Ratings of 1 indicate that a clinic was poorly operated.
Ratings of 10 indicate that a clinic operated very well.
Scheduling
8.5
8.5
Scheduling
Ratings of 1 mean it was difficult to schedule appointments with this clinic.
Ratings of 10 mean it was easy to schedule appointments.
Billing Department
7.2
7.2
Billing Department
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory billing department.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent billing department.
Nursing Team
8.1
8.1
Nursing Team
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory nursing team.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent nursing team.
LGBTQ+ Care
7
7
LGBTQ+ Care
Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory LGBTQ+ care.
Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent LGBTQ+ care.
Attention to Detail
7.2
7.2
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is on a 1 - 10 scale, and is scored based on the rate, and severity, of errors committed by the clinic according to the patients.
For example, a severe error might be failing to inform a patient of critical information, while a small error might be failing to call a patient with results.
CDC Success Rates
This is the most recent data from the CDC. The CDC cautions that it should not be used to compare doctors and clinics. This data represents the outcomes of IVF cycles when using a person's own eggs.
For more information please see our FAQs.
Where you see a “?” on the chart, a clinic has done fewer than 20 cycles in this category and age range, so the CDC says showing percentages from this small data set would be misleading and unreliable.
Dr Manko was up front and honest. That is what i like when it comes to my treatments. I was stalled because of an abnormal pap and have been waiting to continue forward with my transfer...I used birth control for a few months to get my cycle on track, i used gonal f and another medicine that started with an m to get my eggs ready for retrieval. I was switched at last minute to a different trigger shot because of the way my body was reacting
The nurses [at IVF Florida] were very friendly and you felt at home when you had an appointment. It is pretty easy to understand and if you dont you can ask and they will tell you what you want to know in a way you can undertstand...Always eager to get you in and out in a timely manner and always there to make sure you understand what they are asking you to do
How was your experience with Gene Manko (retired) at IVF Florida?
The nurses were very friendly and you felt at home when you had an appointment. It is pretty easy to understand and if you dont you can ask and they will tell you what you want to know in a way you can undertstand
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Gene Manko (retired) at IVF Florida?
Do not be scared to ask any and every question. You may feel intimidated and scared but do not hesitate to ask whatever you would like because he is open and will answer any question
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Gene Manko (retired) at IVF Florida?
Dr Manko was up front and honest. That is what i like when it comes to my treatments. I was stalled because of an abnormal pap and have been waiting to continue forward with my transfer.
Describe the protocols Gene Manko (retired) used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
I used birth control for a few months to get my cycle on track, i used gonal f and another medicine that started with an m to get my eggs ready for retrieval. I was switched at last minute to a different trigger shot because of the way my body was reacting
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
They are very friendly but need to be more on top of their game when it comes to the waiting area. Otherwise they are awesome and comforting. Always eager to get you in and out in a timely manner and always there to make sure you understand what they are asking you to do
I like he [Dr. David Hoffman] is personable and on one and one very nice and straight forward. The only thing I didn’t like is that sometimes he said one thing and the nurses said they can’t do it as far as scheduling goes...Take everything he says with a grain of salt as pertains to your schedule...We are in the process of a low hormone stimulus to see how many eggs I can get
[IVF Florida - Margate is] High tech and easily accessible to get to. Nice new facility as well. I like that there are multiple waiting rooms for different things and they are very knowledgeable on what to do and where to go. Still in the beginning so don’t know much but so far so good...$22k with before tests for diagnosing and monitoring and my meds were only $1900
How was your experience with David Hoffman at IVF Florida?
I like he is personable and on one and one very nice and straight forward. The only thing I didn’t like is that sometimes he said one thing and the nurses said they can’t do it as far as scheduling goes.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Hoffman at IVF Florida?
Take everything he says with a grain of salt as pertains to your schedule
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Hoffman at IVF Florida?
I feel like the nurses cared about me
Describe the protocols David Hoffman used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
We are in the process of a low hormone stimulus to see how many eggs I can get
Describe your experience with your nurse at IVF Florida. (Assigned nurse: Talia friedman)
They make you feel comfortable
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
High tech and easily accessible to get to. Nice new facility as well. I like that there are multiple waiting rooms for different things and they are very knowledgeable on what to do and where to go. Still in the beginning so don’t know much but so far so good
Describe the costs associated with your care under David Hoffman at IVF Florida.
$22k with before tests for diagnosing and monitoring and my meds were only $1900
Describe David Hoffman's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
I’m just getting older and I’d rather have the risk of a double pregnancy than do one and a time
[Dr. Daniel Christie] takes a lot of time to explain your diagnosis, treatment plan, prognosis, and answers any questions that you may have. Multiple times during my treatment with him he called me to answer questions and explain a change in protocol as needed...changed my protocol
[IVF Florida] was organized and the accounting department was on top of processing insurance payments...nursing staff was really compassionate and organized...front desk staff was always nice. There are times you will wait for your appointments...I had both Suzie and Keli and they were both very helpful
How was your experience with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
I give Dr Christie a 10/10 across the board for patient and clinical care. I am currently holding my 3 week old newborn because of him. He always believed in me that I could have a live birth with an healthy baby and told me that from the start. He takes a lot of time to explain your diagnosis, treatment plan, prognosis, and answers any questions that you may have. Multiple times during my treatment with him he called me to answer questions and explain a change in protocol as needed. After an unsuccessful retrieval attempt because of poor response related to DOR, he changed my protocol to mini stim when we had a much better outcome and I got my euploid embryo from that retrieval. Across the board, there’s not really much else you can ask for from an RE. Thank you Dr Christie!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Feel free to take the time to ask him questions that you may have because he is willing to explain things to you. Also recommend getting a second opinion from him if you are not happy with your current care. I did a consult with him when I wasn’t getting good treatment elsewhere and I’m so happy I switched.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Dr Christie has excellent bedside manner. He treats you like a human being and is extremely empathetic in his patient care.
Describe the protocols Daniel Christie used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
I have DOR so I don’t make a lot of eggs to begin with. My first retrieval attempt we used a standard antagonist protocol and I had poor response so we converted to an IUI which did not work. The second cycle he switched me to mini stim (Clomid daily and Follistim every other day) and that’s where I got my one euploid embryo. I got three retrieved, 3 fertilized, and the one embryo to send for testing. We tried a third cycle but I had poor response again so we cancelled and decided to move forward with my transfer since I had the euploid embryo to transfer. This was a successful transfer.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
I thought that the nursing staff was really compassionate and organized at IVF FL. I had both Suzie and Keli and they were both very helpful
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
The clinic was organized and the accounting department was on top of processing insurance payments(this is important as I’ve been to another big practice in the area and they were awful at billing you the appropriate amount and would overcharge you). The front desk staff was always nice. There are times you will wait for your appointments so bring a book or your work laptop, but this is pretty typical at an RE office because they are trying to fit everybody in for labs and ultrasound that need it for the day. It’s out of their control how many people have to come in so it is what it is.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Christie at IVF Florida.
I had insurance so I had to pay my deductible and coinsurance for office visits. Genetic testing was out of pocket and so were a lot of my meds.
Describe Daniel Christie's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
I wanted to have the highest chance at a healthy pregnancy with a live birth which is why we went with a single embryo transfer. Especially since it was a genetically tested euploid embryo it made no sense for me to transfer more than 1(also we only had the one to transfer). I have a living child from previous fertility treatment and I only wanted one more.
Dr. Weitzman treated me like a partner on this journey. We made decisions every step of the way as a team. She listened, answered my questions, and we made decisions together...is knowledgeable, communicative, and met my needs as a patient. I am eternally grateful to her...for helping me and my husband on our journey to become parents. Because of her and her expertise, our baby girl will be here in August.
The [IVF Florida] clinic is busy!!! Balancing my appointments with my work schedule was necessary but if you stayed on top of your appointments and requested the earliest available time, you could usually predict how much time you would need. The team was flexible and did their best to accommodate my needs...I am eternally grateful to her and her amazing team for helping me and my husband on our journey to become parents. Because of her and her expertise, our baby girl will be here in August.
How was your experience with Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
Dr. Weitzman is knowledgeable, communicative, and met my needs as a patient. I am eternally grateful to her and her amazing team for helping me and my husband on our journey to become parents. Because of her and her expertise, our baby girl will be here in August.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
She is great. She has a great bedside manner. She is warm but will not just tell you what you want to hear. She keeps it realistic and doesn’t try to push you into anything you don’t want to do. Bring lots of questions and be prepared to learn.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
Dr. Weitzman treated me like a partner on this journey. We made decisions every step of the way as a team. She listened, answered my questions, and we made decisions together.
Describe the protocols Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
Even though I was a candidate for IUI, we agreed that because I was over 35, the sooner we froze my eggs with IVF, the better quality and number I would be able to obtain and thus increased my chances. After 1 failed IVF cycle and no embryos left, I took Metformin orally for 3 months before prepping for my second cycle to increase my egg quality in hopes of getting more embryos. It worked because we got 3 embryos from my second retrieval, 1 of which became our miracle baby. After my second failed FET, we opted for a mock cycle to confirm that our timing was correct before we were down to our last embryo. Other doctors don’t try a mock cycle until you’ve had 3 failed FET which in my case would have left me with my last embryo before we attempted something different. Unfortunately even though we gained information to alter the approach of my third FET, it was unsuccessful. But, our last and final FET following my natural cycle and God’s timing ended up being what worked!
