Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) page 1

[Dr. Reeva Makhijani] is a great communicator, values my input in the treatment plan and makes adjustments as needed based on results from the previous cycle...recurrent losses-I had 1 miscarriage and 2 chemical pregnancies...is calm, soft spoken and really listens to your concerns

[Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)] have excellent and quick communication...team really works together and they genuinely want to see you conceive and be successful...From the initial consult, to ultrasounds, bloodwork, MD visits, everyone is so kind.

How was your experience with Reeva Makhijani at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

I am having the best experience under her care. She is a great communicator, values my input in the treatment plan and makes adjustments as needed based on results from the previous cycle. I got discharged from the center after getting pregnant after 4 cycles and unfortunately had to TFMR and am going back to the center. Even though it is an unfortunate situation I know I will be in the best hands and I have no doubt she will help me conceive again.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Reeva Makhijani at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

She’s excellent!

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Reeva Makhijani at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

She has excellent bedside manner. She is calm, soft spoken and really listens to your concerns. She truly makes you a part of your care and values your thoughts and insights as a patient

Describe the protocols Reeva Makhijani used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

I was referred to her because of recurrent losses-I had 1 miscarriage and 2 chemical pregnancies before I was referred. Since I was getting pregnant we started off by doing bloodwork, a semen analysis for my husband, a sonohystogram to ensure I didn’t have any blockages and a genetic screening. All of this came back normal so she started me on clomid with baby aspirin and vaginal progesterone. On the second cycle I had a chemical pregnancy, tested negative on the 3rd and then on the 4th cycle we added in a trigger HCG shot to ensure I would ovulate. I got pregnant this cycle but unfortunately had to TFMR.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Kathy)

Kathy and all of the other nurses are excellent! They are super responsive to calls and questions-I always hear back by the end of the day. They are compassionate, empathetic and are experts in the field of fertility.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

They have excellent and quick communication, the team really works together and they genuinely want to see you conceive and be successful. I truly can’t imagine doing my care anywhere else. From the initial consult, to ultrasounds, bloodwork, MD visits, everyone is so kind.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Reeva Makhijani at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I spent about $4,000 out of pocket for all of the testing, lab work, ultrasounds, etc

Describe Reeva Makhijani's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

N/A

Doctor

Reeva Makhijani

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Branford

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Reeva Makhijani Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2023 - 2024, Consult

Age 36 - 37

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Reeva Makhijani Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Dr Makhijani is extremely quick and thorough when she is performing procedures like the sonohysterogram and the HSG...diagnosed us with unexplained infertility and said in the future we could consider IUI if we don’t get pregnant...very smooth experience and I would definitely go back to her if needed in the future.

[The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] nurse that called me to schedule my appointments and discuss blood work results was extremely kind and caring...followed up on me and asked me how I was doing/feeling...didn’t make me seem like “just another patient”...very good with keeping up on emails too.

How was your experience with Reeva Makhijani at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr Makhijani is extremely quick and thorough when she is performing procedures like the sonohysterogram and the HSG. She knew about my anxiety in doctors offices so she was kind enough to make sure I was prescribed just enough pain and anxiety medication to help me remain comfortable during both procedures. Google made it seem like both procedures were going to be excruciating so I panicked before the procedure and was more emotional than usual because I didn’t know what to expect. Overall, very smooth experience and I would definitely go back to her if needed in the future.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Reeva Makhijani at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

She is very calm and gentle with her patients and makes sure you are as comfortable as possible.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Reeva Makhijani at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Her gentle and calm bedside manner shows me that she treats her patients genuinely and not just as “another patient”

Describe the protocols Reeva Makhijani used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

I have unexplained infertility and have had a history of some heavy menstrual cycles for years. She recommended that I got blood work done and did the Sono to make sure my uterine cavity was healthy. When everything looked good, I told her I would continue working on getting my progesterone and AMH up with my naturopath through some Egg health/hormonal antioxidant supplements. I wasn’t interested in using any medications due to trying to get pregnancy naturally and I get anxious taking medications . A year went by and she said we could do the HSG. My tubes looked clear and by that time my progesterone and AMH rose. So she diagnosed us with unexplained infertility and said in the future we could consider IUI if we don’t get pregnant.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

The nurse held my hand during the procedure which I appreciated.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

The clinic nurse that called me to schedule my appointments and discuss blood work results was extremely kind and caring! She followed up on me and asked me how I was doing/feeling. She didn’t make me seem like “just another patient”. She was very good with keeping up on emails too.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Reeva Makhijani at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I don’t remember

Doctor

Reeva Makhijani

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Branford

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Reeva Makhijani Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2018 - 2020, Unknown Success

Age 32 - 34

3 IUI

1 IVF

Endometriosis

Unexplained

European

Income $50K - $99K

Teacher

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

He [Dr. David Schmidt] always explained each treatment option and step we had. When something wasn't working, we discussed options for our next steps...started us with clomid and IUI for 3 cycles. I had a good egg each time, but we increased the dosage from 50, to 100 after the first cycle to hope for better results the second and third times around...[he]suggested it would be safer to transfer one embryo due to my uterus size.

[nurses of Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] They explained everything and made sure to ask if we had any questions. If I called in the morning, I always had an answer before they left that day...It can get very busy in the mornings for cycle ultrasounds/bloodwork...Cycle monitoring is done each morning and the list starts being written at 6:45 am. Ultrasounds don't actually start until 7:30 am...

How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

From our very first appointment, we felt very comfortable speaking with Dr. Schmit. He always explained each treatment option and step we had. When something wasn't working, we discussed options for our next steps. He is very upbeat and truly wants to help his patients.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Make sure that you have a list of questions. He is very willing to answer them.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

I felt like Dr. Schmit always remembered things that my husband and I spoke with him about. He always seemed genuinely happy to see is.

Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

Dr. Schmit started us with clomid and IUI for 3 cycles. I had a good egg each time, but we increased the dosage from 50, to 100 after the first cycle to hope for better results the second and third times around. Because neither worked, and we were paying out of pocket for everything, he suggested moving onto IVF. I responded well to the IVF meds and didn't need to change the planned protocols. He suggested a fresh transfer after our retrieval, which we did but had negative results with. For our second transfer, he suggested a fresh transfer since I have no lining issues and it would be quicker. For the third transfer, we did a lupron protocol and used estrogen patches. I got pregnant, but had a chemical pregnancy. Before doing our fourth transfer, Dr. Schmidt suggested a hysteroscopy to make sure there was nothing prohibiting implantation in my uterus. It was mostly clear and we went ahead with the same protocol as transfer #3. This one ended with a negative. Now we are waiting for next steps.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Marsha, then Peg)

We worked with two nurses and both were wonderful. They explained everything and made sure to ask if we had any questions. If I called in the morning, I always had an answer before they left that day.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Overall I like CARS. It can get very busy in the mornings for cycle ultrasounds/bloodwork. Unfortunately because of the time I need to be at work, that meant leaving my house at 6:15 am so I could arrive and get on the lists. Then it was a lot of waiting around until they actually open. Weekends have a very long wait since the other locations in the state are not open for ultrasounds/bloodwork. I always felt like everyone was kind and wanting to help.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Cycle monitoring is done each morning and the list starts being written at 6:45 am. Ultrasounds don't actually start until 7:30 am, so it is a very long wait if you walk in the door to try to be first. At 7:30, they tend to move quickly, but it is still very hard to be out of the building before 8 am.

Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I paid out of pocket. The clinic did offer an out of pocket plan that is tiered based on income. With medication and the out of pocket costs for treatments, we have spent about $25,000.

Describe David Schmidt's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Dr. Schmit suggested it would be safer to transfer one embryo due to my uterus size.

What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I needed to call the on call doctor on a weekend day to call in a prescription for clomid. It was a holiday weekend and I need the clomid quickly so I could start on day 3.

Doctor

David Schmidt

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2016 - 2019, Successful

Age 25 - 28

6 IUI

2 IVF

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Successful

Review of

Andrea DiLuigi Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Definitely be your own advocate [with Dr. DiLuigi]...Without doing my own research for hours on end as far as discovering what things to add to my protocol and so on, I don’t think I would have my son today...We used very traditional protocols. I had to push for my own tests & treatments after unfortunately spending a lot of money and enduring a lot of heartache. I think it would be helpful to get to the root of problems before prescribing the standard one size fits all approach to patients with “unexplained infertility.” However, I know there’s still a lot of unknowns in this field, and I’m sure some patients do get lucky here and there with the standard protocols.

