He always gave us all our options and what he thought would be best for our situation. He had a great bedside manner. He took the time to explain things when we had questions or didn’t understand something. He was encouraging during the process of our treatmen.... Suggested to attempt iui, after the second failed attempted he suggested ivf but gave the option to try iui one more time.
Great clinic. Small but easy to find. When calling the clinic always easy to speak with someone. Always clean. Did a great job at providing privacy. At each appointment theWaiting time was appropriate.... The nurses at Preg were great communicators. They were caring and compassionate. Always did a great job explaining medications and procedures. Performed their task in a timely manner.... Each iui was 400 dollars, not counting the medications, between medications and the ivf treatment it was about 20,000 to 25,000 dollars.
Age
24 - 25
Treated
2016 - 2017
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1st of 3 Docs
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF
Diagnosis
Unexplained
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is a Compassionate, caring, and understanding doctor. He always gave us all our options and what he thought would be best for our situation. He had a great bedside manner. He took the time to explain things when we had questions or didn’t understand something. He was encouraging during the process of our treatmen.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
A great fertility doctor, very educated in fertility treatments
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
The doctors at Preg always went out of their way to listen to you, give advice, provide excellent care, and take the time for each of their patients. It always felt like a family when being cared for at Preg
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Suggested to attempt iui, after the second failed attempted he suggested ivf but gave the option to try iui one more time.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Kelsey)
The nurses at Preg were great communicators. They were caring and compassionate. Always did a great job explaining medications and procedures. Performed their task in a timely manner.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Great clinic. Small but easy to find. When calling the clinic always easy to speak with someone. Always clean. Did a great job at providing privacy. At each appointment theWaiting time was appropriate.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
While doing fertility treatment insurance did not cover the treatments. Each iui was 400 dollars, not counting the medications, between medications and the ivf treatment it was about 20,000 to 25,000 dollars. We spent the extra money to get the embryos tested and we are glad we did considering we only had one perfect little miracle out of 4 good embryos.
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10
10
Age
26
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
No
Treatment
3 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
Dr. Nichols is brilliant at what he does. He is on the "blunt" side of explanations, but he is thorough and makes sure there is complete understanding. He is a busy man, but he does take time to get to know you specifically in order to best treat you.... For all three cycles we used Femara 7.5mg along with Gonal-F injections and HCG trigger shots. I unfortunately did not ovulate on any of the cycles, even when we upped dosages on the injections.
The nursing staff [at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group] are wonderful! They are so compassionate and patient. They are also very knowledgeable and can explain rationale over again if need be.... The clinic in Asheville is smaller, but nice! They are unable to do some procedures at this clinic and therefore offer those procedures in either the hospital near by (which is way more expensive) or in their Greenville/Spartanburg office which is a little drive away. Also, Dr. Nichols travels between the offices and is currently only at the Asheville clinic on Wednesdays.
Age
26
Treated
2016
Success with this Doc
No
Race
European
Income
$50K - $99K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 Fertility Medications
Diagnosis
PCOS
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols is brilliant at what he does. He is on the "blunt" side of explanations, but he is thorough and makes sure there is complete understanding. He is a busy man, but he does take time to get to know you specifically in order to best treat you.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Know yourself! Have a full history ready when you go for your first appointment. And also to be ready for some hard truths at times, but know that they are necessary!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was very personal and professional at the same time. He never made me feel like my specific issues didn't matter or were "just a number".
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
For all three cycles we used Femara 7.5mg along with Gonal-F injections and HCG trigger shots. I unfortunately did not ovulate on any of the cycles, even when we upped dosages on the injections.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
The nursing staff are wonderful! They are so compassionate and patient. They are also very knowledgeable and can explain rationale over again if need be.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic in Asheville is smaller, but nice! They are unable to do some procedures at this clinic and therefore offer those procedures in either the hospital near by (which is way more expensive) or in their Greenville/Spartanburg office which is a little drive away. Also, Dr. Nichols travels between the offices and is currently only at the Asheville clinic on Wednesdays.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Unfortunately my insurance did not cover any costs at PREG, however my husbands insurance covered some of the appointments/treatments/ultrasounds. Otherwise, we would have paid $400+ a visit.
