Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Dr Stephens has a great bedside manner. She is clear and calm in her delivery. She doesn’t sugar coat the expectations or plan. She is direct yet kind. She does sometimes talk a bit above the patient, doctor terminology and can be a little confusing. She however is extremely smart and good at what she does...She recommended only one embryo transfer due to age and previous miscarriages. Embryos are pgta tested and recommendations for the strongest graded embryo has been given

All the doctors in [North California Fertility Medical Center] are great...I had a painful Water sonogram done by an NP and she didn’t get the correct images...I also had an NP for a sonogram to check my follicles when lining. The measurements were very different then the doctor 2 days prior. It was a deciding appointment to cancel the cycle or not and I was frustrated that I didn’t have a doctor...Sometimes phone calls are delayed in replying but they are busy so I understand.

How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Ask questions and be ready for a straight shooter answer

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr. Stephens always prepared before appointments by reading my chart thoroughly and coming in with knowledge of my Case and history. When things don’t go well she was empathetic and helpful in next plans. When things have gone well she is warm and celebrates the wins. She spends time during appointments and answers any and all questions. She follows up when she says she is going to and she listens to feedback.

Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

For IUI we used letrezole and a trigger shot with monitoring once a positive surge was detected. When I wasn’t responding to the dose or letrezole it was increased. For IVF my egg retrieval protocol was injections with monitoring via ultrasound. We used icsi for embryo creation. Pgt testing due to age and previous miscarriages. For FET transfer cycle we did injections and estrogen suppositories. My body didn’t respond and we cancelled the cycle. This round we are trying letrezole and estrace pills instead to see if my body responds better. Since that was our protocol for IUI and my lining was always decent. She was open to changing up my FET plan the second try due to results not producing the first. I had success in an IUI to a live birth on 2021. Due to my age after 5 failed IUIs (one miscarriage) she recommended IVF and was very clear in our consult that we could expect 1-2 embryos. We are mid FET cycle now so to be determined on how the results turn out.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Christina )

They are responsive and helpful with all questions. Sometimes phone calls are delayed in replying but they are busy so I understand.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

They are thorough, on time with appointments, clear, decent communication. All the doctors in the clinic are great. I’ve seen them all and they are consistent. I have not had the best experience with the NPAs at the clinic. I get frustrated that I’m paying to see a doctor for my ultrasounds and checks and I get an NP who can’t answer my questions. I had a painful Water sonogram done by an NP and she didn’t get the correct images. So the doctors to come in and redo the whole water sonogram. I also had an NP for a sonogram to check my follicles when lining. The measurements were very different then the doctor 2 days prior. It was a deciding appointment to cancel the cycle or not and I was frustrated that I didn’t have a doctor. I’ve asked to only see doctors since that and they had been granted.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

25-30K

Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

She recommended only one embryo transfer due to age and previous miscarriages. Embryos are pgta tested and recommendations for the strongest graded embryo has been given.

Doctor

Sahar Stephens

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Sahar Stephens Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2022 - 2023, Successful

Age 28 - 29

Income $50K - $99K

2nd of 3 Docs

6 IUI With Other Docs

1 IVF With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Laurie Lovely Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Dr. Lovely has this way about her to really make you feel seen, important, and cared for. She had the same goal we did and that was to get pregnant. When things didn’t go as expected, she instantly took me under her wing and was with us every step of the way. She was easy to reach whenever I needed and always knew the right thing to say. She preformed my first surgery ever in my life. She really made me feel like family and cared for. We love Dr.Lovely!

Northern California Fertility Medical Center will always be part of our story. The journey we have had with them is like no other doctor/clinic experience. Even with getting seen by different doctors, every doctor knew our story and was up to date. That’s definitely not the experience I’ve had at any other clinic. Everything is clean and organized, and they truly make you feel cared for...I instantly built a bond and trust with Dr.Lovely when she preformed my first surgery ever. She did our second IUI resulting in pregnancy, then a missed miscarriage on our graduation day. They way she treated us as family and not just another patient is something I’ll always hold near and dear to my heart.

How was your experience with Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Not really advice, just know that you can trust her. I wish I could keep her as my doctor forever!

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

I instantly built a bond and trust with Dr.Lovely when she preformed my first surgery ever. She did our second IUI resulting in pregnancy, then a missed miscarriage on our graduation day. They way she treated us as family and not just another patient is something I’ll always hold near and dear to my heart.

Describe the protocols Laurie Lovely used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

Dr. Lovely preformed my second IUI. She wasn’t my “original” doctor. However when she gave us the news of no heartbeat, she instantly took us under her wing. She put multiple plans in place for us to choose from and didn’t pressure us to have a D&C immediately. I appreciated the options she gave us because in the end, she made me feel safe having the surgery done with her.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Crystal)

Our care coordinator is Crystal. When we first met her, she was very welcoming and has a comforting way about her. She’s extremely organized which is what we needed. Down to her color coordinated charts. She has been extremely helpful every step of the way. I also had a very special nurse that I’ll never forget. Nurse Natalie in the OR. She was absolutely AMAZING to me! She treated me with so much love and care. It made me feel very safe especially during such a vulnerable time.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

We paid for a total of 6 IUIs and each one with medication would come to about $1,500-$2,000 We also paid for an IVF procedure with FET, medications, and PGT testing which totaled to about $30,000

Doctor

Laurie Lovely

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Laurie Lovely Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2023, Unknown Success

Age 30

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

European

Income $50K - $99K

1st of 2 Docs

1 IUI With Other Docs

Donor Sperm With Other Docs

LGBTQ+

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

He [Dr. Manuel Doblado] was down to earth, and wanted to get to know me and my husband and our story. He explained everything in lamens terms so that my husband with no experience with medical jargon could understand...I have only seen him a handful of times, but compared to my previous doctor he has taken the time to explain everything and do all the necessary tests to ensure that everything is in working order before we jump into fertility treatments.