Monitoring appointments [at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] ran efficiently. The weekends in Farmington can get pretty busy and could have a long wait time...I think they have a strong lab and run an efficient, organized center. The weaknesses are that they don’t “think outside the box.” They stick to very traditional/conventional protocols, which may not work out for everyone. Testing, treatment, etc. was all done after I did research & pushed for it myself after either having failed cycles/miscarriages. I did conceive my son from a fresh transfer with them, and I will be forever grateful for that. I’m hoping to be able to give him a sibling and then be able to close this chapter of my life.

How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

I definitely trust her opinions and think she is very smart. I would love to be able to interact with her more instead of always having to communicate to nurses as a middle person. I felt that she always genuinely cared about me, and I always felt like she answered all my questions when I actually got to speak with her. I always felt hopeful after speaking with her.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Definitely be your own advocate. Doctors want to help, but in the end, you have to be the one to sort of figure things out on your own. Without doing my own research for hours on end as far as discovering what things to add to my protocol and so on, I don’t think I would have my son today.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

I felt she did genuinely care about me as a patient and wanted to do her best to help.

Describe the protocols Andrea DiLuigi used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

We used very traditional protocols. I had to push for my own tests & treatments after unfortunately spending a lot of money and enduring a lot of heartache. I think it would be helpful to get to the root of problems before prescribing the standard one size fits all approach to patients with “unexplained infertility.” However, I know there’s still a lot of unknowns in this field, and I’m sure some patients do get lucky here and there with the standard protocols.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Toni)

I often felt alone during this process because I felt that the nurse would try to answer my questions without getting the opinion of the doctor before advising me. When you’re spending a ton of money and have so much on the line, you want to make sure your questions and voice are being heard by your doctor, and I almost felt like I wasn’t “allowed” to speak with her. There was major confusion on certain topics because you’re playing the telephone game. For example, I would ask the nurse to ask the doctor something only to get a response like “it’s up to you” back. I am not the doctor so how would I know what to do? I’m asking so that I can do what the doctor wants me to do. She does always call me back the same day after leaving a voice message or to call me with results, and the nurses are all nice, so I guess that’s a plus. I just wish I could talk to my doctor more as I definitely respect her opinions and advice. The nurses sometimes give contradicting or insufficient advice/info, which is why I said to be your own advocate. I do really like Chelsea, the IUI nurse, but don’t deal with her since I’m doing IVF.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I think they have a strong lab and run an efficient, organized center. The weaknesses are that they don’t “think outside the box.” They stick to very traditional/conventional protocols, which may not work out for everyone. Testing, treatment, etc. was all done after I did research & pushed for it myself after either having failed cycles/miscarriages. I did conceive my son from a fresh transfer with them, and I will be forever grateful for that. I’m hoping to be able to give him a sibling and then be able to close this chapter of my life.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Monitoring appointments ran efficiently. The weekends in Farmington can get pretty busy and could have a long wait time.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I had limited insurance coverage and will be paying out of pocket for further IVF cycles and FET’s. I have probably spent over 30,000 in out of pocket costs even with insurance with co-pays and things the insurance didn’t cover. I think the center’s costs are similar to what it would cost at any other clinic.

Describe Andrea DiLuigi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

She basically left it up to me, but since I am young, we thought it’d be smart to just transfer 1.

Doctor

Andrea DiLuigi

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Andrea DiLuigi Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2023, Unknown Success

Age 34

3 IUI

PCOS

Uterine Fibroids

Black or African-American

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Dr. Schmidt is very personable and gave us a sense of ease...started us off with a few cycles of IUI with letrozole (1 2.5mg on days 3-7) because of my PCOS...third IUI cycle, he increased my letrozole to 2 2.5mg pills on days 3-7. We are now awaiting an IVF consultation...feel like I have real agency in my treatment plan.

[At Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)] All the nurses are wonderful and I have not had any issues...Jenny is amazing! She administered my second IUI and it was great to meet her in person. I call Jenny anytime I have questions and she always gets right back to me.

How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr. Schmidt is very personable and gave us a sense of ease as we embarked on this journey with UCONN CARS. I feel like I am in good hands with Dr. Schmidt, which is really saying something because I never thought I would be considering IVF, but I feel like I have real agency in my treatment plan.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Unfortunately, you will not always have Dr. Schmidt for every visit, but just know when you do have his time he will be caring, receptive and personable!

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr. Schmidt and all the doctors are tremendously busy. Dr. Schmidt slows down and takes the time to go over the treatment plan and listen to any questions or concerns we might have.

Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

Dr. Schmidt started us off with a few cycles of IUI with letrozole (1 2.5mg on days 3-7) because of my PCOS. On the third IUI cycle, he increased my letrozole to 2 2.5mg pills on days 3-7. We are now awaiting an IVF consultation with Dr. Schmidt next week.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Jenny)

Jenny is amazing! She administered my second IUI and it was great to meet her in person. I call Jenny anytime I have questions and she always gets right back to me.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

This is my first and only reproductive clinic/center so I do not have a lot to go off of, however, I have throughly enjoyed my experience at UCONN CARS. All the nurses are wonderful and I have not had any issues! It’s always nerve wrecking to be poked and prodded, but the folks at UCONN CAR (Farmington location) helped provide the necessary support and comfort throughout this process.

Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

$500 for each IUI Ultrasounds and lab tests fees were not too much $50 copay per visit $1,300 for genetic testing through Myriad (includes my partner and I) Unsure about the cost of IVF as we have not yet started that process yet

Describe David Schmidt's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

N/A

Doctor

David Schmidt

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2020 - 2022, Unknown Success

Age 46 - 48

1 Fertility Medications

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Male Factor

Uterine Fibroids

Black or African-American

Income $50K - $99K

Nurse or HC Services

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Claudio Benadiva Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

He [Dr. Claudio Benadiva] seems very knowledgeable and does not give false hope. He typically answers questions quite directly and provides risk versus benefits, and potential outcomes when asked directly. He could be better if he broke things down on a more basic level. Only because I am a nurse, I know to ask more pointed questions (most of the time). I believe he is good at getting the best outcomes in a safe manner. Also, when I panicked, he put me at ease, gave me the facts and my realistic options. And that was great for me.

They [Center for Advanced Reproductive Services - UCONN Medical] are accessible. They have good follow-up and follow-through...My nurse is quite familiar with my case, and coordinates things very well for me. Except one instance when multiple blood draws could have been avoided. I communicated that to her, since then she has been much better with detailing the next steps and expectations along the way.

How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

He seems very knowledgeable and does not give false hope. He typically answers questions quite directly and provides risk versus benefits, and potential outcomes when asked directly. He could be better if he broke things down on a more basic level. Only because I am a nurse, I know to ask more pointed questions (most of the time). I believe he is good at getting the best outcomes in a safe manner. Also, when I panicked, he put me at ease, gave me the facts and my realistic options. And that was great for me.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Do your own research as much as possible so you can have a list of educated questions to ask. Don't be afraid to ask ANY question at all.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

I have continued communication with the office, Dr. Benadiva refers to me by my name, not my diagnosis. Nurses are good.

Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

He medically induced my cycle to check my uterine lining. This was in preparation for my saline sonogram, which detected my uterine polyps, which had to be surgically removed. Awaiting approval on genetic testing to select my egg donor.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Kathy)

My nurse is quite familiar with my case, and coordinates things very well for me. Except one instance when multiple blood draws could have been avoided. I communicated that to her, since then she has been much better with detailing the next steps and expectations along the way.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

They are accessible. They have good follow-up and follow-through. The new financial person, Vera is excellent. The former one, Dawn, who retired left me a voicemail and forgot to hang up before speaking derogatively about me on my voicemail. This was escalated, but unfortunately, she only had 2 weeks left prior to retiring.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Still in progress but estimate at my out of pocket expenses will be about $35,000.

Describe Claudio Benadiva's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Dr Benadiva wants to get live birth results, so he does not take unnecessary risks and has referred to "literature" often when explaining his decision. So, if you're over 45 or 46 on single embryo transfers for you. Multiple babies, twins etc.. are high risk for mothers at any age, and even more so for mortality and morbidity for mother and babies as the mother's maternal age increases.

Doctor

Claudio Benadiva

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Claudio Benadiva Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2021 - 2022, Unsuccessful

Age 42 - 43

1 IUI

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Middle Eastern

Income $50K - $99K

Professor

Only Doc Seen

Neutral

Unsuccessful

Review of

Andrea DiLuigi Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

I wished I could see and consult with Dr DiLuigi more. I had to seek her out and schedule an appointment to consult with her. It would be helpful to have more direct contact with her to explain what happened each cycle (at least once per cycle)...We tried two protocols so far (the first was rather aggressive: Micro-dose Lebrun and two different stimulus medications...The second cycle was less aggressive, with clomid and prostrogen patches

Really compassionate and caring and she helped get over my fear of needles. When my second cycle failed, she called me to cheer me up and not just to break the news...The clinic is very well-organized. The team is good although because patients see different nurses, technicians, doctors every-time, it could get a bit impersonal..

