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Michael Kettel

San Diego Fertility Center

Rated 7.8
Strongly recommend: 62%Neutral: 15%Don't recommend: 23%7.8
62% strongly recommend
13 reviews
Humanity
9.2
9.2
Humanity

Ratings of 1 mean patients felt this doctor treated them as "a number."

Ratings of 10 mean patients felt this doctor treated them as "a human."

Communication
8.9
8.9
Communication

Ratings of 1 mean poor communication.

Ratings of 10 mean excellent communication.

Frequency Seen
3.8
3.8
Frequency Seen

Ratings of 1 mean patients only saw this doctor once or twice during treatment.

Ratings of 10 mean patients saw this doctor at every appointment.

Responsiveness
7.9
Good
Responsiveness

Scale is "poor, ok, good, excellent" and measures how responsive a care team was when patients needed to speak to them.

Education

Medical School
U. of Arizona
Residency
U. of Utah
Fellowship
UCSD

How Doctor Communicates

doctor, nurse available by email
nurse available by directline
nurse available by directline
not available by personal cell phone
not available by personal cell phone
Michael Kettel works at

San Diego Fertility Center
Rated 8.5
Strongly recommend: 71%Neutral: 14%Don't recommend: 15%8.5

At 3 offices

San Diego - Del Mar Main
11425 El Camino Real
San Diego, CA 92130
(858) 794-6363
San Diego - Mission Valley
590 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 906-4471
Temecula
44274 George Cushman Court
Temecula, CA 92592
(951) 303-0355
Show 1 more
Explore Clinic