Describe your experience with your nurse at IVF Florida. (Assigned nurse: I had the same nurse, Mel, at the main office location I went to.)
The entire team became family. During IVF, you have lots of appointments for consecutive days/weeks at a time, so I developed a bond with the team and they helped an otherwise difficult process a bit easier.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
The clinic is busy!!! Balancing my appointments with my work schedule was necessary but if you stayed on top of your appointments and requested the earliest available time, you could usually predict how much time you would need. The team was flexible and did their best to accommodate my needs.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida.
The cost of an IVF cycle was about $20K. Luckily I started a new job just before starting and had insurance coverage so I was extremely blessed to only have copays/deductible.
Describe Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
Dr. Weitzman and IVF Florida do not transfer more than 1 embryo at a time. At the time, I may have considered 2 but I respected the decision and understood the rationale.
Dr. Christie is a mild mannered man. He is specific in explaining all possibilities and options available. He is open to questions and concerns. Even when I went through another loss he was able to give me the options a available to me...I liked that he gave me options and even time availability for when he could conduct the procedure. He advised that I need not make a decision right now and to take my time with what I feel most comfortable with.
The [IVF Florida - Pembroke Pines] clinic itself was just a clinic. Nothing warm and fuzzy to speak of just an office and it runs like an office. I would say that this is not necessarily a bad thing. It’s efficient. Sometimes the nursing staff would schedule your appointments and at other times ask that you call the office to schedule it yourself.
How was your experience with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Dr. Christie is a mild mannered man. He is specific in explaining all possibilities and options available. He is open to questions and concerns. Even when I went through another loss he was able to give me the options a available to me. Although, I must say, being that it was confirmed a loss, I was not in a headspace to make a decision and I advised him of that. I said the 2 options I was more comfortable with but unable to make a decision. He was accepting and did not rush me to make any one particular decision. I liked that he gave me options and even time availability for when he could conduct the procedure. He advised that I need not make a decision right now and to take my time with what I feel most comfortable with.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Since he is open to questions and concerns bring them all up so you could get as much information as possible to make the best choices for yourself and your individual situation.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
The staff are friendly, recognize you, and help when they can
Describe the protocols Daniel Christie used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
In all of my cycles we used clomid and gonal f to prepare me and allow for release of eggs. Then we did the trigger injection (ovidrel) once my bloodwork and ultrasound showed a follicle at the appropriate size to begin ovulation and then come in to inseminate. A couple times I needed a couple rounds of clomid and gonal f in the same cycle. Only symptoms I really noticed was the hot flashes!!!!
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
While most of the time the communication with the nursing staff was via the portal it was an efficient way to get my questions and concerns addressed. Which I truly appreciated.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
The clinic itself was just a clinic. Nothing warm and fuzzy to speak of just an office and it runs like an office. I would say that this is not necessarily a bad thing. It’s efficient. Sometimes the nursing staff would schedule your appointments and at other times ask that you call the office to schedule it yourself.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Christie at IVF Florida.
Dr. Bou Nemer took her time to explain our diagnosis with us in detail, as well as the treatment plan. She went through the success rates of every treatment and gave us the option to choose the treatment that we are comfortable with. I never felt rushed and all my questions were always answered...We did not feel rushed at any time and felt comfortable with our decision at the end of the consultation...
The nurses [at IVF Florida] were compassionate and knowledgeable. I saw the same 2 nurses every time I went for my appointments. They are also the ones that answered most of my messages in the portal...It is a very large clinic with a lot of different offices. One of the offices is open on the weekend...The appointments with the doctor are mostly virtual...The doctor was always able to accommodate appointments on a short notice, and I was able to schedule ultrasounds and other procedures for the next day...
How was your experience with Laurice Bou Nemer at IVF Florida?
We heard about the doctor from a friend who had her 2 children with her. At the first visit, she was very kind and informative, and gave us a list of tests to do. We had another appointment after this where we went over the results and we were diagnosed with unexplained infertility. The doctor gave us the choice of either IUI or IVF. She explained both options in detail, and even told us the success rates of each in our specific case. We did not feel pressured into going one way or the other. We chose to start with IUI for 3 cycles and then to move to IVF if IUI is not successful. After three IUIs, we moved on to IVF. The doctor had another virtual appointment with us to discuss IVF in detail. We asked a long list of questions that we had prepared and she answered all the questions. We did not feel rushed at any time and felt comfortable with our decision at the end of the consultation. Thankfully, IVF went as expected and I am currently pregnant with a baby girl!
I did not feel like just another patient. I always felt that the doctor cared about me and was doing what is best for my case.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laurice Bou Nemer at IVF Florida?
Do not hesitate to ask your questions! I was initially hesitant because I worried that I would be asking "stupid" questions, because I had never done any fertility treatment before. But Dr. Bou Nemer is always open for questions and never makes you feel like you are asking too many questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laurice Bou Nemer at IVF Florida?
Dr. Bou Nemer took her time to explain our diagnosis with us in detail, as well as the treatment plan. She went through the success rates of every treatment and gave us the option to choose the treatment that we are comfortable with. I never felt rushed and all my questions were always answered.
Describe the protocols Laurice Bou Nemer used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
I used gonal-F, menopur and cetrotide. I had a frozen embryo transfer with estrogen patches and progesterone injections.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
The nurses were compassionate and knowledgeable. I saw the same 2 nurses every time I went for my appointments. They are also the ones that answered most of my messages in the portal. They make you feel like part of the team and don't treat you like a number. There are other nurses in the weekend or when you go to another office location.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
It is a very large clinic with a lot of different offices. One of the offices is open on the weekend, so I went there a few times during my IUI and IVF treatments.
The appointments with the doctor are mostly virtual, which was fine with me. The doctor was always able to accommodate appointments on a short notice, and I was able to schedule ultrasounds and other procedures for the next day.
Describe Laurice Bou Nemer's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
They do not offer multiple embryo transfer
What specific things went wrong at IVF Florida?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost paperwork
Describe the specific things that went wrong at IVF Florida.
The records from my primary doctor never made it by fax to the clinic.
Dr.Christie is very easy to speak to and explains everyone g in a way you can understand. Great bedside manner and addresses your concerns. He explained what he recommends as the next step. He is very supportive and was honest on our last time intercourse cycle...When I had a chemical pregnancy he called me and explained everything...Letrozole was used as I have PCOS and wasn’t ovulating on my own, and my husbands SA was normal, this is why he suggested we try timed intercourse
The clinic [at IVF Florida] is clean and friendly. The only thing is they were not very clear ahead of time on pricing. The medical assistants that used to draw my blood were very nice and encouraging. I did feel like a number at times especially when waiting for ultrasounds...The nurses were nice and all communication was via the portal. I felt like that was impersonal especially when you have questions during such a stressful time.
How was your experience with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Dr.Christie is very easy to speak to and explains everyone g in a way you can understand. Great bedside manner and addresses your concerns. He explained what he recommends as the next step. He is very supportive and was honest on our last time intercourse cycle.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Ask all the questions he is very easy to talk to.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Dr.Christie is very warm and has great bedside manner. He explains everything easily and answers all your questions. When I had a chemical pregnancy he called me and explained everything.
Describe the protocols Daniel Christie used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
I was placed on letrozole for ovarian stimulation. HCG injection to trigger ovulation and then proceed with times intercourse. I did 4 of these cycles and on the 5th cycle follitism injection was added to “boost” ovulation. I did ovulate on every cycle but was unsuccessful getting pregnant. I had 1 chemical pregnancy. Letrozole was used as I have PCOS and wasn’t ovulating on my own, and my husbands SA was normal, this is why he suggested we try timed intercourse. I did have an HSG before starting that showed a blocked tube. I had to repeat the HSG and pay again because the doctor that initially did the test was my treating physician and couldn’t make the decision to try an unblock the tube without Dr.Christie’s approval.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
The nurses were nice and all communication was via the portal. I felt like that was impersonal especially when you have questions during such a stressful time.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
The clinic is clean and friendly. The only thing is they were not very clear ahead of time on pricing. The medical assistants that used to draw my blood were very nice and encouraging. I did feel like a number at times especially when waiting for ultrasounds.
Dr. Bou Nemer's bedside manner is adequately warm, but I barely saw her or spoke to her. When I did speak to her, she reassured me that my treatment was going to be successful because she was confident nothing greater than my diminishing reserve was going on. Unfortunately, I was misdiagnosed by Dr. Bou Nemer and treated for diminished reserve when I actually had PCOS. My new doctor says that they don't quite understand how Dr. Bou Nemer looked at my bloodwork and missed these major markers.
This clinic [IVF Florida] scheduled everyone at the same time, so you can imagine that this was a cattle call...The nursing staff does the best they can with the short staffing of their offices. They are very nice people and I have had lovely conversations with them all. The front office staff truly kept me sane. Unfortunately, they did not have enough pieces of the puzzle provided by my doctor to make the right decisions for me.