How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

I think Dr DiLuigi is great and so is Toni her IVF nurse. No matter how nice Toni is, I wished I could see and consult with Dr DiLuigi more. I had to seek her out and schedule an appointment to consult with her. It would be helpful to have more direct contact with her to explain what happened each cycle (at least once per cycle).

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Try to see her often! Consult with her more and add your own regiment of medications and vitamins as they don't prescribe a lot of additional stuff.

Describe the protocols Andrea DiLuigi used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

We tried two protocols so far (the first was rather aggressive: Micro-dose Lebrun and two different stimulus medications (Gonal F and Menopur). This yielded only one follicle so we cancelled the cycle. The second cycle was less aggressive, with clomid and prostrogen patches) which did not work and we had to cancel the cycle ( I did IUI and it did not work). I am 43 and will probably try a couple more cycles before giving up.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Toni Sullivan )

Toni is wonderful! Really compassionate and caring and she helped get over my fear of needles. When my second cycle failed, she called me to cheer me up and not just to break the news ( as somebody else called me earlier). She is fanatastic!

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

The clinic is very well-organized. The team is good although because patients see different nurses, technicians, doctors every-time, it could get a bit impersonal. I realize the nature of the cycle itself makes it difficult to see the same person every-time but it would be better if this was somehow mainstreamed to make it more personal.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I am lucky cause I have good insurance so I paid for the medications (co-pay of around $1000 for two cycles), and an advance of $2500 for PG-T which I did not use and will get back if I did not test embryos. All in all, an upward of $3500 for two cycles.

Describe Andrea DiLuigi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

We did not get to this stage.

What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

At a certain point, my ultra sound technician said that we might be cancelling my cycle for low response which was very premature and she should not have said that as I was kinda of depressed even though things were better following that.

Doctor

Andrea DiLuigi

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Andrea DiLuigi Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2019 - 2020, Unknown Success

Age 30 - 31

3 IUI

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

IVF With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Dr. Schmidt is so personable and kind! He is genuinely invested in you and your dreams to have a child...I went into our first appointment expecting to be in tears and was pleasantly surprised to find myself excited about our plan and full of hope...You will not often get to communicate with [doctor] directly, however he has a strong team and he knows exactly who you are each time you do get to see him.

They [Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (UCONN Medical)] seem to be well organized and are great at communicating...you have your own “team.” Each doctor has a nurse, an IVF nurse and an insurance specialist...The one thing that can be disappointing is that you never know which doctor is going to do your procedure because they constantly rotate. I do wish that I got to see my doctor for all of my procedures.

How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr. Schmidt is extremely kind and personable. He took the time to explain everything thoroughly and to answer all of our questions. He has an amazing bedside manner. We really appreciated his positivity. I went into our first appointment expecting to be in tears and was pleasantly surprised to find myself excited about our plan and full of hope. We trust him completely.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Go into this knowing that your main contact person is going to be your nurse. You will not often get to communicate with Dr. Schmidt directly, however he has a strong team and he knows exactly who you are each time you do get to see him.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr. Schmidt is so personable and kind! He is genuinely invested in you and your dreams to have a child.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Peggy)

Peggy has been a pleasure to work with. She is very kind and helpful. She returns all of my emails and phone calls quickly. I ask a lot of questions and she happily answers all of them.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I’ve been pleasantly surprised with CARS! They seem to be well organized and are great at communicating. All of my phone calls and emails are answered in a timely manner. I like how they have it set up where you have your own “team.” Each doctor has a nurse, an IVF nurse and an insurance specialist. I like that my team communicates and shares info easily and that I have set people to contact. The one thing that can be disappointing is that you never know which doctor is going to do your procedure because they constantly rotate. I do wish that I got to see my doctor for all of my procedures.

Doctor

David Schmidt

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2019 - 2020, Unknown Success

Age 33 - 34

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Income $50K - $99K

Entrepreneur

Only Doc Seen

IVF With Other Docs

Donor Sperm

LGBTQ+

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

John Nulsen (retired)Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

When we sat down for our fertility plan, he [Dr. John Nulsen] tailored it to our specific needs. I remember him pausing, after looking at our latest test results to come up with an intelligent, real world plan that would yield us the results we desire. He has gone ABOVE and beyond, never making us feel like a number. We can tell he cares and wants success for us like we want it for ourselves.

The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services made me feel like a human by knowing my name. They service many people, but each time my partner and I went, we received tailored treatment for our specific needs...When my cycle failed Dr. Nulsen regrouped with the other doctors and reconvened with my partner and I based on medical suggestions and our test results....

How was your experience with John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr. John Nulsen is nothing short of phenomenal! When we sat down for our fertility plan, he tailored it to our specific needs. I remember him pausing, after looking at our latest test results to come up with an intelligent, real world plan that would yield us the results we desire. He has gone ABOVE and beyond, never making us feel like a number. We can tell he cares and wants success for us like we want it for ourselves. Across the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services this has been their culture. I have not found one person there that hasn’t known what they were doing or lacked professionalism. I would recommend him again and again!

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Have patience. Sometimes we may not get exactly what we want, but if you hold on and don’t lose faith things works themselves out!

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Describe the protocols John Nulsen (retired) used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

When my cycle failed Dr. Nulsen regrouped with the other doctors and reconvened with my partner and I based on medical suggestions and our test results.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Nurse Kathy)

Kathy is a great nurse. She’s very knowledgeable and compassionate!

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

The clinic has a strong record of success. At our first appointment we received realistic statistics based on their history, which only became more precise as treatment went on. There wasn’t one person that was unable to accurately set our expectations.

Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

$11,499

Doctor

John Nulsen (retired)

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

John Nulsen (retired)Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2019 - 2020, Successful

Age 30 - 31

4 IUI

1 IVF

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Male Factor

European

Ashkenazi Jewish

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Early morning appointment for monitoring [at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] can have a long wait, but being able to have monitoring that early in the morning is great. I would advise being very familiar with your particular insurance coverage...They took the time to answer all our questions and always called us back promptly.

How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr. Schmidt made us feel at ease right away and was upfront about the success rates for each procedure. When I didn’t respond well to our first IVF protocol, Dr. Schmidt went through the changes we’d be making and helped us understand what may have gone wrong. After my egg retrieval we thought we would only have 2 embryos (we needed up with 5), so we switched to a day 3 transfer of 2 embryos to maximize the chance for success. Dr. Schmidt guided us along making these decisions and was great at communicating what our options were. Overall he is very caring and compassionate and seems to genuinely want success for his patients.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Trust him and his team.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr. Schmidt always took the time to thoroughly go over our treatment options, protocols, and explained our test results to us in detail. He was always willing to answer the 100 questions I asked, and he explained things in a way that were easy to understand.

Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

We used Clomid for IUI cycles. Dr. Schmidt said in our case using injectibles for IUI wouldn’t be worth the added cost. Our first IVF cycle included Lupron, Menopur and Gonal-F. After I ovulated on my own that cycle we went to estrogen patches, Menopur, Gonal-F, and cetrotide to bring us to the egg retrieval. After the egg retrieval I had injections of progesterone in oil.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Jenny, Peggy)

Jenny and Peggy are amazing. They took the time to answer all our questions and always called us back promptly. Peggy was great at helping with injections and made sure to see us and congratulate us when we went for our first ultrasound after learning we were pregnant.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Early morning appointment for monitoring can have a long wait, but being able to have monitoring that early in the morning is great. I would advise being very familiar with your particular insurance coverage, if applicable. Our billing representative at UCONN was new and we had to make sure we stayed on top of the charges.

Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Our first IUI was roughly $650. The others were about $90 because we met the first tier of our deductible. We paid $6,000 for IVF including medications - the rest was covered by insurance because we met our out of pocket max.

Describe David Schmidt's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

We had planned to transfer one day 5 embryo due to the high success rates, but had to switch to transferring 2 day 3 embryos at the last minute. Dr. Schmidt told us that would give us the same chance for success that one day 5 embryo would have.

Doctor

David Schmidt

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2019, Unsuccessful

Age 45

2 IVF

Poor Egg Quality

European

Income $100K - $199K

Nurse or HC Services

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Unsuccessful

Review of

John Nulsen (retired)Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Dr. Nulsen will explain everything to his patients. In my case he responded to emails & phone calls. He evaluates each retrieval & discusses what went right & what went wrong. When I had my second retrieval he did not make any changes to my protocol because of the high amount of blasts I produced the first time...He was still honest in saying we would most likely have all abnormal embryos but he was much more optimistic. My second retrieval produced 6 blasts & unfortunately 5 were abnormal & 1 was a mosaic that is not recommended for transfer.