13 patient reviews

Most Recent
Strongly Recommend
62%
Neutral
15%
Don't Recommend
23%
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2019 - 2020, Unsuccessful
9
9
Age 30 - 31
3 IUI
Unexplained
Other
Other
Income $50K - $99K
Sales Representative
2nd of 2 Docs
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Unsuccessful
Review of
[Dr. Michael Kettel] took the time to listen and thoroughly gather all information in our medical files before jumping quickly on any assumptions...didn’t push the most expensive treatment on us...showed me proof of my endometrioma on ultrasounds. I’ve had a few ultrasounds prior and that was never mentioned but I always knew something was wrong. Other doctors just shrugged it off...very explanatory in any answer he gave and made sure we understood.
[San Diego Fertility Center] provides a high level of privacy, they thoroughly walk you through all processes...also offer seminars to better educate patients. Everything from lab work, consultations, and procedures is all conveniently located in one building...No financing options available...nurse practitioners felt very confident in performing IUI procedures...[phlebotomist] was not as confident and a hard time drawing blood but she was very sweet and apologetic.
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
I felt like he took the time to listen and thoroughly gather all information in our medical files before jumping quickly on any assumptions. He didn’t push the most expensive treatment on us. Instead, he gave us a few different routes to take and let us know if we would be good candidates or not. I felt he was honest. He showed me proof of my endometrioma on ultrasounds. I’ve had a few ultrasounds prior and that was never mentioned but I always knew something was wrong. Other doctors just shrugged it off. He was very explanatory in any answer he gave and made sure we understood.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
I felt like he genuinely cared and wanted to assist my husband and I in starting our family. He mentioned things that prior doctors never mentioned that made perfect sense. I felt comfortable on the first visit.
Describe the protocols Michael Kettel used in your cycles at San Diego Fertility Center and their degree of success.
IUI Cycle 1: letrozole CD 3-7 & Ovidrel (trigger shot). Produced 3 follicles + 14 million sperm count after wash. Pregnancy test= negative IUI Cycle 2: letrozole CD 3-7 & Ovidrel (trigger shot). Produced 3 follicles + 7 million sperm count after wash. Pregnancy test= negative IUI Cycle 3: letrozole CD 3-7 & Ovidrel (trigger shot). Produced 3 follicles + 10 million sperm count after wash. Pregnancy test= negative
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at San Diego Fertility Center.
The nursing staff was great. I felt like the nurse practitioners felt very confident in performing IUI procedures. In turn, that made me feel more at ease. I could tell that when the buses called with my test results they felt bad. They always made me feel like they were on my team and rooting for us. One of the phlebotomist on staff was not as confident and a hard time drawing blood but she was very sweet and apologetic.
Describe your experience with San Diego Fertility Center.
Strengths: SDFC provides a high level of privacy, they thoroughly walk you through all processes, and have highly educated doctors on staff. They also offer seminars to better educate patients. Everything from lab work, consultations, and procedures is all conveniently located in one building. Weaknesses: No financing options available. You have to call in and make all of your own appointments.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
Each IUI cycle was approximately $700 w/ active duty military discount. Medication was an additional $97.
9
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
9
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
San Diego - Del Mar Main
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2019, Successful
10
10
Age 34
2 IUI
Donor Sperm
European
Income $50K - $99K
2nd of 2 Docs
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Successful
Review of
Dr. Kettle was very professional and explained the entire process clearly and honestly. He was also very upfront about how IUI procedure goes and was very honest about success rates...For my first cycle we tried it without any hormones and were unfortunately not successful. For the second round [he] reassessed and I was put on Clomid and estrogen. After taking those my follicles got to the correct size and we were able to do our second round of IUI and we’re successful
They [San Diego Fertility Center staff] communicate everything they are doing and seeing really well. They are the ones you will see the most and truly treat you as if you’re the only patient they see. They always took time to answer my questions and I never felt rushed...The actual procedure we did cost a little over $700 and then you pay $250 for 5 ultrasounds that you will need to track your ovulation and follicle size. If you are using a sperm donor or need to keep sperm at their location they keep it in their lab for free for up to a year. We did two cycles of IUI so in total we spent around 2,000 plus the cost of my medication.
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Dr. Kettle was very professional and explained the entire process clearly and honestly. He was also very upfront about how IUI procedure goes and was very honest about success rates. We felt going in to this process well informed and very hopeful!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
If you’re just starting this process remember that everyone’s journey to parenthood is different. Don’t compare other people’s results or experiences to your own. It will drive you crazy! And know that the doctors and nurses at San Diego fertility center will do everything they can to help you get to where you want to be. What I liked about Dr. Kettle is he doesn’t like to give you a lot of hormones if you don’t need them. But every cycle they reassess and put a different plan in place as you go.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