How was your experience with Laurice Bou Nemer at IVF Florida?
For my IVF, we followed standard protocol. I took birth control for a month and then went in to measure my antral follicles on day four only to find that I only had about four viable follicles between both my ovaries. I expressed extreme apprehension about going forward with my cycle and repeatedly mentioned this to my sonogram technician as well as the nurses. My doctor reassured me by telling me that four follicles was good for someone with diminished reserve (which I was shocked to find out she thought I had). I trusted my doctor despite the fact that the first time I had gone into the clinic and every subsequent month, the tech had measured between 10-13 antral follicles. I should have known this was a red flag. At every single apprehensive statement, I was given the same IVF mantra “it only takes one” and sent right out the door once more. Upon retrieval, they extracted seven follicles, four were mature, and only 3 fertilized with ICSI. All three embryos did not make it past day three.
During my post IVF consultation, my doctor told me that my ovaries were in worse shape than she imagined. She claimed that my embryo quality put me at an ovarian age of a 38 year old woman. Basically, the consultation ended with hopelessly blaming me for the sudden attrition of the embryos. She proceeded to tell me that she could try tweaking the medicines, but that she could not be confident we would retrieve anything worthwhile. I was the most devastated I have ever been, but I agreed to try again in November of 2021.
In October of 2021, I scheduled a second opinion consultation with another South Florida clinic. This was where things really got crazy. The clinic sent me to an endocrinologist who overturned every single medical decision that IVF Florida had ever made in the effort of my treatment. Not only was I not a diminished reserve patient, my AMH was misread by their laborator and was actually at 3.08. The endocrinologist believed that I had been dealing with undiagnosed PCOS and that this was the reason my treatment did not work (since I had been pumped full of maximum dosage menopur and gonal f to treat my supposed diminished reserve).
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laurice Bou Nemer at IVF Florida?
You have to be clearer about your own treatment than your doctor. Know your body and do not trust everything at face value
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laurice Bou Nemer at IVF Florida?
Dr. Bou Nemer's bedside manner is adequately warm, but I barely saw her or spoke to her. When I did speak to her, she reassured me that my treatment was going to be successful because she was confident nothing greater than my diminishing reserve was going on. Unfortunately, I was misdiagnosed by Dr. Bou Nemer and treated for diminished reserve when I actually had PCOS. My new doctor says that they don't quite understand how Dr. Bou Nemer looked at my bloodwork and missed these major markers.
Describe the protocols Laurice Bou Nemer used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
In November of 2020 I requested a consultation at IVFFlorida. They were referred by my OB as the result of a conversation about trying to get pregnant. I am in a same sex relationship and I had few known health issues. When I went to my consultation at IVF Florida, we ran through my health history and I was sent off to bloodwork. The bloodwork came back and my doctor (L. Bou Nemer) said that the only concerning number was my AMH (1.86 at 31 y.o.). We proceeded to try three unmedicated IUI cycles and three medicated IUI cycles with varying amounts of Letrozole (2.5, 5, 7.5). When all of these treatments failed, my doctor suggested that I jump into IVF. She claimed that because of my age and relatively good health, I would more than likely graduate with only one IVF cycle.
My IVF cycle was an abysmal failure. I only retrieved 7 eggs, 4 mature, and 3 fertilized. All three arrested and died on the third day. This was later explained to me as a mistake in protocol from the clinic and clinician by another clinic.
Describe your experience with your nurse at IVF Florida. (Assigned nurse: Vanessa)
The nursing staff does the best they can with the short staffing of their offices. They are very nice people and I have had lovely conversations with them all. The front office staff truly kept me sane. Unfortunately, they did not have enough pieces of the puzzle provided by my doctor to make the right decisions for me.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
The clinic is always packed full of women coming in for bloodwork or ultrasounds, which means that they are almost always running late. They do their best to accommodate you, but they forgot my appointment and the fact that I was in the waiting room more than once. Their communication happens strictly over their portal and sometimes they just copy and paste instructions, which means that they send you generic instructions when they sometimes contradict what they have told you in the clinic. This caused one of my IUIs to be canceled since I did not take the trigger shot on time.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at IVF Florida.
This clinic scheduled everyone at the same time, so you can imagine that this was a cattle call.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laurice Bou Nemer at IVF Florida.
I paid about 2k for each IUI cycle (including sperm donor semen) all out of pocket. Everything I paid for was out of pocket with some help from the clinic billing certain procedures to my insurance if they could. Still, the IVF procedure was very costly and all upfront.
What specific things went wrong at IVF Florida?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost paperwork
Lost appointments
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at IVF Florida.
In November of 2020 I requested a consultation at IVFFlorida. They were referred by my OB as the result of a conversation about trying to get pregnant. I am in a same sex relationship and I had few known health issues. When I went to my consultation at IVF Florida, we ran through my health history and I was sent off to bloodwork. The bloodwork came back and my doctor (L. Bou Nemer) said that the only concerning number was my AMH (1.86 at 31 y.o.). We proceeded to try three unmedicated IUI cycles and three medicated IUI cycles with varying amounts of Letrozole (2.5, 5, 7.5). When all of these treatments failed, my doctor suggested that I jump into IVF. She claimed that because of my age and relatively good health, I would more than likely graduate with only one IVF cycle.
For my IVF, we followed standard protocol. I took birth control for a month and then went in to measure my antral follicles on day four only to find that I only had about four viable follicles between both my ovaries. I expressed extreme apprehension about going forward with my cycle and repeatedly mentioned this to my sonogram technician as well as the nurses. My doctor reassured me by telling me that four follicles was good for someone with diminished reserve (which I was shocked to find out she thought I had). I trusted my doctor despite the fact that the first time I had gone into the clinic and every subsequent month, the tech had measured between 10-13 antral follicles. I should have known this was a red flag. At every single apprehensive statement, I was given the same IVF mantra “it only takes one” and sent right out the door once more. Upon retrieval, they extracted seven follicles, four were mature, and only 3 fertilized with ICSI. All three embryos did not make it past day three.
During my post IVF consultation, my doctor told me that my ovaries were in worse shape than she imagined. She claimed that my embryo quality put me at an ovarian age of a 38 year old woman. Basically, the consultation ended with hopelessly blaming me for the sudden attrition of the embryos. She proceeded to tell me that she could try tweaking the medicines, but that she could not be confident we would retrieve anything worthwhile. I was the most devastated I have ever been, but I agreed to try again in November of 2021.
In October of 2021, I scheduled a second opinion consultation with another South Florida clinic. This was where things really got crazy. The clinic sent me to an endocrinologist who overturned every single medical decision that IVF Florida had ever made in the effort of my treatment. Not only was I not a diminished reserve patient, my AMH was misread by their laborator and was actually at 3.08. The endocrinologist believed that I had been dealing with undiagnosed PCOS and that this was the reason my treatment did not work (since I had been pumped full of maximum dosage menopur and gonal f to treat my supposed diminished reserve).
Now I am fighting to let other women know how dangerous and reckless this clinic is and how little they care to treat patients with human decency. They want your money and they will give you the lowest quality of care in order to get it and then attempt to collect again.
Dr. Christie explained things in a matter we understood. He answered to all of our questions and was happy when we had more . He truly cares , and is very sweet and understanding...Don’t think twice , you won’t regret choosing him. I have a sleeping 3 month old next to me , when I thought it was never going to be possible.
It is really hard to get a hold of someone Over the phone, nearly Imposible [at IVF Florida]. It was very frustrating …you would leave a voicemail and never get a call back. You have better luck in the portal ! However , it is very easy to make appointments , you get a response super fast and get appointments close to date.
How was your experience with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
I have absolutely nothing bad to say about Dr. Christie.
My husband and I left the 1st visit filled with hope , with a plan and with all of our questions answered.
He is a warm , compassionate , knowledgeable person , he treats you exactly how you would like to be treated when you are at your lowest . Giving you hope and all the variety of option out there to make you dream come true. You asked the same question twice ? Didn’t understand something ?
You would expect for a weird look, but not from him, he would smile and treat you with sweetness and respect and answer your questions 10 times if necessary.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Don’t think twice , you won’t regret choosing him. I have a sleeping 3 month old next to me , when I thought it was never going to be possible.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Dr. Christie explained things in a matter we understood. He answered to all of our questions and was happy when we had more .
He truly cares , and is very sweet and understanding.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
Sussy, she seems like a tough one, but oh I remember her ❤️ sweet and caring once you get to know her . Always remember you !
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
It is really hard to get a hold of someone Over the phone, nearly Imposible. It was very frustrating …you would leave a voicemail and never get a call back.
You have better luck in the portal !
However , it is very easy to make appointments , you get a response super fast and get appointments close to date. Never have I had a problem with appointments… just when you have questions over the phone is impossible
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Christie at IVF Florida.
Insurance covered
Describe Daniel Christie's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
Because of my age , he recommended just a single embryo transfer . I’m glad I did , because it took the second time !