The first retrieval [at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] was supposed to be covered by insurance. Devon, Dr. Nulsen’s financial person verified this ahead of time. However I keep getting bills...she is working on getting these paid but it’s unsettling because it’s not yet resolved & I could possibly still owe upwards of $3k. My second retrieval was self pay & cost $10k. We had to also pay $1,500 for biopsy & then $1900 for PGS testing through CooperGenomics.

How was your experience with John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

That’s hard to say. In a clinic of this size you only see your doctor a few times. I don’t have any experience with any other clinics to compare.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

At first I felt like a number partly due to my age. Dr. Nulsen is honest but I felt like he was borderline pessimistic & made it sound like I really had no chance of success. However, after my first retrieval which yielded 5 blasts (all abnormal), he said he was shocked at how well I responded to the stims & believed I had a chance for success. He was still honest in saying we would most likely have all abnormal embryos but he was much more optimistic. My second retrieval produced 6 blasts & unfortunately 5 were abnormal & 1 was a mosaic that is not recommended for transfer.

Describe the protocols John Nulsen (retired) used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

He prescribed gonal-f 300 units, 2 vials of menopur, ganerelix & 50 units of Omnitrope (HGH). I asked for the Omnitrope because I’d heard people my age had success with it. We used an HCG trigger. We used the same protocol for my second retrieval due to the high amount of blasts that were produced. All blasts were PGA tested & a total of 10 were abnormal & 1 was mosaic.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Robin (1st retrieval) Erin (second retrieval))

Robin was a temporary/contract nurse. She was great. Then when her contract was up the position was filled temporarily by a retired nurse who had worked with Dr. Nulsen for many years. She was very responsive. By the time of my 2nd retrieval, the position had been filled by Erin Hastings. She is fantastic. Responsive, compassionate...top notch. The nurses that cared for me on retrieval day were also great.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

It’s a very busy clinic. You are likely to see different ultrasound techs for each visit. I know some people who switched to a smaller clinic where 1 doctor performs all procedures & ultrasounds & they prefer that approach. Seeing different MDs and ultrasound techs did not bother me. But if you are looking for 1 on 1 care, CARS may not be for you.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Monitoring is done daily from 7-9 AM. You must come during that time. It’s done on a first come - first served basis. Sometimes there are somewhat long waits. Not sure there’s anything that can be done to avoid that.

Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

The first retrieval was supposed to be covered by insurance. Devon, Dr. Nulsen’s financial person verified this ahead of time. However I keep getting bills...she is working on getting these paid but it’s unsettling because it’s not yet resolved & I could possibly still owe upwards of $3k. My second retrieval was self pay & cost $10k. We had to also pay $1,500 for biopsy & then $1900 for PGS testing through CooperGenomics.

Describe John Nulsen (retired)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Not applicable

Doctor

John Nulsen (retired)

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

John Nulsen (retired)Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2017 - 2019, Unknown Success

Age 35 - 37

Endometriosis

Tubal Blockage

European

Income $50K - $99K

Nurse or HC Services

2nd of 2 Docs

5 Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Claudio Benadiva Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

I have always felt that Dr. Benadiva has been considerate of our time and concerns. He takes the time to make sure that we understand everything that is happening and works to get things done in a timely manner...We have always left our appointments with a plan that we understand and trusting that we are in good hands on this journey. Dr. Benadiva has been proactive about treating the cause of infertility so that we finally have an explanation and plan to make our dreams of expanding our family come true.

She [nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] is compassionate, professional, and thoughtful. She always puts us at ease and does a great job. She is also always available to answer questions, and make sure we have everything that we need...The clinic is clean the staff is friendly. I have never had an issue getting an appointment or resolving any issues, including questions about insurance or billing. I also feel confident that my private health information and confidentiality is protected. I appreciate that members of the staff and care team treat us with respect and consideration.

How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr. Benadiva has always been professional, thoughtful, and considerate. We have always left our appointments with a plan that we understand and trusting that we are in good hands on this journey. Dr. Benadiva has been proactive about treating the cause of infertility so that we finally have an explanation and plan to make our dreams of expanding our family come true.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

If Dr. Benadiva is recommending something, it is probably important.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

I have always felt that Dr. Benadiva has been considerate of our time and concerns. He takes the time to make sure that we understand everything that is happening and works to get things done in a timely manner. He, along with his staff, follow through consistently and have even conducted after hours phone calls in various occasions.

Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

We went to Dr. Benadiva after several years of trying to conceive as well as early pregnancy loss. After unsuccessful attempts at timed intercourse and cycles with both clomid and letrozole with another provider, we started seeing Dr. Benadiva who performed a hysterosalpingogram and subsequently sent me to a surgeon for a bilateral salpingectomy after discovering bilateral hydrosalpinx. The next step will be to start IVF.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Helen)

Helen, the nurse that works with Dr. Benadiva, is wonderful. She is compassionate, professional, and thoughtful. She always puts us at ease and does a great job. She is also always available to answer questions, and make sure we have everything that we need. Anytime I have ever called her with questions or concerns, she is always very timely in returning my call and helping to resolve any issues. She is an integral part of the team.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

The clinic is clean the staff is friendly. I have never had an issue getting an appointment or resolving any issues, including questions about insurance or billing. I also feel confident that my private health information and confidentiality is protected. I appreciate that members of the staff and care team treat us with respect and consideration.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

When I first started seeing Dr. Benadiva, I did not have insurance coverage for anything fertility related. I had a consultation and ultrasound for which we paid a few hundred dollars, out of pocket. Luckily, my current insurance coverage does include fertility benefits, so my costs are related to my deductible.

Describe Claudio Benadiva's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I have not yet reached this stage in my treatment.

Doctor

Claudio Benadiva

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Claudio Benadiva Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2018 - 2019, Unknown Success

Age 35 - 36

1 IVF

Poor Egg Quality

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

European

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Not sure

Review of

John Nulsen (retired)Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

He [Dr. Nulsen] always takes the time to personally call me with news/updates (and is pretty good at delivering dismal news). I really appreciate how much he cares about me as a patient. I don't feel like any question is "stupid" or that I'm ever being rushed...is so intelligent and so well-trained. I trust him fully and even after a really poor response to my first round of IVF, I trust his adjustment wholeheartedly. I really don't have any weaknesses to share, aside from the fact that I pray our second round of IVF will lead to more embryos and hopefully one will be PGS normal!

Unfortunately, my PGS results [from Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] came in on a Tuesday and I did not learn of the results until that Friday. This was heartwrenching for me, but the only mistake in over 8 months of being a patient...It [monitoring] was a well-efficient, well-oiled machine. As long as you get there before 7:30, you are seen within 30 minutes or so. The MAs are great and you're often seen by an MD for ultrasounds.

How was your experience with John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

As I stated earlier, Dr. Nulsen is so intelligent and so well-trained. I trust him fully and even after a really poor response to my first round of IVF, I trust his adjustment wholeheartedly. I really don't have any weaknesses to share, aside from the fact that I pray our second round of IVF will lead to more embryos and hopefully one will be PGS normal!

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

I highly recommend that you come prepared with a list of questions. Time with Dr. Nulsen is sacred, so please make the most of it!

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Even though Dr. Nulsen is incredibly scientific in his presentation and philosophy (always relies on textbooks and peer-reviewed studies/literature, which I certainly appreciate!), he always treats me like a human; I am also good at reminding him that I am a human and not a number ;). He always takes the time to personally call me with news/updates (and is pretty good at delivering dismal news). I really appreciate how much he cares about me as a patient. I don't feel like any question is "stupid" or that I'm ever being rushed.

Describe the protocols John Nulsen (retired) used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

I started with an agonist protocol (Gonal F 375 IU for 10 days; Ganirelix for 7 days and I was triggered with just Lupron). This produced 8 eggs (expected for my age, I guess), but only one fertilized and then made it to blast. This embryo was PGS abnormal, and I was told I have "very poor egg quality." I'm not sure I fully believe this, as I have a healthy, perfect 3.5 year old. I'm currently on the MDL flare protocol (starting BCPs tonight for 18 days) and then I'll be on Gonal F pen (300 IU PM), microdose leuprolide (10 IU 2x/day), Menopur (150 IU PM), and HCG.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Vicki Hauptmann)

Aside from being a little "all over the place," Vicki truly cares so much about her patients. She is very smart, and can take a mile a minute, but is okay when you ask her to pause or slow down. I know she's rooting SO hard for me, which I truly appreciate. All of the other nurses I've encountered are amazing, too.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

CARS is amazing. I walked in as a terrified new patient (who wants to be on this journey?!) and now feel like a seasoned pro. I love all of the staff members (lab people, front desk people, MAs, nurses, and my doctor. I recommend coming prepared with all necessary documents and questions when you come for your appointments). I also love the Resolve support group that is hosted there once a month. Their community outreach (thank you, Ami!) is amazing!