From the day we sat down with Dr. Kettle for our consultation and we explained how long we had been trying to conceive and where we were at in our fertility journey, Dr. Kettle got us started right away. It was apparent that he sympathized with our personal experience with infertility and didn’t want us to have to wait to become a family any longer. We felt like he really listened to us and thoroughly explained the process. It was really refreshing.
Describe the protocols Michael Kettel used in your cycles at San Diego Fertility Center and their degree of success.
For my first cycle we tried it without any hormones and were unfortunately not successful. For the second round Dr. Kettle reassessed and I was put on Clomid and estrogen. After taking those my follicles got to the correct size and we were able to do our second round of IUI and we’re successful! We are now expecting our first baby in about 5 weeks.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at San Diego Fertility Center.
The nursing staff is absolutely fantastic. They communicate everything they are doing and seeing really well. They are the ones you will see the most and truly treat you as if you’re the only patient they see. They always took time to answer my questions and I never felt rushed.
Describe your experience with San Diego Fertility Center.
The clinic is really lovely, clean, and well organized. They always remembered my name when we came in and I really appreciated that. I haven’t listed any weaknesses here because in the course of our 3 year journey trying to find a doctor that fit for us, by the time we found SD Fertility Center they got us through this process so quickly and didn’t waste any time. They were exactly what we were looking for. We couldn’t be happier.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
We did IUI with some medication assistance. The actual procedure we did cost a little over $700 and then you pay $250 for 5 ultrasounds that you will need to track your ovulation and follicle size. If you are using a sperm donor or need to keep sperm at their location they keep it in their lab for free for up to a year. We did two cycles of IUI so in total we spent around 2,000 plus the cost of my medication.
Describe Michael Kettel's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at San Diego Fertility Center.
I did not do embryo transfer nor did we discuss it so I have no opinion.
10
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
10
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
San Diego - Del Mar Main
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2018 - 2019, Unsuccessful
8
8
Age 33 - 34
2 IUI
2 IVF
Male Factor
Poor Egg Quality
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
European
Income $100K - $199K
Consultant
Only Doc Seen
Neutral
Neutral
Unsuccessful
Review of
Dr Kettle is great. We were an unexpected challenging case and I don’t think he was prepared for our results. Therefore we did not see our poor response to treatment as an option. He got more honest and realistic with us as we progressed. ... he just increased my dose to double. We are starting a third round using a micro flare protocol that involves lupron twice a day as well as gonal and menopur.
The Del Mar clinic is large and busy and can be very chaotic. I prefer to go to the Mission Valley clinic. It’s more intimate and I feel like a human not like a number. The nurses I see provide such exceptional care. ... I see Megan and Danielle. Both are amazing and caring. They have helped me through the worst days of my life. I’m so grateful for their care.
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Dr Kettle is great. We were an unexpected challenging case and I don’t think he was prepared for our results. Therefore we did not see our poor response to treatment as an option. He got more honest and realistic with us as we progressed.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Know that you will develop a better relationship with nurses since they do the primary day to day care.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
I didn’t see Dr Kettle at all my appts but I would see the nurses in the Mission Valley office and they are so lovely, kind and caring.
Describe the protocols Michael Kettel used in your cycles at San Diego Fertility Center and their degree of success.
For our 2 IUIs we did clomid. For our first 2 Egg retrieval’s we did an antagonist protocol with menopur and gonal and cetritide. Round 2 he just increased my dose to double. We are starting a third round using a micro flare protocol that involves lupron twice a day as well as gonal and menopur.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at San Diego Fertility Center.
I see Megan and Danielle. Both are amazing and caring. They have helped me through the worst days of my life. I’m so grateful for their care.
Describe your experience with San Diego Fertility Center.
The Del Mar clinic is large and busy and can be very chaotic. I prefer to go to the Mission Valley clinic. It’s more intimate and I feel like a human not like a number. The nurses I see provide such exceptional care. Because I see them so often I sometimes forget about Dr Kettle. I know he’s working behind the scenes but sometimes it’s odd to go long times without checking in. On the other hand I feel so comfortable with the nurses it makes it tolerable. If seeing a doctor at every appt is important to you, this clinic wouldn’t be right for you.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
Each egg retrieval was around $13,000 not including medications. We have done 2 and are starting a 3rd
Describe Michael Kettel's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at San Diego Fertility Center.
We have one PGS tested normal so it isn’t really an option but if we get a second he would allow 2.
8
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
8