The [Northern California Fertility Medical Center] clinic is very responsive, when I called to make my first appointment it wasn’t booked out to far. And it did have to be rescheduled once, however it worked in our favor because the provider changed from a nurse to the actual doctor, which eased mine and my husbands minds a little bit, going in. the receptionist went over everything to expect during consultation and even the cost for everything.

How was your experience with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

I have only seen him a handful of times, but compared to my previous doctor he has taken the time to explain everything and do all the necessary tests to ensure that everything is in working order before we jump into fertility treatments.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Do not be afraid to be honest with him, he provided great feedback to something’s that we weren’t doing correctly or shouldn’t do

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

He was down to earth, and wanted to get to know me and my husband and our story. He explained everything in lamens terms so that my husband with no experience with medical jargon could understand

Describe the protocols Manuel Doblado used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

Treatment strategies included doing all the blood tests to ensure that all my levels were good, preformed HSG to make sure my tubes were not blocked, and performing surgery to remove polyp on my uterus

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Val)

The nursing staff has been just as amazing as Dr Doblado. They are compassionate and very friendly

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

The clinic is very responsive, when I called to make my first appointment it wasn’t booked out to far. And it did have to be rescheduled once, however it worked in our favor because the provider changed from a nurse to the actual doctor, which eased mine and my husbands minds a little bit, going in. the receptionist went over everything to expect during consultation and even the cost for everything.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

So far I have only had my consultation appointment, and cost was clear up front. I have a preop this week, the surgery scheduled on 10/31. I have received estimate for surgery costs

Describe Manuel Doblado's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

No comment, have not discussed

Doctor

Manuel Doblado

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

LGBTQ+ Care

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

LGBTQ+ Care

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2023, Consult

Age 43

1 IVF

Unexplained

Income $200K - $499K

1st of 3 Docs

1 IUI With Other Docs

1 IVF With Other Docs

Doesn't Recommend

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Sahar Stephens Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Dr Stephens was very informative in the consultation. I only saw her one time afterwards. The clinic doesnt assign you to a dr no no dr really takes accountability or charge of your plan...She is super nice but you really dont get to choose your dr so it wont matter which one you get...I actually ended up doing a mini IVF although they didnt cal it that. My doses were really low. This clinic also believes in omnitrope, so order it ahead of time because insurance nor fda approves it for ivf. My cycle did go the full 12 days although i had many large 23 follies already by cd9 and i think I should have had ER a day early.

[Northern California Fertility Medical Center] Nurse coordinator left me in the waiting room for 30 mins and never explained why. I ended up leaving that day. Other than that she was super informative, responsive and thorough. Front desk never greets me like she does other patients...It felt like the consultation was a good sales pitch but the service provided after felt like I was a number. Especially when it came to scheduling ER time. I felt like I was treated differently because I had insurance...

How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr Stephens was very informative in the consultation. I only saw her one time afterwards. The clinic doesnt assign you to a dr no no dr really takes accountability or charge of your plan. Your nurse coordinator does everything, from scheduling your appointments to telling how and when to take injections. I felt like the drs are really hands off.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

She is super nice but you really dont get to choose your dr so it wont matter which one you get.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

It felt like the consultation was a good sales pitch but the service provided after felt like I was a number. Especially when it came to scheduling ER time. I felt like I was treated differently because I had insurance.

Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

I actually ended up doing a mini IVF although they didnt cal it that. My doses were really low. This clinic also believes in omnitrope, so order it ahead of time because insurance nor fda approves it for ivf. My cycle did go the full 12 days although i had many large 23 follies already by cd9 and i think I should have had ER a day early.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Christina)

Nurse coordinator left me in the waiting room for 30 mins and never explained why. I ended up leaving that day. Other than that she was super informative, responsive and thorough. Front desk never greets me like she does other patients. Not sure if it was Racial but felt like it.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

I would ask all the important questions. How are patients selected for order of appointments and order of egg retrieval. Cause you are given a number you dont know about. How many egg retrievals are done daily, or if only done Fridays. If they have worked with your specific age group. Can you choose which coordinator you work with.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Dont know total cost yet. Used progyny which NCFMC didnt seem too fond of. Next in network provider is in napa. Plan on doing a bank cycle at another clinic.

What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Failed to call with results

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

I was waiting for lab results to determine if my dose would change. Labs were done at 7:30am and was told Id get a call on afternoon. I waited till 4pm and no call so I called coordinator on duty christy. She didn’t pick up my call so i left a voicemail and called again and asked receptionist to transfer me as i needed to know if my doze was changing. She got me through to coordinator christy. She said she was going to call me but got busy.