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

It was a well-efficient, well-oiled machine. As long as you get there before 7:30, you are seen within 30 minutes or so. The MAs are great and you're often seen by an MD for ultrasounds.

Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I wish I knew more, but since insurance covered 100% I don't know. I think with meds included my first round of IVF was around $30,000.

Describe John Nulsen (retired)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

If we get there, especially since we are doing PGS, he highly recommends I only transfer one embryo.

What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Failed to call with results

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Unfortunately, my PGS results came in on a Tuesday and I did not learn of the results until that Friday. This was heartwrenching for me, but the only mistake in over 8 months of being a patient. I will convey this heartbreak to them at my next appointment.

Doctor

John Nulsen (retired)

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

John Nulsen (retired)Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2019, Unknown Success

Age 34

1 IVF

Income $100K - $199K

Teacher

1st of 3 Docs

10 IUI With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Daniel Grow Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Dr. Grow has a calm and friendly nature. He speaks calmly while providing patients with needed information. His happy and optimistic nature rubs off on patients. He is honest and provides suggestions in a non-threatening and reassuring manner....When with Dr. Grow, I was part of a double blind research study. Some of the information I was not privy to during the study. But, in consultation, Dr. Grow made it clear that he was hopeful to get some eggs for retrieval.

The clinic [Ctr for Advanced Reproductive Services] was easily accessible off of a major highway. It was clean, welcoming, bathrooms easily accessible, a coffee/tea bar, and bloodwork lab/patient suites organized downstairs from monitoring.... The nurses were excellent. So kind. My primary nurses Shannon and Glorimar were fabulous. They were understanding, honest, compassionate, knowledgeable, eased my worries, informative, and were accessible through the entire process.

How was your experience with Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Do not be scared to ask questions :-)

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr. Grow is extremely calm and welcoming. He has a nurturing demeanor. He was honest yet optimistic in his discussions with us.

Describe the protocols Daniel Grow used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

When with Dr. Grow, I was part of a double blind research study. Some of the information I was not privy to during the study. But, in consultation, Dr. Grow made it clear that he was hopeful to get some eggs for retrieval. Once I began my cycle I was monitored just as must or even more so than a regular patient. Even before beginning the Study I had a consultation with Dr. Grow, a physical, two ultrasounds, internal exam, and multiple panels of blood work. I went in on day three, received an ultrasound, and was given the injectible study medication to take, I began with 12 mcg. I went back on day five and had more blood work and an ultrasound and was put on Ganirelix. I was also upped to 15 mcg of the injectible. I continued Ganirelix and the injectible, coming in on days 7, 8, and 9 for ultrasound and more bloodwork. On day 9 I took Novarel as a trigger. I retrieved on day 11 and began Endometrin tablets the following day.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Shannon Brown, Glorimar Diaz)

The nurses were excellent. So kind. My primary nurses Shannon and Glorimar were fabulous. They were understanding, honest, compassionate, knowledgeable, eased my worries, informative, and were accessible through the entire process.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

The clinic was easily accessible off of a major highway. It was clean, welcoming, bathrooms easily accessible, a coffee/tea bar, and bloodwork lab/patient suites organized downstairs from monitoring.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I did have to go in at a certain window, especially as part of a study, but most times I did not have to wait terrible long. And, staff were so kind and supportive.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

For the workup I paid copays. Once in the study the costs were covered.

Describe Daniel Grow's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

As part of the study my husband and I agreed to a single embryo transfer.

Doctor

Daniel Grow

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Daniel Grow Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2018 - 2019, Unsuccessful

Age 32 - 33

2 IUI

Anovulation

PCOS

Uterine Fibroids

European

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

Doesn't Recommend

Neutral

Unsuccessful

Review of

Lawrence Engmann Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

We met with him [Dr. Lawrence Engmann] for a few of our appointments. He relies heavily on a large staff of nurses to provide him with the daily data. Every bloodwork and US was reviewed by him even if I didn't speak with him directly. He was open to hearing our goals and matching treatment to them. He also fully explained the likely causes, and possible courses to take early on.... The initial plan was 3 cycles on letrozole with timed intercourse, because letrozole is a more conservative choice than clomid with fewer side effects.

It's a very large clinic [Ctr for Advanced Repro Services] but the nursing staff is very organized and you have one POC for your whole treatment plan. Depending on who is there that day you will see different Drs and nursing staff. All of the Drs I've interacted with are friendly and direct. The auxiliary staff is not quite as organized and compassionate, to them you are just patients.... She was very responsive and entertained any questions I had. She always deferred to Dr Engman for decisions but would talk to me about "hypothetical" outcomes before Dr Engman had reviewed my chart, and would then follow up that he had come to the same conclusion.

How was your experience with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

We met with him for a few of our appointments. He relies heavily on a large staff of nurses to provide him with the daily data. Every bloodwork and US was reviewed by him even if I didn't speak with him directly. He was open to hearing our goals and matching treatment to them. He also fully explained the likely causes, and possible courses to take early on.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Trust in the process and don't try to be more of a doctor than he is. The clinic has a method and it can be frustratingly slow but they proceed with treatment in the order they do for a reason. Treatment begins pretty conservatively but is open to changes if you make it known you'd like to be more aggressive.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

He's very direct but also kind and uses some slight humor. This is a big practice and my nurse was more up to speed with my day today treatment.

Describe the protocols Lawrence Engmann used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

The initial plan was 3 cycles on letrozole with timed intercourse, because letrozole is a more conservative choice than clomid with fewer side effects. After that the plan was 3 IUI cycles with letrozole but after 2 IUIs we were given the option to proceed to IVF if we were getting frustrated. We're starting IVF shortly.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Mary Kate Malloy)

She was very responsive and entertained any questions I had. She always deferred to Dr Engman for decisions but would talk to me about "hypothetical" outcomes before Dr Engman had reviewed my chart, and would then follow up that he had come to the same conclusion.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

It's a very large clinic but the nursing staff is very organized and you have one POC for your whole treatment plan. Depending on who is there that day you will see different Drs and nursing staff. All of the Drs I've interacted with are friendly and direct. The auxiliary staff is not quite as organized and compassionate, to them you are just patients.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Lawrence Engmann at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I have an insurance benefit that covers everything for me. SAs for my husband was $230

Describe Lawrence Engmann's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Dr Engman advises only one embryo transferred at a time.

What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Failed to call with results

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Sometimes during monitoring I don't receive a call in the afternoon, this is usually interpreted and I need to go in for monitoring the next day. My regular nurse was out for several months and in her absence there were a few mix ups and I could tell the nursing staff was a little flustered and stretched when it came to managing patients.

Doctor

Lawrence Engmann

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Lawrence Engmann Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2019, Unsuccessful

Age 36

4 IUI

Anovulation

Male Factor

PCOS

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

European

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Unsuccessful

Review of

Claudio Benadiva Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

He [Dr. Benadiva] is generally very patient and takes the time to explain things to patients. When we were waiting to see if a pregnancy would end in miscarriage or not he was very realistic without pessimism. He always made sure to look over our chart to remind himself of the details and avoided any missteps like that. ...Our first visit he did an ultrasound to verify my PCOS. He also had a semen analysis done on my husband which hadn't been mentioned by my OBGYN.

[UCONN Ctr Adv Repro Svcs] Lots of compassion, organized, you don't feel like a number. I don't like continually being told to speak to our financial counselor. I know what we can and can't afford and what options I deem irresponsible financially. Even at a great clinic be prepared to speak up for yourselves. If we hadn't done that the varicocele contributing to our Male factor issues would not have been resolved.

How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

He is generally very patient and takes the time to explain things to patients. When we were waiting to see if a pregnancy would end in miscarriage or not he was very realistic without pessimism. He always made sure to look over our chart to remind himself of the details and avoided any missteps like that.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Read all the handouts he gives you and feel free to call with questions if you have them!! They really do not mind. He's also happy to answer questions during appointments.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

He always looked at my chart and would explain why he wanted to go by whatever course of action. He's also always taken time to answer any and all questions.

Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

Our first visit he did an ultrasound to verify my PCOS. He also had a semen analysis done on my husband which hadn't been mentioned by my OBGYN. When discussing the idea of letrozole he gave me copies of articles discussing studies that showed it tended go work better than Clomid for PCOS. He also gave me information on IUI in case we needed to move to that. When he wanted to do the HSG and saline ultrasound he explained why. My 4th round of letrozole and timed intercourse resulted in miscarriage and the IUI with injectables resulted in a chemical. After our 2nd loss (we had 1 prior to starting at the Center) he had genetic testing done on my husband and me as well as on that baby to get answers for us. After the chemical he said we should move to IVF with PGS testing as a way to avoid more losses.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Helen)

Our nurse is amazing. She always calls back or has someone on the team contact me on her behalf. She answers our questions and finds the answer elsewhere if she doesn't know.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Lots of compassion, organized, you don't feel like a number. I don't like continually being told to speak to our financial counselor. I know what we can and can't afford and what options I deem irresponsible financially. Even at a great clinic be prepared to speak up for yourselves. If we hadn't done that the varicocele contributing to our Male factor issues would not have been resolved.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

$400 per regular IUI. It was about $4200 total, including medications, for the injectable cycle. For our income bracket IVF would be 12.5K before medications

Doctor

Claudio Benadiva

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Claudio Benadiva Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2018 - 2019, Successful

Age 38 - 39

3 IVF

3 Embryo Freezing

South Asian

Income $50K - $99K

Professor

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

I have completed three IVF cycles that resulted in 10 frozen embryos at the end. Dr. Schmidt started with less aggressive approach first and based on my response, changed the stimulation protocol that resulted in very successful third cycle. He encouraged our decision to do PGS test on our frozen embryos and explain pros and cons very clearly. He was successfully transferred single normal embryo and currently I'm 10 weeks pregnant. We are very happy and satisfied with the treatment options taken for us by Dr. Schmidt.

All the nurses I met at the CARS are very caring, friendly and helpful. I haven't met anyone who was rude, mean or consider me as a nuisance... Overall environment is very pleasant. I particularly like the beautiful photo wall inside the clinic that shows photos of babies that came to this world because of the care of CARS team. It gives hope and bring positive thoughts to our stressful IVF journey.... My insurance covered costs associated with IVF treatment. We had to pay for embryo freezing, biopsy and PGS test.

How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr. Schmidt is the best. He takes time to explain everything in details and make sure we understand all the information. I felt safe and comfortable when treated by Dr. Schmidt. I highly recommend him to my friends and colleagues.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Trust him.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

I was fortunate to have Dr. Schmidt and his team for my IVF treatment. During my treatment process I met doctors, nurses and staff members at CARS, and everyone was very helpful and friendly. They tried their best to make my journey as comfortable as possible.

Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Marsha Kennedy)

All the nurses I met at the CARS are very caring, friendly and helpful. I haven't met anyone who was rude, mean or consider me as a nuisance.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Overall environment is very pleasant. I particularly like the beautiful photo wall inside the clinic that shows photos of babies that came to this world because of the care of CARS team. It gives hope and bring positive thoughts to our stressful IVF journey.

Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

My insurance covered costs associated with IVF treatment. We had to pay for embryo freezing, biopsy and PGS test.

Doctor

David Schmidt

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2017 - 2018, Successful

Age 28 - 29

3 IUI

1 IVF

PCOS

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Teacher

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Claudio Benadiva Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Dr. Benediva is straight forward and honest. Some may interpret this as having not a great bedside manner but I felt very informed and cared for during the process. He is an expert in the field and will give you the best treatment possible for whatever your case may be. There were times where he personally called me on the phone to discuss plans or results. I am so thankful for everything he has done for us!...Don’t take his serious attitude the wrong way! He cares about giving you the best chance at pregnancy and is a true expert!

Appointments were always timely and they were quick and efficient [at UCONN Medical]. The financial team is fantastic as are the receptionists. The bloodwork team is quick and professional. I had a great experience with the people who did my retrieval and transfer too!...The nursing staff is amazing! They make sure you are comfortable and understand each step of the process. They were easy to communicate with and I almost always heard back the same day when I had a question.

How was your experience with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Don’t take his serious attitude the wrong way! He cares about giving you the best chance at pregnancy and is a true expert!

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

He is very thorough in his explanation. He saw me whenever I had a worry in the early stages of my pregnancy.

Describe the protocols Claudio Benadiva used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

For IUI cycles I took letrozole. This produced great outcomes every time. Producing one follicle for each cycle. For IVF I took gonal f, estradiol patches, cetrotide, estrace and pio. I had issues growing a thick lining during ivf and used both extra patches and the estrace pill. I had a great reaction to the egg retrieval meds, producing 31 eggs! I was closely monitored and meds were adjusted as needed!

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Deb Raboin)

The nursing staff is amazing! They make sure you are comfortable and understand each step of the process. They were easy to communicate with and I almost always heard back the same day when I had a question.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Appointments were always timely and they were quick and efficient. The financial team is fantastic as are the receptionists. The bloodwork team is quick and professional. I had a great experience with the people who did my retrieval and transfer too!

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Some mornings were busier than others but they were very efficient. I don’t believe I waited for more than 15 minutes to be taken in.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Claudio Benadiva at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I was lucky enough to have mosh covered. I payed a copay for visits, 1500 for retrieval and freezing, and 2800 for PGS.

Describe Claudio Benadiva's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

There was never a thought for us to do a multiple embryo transfer since this was my first transfer and we had done PGS.

Doctor

Claudio Benadiva

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Claudio Benadiva Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2016 - 2018, Successful

Age 31 - 33

1 IVF

Anovulation

PCOS

European

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Dr Schmidt is wonderful. ... He is one of the few doctors anywhere that asks if I am comfortable or in pain during every procedure My husband always asks a thousand questions, even some which may sound stupid, but Dr. Schmidt answered them all patiently and with great understanding. ... As I am under 35, he was only able to transfer one embryo ... He is very knowledgeable and shows great compassion.

the clinic [Center for Advanced Repro] has a discounted self-pay range depending on income for IVF which includes all costs except medication (does include egg retrieval). ... Everyone there is friendly and ready to help. Most of the staff who draws blood is great even though I am a difficult draw. When I had my polyp removal surgery, someone called me everyday to see how I was feeling.

How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr Schmidt is wonderful. Even when seeing an outside acupuncturist for IVF-related reasons, the acupuncturist said Dr. Schmidt was the most compassionate doctor there. He is one of the few doctors anywhere that asks if I am comfortable or in pain during every procedure My husband always asks a thousand questions, even some which may sound stupid, but Dr. Schmidt answered them all patiently and with great understanding. He is very knowledgeable and shows great compassion. I truly believe that he is the reason we conceived twins during our second transfer.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Do not be afraid to ask questions, and write them down before you go because you may forget. Do not get discouraged if your initial plan does not work, Dr. Schmidt will find another way.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Our doctor was very patient with all of our questions. Even though there were several times spent with him that I was crying, he remained kind and supportive. He has a good, appropriate sense of humor and a positive attitude.

Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

At first we used clomid and intercourse. Dr. Schmidt was then thinking about doing an IUI, but as we are self-pay he recommended going straight for IVF to get a better chance for our money. All my ultrasounds, bloodwork, and hysterosalpingogram looked clear at that point. Dr. Schmidt wanted to also do a water ultrasound. This showed that I had some small polyps. Dr. Schmidt performed surgery to remove them as they could cause miscarriage. Then the next month I was able to do egg retrieval and a fresh transfer. As I am under 35, he was only able to transfer one embryo at that point which did not result in a pregnancy. Three months later we did a frozen embryo transfer of 2 embryos (Dr. Schmidt said 2 was allowed now that the last transfer failed). We had a positive pregnancy blood test and when i went in for an ultrasound discovered both embryos implanted!

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Marsha)

Marsha was my primary nurse once I moved onto starting the IVF process. She was always patient and understanding even if I was calling multiple times. When my husband and I were pregnant, we were not even at the clinic to see Marsha that day, yet she came out to both of us hugging and congratulating us. She was there through all the times of tears as well.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Everyone there is friendly and ready to help. Most of the staff who draws blood is great even though I am a difficult draw. When I had my polyp removal surgery, someone called me everyday to see how I was feeling. if I ever felt something was wrong after treatment, surgery, or a transfer. there was always a doctor on call and they would always see me the same day. At times, going in for daily blood draws and ultrasounds had long waits, but later on the wait time did improve. They take your privacy seriously and go through great lengths to make you comfortable even when you're very nervous.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

The early morning (7:30-9) monitor hours are convenient for the schedules of most. Initially I could be waiting a long time if I did not get there right at 7 am. However, as time went on the wait time greatly improved.

Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I was self-pay for all costs. The clinic has a discounted self-pay range depending on income for IVF which includes all costs except medication (does include egg retrieval). We fell in the $10,500 bracket. Then the cost for self-pay frozen embryo transfer was $4,725.