[Protocol with Dr. Barrionuevo] Letrozole, trigger shot, and timed intercourse. Second treatment started with Letrozole and then the nurse ended my treatment mid cycle...He was alway a 2-3 hour wait...I hardly got a chance to see the doctor the three times I have seen him with my husband it always the same spiel. Same diagram same percentage of chances of getting pregnant at my age. I couldn’t be open and talk to him because we were always being rushed... I don’t doubt he’s knowledgeable but I just never felt comfortable with him. He would set a treatment plan and forget what he ordered and not remember the plan argue with me about the plan that we had just discussed. Communication was just terrible.
[Protocol at IVF Florida] Letrozole, trigger shot, and timed intercourse. Second treatment started with Letrozole and then the nurse ended my treatment mid cycle...The nurses were nice but Communication wasn’t that great. The nurse who was handling my treatment called me a liar. She never told me if my pap was positive I couldn’t continue treatment. As a matter of fact my first cycle was done with an abnormal Pap. In the middle of my second cycle they requested my most recent Pap smear. When I faxed it to them they told me to stop treatment mid cycle and to repeat another Pap smear and we would try again next month. Needless to say I was upset I was pissed and that was the day I stop going to this clinic.
How was your experience with Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida?
With Dr. B I felt rushed. I felt like I couldn’t express myself because he would cut me off. I don’t doubt he’s knowledgeable but I just never felt comfortable with him. He would set a treatment plan and forget what he ordered and not remember the plan argue with me about the plan that we had just discussed. Communication was just terrible.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida?
Pick another doctor in the group unless u have time to waste
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida?
I hardly got a chance to see the doctor the three times I have seen him with my husband it always the same spiel. Same diagram same percentage of chances of getting pregnant at my age. I couldn’t be open and talk to him because we were always being rushed.
Describe the protocols Marcelo Barrionuevo used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
Letrozole, trigger shot, and timed intercourse. Second treatment started with Letrozole and then the nurse ended my treatment mid cycle
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
The nurses were nice but Communication wasn’t that great. The nurse who was handling my treatment called me a liar. She never told me if my pap was positive I couldn’t continue treatment. As a matter of fact my first cycle was done with an abnormal Pap. In the middle of my second cycle they requested my most recent Pap smear. When I faxed it to them they told me to stop treatment mid cycle and to repeat another Pap smear and we would try again next month. Needless to say I was upset I was pissed and that was the day I stop going to this clinic.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
The clinic was ok nurses and ultrasound tech ran on time. The doctor now that’s another story. He was alway a 2-3 hour wait. I would have no problem with that if he allowed you to speak freely and took his time with you.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida.
My insurance took care of majority of my treatment
Describe Marcelo Barrionuevo's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
N/A
What specific things went wrong at IVF Florida?
Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
Describe the specific things that went wrong at IVF Florida.
I had already had one cycle done at this clinic with an abnormal Pap that wasn’t a concern. During my second cycle all of a sudden my abnormal Pap became a concern. To cover their tracks they asked that I stop my Treatment midcycle
As a patient of Dr. Weitzman I felt very well taken care of. There was once a call to be made on my treatment (regarding the time of a trigger shot) when she was not on call. The doctor on call gave his instructions and after she reviewed it, she over-ruled them with her own instructions. She has a warm bedside manner and she is also direct...Dr. Weitzman performed a laparoscopy and came in to go over everything and give me a hug during pre-op. She is also the one to call me with the results of a treatment cycle.
the doctors [at IVF Florida] are on an on-call rotation. If the timing of the procedure can be flexible (for example, a laparoscopy in some cases) then it's possible to schedule it with your own doctor...The practice is very large and it can feel like being a number...There are a few excellent nurses. They are excellent because they are compassionate, attentive, happy to be helpful, and make an effort to remember you. However, half of the nurses, if not more than half do not have these qualities. More often than not, they seem to do just what's required of them and nothing more.
How was your experience with Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
As a patient of Dr. Weitzman I felt very well taken care of. There was once a call to be made on my treatment (regarding the time of a trigger shot) when she was not on call. The doctor on call gave his instructions and after she reviewed it, she over-ruled them with her own instructions. She has a warm bedside manner and she is also direct.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
She is very likeable and and she's a good doctor but the patient should expect that since she works in a large practice, the odds are unlikely that she will be the one performing any of the actual treatment procedures because the doctors are on an on-call rotation. If the timing of the procedure can be flexible (for example, a laparoscopy in some cases) then it's possible to schedule it with your own doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
With Dr. Weitzman, I felt like a human. Dr. Weitzman performed a laparoscopy and came in to go over everything and give me a hug during pre-op. She is also the one to call me with the results of a treatment cycle.
The practice is very large and it can feel like being a number. Also, I saw several staff throughout the process so it felt like only Dr. Weitzman really knew me as an individual.
Describe the protocols Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
The strategy that stands out to me is the timing of the trigger shot. The doctor on-call who reviewed my results that day while Dr. Weitzman was away, gave his instructions for a trigger shot the following night. Dr. Weitzman also reviewed the results and called to override those instructions, saying that the trigger shot should be doe that very night. The rationale was that there were follicles that were a good size but a few that were smaller. Dr. Weitzman didn't want to compromise the mature follicles waiting for the immature ones to catch up. It turned out to be the right call in my unprofessional opinion because I ended up with 8 eggs, nearly twice as many as I had ever had. I don't remember how many fertilized but it was also the first time I was able to freeze an embryo.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
There are a few excellent nurses. They are excellent because they are compassionate, attentive, happy to be helpful, and make an effort to remember you. However, half of the nurses, if not more than half do not have these qualities. More often than not, they seem to do just what's required of them and nothing more.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
Sometimes when the nurse is calling in the next patient, she'll announce whether she needs a urine sample for the entire waiting room to hear. I do not like that. I have waited a long time in that office before. It's usually not too bad but there have been a couple of times that it was a very long wait. I don't like that I'm not able to see the screen during an ultra sound. I've been to offices where there is a screen visible to the patient. Being able to see the screen makes the patient feel included in the treatment rather than in the dark (figuratively and literally).
Describe the costs associated with your care under Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida.
I think the costs were comparable to the other local clinics. I did not feel like I was nickle and dimed, which I have felt at other clinics.
Describe Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
The decision of how many to transfer (one or two) was definitely mine, but Dr. Weitzman strongly recommended one.
What specific things went wrong at IVF Florida?
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at IVF Florida.
I don't remember the exact issue but I do remember that I once received conflicting information from two different nurses. I was also told by a pharmacy that a nurse gave wrong information which resulted in me having to pay for a prescription out of pocket rather than getting it covered. It was hard to verify what really happened. It was a "he said, she said" situation, but that same nurse had failed to give me certain information in the past so I'm inclined to believe it was her mistake.
Dr. Christie is conservative and always mentioned that we would be transferring one embryo (due to my age and what we felt comfortable with). At the time of transfer our embryo qualities weren't the best and he suggested to place in 2. We did a 3day embryo transfer, which resulted in 1singleton live birth...I.needed some advice about an FET and reached out 2 years after I had completed my treatment with him and he took the time to call me and give me some insight on the new cycle.
IVF Florida is a large clinic, so it's hard to get the feeling that people actually know who you are there. The billing department did at times send incorrect statements and appeared a bit disorganized. You have to be diligent with the bills to be sure it is all correct. What I liked about the clinic is that there were an abundance of appointments at all times of the day. They were open 7days a week and always responded quickly.
How was your experience with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Dr. Christie is an AMAZING doctor. He truly spends time with the patient and evaluates your needs individually. He has excellent bedside manner and you will not be going home feeling doubtful. I did a retrieval and fresh transfer cycle with him which resulted in my daughter. Shortly after giving birth I moved to a different state. I sent a message to Dr. Christie two years later asking about an FET and some recommendations. He actually called me and spent time over the phone reviewing my options with me. He gave me advice as if I were a family member! I will never forget this. His insight put me at ease and I am forever grateful to him for making this whole experience way more manageable.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Dr. Christie treated us like we were family. He spent time discussing all of our options, answered questions, and even called me himself to let me know test results. I needed some advice about an FET and reached out 2 years after I had completed my treatment with him and he took the time to call me and give me some insight on the new cycle.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
IVF Florida is a large clinic, so it's hard to get the feeling that people actually know who you are there. The billing department did at times send incorrect statements and appeared a bit disorganized. You have to be diligent with the bills to be sure it is all correct. What I liked about the clinic is that there were an abundance of appointments at all times of the day. They were open 7days a week and always responded quickly.
Describe Daniel Christie's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
Dr. Christie is conservative and always mentioned that we would be transferring one embryo (due to my age and what we felt comfortable with). At the time of transfer our embryo qualities weren't the best and he suggested to place in 2. We did a 3day embryo transfer, which resulted in 1singleton live birth.
From the moment I met Dr. Weitzman she always made me feel like I was important. Over the years she has been amazing. I always felt like I had someone in my corner who truly cared. I don't think I could make it thru this process without her...After our initial consultation 7.5 years ago she gave me something I had lost...hope. She is comforting, compassionate, eternally optimistic and the perfect example of the kind of doctor you want in your corner during this process. She has given me one beautiful son and has been there in my seemingly endless journey to #2...