Doctor

Sahar Stephens

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Sahar Stephens Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2021 - 2022, Unsuccessful

Age 34 - 35

3 IUI

Male Factor

Income $100K - $199K

1st of 3 Docs

Neutral

Unsuccessful

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Dr.D was great from the start. In our consultation he reviewed all tests with us and went over all the numbers explaining what they all meant and how they would affect the process going forward. He is very personable and understanding. He makes sure he understands your needs and creates realistic expectations. He does not make false claims to get your hopes up. He carries himself as a professional and is willing to answer any questions we have.

The structure of this [Northern California Fertility Medical Center] clinic was hard to follow, and did not have the clear instructions from the beginning to the end of treatment strategies. Multiple nurses were pulled into my process, and not all of the coordinators were aware of my treatment stages. On a personal note, their accessibility is not friendly due to some communication barrier. However, this clinic was accurate on the timeline, and had a great follow up during our timeline. Their appointment coordination was easy and always provided best availability.

How was your experience with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Best advice for any perspective patient is to provide as much information as possible so he can properly evaluate your situation and determine the best course of action for your needs. He is good at giving you alternative paths to reach your goals.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

We felt great in conversation with Dr. D. He was very understanding of our concerns and listened well. He also addressed our issues and problems along the way assuring any issues we had would be addressed. His support staff was not as warm and helpful when dealing with the process.

Describe the protocols Manuel Doblado used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

My treatment came with 50 mg of Clomid, Ovidrel trigger shot and IUI procedures for two rounds, and then repeat for round 3 including Progesterone Vaginal Suppository (PVS). During my first round of Clomid overproduced, Dr. D adjusted accordingly to 25mg to counter the over production of follicles. All three rounds of IUI were unsuccessful.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

The nursing staff was poorly organized and not very informative. No information was provided in next steps process unless us as patients pushed with asking questions. Multiple nurses involved in communication made messages and information provided varied depending on who you spoke with, there was no one clear voice of instruction. The one bright spot was Clara, she took control of our case and was exactly what we needed. She had great follow up, clear direction, and answered any and all questions and concerns we had.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

The structure of this clinic was hard to follow, and did not have the clear instructions from the beginning to the end of treatment strategies. Multiple nurses were pulled into my process, and not all of the coordinators were aware of my treatment stages. On a personal note, their accessibility is not friendly due to some communication barrier. However, this clinic was accurate on the timeline, and had a great follow up during our timeline. Their appointment coordination was easy and always provided best availability.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

We covered the costs associated with the consultation fee, ultrasounds, bloodwork, some medications and IUI insemination..

Describe Manuel Doblado's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

N/A

What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

There were three specific things we did not receive clear instructions on what to do during treatment. 1) We were not aware that we were responsibility to order the trigger shot through a third party pharmacy and pay them directly. 2) The general process of IUI did not provide a full information about each step prior to starting treatment. 3) We paid our fees in full, until at later times, we have received a couple of refunds without our knowledge.

Doctor

Manuel Doblado

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2021 - 2022, Unknown Success

Age 34 - 35

4 IUI

Unexplained

European

Middle Eastern

Income $200K - $499K

Doctor

2nd of 2 Docs

1 Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Sara Babcock Gilbert Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Dr. Babcock is wonderful and patient at answering all of my questions...I've requested a few phone and video visits with her to review next steps and results and she was available and answered all of my questions patiently. I feel like I have an advocate while going through treatments...I also appreciate that she is optimistic..

I have had a lot of frustrations at this [NCFMC] clinic, particularly with the support staff. I sometimes feel like the communication is poor. For instance, I was told my first IUI would need to be delayed because they did not request my records from my outside clinic more than 2 weeks prior to my cycle start. The ball has been dropped a few times...First cycle of IUI was $13,900 excluding meds and genetic testing without ICSI.

How was your experience with Sara Babcock Gilbert at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

I feel very fortunate to be a patient of Dr. Babcock. She is extremely patient and kind while still being straightforward. I appreciate her optimism at each visit and her candor in discussing next steps. I've requested a few phone and video visits with her to review next steps and results and she was available and answered all of my questions patiently. I feel like I have an advocate while going through treatments.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sara Babcock Gilbert at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr. Babcock is wonderful and patient at answering all of my questions. I've requested a number of phone appointments and she is always very responsive and straightforward in answering my questions. I also appreciate that she is optimistic!

Describe the protocols Sara Babcock Gilbert used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

I did IUI 4 times (one was more as a salvage after a cancelled IUI), 3 were with Clomid. I used Clomid 50mg each cycle and always responded. I had one chemical pregnancy and the other IUIs were not successful. I tried one cycle of IVF with injectable gonadatropins, but I had a very poor response to Gonal-F 225 and Menopur 75. This was unexpected with my AMH and AFC. The cycle was unfortunately cancelled.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Susan Pearson, RN)

Susan, my nurse coordinator, is WONDERFUL. She is incredibly responsive and patient. Susan treats me with kindness and respect and I feel like she is my advocate.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

I have had a lot of frustrations at this clinic, particularly with the support staff. I sometimes feel like the communication is poor. For instance, I was told my first IUI would need to be delayed because they did not request my records from my outside clinic more than 2 weeks prior to my cycle start. The ball has been dropped a few times. It's also hard to get in touch with someone in a timely manner when you are not an IVF patient which can be frustrating. The patient portal has a lot of drawbacks (i.e. you can't respond to a message or message your physician) but it's overall functional.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Sara Babcock Gilbert at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Things are on the expensive side- IUI is $550 and follicle ultrasounds prior to IUI are $425. Initial consult was $250 but I think the price has increased. First cycle of IUI was $13,900 excluding meds and genetic testing without ICSI.