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
San Diego - Del Mar Main
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2018, Successful
1
7
Age 37
2 IVF
Donor Eggs
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Poor Egg Quality
Tubal Blockage
European
Income $100K - $199K
Teacher
4th of 4 Docs
Doesn't Recommend
Neutral
Successful
Review of
I honestly can’t say anything about him. ... He is not very present and seems to rely on his nursing staff to do most, of not all, of his communications. ... I can’t even tell you what he looked like, aside from seeing his picture on the website. We loved out of town and traveled for treatment, but even when I went for my transfer, he did not perform my transfer. ... I never met Dr. Kettle. I spoke with him one time on the phone during the year we were patients there. When speaking with his nurse, I felt like I had to consistently remind her of who I was and what I was doing there.
I felt like I was tossed around and no one [San Diego Fertility Center] had clear answers to certain questions I had about the donor egg process. ... I just felt like I was kept out of the loop on a lot of things regarding my cycle. ... The staff, especially the donor coordinator, were amazing. The donor coordinator is the reason we initially became patients at the clinic and she continued to be excellent to work with throughout our time there. We had a pretty big issue come up regarding our donor, and she personally called us and worked with us to make sure we were okay with the outcome of future cycles.
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
I honestly can’t say anything about him. I can’t even tell you what he looked like, aside from seeing his picture on the website. We loved out of town and traveled for treatment, but even when I went for my transfer, he did not perform my transfer. Another doctor, who was perfectly lovely, did the procedure.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Be prepared to stay on top of your own case. He is not very present and seems to rely on his nursing staff to do most, of not all, of his communications.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
I never met Dr. Kettle. I spoke with him one time on the phone during the year we were patients there. When speaking with his nurse, I felt like I had to consistently remind her of who I was and what I was doing there. I had to ask the same question multiple times before getting an answer.
Describe the protocols Michael Kettel used in your cycles at San Diego Fertility Center and their degree of success.
I used donor eggs, so this question doesn’t really apply to me. I was not given information on how they adjusted and chose the protocol given to my donor.
Describe your experience with your nurse at San Diego Fertility Center. (Assigned nurse: Hillary)
She honestly did not seem very smart. However, I met and dealt with other nurses at the clinic who were fantastic. I think I just got placed with someone who was extremely frustrating to deal with.
Describe your experience with San Diego Fertility Center.
The staff, especially the donor coordinator, were amazing. The donor coordinator is the reason we initially became patients at the clinic and she continued to be excellent to work with throughout our time there. We had a pretty big issue come up regarding our donor, and she personally called us and worked with us to make sure we were okay with the outcome of future cycles.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
The total cost was approximately $40,000 for one donor egg cycle. That included a $8,000 compensation fee for the donor. The rest was for her medications and egg retrieval, as well as my medications and transfer.
Describe Michael Kettel's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at San Diego Fertility Center.
He left the decision up to us, but it wasn’t ever really a discussion because we were using donor eggs and knew we did not want to risk the possibility of twins.
What specific things went wrong at San Diego Fertility Center?
  • Failed to call with results
  • Provided conflicting information
  • Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at San Diego Fertility Center.
I had to say on top of our nurse to give me information that I needed. I felt like I was tossed around and no one had clear answers to certain questions I had about the donor egg process. I just felt like I was kept out of the loop on a lot of things regarding my cycle. It may have been because we were using a donor and they wanted to ensure the donor’s privacy, but I felt like I was the one paying the money and they weren’t real concerned with my happiness.
1
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
7
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
San Diego - Del Mar Main
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2015, Successful
10
10
Age 34
7 IUI
2 IVF
Donor Eggs
Poor Egg Quality
Unexplained
Prefer not to answer
Income $0 - $49K
Operations
5th of 5 Docs
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Successful
Review of
He [Dr. Kettel] was immediately warm and friendly and unimposed by our questions and fears! It felt like we were his only patient!On a day where we were full of anxiety and excitement at the same time, the day of our transfer, he was unbelievably kind and warm! For example, he knew that we had never gotten as far as an embryo transfer due to my egg quality, and immediately following the transfer of the embryo, he looked in my eyes and very sincerely said congratulations! I cried of course! He made it very personal like he understood!...
Frankie, is the name of the person who answers the phone sometimes [at SD Fert Center - Carmel V]... She is so sweet! Whenever I told her who was whether she remembered or not she acted like she remembered who I was and was so kind and made me laugh! I never felt rushed with any of their staff! My husband and I were blown away on our first visit that they scheduled us to meet with the manager of each department that would be handling our treatment. We had never met with an embryologist before!...