Describe David Schmidt's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

N/A

What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

After being there for 2.5 years, this is the first time I had an issue with the nurse not refilling my CVS prescription. However, I called early enough that I still have enough time to correct this before I run out.

Doctor

David Schmidt

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2015 - 2018, Successful

Age 30 - 33

1 IVF

Unexplained

European

East Asian

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

IUI With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

He [Dr. Schmidt] was a great communicator and always gave us realistic expectations. He never exaggerated possible outcomes in a negative or positive way. He was honest and worked with us to make tough decisions instead of making them for us or not providing the information we needed to make an informed choice....Dr.Schmidt took into consideration what medications he felt would be best and also how the cost would effect us as a family. This was very important to us. If medications were available that would serve the same function and were less money we went in that direction.

The clinic [Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] works well and I feel like every staff members works as a team. I’m always impressed by their level of communication and knowledge of each case. In order to begin any treatment, you meet with the entire team including the financial analyst. They are very honest and upfront about cost and also provide resources....The monitoring appointments were quick and well organized. Typically I would be in and out within 30 minutes.

How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

He was a great communicator and always gave us realistic expectations. He never exaggerated possible outcomes in a negative or positive way. He was honest and worked with us to make tough decisions instead of making them for us or not providing the information we needed to make an informed choice.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Be honest and up front with your expectations and be an active part of your IVF team.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

He was extremely personable and talked to us like people and not just patients passing through. He knew all our specific details and created a plan based on not only our testing but our conversations and life style.

Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

We used a variety of meds and protocols for each cycle. Dr.Schmidt took into consideration what medications he felt would be best and also how the cost would effect us as a family. This was very important to us. If medications were available that would serve the same function and were less money we went in that direction. He consistently monitored me through each cycle to make adjustments as needed.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Marsha )

She is an amazing nurse who truly feels compassion and connection to her patients. The entire staff made me feel like part of a family. They are all invested in the process and are just as excited to celebrate with you and also be there for you when things don’t work out.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

The clinic works well and I feel like every staff members works as a team. I’m always impressed by their level of communication and knowledge of each case. In order to begin any treatment, you meet with the entire team including the financial analyst. They are very honest and upfront about cost and also provide resources.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

The monitoring appointments were quick and well organized. Typically I would be in and out within 30 minutes. On a few occasions they were a little more backed up but the staff worked quickly to move everyone along and were apologetic for any delay.

Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

The first 2 rounds including my retrieval were covered by insurance. The third and forth frozen transfers each cost 4,000, however it did not include medications which ended up being close to 2,000 for each round

Describe David Schmidt's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Overall he did not recommend multiple egg transfer during our initial IVF. Once we had a running history of miscarriage and negative tests, it was recommended that we attempt a multiple egg transfer. From the beginning he was very honest about percentages for both single and multi egg transfers. There was always logic behind his recommendations.

Doctor

David Schmidt

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2018, Successful

Age 36

2 IUI

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Unexplained

Income $100K - $199K

Teacher

2nd of 2 Docs

4 Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Bloodwork can be a little overwhelming, morning monitoring can get really busy but the clinic [UCONN Medical] does a good job of moving people along. The lab staff are all extremely friendly and compassionate (and really good at drawing blood). The OR staff are fabulous and unbelievabley compassionate- emotionally I was at a serious low point during my D&C and all my nurses and anesthesiologist recognized that and supported me in the kindest way. The level of compassion the entire clinic shows their patients is noteworthy!

How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

From the minute I met Dr. Schmidt I felt comfortable and confident being in his care. One of the first procedures scheduled for me was a repeat procedure that I had had done by a previous doctor. My previous experience had been traumatic to say the least. Dr. Schmidt acknowledged my fears and was SO compassionate and caring during the procedure with him. To say the two procedures were like night and day is an understatement and I really attribute that to Dr. Schmidt's level of experience and genuine interest in his patients wellbeing. And because of this, the results were much more accurate and we were able to get a better understanding of my infertility problems. Our first IUI was successful but unfortunately ended in miscarriage at 10 weeks. Dr. Schmidt was there to support us every step of the way in a way that made us feel like he took our loss as a personal loss as well. Most recently we've found out that we are expecting (and surprisingly not through IUI) and Dr. Schmidt has given us the same level of attention and care that we've received during monitored cycles.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointments or follow up with them afterwards. In my experience, he will always take the time to answer them in easy to understand terms.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Not only does Dr. Schmidt take the time to answer all our questions during every appointment, he makes it a point to always ask about what's going on in our lives, how we're doing, etc. When we've shared personal information he always follows up at our next appointment, asking how things went. He seems to take a vested holistic interest in his patients. When we were informed of our miscarriage after a successful IUI cycle with him, he pulled himself out of appointments to meet with us, confirm the miscarriage, answer questions and comfort us.

Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

Repeat HSG to assess validity of previous HSG results, baseline bloodwork, genetic testing for both myself and my husband, injectable fertility medications with monitoring, 2 IUIs (one resulting in pregnancy) and a D&C after miscarrying at 10 weeks.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Jenny)

Jenny was fantastic at communicating information in a timely manner and answering any medication related questions I had. She always returned my phone calls and followed up as needed.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Bloodwork can be a little overwhelming, morning monitoring can get really busy but the clinic does a good job of moving people along. The lab staff are all extremely friendly and compassionate (and really good at drawing blood). The OR staff are fabulous and unbelievabley compassionate- emotionally I was at a serious low point during my D&C and all my nurses and anesthesiologist recognized that and supported me in the kindest way. The level of compassion the entire clinic shows their patients is noteworthy!

Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

My insurance paid for most of my treatments. There was some confusion at one point regarding a balance and the need to pay it in full before one of my IUIs could be performed but it was quickly resolved.

Doctor

David Schmidt

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2018, Successful

Age 34

7 IUI

4 IVF

Endometriosis

Unexplained

Sales Representative

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Andrea DiLuigi Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

If you want someone that will take their time with you on this journey and really make sure you feel heard and comfortable with all the decisions in your treatment then she [Dr. DiLuigi] is your doctor. She shows compassion and she listens to your concerns. ... She let me keep trying IUI even though I was struggling with them but she could tell I wasn’t ready to make the leap to IVF. We then had pretty aggressive medication plans because I wasn’t responding and she always explained what we were doing and why.

At first you are so overwhelmed it can feel very business like and not personalble but give it time as you get to learn then process and meet more people you will feel like part of their [Center for Adv Repro Svcs - UCONN Med] family ... Monitoring hours for the most part were convenient since they started early in the morning, only issue was it could get really busy sometimes ... My nurse was amazing I called her my fertility coach.

How was your experience with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

She is the best doctor. If you want someone that will take their time with you on this journey and really make sure you feel heard and comfortable with all the decisions in your treatment then she is your doctor. She shows compassion and she listens to your concerns.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Trust her and ask lots of questions, she will always take Time to answer them. She is amazing at her job and will make sure you feel comfortable.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

She is a great doctor I always felt like she took the time to explain everything to us. She gave her full attention on all appts. You could trage cared about helping us achieve having a baby

Describe the protocols Andrea DiLuigi used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

She let me keep trying IUI even though I was struggling with them but she could tell I wasn’t ready to make the leap to IVF. We then had pretty aggressive medication plans because I wasn’t responding and she always explained what we were doing and why. We eventually introduced Clomid in with my injectables ( I was scared to add it but she really thought it would help). That would be my final cycle after 5 rounds we made 4 healthy embryos PGS tested.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

My nurse was amazing I called her my fertility coach. She was there to tell me how many meds to take, check on my progress and she picked me up and helped me refocus when I left like giving up

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

They are friendly and courteous. They take the time to get to know each patient. At first you are so overwhelmed it can feel very business like and not personalble but give it time as you get to learn then process and meet more people you will feel like part of their family

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Monitoring hours for the most part were convenient since they started early in the morning, only issue was it could get really busy sometimes

Describe the costs associated with your care under Andrea DiLuigi at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

We had some insurance to start and then once it ran out we spent abt 15k

Describe Andrea DiLuigi's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

I only wanted to transfer one and that is what we stuck with

Doctor

Andrea DiLuigi

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Andrea DiLuigi Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2018, Unknown Success

Age 40

2 IUI

2 IVF

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Nurse or HC Services

Only Doc Seen

Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Daniel Grow Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

He [Dr. Daniel Grow] didn't mention PGS or give me an estimated chance of success on his own and I had to bring it up...My doctor did not communicate [his Eset Approach] with me...My first few rounds I very much felt like a number. I rarely saw him or had any communication with him. I had a conversation with him about my frustration with this experience. Afterwards he really made an effort to be more available, communicate more and treat me more like a person.