What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost paperwork
Failed to send your chart to another clinic

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

When I was a new patient at this clinic, I signed a record release for my prior labs/workup from my clinic in a different city. I was not given instructions/follow up after my initial consult and just told to call on cycle day 1. When I called, no one had requested records and I was told that they could not start me on Clomid because they did not have the appropriate labs. Needless to say I was extremely upset and had to escalate the situation to a managerial level. I was told this was due to staff shortages and new trainees. I also have had prescriptions not sent to my pharmacy when I was told they were being sent over, resulting in calls/messages. Things just sometimes require more effort than I feel they should.

Doctor

Sara Babcock Gilbert

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Sara Babcock Gilbert Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2021 - 2022, Unsuccessful

Age 32 - 33

2 IUI

PCOS

European

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

Donor Sperm

Strongly Recommends

Unsuccessful

Review of

Laurie Lovely Northern California Fertility Medical Center

I enjoyed Dr. Lovely and I would certainly recommend her. I appreciated that she was honest about my husbands ability to conceive and supported our decision to use a sperm donor. I did also see other doctors when getting my IUI, and I would have liked to have clear expectations for aftercare. We stopped at 2 IUI and the clinic said they usually do 4..

[Northern California Fertility Medical Center is] Very nice. It was clean, calm, quiet. Everyone was nice. I think the biggest weakness like I stated before is that they assume you are knowledgeable and prepared. I personally had no previous experience so everything felt very new...Everyone was very efficient but sometimes the communication was limited. I like a lot of information and so I consistently asked follow up questions for more information. Many just assumed you're prepared to go along with the plan and are knowledgable.

How was your experience with Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Nothing new. Definitely be prepared to ask questions and be clear of your own plans as well.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr. Lovely was very honest and upfront about expectations and offered feedback when we shared our vision/desires. She was very happy to help and answer questions.

Describe the protocols Laurie Lovely used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

Took letrozole for days 3-7 of my cycle, then take OPK from day 10-12 and trigger shot used prior to timed IUI. First cycle I did 2 back to back inseminations, and the second cycle was 1 insemination.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Everyone was very efficient but sometimes the communication was limited. I like a lot of information and so I consistently asked follow up questions for more information. Many just assumed you're prepared to go along with the plan and are knowledgable.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Very nice. It was clean, calm, quiet. Everyone was nice. I think the biggest weakness like I stated before is that they assume you are knowledgeable and prepared. I personally had no previous experience so everything felt very new.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

I don't remember but I was disappointed that they didn't offer packages for IUI. I do not have insurance that covers IUI so it was solely out of pocket and they only offered packages for IVF treatments.

Describe Laurie Lovely's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

N/A

Doctor

Laurie Lovely

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Laurie Lovely Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2018 - 2020, Unknown Success

Age 30 - 32

2 IUI

Anovulation

PCOS

European

Latinx

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

[Dr. Manuel Doblado] treats his patients individually and isn’t afraid of going against the grain...took his time to respond to my questions even on nights or weekends...would call me to discuss treatment options and consider adjustments at my request and truly tailor my protocol specifically for me and my needs.I would describe him as a fertility engineer in a way...doesn’t sugar coat things, but he is also kind and gentle.

You won’t see your doctor at every visit or even sometimes at any visit during a cycle, but the majority of the doctors there [Northern California Fertility Medical Center] are great...broke down crying while getting a blood draw...phlebotomist stopped what she was doing to give me a long (much needed) hug...[nurse] would tell me which pharmacies patients had been reporting best prices at...when there was a Letrozole shortage she put in scripts at several different pharmacies while I was on the phone standing with a local pharmacist. She rooted for me in every way and gave me all the resources I needed.

How was your experience with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

He treats his patients individually and isn’t afraid of going against the grain. He took his time to respond to my questions even on nights or weekends. I would describe him as a fertility engineer in a way... engineers are problem solvers, puzzle workers. He saw my case (and I’m sure every case) as a unique challenge that he was determined to overcome. He has processes that I didn’t understand at first. Not because he didn’t explain them, but because I was impatient. He doesn’t sugar coat things, but he is also kind and gentle.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Trust the process.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

He would call me to discuss treatment options and consider adjustments at my request and truly tailor my protocol specifically for me and my needs.