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
On a day where we were full of anxiety and excitement at the same time, the day of our transfer, he was unbelievably kind and warm! For example, he knew that we had never gotten as far as an embryo transfer due to my egg quality, and immediately following the transfer of the embryo, he looked in my eyes and very sincerely said congratulations! I cried of course! He made it very personal like he understood!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Go in with high expectations because they will be met!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
This doctor was Honestly unlike any doctor we have ever Matt especially in the infertility world! He was immediately warm and friendly and unimposed by our questions and fears! It felt like we were his only patient!
Describe your experience with your nurse at San Diego Fertility Center. (Assigned nurse: Danielle Miller)
You could tell that the kindness and warmth really trickle down from the doctors to the staff! But as most people know the person you have contact with on a regular basis is your nurse. She was amazing! For example in her communication with me she often took time to acknowledge my fears and reassure me! This is definitely not been the case with most of my clinics that we're mostly sterile and their communication as if I was a checklist. Then when we finally got the results of a positive pregnancy through blood work results, she encouraged me to take a pregnancy test. I asked her why since I knew the blood test was superior. She said because I deserved to see a positive sign! Wow! I'll never forget that! She was so sweet! I took a picture of the positive test an emailed it to her thanking her for encouraging me to do that!
Describe your experience with San Diego Fertility Center.
Frankie, is the name of the person who answers the phone sometimes. She is so sweet! Whenever I told her who was whether she remembered or not she acted like she remembered who I was and was so kind and made me laugh! I never felt rushed with any of their staff! My husband and I were blown away on our first visit that they scheduled us to meet with the manager of each department that would be handling our treatment. We had never met with an embryologist before! She answered all her questions like how do you store the leftover embryos. Before she left the room she sincerely said that she was going to take really good care of us and our embryos! I believed her! And they did!
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
They were very discreet and professional
10
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
10
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
San Diego - Del Mar Main
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2019, Unsuccessful
5
5
Age 20
2 IUI
Male Factor
European
Income $0 - $49K
Teacher
Only Doc Seen
Doesn't Recommend
Doesn't Recommend
Unsuccessful
Review of
He [Dr. Michael Kettel] was a kind doctor and was very gentle with everything however we didnt realize our risks for iui were so low due to male infertility and were told our own only option would be ivf. He said we could continue iui and hope for a miracle but our best bet was IVF. It was hard to do both iuis and then be told based on his sperm we only ever even had a very low chance with doing iui.
Beautiful clinic [at San Diego Fertility Center], very spacious, lots of rooms. They're not very good with scheduling and have only certain times they can fit you in and arent really willing to work with you. For those that work best of luck fitting this in your schedule...We had a different nurse each time and it just felt quite awkward when we couldnt just have the same nurse. It's hard repeating everything over again with a stranger.
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
He was a kind doctor and was very gentle with everything however we didnt realize our risks for iui were so low due to male infertility and were told our own only option would be ivf. He said we could continue iui and hope for a miracle but our best bet was IVF. It was hard to do both iuis and then be told based on his sperm we only ever even had a very low chance with doing iui.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Just be prepared to ask a lot of questions and make sure you are choosing what will actually work. We kind of feel like we wasted money trying iui twice.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
He was gentle with his words and very cautious with the way he presented the different treatments.
Describe the protocols Michael Kettel used in your cycles at San Diego Fertility Center and their degree of success.
Both negative pregnancy tests. We used iui with clomid for the female along with an injection shot to trigger ovulation. We did this procedure twice. However he said the clomid we inquired about for my husband wasnt something they could do. They could only prescribe me medication.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at San Diego Fertility Center.
We had a different nurse each time and it just felt quite awkward when we couldnt just have the same nurse. It's hard repeating everything over again with a stranger.
Describe your experience with San Diego Fertility Center.
Beautiful clinic, very spacious, lots of rooms. They're not very good with scheduling and have only certain times they can fit you in and arent really willing to work with you. For those that work best of luck fitting this in your schedule.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
IUI out of pocket costs with medication ran about $800
5
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
5
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
San Diego - Mission Valley
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2018, Unknown Success
8
10
Age 33
3 IUI
2 IVF
Anovulation
Ashkenazi Jewish
Income $200K - $499K
1st of 2 Docs
Neutral
Strongly Recommends