The [IVF Florida - Pem Pines] clinics are beautiful, welcoming and have everything on site at at least one location making not so you never have to go elsewhere for anything. So convenient! The only weakness would be the communication. Both the phone and the portal do not always get answered in a timely manner...The communication is really the biggest issue. I'm glad I am able to contact my Dr. directly whenever I have any concerns about the information I have been given or lack thereof...
How was your experience with Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
When I first decided I wanted to see Dr. Weitzman I did it based on a picture on the website. After our initial consultation 7.5 years ago she gave me something I had lost...hope. She is comforting, compassionate, eternally optimistic and the perfect example of the kind of doctor you want in your corner during this process. She has given me one beautiful son and has been there in my seemingly endless journey to #2.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
Try to be patient and have faith in your doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
From the moment I met Dr. Weitzman she always made me feel like I was important. Over the years she has been amazing. I always felt like I had someone in my corner who truly cared. I don't think I could make it thru this process without her.
Describe the protocols Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
IUI #1 2009 Clomid and one 150iu of Follistim followed by B2B IUIs
IUI #2 2013 - same
IUI #3-6 - all injectables using Follistim increasing doses each cycle.
IVF #1 - Antagonist - 10 days of stims retrieved 11 eggs, 4 fertilozed. Transferred 1 Fair embryo on day 5
FET #1 - Transferred 2 thawed 5 day embryos Fair
IVF #2 - Antagonist - 11 days of stims retrieved 7 eggs, 4 fertilized. Transferred 2 Fair embryo on day 3
*Ectopic pregnancy
FET #2 Transferred 2 thawed embryos Fair
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
Most of the nurses are wonderful. Super attentive, compassionate and an amazing extension of the Drs they work with. However, sometimes it's very hard to get them on the phone or get responses to basic questions. They also occasionally forget to call with results that you need that day.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
The clinics are beautiful, welcoming and have everything on site at at least one location making not so you never have to go elsewhere for anything. So convenient!
The only weakness would be the communication. Both the phone and the portal do not always get answered in a timely manner.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida.
Insurance covered
What specific things went wrong at IVF Florida?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Provided conflicting information
Scheduled the wrong procedure
Describe the specific things that went wrong at IVF Florida.
The communication is really the biggest issue. I'm glad I am able to contact my Dr. directly whenever I have any concerns about the information I have been given or lack thereof.
He [Dr. Daniel Christie] was knowledgeable and explained everything thoroughly. If you had questions, he would call back within 24 hours. He didn't pretend to have all the answers which sometimes you don't after a failed cycle with good response, but I never felt like he gave up on me. He wanted me to get pregnant as much as I did.
I had no insurance coverage. Including medication, i spent almost 50,000...I'm someone who feels better knowing what to expect. All of the staff [at IVF Florida in Pembroke Pines] did a good job in keeping you informed of next steps. They were easily accessible. I never had issues with scheduling appointments or any of the financial aspects. Wait times were usually pretty good, except for weekends she only the margate office is open. As long as you know that you'll be waiting, it's fine. Just bring a good book,
How was your experience with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
He was knowledgeable and explained everything thoroughly. If you had questions, he would call back within 24 hours. He didn't pretend to have all the answers which sometimes you don't after a failed cycle with good response, but I never felt like he gave up on me. He wanted me to get pregnant as much as I did.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
He always remembered me. He made sure to read up on my chart prior to each interaction. I could also feel his frustration along with mine when I wasn't getting pregnant.
Describe the protocols Daniel Christie used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
Iui 1 - clomid 50mg, iui2 - clomid 100, iui3- clomid 100 and progesterone, iui 4-clomid, progesterone, gonal f, iui5-same as 4
Ivf 1- birth control cycle prior, gonal f, menopur, cetrotide, progesterone. 5 retrieved, 4 fertilized, 2 day 3 transfers, none to freeze. Chemical pregnancy
Ivf 2 - estrogen patches, all same injectibles as 1 but higher dosage. 12 retrieved, 8 fertilized, 2 day 3 transfers, none to freeze. 6 months pregnant with twins.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
Some were more warm and fuzzy than others, but most remembered me. They let you know what was coming next and were supportive. Best experience I've ever had in a doctors office.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
I'm someone who feels better knowing what to expect. All of the staff did a good job in keeping you informed of next steps. They were easily accessible. I never had issues with scheduling appointments or any of the financial aspects.
Wait times were usually pretty good, except for weekends she only the margate office is open. As long as you know that you'll be waiting, it's fine. Just bring a good book,
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Christie at IVF Florida.
I had no insurance coverage. Including medication, i spent almost 50,000
Dr. Christie was very thorough with our diagnosis and our plan of treatments. He always made sure that we were comfortable with each decision that was made. Always welcomed questions and answered them to best of his knowledge..After 5 attempts of IUI we moved on to IVF. Prior to treatment uterine polyps were found. Dr. Christie performed the surgery successfully. We moved forward with IVF using menopur and gonalF. We did this two times. Both resulting in negative with no embryos to freeze...Do not be afraid to ask questions. No matter how "silly" the question may be he will answer it without making you feel incompitent
My only complaint [at IVF Florida] is their turn around time in following up on results and returning phonecalls...After calling the andrology lab and leaving numerous messages I never got a call back. Almost a week and half later I attempted again and had get a bit firm, I finally got a hold of an actual person, just to tell me they did not make it to freeze...The nursing staff were incredible and kind...When we did our IUIs the cost of the procedure, medication, and ultrasound ran about 2000.00 for each cycle. Our IVF cycles were paid by a package with Attain, that costs 22000.00
How was your experience with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Dr. Christie was very thorough with our diagnosis and our plan of treatments. He always made sure that we were comfortable with each decision that was made. Always welcomed questions and answered them to best of his knowledge
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Do not be afraid to ask questions. No matter how "silly" the question may be he will answer it without making you feel incompitent
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
At IVF Florida they are truly compassionate and understanding. They take the time to ask how you are doing. Once you have been going there for quite some time you youre on a first name basis and greeted with hugs and smiles.
Describe the protocols Daniel Christie used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
We first tried IUI with Clomid. My response was OK but not as expected therefore he added booster shot, GonalF. The response was better however it resulted in a negative. We then proceeded to use only injectables for the IUI, i responded really well however it still resulted in a negative. After 5 attempts of IUI we moved on to IVF. Prior to treatment uterine polyps were found. Dr. Christie performed the surgery successfully. We moved forward with IVF using menopur and gonalF. We did this two times. Both resulting in negative with no embryos to freeze
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
The nursing staff were incredible and kind
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
The clinic is great. Like i mentioned previously you are treated more like a human than a number. My only complaint is their turn around time in following up on results and returning phonecalls.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Christie at IVF Florida.
When we did our IUIs the cost of the procedure, medication, and ultrasound ran about 2000.00 for each cycle. Our IVF cycles were paid by a package with Attain, that costs 22000.00
What specific things went wrong at IVF Florida?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at IVF Florida.
On my first cycle of IVF i had 4 eggs fertilized, 2 were transferred on a 3 day and the other 2 were waiting to make to freeze. They were supposed to call to let me know if the other two made it to freeze. After calling the andrology lab and leaving numerous messages I never got a call back. Almost a week and half later I attempted again and had get a bit firm, I finally got a hold of an actual person, just to tell me they did not make it to freeze.
[Dr. Barrionuevo] Gave a very detailed introduction to the IVF process and outlined the procedures and next steps in a personal way for my individual situation to achieve my goals. Answered all my questions, made me feel at ease and confident that I was in good care.... I am 40 with low ovarian reserve. I also had some other complications we found out through further testing. He ordered more tests than my original RE and did so as his main thing was to avoid any “would have/should have/could have dones” if things didn’t go to plan.
All clinics (7 of them) are located on the East coast of Florida - I wish that they [IVF Florida] would open a satellite clinic on the west coast of Florida - I currently have to drive 1.5hrs there and back for each visit.... There are packages available as well as single cycle costs, also PGS/PGD testing.... [Nurse] Very responsive, friendly, approachable and available... [Dr. Barrionuevo] Spent a lot of time with me, gave detailed information on the process, and potential outcomes.
How was your experience with Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida?
Gave a very detailed introduction to the IVF process and outlined the procedures and next steps in a personal way for my individual situation to achieve my goals. Answered all my questions, made me feel at ease and confident that I was in good care.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida?
Make a list of any questions you may have or fears or doubts and I’m sure he'll be able to answer them directly and honestly to provide you the best chance of achieving your fertility goals.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida?
Spent a lot of time with me, gave detailed information on the process, and potential outcomes. Very thorough and friendly
Describe the protocols Marcelo Barrionuevo used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
I am 40 with low ovarian reserve. I also had some other complications we found out through further testing. He ordered more tests than my original RE and did so as his main thing was to avoid any “would have/should have/could have dones” if things didn’t go to plan. I really appreciated this as I want to have all available information prior to treatment so as to further reduce the chances of any surprises or negative results.