Describe the protocols Manuel Doblado used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

The 1st three cycles we did letrozole increasing the dose from 5mg to 7.5mg and remaining at 7.5 each additional cycle. Every cycle we did a trigger shot. We tried estrace because I my lining wasn’t thick enough one or 2 cycles but doblado wasn’t happy with it for me. My 4th cycle we tried Letrozole pulse Gonal -F because i did not ovulate the month before on just Letrozole (and because I basically begged to do more) I took a break for a few months after that round, because we needed to save up more money. When I came back we tried Letrozole with a trigger again for 2 cycles the. 2nd cycle we added IUI for the 1st time. All of the cycles to this point ended in negative pregnancy tests. The next cycle we did Letrozole, gonal-f, 2 IUIs and a trigger shot. I had a chemical pregnancy that cycle. I needed to take time off to heal and grieve and save more money. We took the 1st quarter of 2020 off and we were planning on going in again in April but then, Covid-19 happened and our clinic suspended treatments.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Courtney )

They were always pleasant and took great care of me. Very compassionate. One day I broke down crying while getting a blood draw (because my previous results weren’t great) and the phlebotomist stopped what she was doing to give me a long (much needed) hug. Courtney also went above and beyond, she would tell me which pharmacies patients had been reporting best prices at... when there was a Letrozole shortage she put in scripts at several different pharmacies while I was on the phone standing with a local pharmacist. She rooted for me in every way and gave me all the resources I needed.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

You won’t see your doctor at every visit or even sometimes at any visit during a cycle, but the majority of the doctors there are great. There was one that wasn’t for me, but I’m sure some people really like his demeanor. Outside of Dr. Doblado, Dr. Lovely was my favorite. So kind, caring and gentle. She even let my husband inject the IUI once she had everything set up. It just so happens that’s the one time I got a positive pregnancy test! The staff are all really great and understanding. Very thorough as well.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

I paid $225 for my 1st appt, $340/ultrasound appt (max 2 per cycle the rest were zero charge), $90 for labs, the cycles with injectables and IUI I paid $1900 up front which covered everything except meds and blood tests.

Doctor

Manuel Doblado

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2019 - 2020, Unknown Success

Age 33 - 34

1 IUI

PCOS

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Not sure

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

[Dr. Manuel Doblado] He is welcoming and sincere, inquires on how you are doing and then gets down to business. He’s patient. He is thorough. He tells it how it is, but is respectful in doing so...Our initial meeting we decided to try timed cycles with 2.5mg of Letrozole (tablets)and 250mcg of Ovidrel (injection). I also was put on Metformin three times a day to help insulin levels. We discussed using that for three rounds and meeting after that if we didn’t achieve pregnancy.

[nurse of Norther California Fertility Medical Center] Friendly, compassionate and encouraging. Quick response times! If they didn’t have the answer to a question, they’d find out and return my call...You can request payment information upfront for your cycle so you know what they’ll be charging so it isn’t a surprise when you get there...With insurance for timed cycles our costs ranged from $50-$80/visit. Without insurance we paid roughly $350/visit. Out of pocket IUI cycle $475/IUI

How was your experience with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

I feel very comfortable when meeting with Dr. Doblado. He is welcoming and sincere, inquires on how you are doing and then gets down to business. He’s patient. He is thorough. He tells it how it is, but is respectful in doing so. I am grateful to be his patient!

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Write down any random bits of info about your medical history that you think may be relevant or questions you have regarding treatment before meeting with him. He is a wealth of knowledge and will answer them all!

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

He’s very friendly and informative. He explains information in a way that is easy to understand and he answers questions honestly. He really takes the time to meet with you and make sure you’re given all the information needed to make your choices regarding your journey.

Describe the protocols Manuel Doblado used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

Our initial meeting we decided to try timed cycles with 2.5mg of Letrozole (tablets)and 250mcg of Ovidrel (injection). I also was put on Metformin three times a day to help insulin levels. We discussed using that for three rounds and meeting after that if we didn’t achieve pregnancy. We had our follow meeting and moved on to the same medications but IUI instead of timed intercourse. We will try three rounds of IUI and meet again if needed. Medications are to ensure ovulation.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Friendly, compassionate and encouraging. Quick response times! If they didn’t have the answer to a question, they’d find out and return my call. In office they’re always encouraging and wishing us luck! Very happy with my care team!!

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Quick call backs, very informative staff and friendly faces. Everyone is helpful and happy to be there. The only thing I’m not 100% happy with is how long billing can take. It seems billing can take up to a month to process and post. They did update their system and can now print receipts on letterhead which is great! You can request payment information upfront for your cycle so you know what they’ll be charging so it isn’t a surprise when you get there.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

With insurance for timed cycles our costs ranged from $50-$80/visit. Without insurance we paid roughly $350/visit. Out of pocket IUI cycle $475/IUI (not included ultrasounds or medications)

Describe Manuel Doblado's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

N/A at this time

Doctor

Manuel Doblado

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2020, Successful

Age 25

Endometriosis

Male Factor

PCOS

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

[Dr. Manuel Doblando] is a very caring man, and understanding...He has never made me feel rushed, he has always been very thorough in testing, results, and discussing our fertility plan...He understood my complications, my miscarriages, my concerns, and answered every single one of my questions. We did the full testing work up. Got proper diagnosis in such a short time. We faced a set back on our fertility plan due to me needing surgery for one of my diagnoses, which we knew was going to be needed at some point, but due to pain it came sooner than we hoped. He kept me positive about everything, explained everything along the way, reassured me it was going to go just fine. I felt I may have had some healing complications and he even came in on Easter to make sure I was okay. We then had another appointment a few day’s later and discussed our new fertility plan moving forward. He’s an amazing man and extremely trustworthy. I cannot wait to see if this new plan we have set will be successful. I have faith in him 100%!