Success w/ Doc Too early to know
Review of
Dr Kettel took the time to review my case and clearly considered my specific situation when giving his recommendations.... He gave me a thorough exam and consultation for our subsequent FET cycle, and was very amenable to working with my old clinic where my remaining embryos are located. I have only been there twice (once to see Dr Kettel and once for an SHG, which a tech did), but the clinic is really on the ball and great with communication.
Everyone at SDFC has been great!... The clinic is clean and beautiful, the staff are friendly, and their communication is great. They have gotten me into appointments really quickly and respond to emails and phone calls right away. I have not had any issues with anyone at this clinic so far.... [Cost Of Treatment] I have only had two appointments - the appointment with Dr Kettel was a $50 copay, and my SHG was around $300.
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
I came to SDFC as a new patient after having my first IVF baby at another clinic across the country and then moving to San Diego. My former RE recommended Dr Kettel, and I have been pleased with him and SDFC so far. He gave me a thorough exam and consultation for our subsequent FET cycle, and was very amenable to working with my old clinic where my remaining embryos are located. I have only been there twice (once to see Dr Kettel and once for an SHG, which a tech did), but the clinic is really on the ball and great with communication.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Have a list of questions ready to ask him.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Dr Kettel took the time to review my case and clearly considered my specific situation when giving his recommendations.
Describe the protocols Michael Kettel used in your cycles at San Diego Fertility Center and their degree of success.
We have not done a cycle yet, but he agreed to do whatever my former clinic wants, which is estrogen patches and crinone gel for a FET cycle.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at San Diego Fertility Center.
Everyone at SDFC has been great!
Describe your experience with San Diego Fertility Center.
The clinic is clean and beautiful, the staff are friendly, and their communication is great. They have gotten me into appointments really quickly and respond to emails and phone calls right away. I have not had any issues with anyone at this clinic so far.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
I have only had two appointments - the appointment with Dr Kettel was a $50 copay, and my SHG was around $300.
Describe Michael Kettel's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at San Diego Fertility Center.
We would only ever do eSET with our PGS tested embryos, so I did not have this discussion with Dr Kettel.
8
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
10
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
San Diego - Del Mar Main
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
2006 - 2011, Successful
10
10
Age 37 - 42
IUI
2 IVF
Donor Sperm
European
Sales Representative
Only Doc Seen
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Successful
Review of
Doctor cared about me and my future children. Goal was to get pregnant and as as patient, I was willing to do whatever it took to get there. Doctor was very transparent...Dr. Kettel started with not as intensive treatments but adjusted protocol as needed based on results and age...Tammy was my saving grace. She brought the reality into the picture and was very compassionate and caring.
I was always provided a quote for expected treatment. They [staff at San Diego Fertility Center] contacted insurance company as needed. Offered several options for payment. At times, did not keep track of billing and notify in a timely manner what was owed...Very pleasant, organized with appointments, accessible when needed, very caring and treated patients with great confidentiality. I felt the staff genuinely cared about me and my future children and were great cheerleaders. I felt like they were family.
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Doctor is pioneer, experienced with excellent results. Doctor has a great team of staff to assist every step of the way, who are excellent caregivers. SD Fertility Center is the only place I would go, they know me and the best care to achieve results.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Dr. Michael Kettel has great outcomes.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Doctor cared about me and my future children. Goal was to get pregnant and as as patient, I was willing to do whatever it took to get there. Doctor was very transparent.
Describe the protocols Michael Kettel used in your cycles at San Diego Fertility Center and their degree of success.
Dr. Kettel started with not as intensive treatments but adjusted protocol as needed based on results and age.
Describe your experience with your nurse at San Diego Fertility Center. (Assigned nurse: Tammy)
Tammy was my saving grace. She brought the reality into the picture and was very compassionate and caring.
Describe your experience with San Diego Fertility Center.
Very pleasant, organized with appointments, accessible when needed, very caring and treated patients with great confidentiality. I felt the staff genuinely cared about me and my future children and were great cheerleaders. I felt like they were family.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
I was always provided a quote for expected treatment. They contacted insurance company as needed. Offered several options for payment. At times, did not keep track of billing and notify in a timely manner what was owed.
Describe Michael Kettel's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at San Diego Fertility Center.
Dr. Kettel discussed strategies when it came time to decide on multiple embryos. Very open and honest.
10
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
10
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