Describe your experience with your nurse at IVF Florida. (Assigned nurse: Darlyng Riego)
Very responsive, friendly, approachable and available
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
All clinics (7 of them) are located on the East coast of Florida - I wish that they would open a satellite clinic on the west coast of Florida - I currently have to drive 1.5hrs there and back for each visit.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida.
There are packages available as well as single cycle costs, also PGS/PGD testing.
I absolutely loved dr.weitzman... except I only saw her twice-once on my first visit and the second at the review of all my diagnostic tests... Every other visit was with random nurses-never the same and rarely kind.
On 2 different occasions [at IVF Florida] I was doing fertility drugs with timed intercourse and I received a message that they have scheduled me for my IUI the next morning at 8am. I wasn't getting an IUI! I would call back minutes later but it was always impossible to get through because they only do their calls right before they close so if you miss it you get their after hours recording...Waited FOREVER at every appointment, most of the staff isn't very kind and you will very much feel like a number here.
How was your experience with Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
I absolutely loved her except I only saw her twice-once on my first visit and the second at the review of all my diagnostic tests.
Every other visit was with random nurses-never the same and rarely kind.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
I don't know if you can ask questions about her involvement at the beginning but if you can and she can be part of each visit then she is wonderful!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Vanessa Weitzman (OB/GYN) at IVF Florida?
I absolutely loved dr.weitzman the office was terrible. I felt like a number, waited Forever at each appt, and there were so many mistakes made by the nurses and billing. This office made my life more hectic and stressful than the infertility did!
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
You are completely just a number here. They will never remember you or your diagnosis and they will mix you up with others. I got a few phone calls telling me they scheduled me for a procedure that I wasn't having!
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
Waited FOREVER at every appointment, most of the staff isn't very kind and you will very much feel like a number here.
What specific things went wrong at IVF Florida?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Provided conflicting information
Scheduled the wrong procedure
Describe the specific things that went wrong at IVF Florida.
On 2 different occasions I was doing fertility drugs with timed intercourse and I received a message that they have scheduled me for my IUI the next morning at 8am. I wasn't getting an IUI! I would call back minutes later but it was always impossible to get through because they only do their calls right before they close so if you miss it you get their after hours recording.
Dr. Christie always takes his time explaining treatments or any procedures that need to be done. I have never left the office feeling uncomfortable or uncertain about what was going to happen next. He always made sure I fully understood what was happening. He allowed me to ask as many questions as I needed to and even gave me his phone number if I had additional questions later on... I felt very comfortable while being under his care. He made me feel like I was his only patient. I would definitely recommend him to anyone struggling with infertility
The front office staff [at IVF Florida] is very friendly and very thorough when explaining what needs to be done when you first become a patient at the clinic. They make you feel very welcome and make sure that you are comfortable while waiting in the waiting area...The nurses were great they were always available to answer questions. When it’s time to administer medication they make sure that you are well aware of how to administer everything
How was your experience with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Dr. Christie always takes his time explaining treatments or any procedures that need to be done. I have never left the office feeling uncomfortable or uncertain about what was going to happen next. He always made sure I fully understood what was happening. He allowed me to ask as many questions as I needed to and even gave me his phone number if I had additional questions later on
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
He is definitely the best doctor to see
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
As a patient of Dr. Christie I felt very comfortable while being under his care. He made me feel like I was his only patient. I would definitely recommend him to anyone struggling with infertility
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
The nurses were great they were always available to answer questions. When it’s time to administer medication they make sure that you are well aware of how to administer everything
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
The front office staff is very friendly and very thorough when explaining what needs to be done when you first become a patient at the clinic. They make you feel very welcome and make sure that you are comfortable while waiting in the waiting area
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Christie at IVF Florida.
I’ve probably spent about $15,000 on treatments. My one and only dream has been to become a mother and I’m doing whatever it takes to make it possible
Dr. Christie goes to great lengths to ensure you are well informed about the process and the rationale for the treatment recommended. He is patient and kind and is willing to answer any questions you have... I just wish I would have the opportunity to see him more. I saw him only twice and I have just completed my second round if IUI...explains everything very clearly and never gets frustrated or makes you feel like you cant say you don't understand or have additional questions.
Nursing staff are sweet and they are compassionate however it is rare to see the same person more than once [at IVF Florida...approx $2000 dollars for each round of IUI . this included medication costs...Office staff such as the secretary at the desk is not the most warm. They are polite but not warm. You are referred to the portal for information and next steps and although this is efficient it is impersonal when dealing with such a personal matter. I believe they should call and talk to the patient and send the same information though the portal for review and reference.
How was your experience with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Dr. Christie is exceptional. I am very pleased with him as he is patient and kind and explains everything very clearly and never gets frustrated or makes you feel like you cant say you don't understand or have additional questions. I just wish I would have the opportunity to see him more. I saw him only twice and I have just completed my second round if IUI.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Don't expect to see the doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Daniel Christie at IVF Florida?
Dr. Christie goes to great lengths to ensure you are well informed about the process and the rationale for the treatment recommended. He is patient and kind and is willing to answer any questions you have.
Describe the protocols Daniel Christie used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
Ovarian stimulation and IUI
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
Nursing staff are sweet and they are compassionate however it is rare to see the same person more than once.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
Office staff such as the secretary at the desk is not the most warm. They are polite but not warm. You are referred to the portal for information and next steps and although this is efficient it is impersonal when dealing with such a personal matter. I believe they should call and talk to the patient and send the same information though the portal for review and reference.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Daniel Christie at IVF Florida.
approx $2000 dollars for each round of IUI . this included medication costs
Describe Daniel Christie's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
Dr. Sueldo and the staff at the office are warm and friendly... I love dr. Sueldo and am forever indebted to her for our miracle. She was honest and kind and so so smart! She was always careful to tell us what we needed to know, to celebrate our successes and to remind us to move forward with both caution and optimism.... Antagonist protocol. I used menopur and gonal F as well as progesterone supository and estrogen pills.
Very personal care. They [IVF Florida] do a great job of building relationships with you. The patient portal is especially helpful for getting questions answered any time. Sometimes there is a long wait even with an appointment....Dr. Sueldo and the staff at the office are warm and friendly and listened to my every concern and addressed them... Loved the nursing staff as a whole. Didn’t love Ariana specifically.
How was your experience with Carolina M. Sueldo at IVF Florida?
I love dr. Sueldo and am forever indebted to her for our miracle. She was honest and kind and so so smart! She was always careful to tell us what we needed to know, to celebrate our successes and to remind us to move forward with both caution and optimism.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carolina M. Sueldo at IVF Florida?
Trust herself
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carolina M. Sueldo at IVF Florida?
Dr. Sueldo and the staff at the office are warm and friendly and listened to my every concern and addressed them
Describe the protocols Carolina M. Sueldo used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
Antagonist protocol. I used menopur and gonal F as well as progesterone supository and estrogen pills.
Describe your experience with your nurse at IVF Florida. (Assigned nurse: Ariana)
Loved the nursing staff as a whole. Didn’t love Ariana specifically.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
Very personal care. They do a great job of building relationships with you. The patient portal is especially helpful for getting questions answered any time. Sometimes there is a long wait even with an appointment.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Carolina M. Sueldo at IVF Florida.
My insurance partially covered everything. I had a $30 copay with every appointment and had to pay for some of my meds and a few procedures.
Describe Carolina M. Sueldo's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
We transferred 3 embryos and ended up with our Singleton. Since then the clinic no longer transfers multiple embryos from my understanding.
Dr. Hoffman decided he wants to re-do testing from scratch which made no sense as all our tests were done 2 months before we saw him. I agreed to some tests provided he will take me into cycle the next month...He also does not accommodate with sedation for tests like SIS/HSG. He would not prescribe pain killer or anything...My results did not change. He only delayed treatment
I only dealt with [the IVF Florida] pre-testing staff. Nurses during that period were great...Estimate for one cycle was $13,986 for monitoring and egg retrieval only. Anesthesia $600; PGT testing and biopsy $5k; medicine 4-8k...if your partner needs to do a semen analysis and you plan to do it at home and just bring it in, triple check clinic understands...
How was your experience with David Hoffman at IVF Florida?
We came to clinic with all pre-conception testings done. We started with my ObGyn and another fertility clinic. We were ready to start the cycle. Dr. Hoffman decided he wants to re-do testing from scratch which made no sense as all our tests were done 2 months before we saw him. I agreed to some tests provided he will take me into cycle the next month. After our initial appointment he decided he wants more tests done which have to be done during menstrual cycle only. My results did not change. He only delayed treatment. In our situation time was of an essence as Im 39 but he did not care. Clinics gets paid regardless of the success. Whatsmore, the older you are the more cycles you need. I felt he delayed treatment so we spend more money.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Hoffman at IVF Florida?
If you are of an advance maternal age and time is of an essence seek out a clinic that would not waste your time. Dr. Hoffman will make you re-do tests even if yours have just been done including pap smear. Mine was 3 weeks old and he only wanted to do a new one and only at his lab. He also does not accommodate with sedation for tests like SIS/HSG. He would not prescribe pain killer or anything. I had to seek a doctor who agreed to offer sedation and IVF Florida was not much fond as they did not have a chance to make money.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Hoffman at IVF Florida?