I have yet to notice any weaknesses [at Northern California Fertility Medical Center] in my experience. They have a strong clinical team there, everyone is so friendly, caring, and professional at every stand point. I have no complaints about my experiences any time I’ve been to the office...[The nurse is] Always comforting, returns phone calls and emails quickly, goes out of her way to make sure she has all the answers you need...So far has been extremely affordable. I was worried about cost before going but it’s not as bad as I thought it would be.

How was your experience with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

He made me feel comfortable from the very first visit. He understood my complications, my miscarriages, my concerns, and answered every single one of my questions. We did the full testing work up. Got proper diagnosis in such a short time. We faced a set back on our fertility plan due to me needing surgery for one of my diagnoses, which we knew was going to be needed at some point, but due to pain it came sooner than we hoped. He kept me positive about everything, explained everything along the way, reassured me it was going to go just fine. I felt I may have had some healing complications and he even came in on Easter to make sure I was okay. We then had another appointment a few day’s later and discussed our new fertility plan moving forward. He’s an amazing man and extremely trustworthy. I cannot wait to see if this new plan we have set will be successful. I have faith in him 100%!

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Don’t leave anything out, if you’re concerned about anything don’t feel like it may be dumb to ask or bring up. He has the answer, and will help you! He’s a very caring man, and understanding.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

He has never made me feel rushed, he has always been very thorough in testing, results, and discussing our fertility plan.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Tiana )

Always comforting, returns phone calls and emails quickly, goes out of her way to make sure she has all the answers you need.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

I have yet to notice any weaknesses in my experience. They have a strong clinical team there, everyone is so friendly, caring, and professional at every stand point. I have no complaints about my experiences any time I’ve been to the office.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

So far has been extremely affordable. I was worried about cost before going but it’s not as bad as I thought it would be.

Doctor

Manuel Doblado

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2020, Unsuccessful

Age 32

3 IUI

Tubal Blockage

Uterine Fibroids

European

Income $100K - $199K

Nurse or HC Services

Only Doc Seen

Doesn't Recommend

Neutral

Unsuccessful

Review of

Sahar Stephens Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Saw [Dr. Sahar Stephens] for initial consult and she was very nice and reassuring but and have not seen or been in direct contact since- I get updates from the nurses no calls or updates from the doctor herself...Gave us brief insight into what course of action she would like to take to try and conceive...It would be nice to get a phone call when my care plan is altered rather than having a nurse talk to me about it. I know it’s coming from the doctor and they are busy but it’s a little unnerving not being able to be in direct contact with the doctor.

If you are wanting a doctor that’s your primary contact of care, this clinic [Northern California Fertility Medical Center] wouldn’t be for you. Most of the doctors share responsibility it seems. I’ve seen all 4 so far...First cycle was medication 50 mg clomid, estrace, trigger shot, then IUI. I did not respond to clomid (no multiple dominant follicles). Failed IUI. Second cycle was medication 150 mg clomid, estrace, trigger, 2 consecutive day IUIs. No multiple follicles, negative IUI. Next phase will be injectable gonal F and IUI, vaginal suppositories. Awaiting stay at home Orders to be over before starting new cycle.

How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

She was knowledgeable and kind during initial consult. Gave us brief insight into what course of action she would like to take to try and conceive. But after initial consult there has been little contact with her directly. It would be nice to get a phone call when my care plan is altered rather than having a nurse talk to me about it. I know it’s coming from the doctor and they are busy but it’s a little unnerving not being able to be in direct contact with the doctor.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

If you are wanting a doctor that’s your primary contact of care, this clinic wouldn’t be for you. Most of the doctors share responsibility it seems. I’ve seen all 4 so far.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Saw for initial consult and she was very nice and reassuring but and have not seen or been in direct contact since- I get updates from the nurses no calls or updates from the doctor herself.

Describe the protocols Sahar Stephens used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

First cycle was medication 50 mg clomid, estrace, trigger shot, then IUI. I did not respond to clomid (no multiple dominant follicles). Failed IUI. Second cycle was medication 150 mg clomid, estrace, trigger, 2 consecutive day IUIs. No multiple follicles, negative IUI. Next phase will be injectable gonal F and IUI, vaginal suppositories. Awaiting stay at home Orders to be over before starting new cycle.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Very communicative and prompt.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Nurses communicate well the plan of care. Office staff and doctors were all kind and had good bedside manner. Weakness: lack of direct doctor /patient relationship. It’s more a team effort- nurses relay everything to patient.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

All cost was out of pocket. Our insurance wasn’t accepted.

Describe Sahar Stephens's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Lost paperwork

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Nothing went wrong.

Doctor

Sahar Stephens

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Sahar Stephens Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2018 - 2020, Unsuccessful

Age 31 - 33

3 IUI

1 IVF

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Endometriosis

Poor Egg Quality

Unexplained

European

Income $50K - $99K

2nd of 2 Docs

3 IUI With Other Docs

Neutral

Strongly Recommends

Unsuccessful

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Dr. Doblado has a good bedside manner. He has answered any and all questions patiently and been happy to schedule appointments and consultations when we requested them. After our failed FET, he was sympathetic and concerned not only with my physical health but my emotional state...We started with a combination of fertility medication and IUI. We did 6 unsuccessful cycles of IUI. Dr. Doblado then recommended we swith to IVF.