San Diego - Del Mar Main
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
2016 - 2017, Successful
10
10
Age 37 - 38
3 IUI
5 IVF
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Poor Egg Quality
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
European
Income $100K - $199K
Nurse or HC Services
2nd of 2 Docs
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Successful
Review of
We were always treated with respect and never given false hope. Dr. Kettel always took the time to explain things to us, even multiple times if needed. He was very realistic about our chances and let us know what our options were at all times.... Dr. Kettel used a fairly aggressive dose of medication due to my age. He opted in most cycles to freeze all then transfer.... In the beginning we only transferred two, as Dr. Kettel was conservative. Last few cycles we transferred 3 or 4 each time.
Clinic staff [San Diego Fertility] was wonderful amd they always had flexible appointments available. The PA Kristin was amazing and so down to earth. Del Mar Surgert Center was also very good. Overall I felt this was a great place to receive treatment even before i was able to get pregnant.... [Nurse] Annette was wonderful .... We were always treated with respect and never given false hope. Dr. Kettel always took the time to explain things to us,
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
We were always treated with respect and never given false hope. Dr. Kettel always took the time to explain things to us, even multiple times if needed. He was very realistic about our chances and let us know what our options were at all times.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
I would tell anyone going through fertility treatments that it may take more than one cycle to produce a baby.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Dr. Kettel always took the time to answer our questions and explained things thoroughly.
Describe the protocols Michael Kettel used in your cycles at San Diego Fertility Center and their degree of success.
Dr. Kettel used a fairly aggressive dose of medication due to my age. He opted in most cycles to freeze all then transfer. I also required anesthesia for all transfers.
Describe your experience with your nurse at San Diego Fertility Center. (Assigned nurse: Annette)
Annette was wonderful .
Describe your experience with San Diego Fertility Center.
Clinic staff was wonderful amd they always had flexible appointments available. The PA Kristin was amazing and so down to earth. Del Mar Surgert Center was also very good. Overall I felt this was a great place to receive treatment even before i was able to get pregnant.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
I had some insurance coverage but had to pay out of pocket too
Describe Michael Kettel's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at San Diego Fertility Center.
In the beginning we only transferred two, as Dr. Kettel was conservative. Last few cycles we transferred 3 or 4 each time.
10
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
10
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
San Diego - Del Mar Main
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
2018, Successful
10
10
Age 38
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Tubal Blockage
Ashkenazi Jewish
Latinx
Income $100K - $199K
Business Executive
Only Doc Seen
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Successful
Review of
Dr Kettle is very detailed oriented and professional. I would recommend him to anyone. He explains all issues to you so it may be easy to understand. He makes sure to address all questions and concerns. He has amazing follow up. He is an excellent listener.... Dr. Kettle was interested in my background and gave me a thorough explanation of my diagnosis. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Annette was the most amamzing nurse. She has the best follow up and will always try to find the answer. I love her!... Great follow up and follow through. They [SD Fertility Ctr] have the best nurses and staff. The seminars are so informative. The facility if very high tech, clean, and modern.... Dr. Kettle was interested in my background and gave me a thorough explanation of my diagnosis. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Dr Kettle is very detailed oriented and professional. I would recommend him to anyone. He explains all issues to you so it may be easy to understand. He makes sure to address all questions and concerns. He has amazing follow up. He is an excellent listener.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Dr Kettle is a professional and truly cares for his patients
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Dr. Kettle was interested in my background and gave me a thorough explanation of my diagnosis. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Describe your experience with your nurse at San Diego Fertility Center. (Assigned nurse: Annette )
Annette was the most amamzing nurse. She has the best follow up and will always try to find the answer. I love her!
Describe your experience with San Diego Fertility Center.
This is by far the best clinic in San Diego. Great follow up and follow through. They have the best nurses and staff. The seminars are so informative. The facility if very high tech, clean, and modern.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
Costs of pgs labs retrieval and transfer. Plus meds.
10
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
10
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
San Diego - Del Mar Main
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2009 - 2014, Successful
10
10
Age 38 - 43
2 IUI
1 IVF
Donor Eggs
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Male Factor
Unexplained
Other
Income $200K - $499K
Business Executive
Only Doc Seen
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Successful
Review of
Doctor would call and do my consults by phone since I had over a 2 hour drive to his office