No one knows whats happening
Describe the protocols David Hoffman used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
We never got there as he kept wasting time re-testing.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
I only dealt with pre-testing staff. Nurses during that period were great.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
If you are over 30 years old don't waste your time. In out experience Florida clinics are very week when it comes to fertility treatments. Also, if your partner needs to do a semen analysis and you plan to do it at home and just bring it in, triple check clinic understands sample only lives for 45 min. They screwed our time and instead of taking the sample from us upon arrival they made us wait for 50 min. Sample could not used and was discarded. We wasted time off work and money.
Describe the costs associated with your care under David Hoffman at IVF Florida.
Estimate for one cycle was $13,986 for monitoring and egg retrieval only. Anesthesia $600; PGT testing and biopsy $5k; medicine 4-8k; frozen transfer (clinic does not offer fresh transfers at all) $5k plus additional medicine of $2k. If you buy more than one cycle and pay everything in full and upfront, they offer discount on potential transfer.
Describe David Hoffman's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
We never went into treatment
What specific things went wrong at IVF Florida?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost paperwork
Lost appointments
Lost results
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Lost or damaged samples
Scheduled the wrong procedure
Describe the specific things that went wrong at IVF Florida.
Clinic had us re-do testing and tried to push another testing as self paid when insurance covers it. Doctor gave misleading information. Front desk has no idea why you are there and what procedures you came for. Waiting time is horrible. They book everyone for same time. They did not take the semen sample timely which caused for semen to die and test reschedule and cycle for that month canceled.
[Dr. Marcelo Barrionuevo] was a great physician. Fully explained the plans and took his time with us always. Very thankful for his time and care. He made sure we understood everything fully and let us ask many questions. We did not feel rushed ever...recommended IVF for us because the percentages of success would be higher in our situation...Make sure you are ready to wait over and hour for appointments. Well worth it though...
Wait times are over an hour long. For the most part front desk is nice and keeps you updated. Only once was someone rude to me. Usually everyone was available to answer questions or help with any need while waiting...Nursing staff and lab techs [at IVF Florida] were very sweet and patient with us. All very warm and friendly...Costs are high. As usual with these treatments. Very very high...
How was your experience with Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida?
He was a great physician. Fully explained the plans and took his time with us always. Very thankful for his time and care. He made sure we understood everything fully and let us ask many questions. We did not feel rushed ever
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida?
Make sure you are ready to wait over and hour for appointments. Well worth it though
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida?
He was very nice and took his time to talk to us and explain our specific situation
Describe the protocols Marcelo Barrionuevo used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
He recommended IVF for us because the percentages of success would be higher in our situation
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at IVF Florida.
Nursing staff and lab techs were very sweet and patient with us. All very warm and friendly.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
Wait times are over an hour long. For the most part front desk is nice and keeps you updated. Only once was someone rude to me. Usually everyone was available to answer questions or help with any need while waiting.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Marcelo Barrionuevo at IVF Florida.
Costs are high. As usual with these treatments. Very very high
Whenever I met with her [Dr. Laurice Bou Nemer], she was up-to-date on our past treatments and what was working and what wasn't working. She was clear in her communication what was wrong and how we would treat the infertility. I was lucky enough to have her do both my retrieval and also my transfer, and for both procedures, she gave a clear description of what would happen, what we could expect, etc. I just felt like she knew us and she knew our story.
I was going to this clinic [IVF Florida] for about a year, and you go so often sometimes, that you really get to know the staff. After my 3 failed IUIs, with my successful IVF transfer, everyone seemed so genuinely happy for me and so invested in my journey. It's a beautiful thing to feel like you have a team working alongside with you on this difficult journey, and I definitely felt like I had that with this team.
How was your experience with Laurice Bou Nemer at IVF Florida?
Dr. Bou Nemer was referred to me by my OBGYN because she thought I would get along with her and would like the practice and she was 100% right. I felt our fertility treatment was safe with Dr. Bou Nemer. While we had setbacks with 3 failed IUIs, from the beginning, based on our initial screening results, Dr. Bou Nemer had always said we try 3 and then we can talk IVF. And after the 3 failed IUIs, we tried IVF and were successful. I liked knowing a plan up-front of what to do if it worked and if it failed, with something so out of our control it was nice to feel control over a plan. She answered all questions I had and gave me plenty of details, which I appreciated because it again made me feel like I had control over our plan and the information we used to make decisions. I also felt like our plan was tailored to us. Also, Dr. Bou Nemer personally calls after IVF to let you know if it was successful or not - it's the personal touches that make it special. It's a tough journey to go through so it's nice when you have people like Dr. Bou Nemer that you can tell genuinely care and have the same end goal as you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laurice Bou Nemer at IVF Florida?
Whenever I met with her, she was up-to-date on our past treatments and what was working and what wasn't working. She was clear in her communication what was wrong and how we would treat the infertility. I was lucky enough to have her do both my retrieval and also my transfer, and for both procedures, she gave a clear description of what would happen, what we could expect, etc. I just felt like she knew us and she knew our story.
Describe the protocols Laurice Bou Nemer used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
We were diagnosed with male factor infertility, with low motility and irregular shape, with my hormones and results appearing normal. We started with 3 rounds of IUIs. Each round, they were able to wash out a decent amount of sperm and we did 2 IUIs each round (back-to-back days). Dr. Bou Nemer mentioned that it's not necessary to do 2 days but could increase chance, so we did. After the 3rd IUI, I scheduled a call with her just to understand our next steps in case it didn't work. We walked through the entire IVF process and how that would work for us. With our IVF protocol, I started birth control for one month to regulate my cycle. I then started my egg retrieval medication - this included Gonal F and then low-dose HCG (nation-wide shortage of Menoupur at the time, which is what was originally prescribed) to help stimulate egg growth and then eventually Cetrotide to ensure no early ovulation. I did those for about 2 weeks and was able to grow 23 follicles. Right before the egg retrieval, I took a lupron trigger shot (similar to the IUI shot) to prep for the retrieval. Of the 23 follicles, 19 were mature, 12 were fertilized and 8 were ultimately frozen. For the fertilization of the eggs, Dr. Bou Nemer utilized ICSI given the low motility and irregular shape of the sperm. We did not do any genetic testing on the embryos prior to freezing as Dr. Bou Nemer was not concerned for us - I am 30 and neither of our genetic reporting came back with any findings. I then started another round of birth control and then my stim medications to prep for the frozen egg transfer. I also had to start estrogen patches (.1 ml - 2 patches every 2 days with increasing frequency leading up to the transfer). I also started the progesterone in oil shots shortly before the transfer to begin to prep my body - 1ml a day in the mornings. I then had my transfer with Dr. Bou Nemer - we only transferred one embryo as advised. Since we didn't do genetic testing, their embryologist selected the healthiest embryo based on growth patterns/splitting. 10 days after my transfer I returned for my first bloodwork to check HCG levels. After that appointment, based on my results, Dr. Bou Nemer called me to congratulate me that I was pregnant with a successful IVF round. I then went back 4 days later to check for increased HCG levels. With both of the levels coming back strong (first at 501 and then at 3175), I continued with my progesterone in oil shot and estrogen patches and returned for my first ultrasound at 6 weeks and then again at 8 weeks. I "graduated" from the clinic at 8 weeks and was then sent off to my "normal" OBGYN to continue pre-natal care.
Describe your experience with your nurse at IVF Florida. (Assigned nurse: Mackenzie and Joana)
AMAZING. I loved Mackenzie and Joana. Ultimately, you end up seeing your nurses and the phlebotomist (Neisha for me) and the ultrasound tech (Naomi for me) more than Dr. Bou Nemer so it was so great that the entire team is beyond helpful and nice. There are some weeks I was going every other day or every day for monitoring - you really get to know your team. Naomi, for example, would always tell me how the ultrasound looked and gave me details that would help calm my anxiety. I had an open line of communication with the nurses via their portal which they almost always answered same day during the weekdays, unless I sent a message late in the day. They taught me exactly what to do with the shots, even when I had to stop by because I thought I was doing the PIO shots wrong. It's also so clear that they genuinely care about their patients. I was going to this clinic for about a year, and you go so often sometimes, that you really get to know the staff. After my 3 failed IUIs, with my successful IVF transfer, everyone seemed so genuinely happy for me and so invested in my journey. It's a beautiful thing to feel like you have a team working alongside with you on this difficult journey, and I definitely felt like I had that with this team.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
Coral Gables Office - While I loved the doctor and the staff, I feel like the clinic is a bit small for the number of patients it sees, specifically for bloodwork and ultrasounds. They do blood draws with the first appointment at 7:45am through 10am, but it felt like many times the appointment slots were double/triple booked so the appointments were always running late, unless you just got lucky on that day or got a later appointment since many people want to be done before work it seems. I understand it must be hard to schedule since really everyone going through all the treatments has to go for monitoring (blood and ultrasound), but sometimes I spent over an hour there for blood test and ultrasound. I would recommend getting another phlebotomist and ultrasound tech/room just like Margate to help keep things moving faster.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laurice Bou Nemer at IVF Florida.