Our primary nurse coordinator [of Northern California Fertility Medical Center] was organized and empathetic. She helped prepare us for the medication and injection schedule, frequently checked in with us and helped with medications and scheduling...Staff is the biggest strength. Every doctor and nurse has been wonderful and created the best experience possible. The clinic is smaller and can be hard to book appointments on short notice

How was your experience with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Overall, I like my experience with Dr. Doblado. I trust his treatment plan. He is straightforward yet still sypathetic to our struggles. He has always made himself available for consultations and to answer any questions we have had.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Ask questions. The more information you have, the more comfortable with treatment you will be.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Describe the protocols Manuel Doblado used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

We started with a combination of fertility medication and IUI. We did 6 unsuccessful cycles of IUI. Dr. Doblado then recommended we swith to IVF. we did 1 egg retrieval using medication and injections. 12 eggs were received, 8 embryos were created using ICSI. By day 5, all but 2 embryos had stopped growing. We sent the two embryos to be genetically tested. Both embryos cleared genetic testing. We transfered 1 unsuccessfully and our last embryo is currently frozen. We are waiting to transfer until after Covid 19 restrictions have been lifted.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Jamie)

Every nurse we have interacted with has been amazing. Our primary nurse coordinator was organized and empathetic. She helped prepare us for the medication and injection schedule, frequently checked in with us and helped with medications and scheduling.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Staff is the biggest strength. Every doctor and nurse has been wonderful and created the best experience possible. The clinic is smaller and can be hard to book appointments on short notice. However, they recently moved to a larger facility.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Our insurance covers some procedures but most has been out of pocket. Each round of IUI cost about $350 and IVF was roughly $22,000, which we financed mostly.

Describe Manuel Doblado's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Our clinic prefers to only do eSET

Doctor

Manuel Doblado

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2019, Unsuccessful

Age 37

2 IVF

Unexplained

European

Income $50K - $99K

1st of 2 Docs

3 IUI With Other Docs

1 IVF With Other Docs

Doesn't Recommend

Unsuccessful

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

[Dr. Manuel Doblado] was knowledgeable but, only saw him twice throughout two egg retrieval cycles. I did see him once during one iui cycle as well. I also couldn't reach him very easily, I had to go through the front desk then the nurse coordinator and then get on his calendar in order to speak with him...felt like I was on my own to gather information...I agreed with his approach to do SFET with pgt testing

[Northern California Fertility Medical Center is] Robotic in their interactions and lacking in true human connection. Not concerned with saving the patient money where they can and constantly switching doctors. Strengths would be that they have their protocols and systems dialed in...[the nursing staff was] Absolutely average, if not, somewhat below average

How was your experience with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

He was knowledgeable but, only saw him twice throughout two egg retrieval cycles. I did see him once during one iui cycle as well. I also couldn't reach him very easily, I had to go through the front desk then the nurse coordinator and then get on his calendar in order to speak with him.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Go in prepared and backed with all the knowledge because they'll only give you what they think you need to know and nothing further. No elaboration on protocols, outcomes, statistics... I truly felt like I was on my own to gather information. They always asked if I had questions but the fact is; you don't know what you don't know, so in order to ask questions you'll have to do your own research first.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

They had a lot of patients so I really never had much interaction with anyone. I saw my doctor once or twice through two cycles.

Describe the protocols Manuel Doblado used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

250 iu gonal- f along with menopure. He added hgc to the 2nd retrieval. Outcome; Two cycles, 23 eggs and 1 normal embryo.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Courtney )

Absolutely average, if not, somewhat below average. Wasn't satisfied and steered me towards 3rd party company's, i.e. genetic testing and pharmacy's that were more expensive than others and didn't tell me that I actually had choices to go elsewhere until I found out on my own. So the withholding of information irritated me the most.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Robotic in their interactions and lacking in true human connection. Not concerned with saving the patient money where they can and constantly switching doctors. Strengths would be that they have their protocols and systems dialed in but doesn't seem like they're willing to deviate from that even if it would be beneficial for the patients best possible outcome.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

In and out everytime. Very organized and regimented.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

I used ARC to finance the 2nd round which was $12000 plus ICSY and pgt which was $3900... =$15,900 plus $2,000 in medication.

Describe Manuel Doblado's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

I agreed with his approach to do SFET with pgt testing

Doctor

Manuel Doblado

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2017 - 2018, Successful

Age 35 - 36

2 Fertility Medications

Tubal Blockage

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Unexplained

Black or African-American

Income $0 - $49K

Operations

Only Doc Seen

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Michael Murray Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Dr. Murray was very straight forward with me and my Diagnoses, he explained everything in detail and give me many opinions. Once I decided to move forward and have my left tube removed. He was very proactive on make sure that he gave me all the information on the process.... Dr. Murray stated that since I was able to get pregnant on my own in the pass, he felt like our best and cheapest opinion would be to do time intercourse with 100mg of clomid for 5days and 75iu of Gonal-F injections for another 5days.