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10
6
Age
28 - 30
Treated
2012 - 2014
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS, Uterine Fibroids
10
6
When my transfer was unable to happen due to hyper stimulation- I produced 40 follicles- Dr. Nichols was very kind and compassionate. He was very sympathetic and I felt as though he was disappointed with me.... Dr. Nicholas was the main reason I stayed at PREG. I felt as though he was extremely knowledgeable and compassionate. He presented all the information to be with clear and kind language. He also fought for us when insurance denied our claim for embryo transfer.
I had a successful pregnancy so I can say that is a strength. However, several nurses [at PREG] were not very friendly. The financial department over charged me for my embryo transfer, even after insurance had paid them. If I had not sat down and gone through every charge line by line, they never would have found the error. My cost went from $6,000 down to $1,000 because of this error. It was very frustrating and disappointing. I felt as though they would have taken my money and not thought anything of it.
Age
28 - 30
Treated
2012 - 2014
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
European
Income
$0 - $49K
Occupation
Teacher
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
3 IUI, 1 IVF, Donor Sperm
Diagnosis
PCOS, Uterine Fibroids
10
6
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nicholas was the main reason I stayed at PREG. I felt as though he was extremely knowledgeable and compassionate. He presented all the information to be with clear and kind language. He also fought for us when insurance denied our claim for embryo transfer.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Nichols will be there for you every step of the way.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
When my transfer was unable to happen due to hyper stimulation- I produced 40 follicles- Dr. Nichols was very kind and compassionate. He was very sympathetic and I felt as though he was disappointed with me.
Describe the protocols John Nichols used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
After 3 failed IUI cycles, we decided to try IVF. We used a regular dose of fertility medications since it was my
first time. Unfortunately I hyper stimulated and produced too many follicles.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff.
Some nurses were wonderful, but others I felt very rushed, as if I was not important.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I had a successful pregnancy so I can say that is a strength. However, several nurses were not very friendly. The financial department over charged me for my embryo transfer, even after insurance had paid them. If I had not sat down and gone through every charge line by line, they never would have found the error. My cost went from $6,000 down to $1,000 because of this error. It was very frustrating and disappointing. I felt as though they would have taken my money and not thought anything of it.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I paid approximately $10,000 and my insurance DID cover IVF.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
- Lost paperwork
- Scheduled the wrong procedure
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10
10
Age
32 - 38
Treated
2013 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Treatment
2 IUI, 3 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
10
He [Dr. Nichols] was very understanding, honest about my diagnosis and honest about hour chances. Alwasys supportive and considerate of our needs. ... Initially we failed our first IVF and I was devastated. ... Dr. Nicholes adjusted my medications and watched me very closely. ... My second IVF resulted in my son who is now 5, my 3rd IVF resulted in my daughter who is 3 and now we are trying to get our 3rd child.
Love them [PREG]!!!! Especially Heather the embryologist. Happy staff. They always answered the phone promptly and called back promptly. Communicated well via email. Always had options for support ie: financial lady, nursing. Staff was always willing to get me seen as fast as possible. Even the on call staff was helpful. They were always smiling even when they had to work the weekends!
Age
32 - 38
Treated
2013 - 2019
Success with this Doc
Yes
Race
Other
Income
$100K - $199K
Occupation
Nurse or HC Services
Order & Number of Docs Seen
1 Doc Seen
Treatment
2 IUI, 3 IVF
Diagnosis
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
10
10
How was your experience with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was very understanding, honest about my diagnosis and honest about hour chances.
Alwasys supportive and considerate of our needs.
He always gave us a lot of options.
Initially we failed our first IVF and I was devastated. My husband was very adiment that we used our own DNA.
Dr. Nicholes adjusted my medications and watched me very closely. He offered support.
My second IVF resulted in my son who is now 5, my 3rd IVF resulted in my daughter who is 3 and now we are trying to get our 3rd child.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is very upfront be prepared!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nichols at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?