I ran everything through my insurance. In total for my IUIs, about $250 - 3 rounds of IUI. Then for my IVF, about $1,400. This is not including the cost of the medication but rather just what I paid for services provided by Dr. Bou Nemer.
Describe Laurice Bou Nemer's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
We were advised to do a single embryo transfer. Dr. Bou Nemer explained that I was young, with healthy eggs and that I shouldn't need any more than one. She explained the risks of a multiple pregnancy. We did not argue or push back on this.
Marc [Dr. Marc Gualtieri] is friendly, professional, direct, makes the medical jargon relatable, and is honest about the success rate for you as the patient vs. the clinic's average or national average based on age. I did not feel age discriminated either, I was 43 almost 44 and he made me feel like thats ok no big deal we help women all the time have babies at all ages...Single is preferred, but they will do multiple but it has risks so they prefer to do singles.
High volume, and thus high output and percentages.The Margate [IVF Florida] clinic and surgery facility is top notch and very Zen. The staff is sometimes a little on edge but I think that is due to the volume of patients. The RE doctors, surgery RNs, & anesthesia staff are great...They have a nice portal that is great for getting your lab results and communication wise. Also since our IVF was not covered by Insurance (neither my company or my husband's offers IVF benefits) so it was an out of pocket expense but the Finance department made the process smooth by referral to loan options for financing but this did not cover the meds which were an additional $3k out of pocket.
How was your experience with Marc Gualtieri at IVF Florida?
Marc is friendly, professional, direct, makes the medical jargon relatable, and is honest about the success rate for you as the patient vs. the clinic's average or national average based on age. I did not feel age discriminated either, I was 43 almost 44 and he made me feel like thats ok no big deal we help women all the time have babies at all ages.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Marc Gualtieri at IVF Florida?
Make sure the nurse staff cross checks things with him and if any part of your treatment or what you told varies from what you expect get them to confirm with the Doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Marc Gualtieri at IVF Florida?
IVF Florida has several locations, so it is convienient to find a location near you to do the ultra sounds & bloodwork in the IVF process. I went to the Wellington office it is closest to where we live. The Margate office is the HQ for egg retrieval and the Jupiter & Margate offices are open on the weekends. They were always pretty busy & their patient volume is much higher, thus their CDC rating higher. I chose IVF FL based on our location and the CDC success rates for women 40-45, using their own egg(s) & donor eggs, resulting in live birth. Their data was proof that they can yield results, which is what I was seeking after having 2 failed IUI cycles (total of 4 IUIs) . Then I joined a Facebook group for IVF FL & IVF FL women 40+ and decided on which doctor to consult with based off referrals. You can meet with the doctors in person or thru tele-consult which is nice for working persons. They have a nice portal that is great for getting your lab results and communication wise. Also since our IVF was not covered by Insurance (neither my company or my husband's offers IVF benefits) so it was an out of pocket expense but the Finance department made the process smooth by referral to loan options for financing but this did not cover the meds which were an additional $3k out of pocket.
Describe the protocols Marc Gualtieri used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
Called office when I started my cycle/period. Then came in on day 2 or 3 of cycle then started protocol. Clomid daily, then menepur shots, then cetrotide shots, then final was the Trigger shot. Blood tests like every other day. Then after trigger shot 48 hours later we did the retrieval 12 eggs were retrieved, 1 too big 3 too small, 8 just right. 7 of the 8 became embryos, 2 became blastocyst. The 2 Blasts were day 5 4AA & Day 6 4BB grade. Due to age we did PGT-A testing. Unfortunately both embryos were abnormal - Day 5 4AA was a boy with trismony 10 & 14, the Day 6 4BB was a girl with trisomy 14. As such, we were not able to transfer or start the FET process.
We are discussing now whether to do a 2nd retrieval with my Eggs or pursue the Donor Egg path.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
see earlier comments - its a multi location clinic. High volume, and thus high output and percentages.The Margate clinic and surgery facility is top notch and very Zen. The staff is sometimes a little on edge but I think that is due to the volume of patients. The RE doctors, surgery RNs, & anesthesia staff are great.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Marc Gualtieri at IVF Florida.
my quote from May 2023 is good thru November 2023. ~$15,500 for IVF treatment, $150 per egg for PGT-A testing, Embryo Cryo - $100/mo. Meds $3000
If we had made it to the FET it would be $4500 + $2-4K for meds.
Describe Marc Gualtieri's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
n/a Single is preferred, but they will do multiple but it has risks so they prefer to do singles.
We did the ERA [with Dr. David Hoffman] because after our first FET we miscarried around 6 weeks. After our first ERA we found I needed 12 extra hours of PIO which resulted in our first IVF miracle, a healthy son! After our second ERS we found I needed 12 less hours of PIO and that resulted in a healthy daughter! We asked to be surprised by the gender and let the clinic chose the healthiest embryo to try at each FET...called us throughout the process to check in, make sure we understand everything that was going on. After we had our miscarriage he cried with us. The entire Wellington office was kind, professional, caring, and invested in our journey. Tge two best nurses, Erika and Ilean, were right there with us and have all reached out even after we had our 2 IVF miracles.
The entire Wellington office [of IVF Florida] was kind, professional, caring, and invested in our journey.Erika and Ilean [nurses], were right there with us and have all reached out even after we had our 2 IVF miracles...We asked to be surprised by the gender and let the clinic chose the healthiest embryo to try at each FET...We went with one of the Attain programs and were able to cut costs by doing so. We paid just over $28,000. The whole package included 2 retrievals, unlimited FETs (frozen embryo transfer), ICSY (if needed), PGS testing, and all the monitoring associated...IVF Florida has a 1 embryo policy.
How was your experience with David Hoffman at IVF Florida?
Dr Hoffman, from day one, made us feel that he would help us create our family. He was open about which tests he wanted to run and which medical procedures we should start with. He was open about the odds of success and gave us a full understanding of the entire IVF process at the beginning as well as went over each step as we reached it. He met with us at the office that worked best for us and he always told us to call or he would call us to follow up.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of David Hoffman at IVF Florida?
Listen to him! Dr Hoffman knows what he's talking about and will be upfront and honest with you about what he feels your next steps are.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with David Hoffman at IVF Florida?
Dr Hoffman called us throughout the process to check in, make sure we understand everything that was going on. After we had our miscarriage he cried with us. The entire Wellington office was kind, professional, caring, and invested in our journey. Tge two best nurses, Erika and Ilean, were right there with us and have all reached out even after we had our 2 IVF miracles.
Describe the protocols David Hoffman used in your cycles at IVF Florida and their degree of success.
Dr Hoffman felt that with my PCOS there was no reason to try IUI, since we agreed, we to go straight to IVF.
I took Menupor and Gobal-F, 75 units if each 2 times a day for about 10 days. After 6 days we were told to take Cetrotide at .25mg. Lupron was given as my trigger for both retrievals, 40 units each time. We did 3 FETs with 2 ERAs.
One before the second and third FET.
Our FET protocol was 10 days of Lupron followed by Estrogen patches and then PIO (progesterone in (sesame) oil).
We did the ERA because after our first FET we miscarried around 6 weeks. After our first ERA we found I needed 12 extra hours of PIO which resulted in our first IVF miracle, a healthy son! After our second ERS we found I needed 12 less hours of PIO and that resulted in a healthy daughter! We asked to be surprised by the gender and let the clinic chose the healthiest embryo to try at each FET.
Describe your experience with your nurse at IVF Florida. (Assigned nurse: Erika and Ilean)
Erika worked with us primarily on our first FET and Ilean on our third. Both nurses worked with us on our second.
They were always helpful, professional, considerate, and knowledgeable. Both nurses walked us through the steps and gave us information in a timely manner.
We love them both and have been back to the clinic a few times to just visit with them.
Describe your experience with IVF Florida.
We felt the Wellington and Jupiter offices were the most helpful. The Margate office was always to crowded and we did not have a good experience with the staff at the front desk on the third floor.
The Margate and Jupiter offices have ORs, but the Margate office is open 7 days a week while Jupiter is open 6 days a week.
Check out each office you are comfortable driving to and make sure your Dr goes to the office that is most comfortable to you. They have offices from Miami all the way up to Port St. Lucie.
Since our treatments they have a new policy where the Drs rotate around by the day so scheduling any OR procedure with a specific Dr can be hard depending on when your cycle is and if you can manipulate it or not.
All of the Drs have been nice, but I would not want to work with someone I didn't know except for the day of a treatment.
Describe the costs associated with your care under David Hoffman at IVF Florida.
We went with one of the Attain programs and were able to cut costs by doing so. We paid just over $28,000. The whole package included 2 retrievals, unlimited FETs (frozen embryo transfer), ICSY (if needed), PGS testing, and all the monitoring associated.
Describe David Hoffman's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at IVF Florida.
IVF Florida has a 1 embryo policy. They prefer to transfer only 1 embryo since it is the safest for both the woman carrying (Mom or surrogate) and for the baby.