It's normal once treatment starts that you no longer see the dr at each visit.... Which is fine because the staff are awesome and knowledgeable
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
He had great bedside manner. Seemed to genuinely care about helping us become parents.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
It's normal once treatment starts that you no longer see the dr at each visit.... Which is fine because the staff are awesome and knowledgeable
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
They always greeted me by my name when I walked in and we're all friendly. Doctor would call and do my consults by phone since I hD over a 2 hour drive to his office
Describe the protocols Michael Kettel used in your cycles at San Diego Fertility Center and their degree of success.
Aggressive protocol due to being age 42. Used Bravelle and Menopure twice a day
Describe your experience with your nurse at San Diego Fertility Center. (Assigned nurse: Annette)
She was efficient and had a great personality
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
We did a program they had where I could do two cycles using my own eggs then transfer to a guaranteed donor egg cycle. It seems like it ended up being approximately 50k
10
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
10
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
Temecula
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
2014 - 2015, Successful
10
10
Age 43 - 44
IVF
Donor Eggs
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Poor Egg Quality
Unexplained
Other
Income $100K - $199K
Nurse or HC Services
1st of 3 Docs
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Successful
Review of
I could not be happier with my care by Dr. Kettel. He is warm, compassionate, and honest. He has a great bedside manner and is extremely intelligent. I trust him 100% and highly recommend him!
I was always treated like one of the family! My care could not have been better at SDFC!
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
I could not be happier with my care by Dr. Kettel. He is warm, compassionate, and honest. He has a great bedside manner and is extremely intelligent. I trust him 100% and highly recommend him!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
I was always treated like one of the family! My care could not have been better at SDFC!
Describe your experience with your nurse at San Diego Fertility Center. (Assigned nurse: Cindy Christensen)
She was so warm and caring! Gave us a hug when meeting us and was so timely and open in all communication!
10
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
10
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
San Diego - Del Mar Main
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2019, Unsuccessful
2
5
Age 41
3 IVF
3 Embryo Freezing
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
South Asian
Income $200K - $499K
Engineer
1st of 2 Docs
Doesn't Recommend
Doesn't Recommend
Unsuccessful
Review of
Doctor [Dr. Michael Kettel] was not willing to adjust my protocol based on poor results. He had a one-size fits all approach, which does not work. He dismissed my concerns about aspects of the protocol, and referred to my aging eggs as the only cause. I am seeking IVF because of my age, and IVF is an inexact science. I expected him to be open to trying different approaches after getting poor results. He does not care if you succeed or fail - there is no empathy.
Strengths [at San Diego Fertility Center]: Excellent facility, feel like you wandered into a posh building. Does not feel like a medical center. Clinic was super organized with their billing, communication and treatment plans Weakness: Very expensive. One time bulk payment, does not charge anything to insurance. I was paying completely OOP, but other clinics charged a lot of my ongoing monitoring to my insurance...Clinic was very welcoming, always felt like a person.
How was your experience with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Doctor was not willing to adjust my protocol based on poor results. He had a one-size fits all approach, which does not work. He dismissed my concerns about aspects of the protocol, and referred to my aging eggs as the only cause. I am seeking IVF because of my age, and IVF is an inexact science. I expected him to be open to trying different approaches after getting poor results. He does not care if you succeed or fail - there is no empathy.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Do not expect any empathy or openness to trying different things.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center?
Clinic was very welcoming, always felt like a person.
Describe the protocols Michael Kettel used in your cycles at San Diego Fertility Center and their degree of success.
Antagonist and Lupron MicroFlare with BCP suppression.
Describe your experience with your nurse at San Diego Fertility Center. (Assigned nurse: Claudia)
Claudia and the rest of the nursing staff were organized, communicative and empathetic.
Describe your experience with San Diego Fertility Center.
Strengths: Excellent facility, feel like you wandered into a posh building. Does not feel like a medical center. Clinic was super organized with their billing, communication and treatment plans Weakness: Very expensive. One time bulk payment, does not charge anything to insurance. I was paying completely OOP, but other clinics charged a lot of my ongoing monitoring to my insurance.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Kettel at San Diego Fertility Center.
35,000 for 2 cycles
Describe Michael Kettel's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at San Diego Fertility Center.
eSET only
2
Doctor
Michael Kettel
Humanity
Communication
Frequency Seen
Trustworthiness
Compassion
Explained risks
Adaptability
5
Clinic
San Diego Fertility Center
Temecula
Operations
Scheduling
Billing Department
Nursing Staff
Clinic Atmosphere
Educational Resources
Review of

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