My nurse Shannon [at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] is excellent and a good communicator...They did not call with the results of a pregnancy test when I was scheduled to take clomid that evening. I had to call the doctor on call to get the results...You may rarely see your doctor. Many scans are performed by random doctors and ultrasound technicians. Your doctor may not do your retrieval or transfer. They have a schedule for retrieval and your retrieval will be done by whoever is scheduled to perform retrievals that day.

How was your experience with Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

He genuinely wants to help people get pregnant. He was willing to look at my case and come with an individualized plan. He has a good bedside manner but you may not see him frequently. He was not good about communicating my chance of success and only did so when I asked after several failed cycles.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Ask him specific questions. He didn't mention PGS or give me an estimated chance of success on his own and I had to bring it up.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

My first few rounds I very much felt like a number. I rarely saw him or had any communication with him. I had a conversation with him about my frustration with this experience. Afterwards he really made an effort to be more available, communicate more and treat me more like a person.

Describe the protocols Daniel Grow used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

Clomid 100mg for 2 IUI cycles, no rational given. 1st failed, 2nd canceled for poor response. 1st IVF estrogen priming, 450 follistim, 150 menopur, no rational given, 4 eggs 2 fertilized 1 abnormal blastocyst. 2nd round birth control, lupron 20units, 450 follistim 150 menopur, cancelled converted to IUI, chemical pregnancy, originally no rational given but after cancelling he said it was an established protocol for deminished overian reserve. 3rd IVF growth hormone 3 units, lupron 20 units to 10 units, 300 follistim, 300 menopur, rational was that it tailored to my case. 4 eggs retrieved, 2 embryos, and 1 abnormal blastocyst.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Shannon )

My nurse Shannon is excellent and a good communicator.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

They have a reputation of being a good clinician and they have some good doctors on staff. You may rarely see your doctor. Many scans are performed by random doctors and ultrasound technicians. Your doctor may not do your retrieval or transfer. They have a schedule for retrieval and your retrieval will be done by whoever is scheduled to perform retrievals that day.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Monitoring appointments are in the morning. I didn't know who was going to do my scan until they walked in the room. You are given a cloth to drape and given as much privacy as possible.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Grow at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Insurance covered treatment and most meds. PGS $1500 for biopsy each time.

Describe Daniel Grow's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

My doctor did not communicate this with me

What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Failed to call with results

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

They did not call with the results of a pregnancy test when I was scheduled to take clomid that evening. I had to call the doctor on call to get the results.

Doctor

Daniel Grow

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Daniel Grow Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2017 - 2018, Successful

Age 29 - 30

4 IUI

Anovulation

PCOS

European

Income $200K - $499K

Consultant

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

John Nulsen (retired)Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

We see Dr. Nulsen usually every couple appointments. He has been very caring. At first, I believe he just thought we were going to be a quick case so did not pay much attention to us. After we got pregnant and miscarried, his attention towards us quickly changed. Since then, he has been very attentive and caring.... We have used letrozole and the trigger shot. We started off using 5 mg of letrozole but that did not produce any follicles.

Strengths for this clinic [UCONN Medical] include organization and nursing team. Organization in terms processes and procedures. They have also been willing to work with me on price and insurance issues. Weaknesses are probably similar to other clinics in which there are too many patients which can sometimes make for long wait times.... The nursing staff always calls when they say they will and always follows up. If they do not know the answer, they usually touch base with Dr. Nulsen and call me right back.

How was your experience with John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Dr. Nulsen is very caring but still remember to be your own advocate. The month we did get pregnant, was a result of a request that I had made regarding my care.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

He learned who we are; would have conversations with my husband about boating; when we miscarried, he rubbed my leg and my arm and apologized.

Describe the protocols John Nulsen (retired) used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

We have used letrozole and the trigger shot. We started off using 5 mg of letrozole but that did not produce any follicles. We switched to 7.5 which is the highest dose they will give and consistently got 1-2 follicles. We used the trigger shot at my request because we were ovulating late and my ovaries would ache. This also helped time the IUI.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Deb Jaksina)

The nursing staff always calls when they say they will and always follows up. If they do not know the answer, they usually touch base with Dr. Nulsen and call me right back.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Strengths for this clinic include organization and nursing team. Organization in terms processes and procedures. They have also been willing to work with me on price and insurance issues. Weaknesses are probably similar to other clinics in which there are too many patients which can sometimes make for long wait times.

Describe the costs associated with your care under John Nulsen (retired) at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

We did IUI which was approximately $699 per cycle. This included all ultrasounds and blood monitoring. We paid an additional $125 for the trigger shot. We also had a D&C procedure which my insurance covered.

What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

One time they failed to call prescriptions to a pharmacy because of a new software that they were using for prescriptions.

Doctor

John Nulsen (retired)

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

John Nulsen (retired)Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

2015 - 2018, Unknown Success

Age 31 - 34

2 IUI

3 IVF

PCOS

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

Donor Sperm

LGBTQ+

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Sometimes he [Dr. David Schmidt] was a little too gentle and hopeful given our complicated situation. He cares so much and just wants the best for his patients. He gave us a number of different options and we’ve had many follow up appointments over the past 3 years...He can be a little optimistic even when we were very burnt out, sad, and frustrated. As a scientist myself, I understand the statistics behind things, and sometimes I wish he could sit with my anger and disappointment rather than be super positive. We might not ever get a baby, and sometimes there’s nothing science can do about it. That’s an important and honest thing to acknowledge.

Sometimes it took so long that I’d be there [Center for Advanced Reproductive Services] over an hour waiting and my whole day was thrown off schedule...Strengths: Lots of doctors, close off the highway so it’s easy to get to, have financial and insurance people there to work with you. Weaknesses: Lots of patients so it’s very very busy, some front staff are a little confused sometimes...Kathy could not be a better nurse. She has taken us under her wing and shown us such care and compassion. We’ve been working with her close to 3 years and we’ve developed a strong bond with her. We feel like she’s almost family.

How was your experience with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Sometimes he was a little too gentle and hopeful given our complicated situation. He cares so much and just wants the best for his patients. He gave us a number of different options and we’ve had many follow up appointments over the past 3 years.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

He can be a little optimistic even when we were very burnt out, sad, and frustrated. As a scientist myself, I understand the statistics behind things, and sometimes I wish he could sit with my anger and disappointment rather than be super positive. We might not ever get a baby, and sometimes there’s nothing science can do about it. That’s an important and honest thing to acknowledge.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Always very kind and compassionate and treated my wife and I like any other couple (we’re a same sex couple)

Describe the protocols David Schmidt used in your cycles at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic) and their degree of success.

Our first pregnancy ended because our son had a fatal genetic disorder. We got pregnant right away, so this was a rude awakening to infertility. We did pgs testing on the remaining embryos and found 4 of the 5 had genetic issues. We tried two cycles of IUI with my wife but had a chemical pregnancy and then a negative outcome. Tried to transfer the final healthy embryo but it didn’t take. We did an exploratory uterine surgery on my wife to see if there was a physical reason for the lack of pregnancy. We didn’t find anything. She did a cycle with her eggs and we got 2 genetically normal embryos. Transferred one and it didn’t take. In the meantime, we tried a retrieval cycle with my eggs again, but we only got one embryo and the genetics were inconclusion. We’re waiting to start another transfer with the remaining healthy embryo.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic). (Assigned nurse: Kathy Varkal )

Kathy could not be a better nurse. She has taken us under her wing and shown us such care and compassion. We’ve been working with her close to 3 years and we’ve developed a strong bond with her. We feel like she’s almost family.

Describe your experience with Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Strengths: Lots of doctors, close off the highway so it’s easy to get to, have financial and insurance people there to work with you. Weaknesses: Lots of patients so it’s very very busy, some front staff are a little confused sometimes

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Sometimes it took so long that I’d be there over an hour waiting and my whole day was thrown off schedule.

Describe the costs associated with your care under David Schmidt at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

Insurance covered most of our procedures. About $1,000 for freezing, $1,400 for transferring my embryo to my wife, and $150 a quarter for storage of embryos.

What specific things went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)?

Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Provided conflicting information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic).

One nurse was horrible. She was rude, harsh, and didn’t put in for the right blood work so our schedule was pushed back a month. When we got back with Kathy everything was fixed.

Doctor

David Schmidt

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

Farmington

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

David Schmidt Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

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Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

9 doctors work here

CDC Success Rates

Available Resources

This clinic has 5 offices
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84 patient reviews

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Learn from top medical experts

Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (First Fertility Network Clinic)

9 doctors work here

CDC Success Rates

Available Resources

This clinic has 5 officesVisit clinic website

84 patient reviews

Learn from top medical experts

This clinic has 5 offices
Visit clinic website