The staff [Northern CA Fertility Medical Ctr] are always polite and friendly. They make you feel comfortable at every visit. They always make sure to explain the prices for each cycle. There is never a long wait time for your appointments. And they try to work around your schedule for your appointments.... Dr. Murray and his team made to to check with your insurance company first to see what is covered. Then they would process they necessary treatment that is covered under your plan.

How was your experience with Michael Murray at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr. Murray was very straight forward with me and my Diagnoses, he explained everything in detail and give me many opinions. Once I decided to move forward and have my left tube removed. He was very proactive on make sure that he gave me all the information on the process. After the surgery he evaluated me and then told me I was fine to start fertility treatment soon after.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Michael Murray at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Please be sure to bring in all medical records from your previous providers. This was very helpful for me, and it make the process much faster and smoother.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Murray at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr. Murray is a very kind provider. He has wonderful bedside manners. He listens to your concerns, and he always explains your best opinions depending on your issue.

Describe the protocols Michael Murray used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

After my laparoscopy surgery to have my left tube removed. Dr. Murray stated that since I was able to get pregnant on my own in the pass, he felt like our best and cheapest opinion would be to do time intercourse with 100mg of clomid for 5days and 75iu of Gonal-F injections for another 5days. The results were I responded well to the medication. I made 4 eggs, but they were all on the side without a tube. So Dr. Murruy was very straight forward and told me that he did not think we would get pregnant with our first cycle

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Kayla Johnson)

Kayla was a very compassionate person, she made sure that I understood the treatment and always follow up on my emails or calls when ever I had a question.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

The staff are always polite and friendly. They make you feel comfortable at every visit. They always make sure to explain the prices for each cycle. There is never a long wait time for your appointments. And they try to work around your schedule for your appointments.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Michael Murray at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

I am unsure, due to the fact that I never add up the total cost. Dr. Murray and his team made to to check with your insurance company first to see what is covered. Then they would process they necessary treatment that is covered under your plan. Anything like labs and surgery related thing should be covered by most insurance company. My timed intercourse was not covered to I think I spent like $600 on the medication and another $1000 on the cycle for office visits and ultrasounds.

Doctor

Michael Murray

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Michael Murray Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2012 - 2017, Successful

Age 32 - 37

5 IUI

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

European

Income $100K - $199K

Teacher

1st of 4 Docs

2 IUI With Other Docs

Neutral

Successful

Review of

Carlos Soto-Albors (retired)Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Dr. Soto was very informative. He precisely described what was going to happen during each cycle. He was compassionate yet realistic. He worked very hard to try to figure out why we were experiencing Recurrent miscarriages. Even though we have not found a cause he continues to provide good care.... Due to our recurrent miscarriages, Dr. Soto attempted various strategies to maintain pregnancies. For example, he prescribed for progesterone suppositories at one point because nothing else was working even though I didn't show a need for them in blood tests.

Dottie [at Northern California Fertility Medical Center] is the most compassionate nurse. She is optimistic. Sometimes she is a little disorganized, but I believe that is because she has so many patients that she cares about. She always eventually get you what you need. She is most thorough in explaining your medications, when to take them, how to administer them, and always calls you back within the day even if it's late at night.

How was your experience with Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

He is not going to hold your hand but he is very good at what he does. He will answer all questions you ask.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

He was very encouraging and yet realistic.

Describe the protocols Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

Due to our reoccurant miscarriages, Dr. Soto attempted various strategies to maintain pregnancies. For example, he prescribed for progesterone suppositories at one point because nothing else was working even though I didn't show a need for them in blood tests.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Dottie Rowell)

Dottie is the most compassionate nurse. She is optimistic. Sometimes she is a little disorganized, but I believe that is because she has so many patients that she cares about. She always eventually get you what you need. She is most thorough in explaining your medications, when to take them, how to administer them, and always calls you back within the day even if it's late at night.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

This clinic seems very on top of the latest tests etc. They are optimistic yet realistic. They advise you and don't lecture you. They sometimes run late , But having been an emergency appointment I have compassion for them needing some flexibility in their schedule due to the nature of their practice.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Cost would vary depending on what was going on in each cycle. Plus my insurance picked up some, although no prescription injectable medications.

Describe Carlos Soto-Albors (retired)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Not applicable

What specific things went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to order appropriate test

Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

They can be occasionally unorganized, but always admit their mistakes.

Doctor

Carlos Soto-Albors (retired)

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Carlos Soto-Albors (retired)Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2012 - 2015, Successful

Age 30 - 33

5 IUI

Male Factor

PCOS

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

Neutral

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Michael Murray Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Dr. Murray is very kind, caring, with a funny sense of humor. He knows how stressful the process can be and will try to lighten the mood with a little joke but it never seems out of place. He talks to you in a straightforward way that makes you feel reassured... We are now trying for baby #2 with dr. Murray again and are currently in IUI cycle number 2 right now.

The first time we started the whole IUI process, the doctor and all the support staff [at Northern California Fertility Medical Center] were very friendly. They responded very quickly to any questions or concerns that I called in with... We are now trying for baby #2 with dr. Murray again and are currently in IUI cycle number 2 right now.

How was your experience with Michael Murray at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Michael Murray at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

The first time we started the whole iui process, the doctor and all the support staff were very friendly. They responded very quickly to any questions or concerns that I called in with. I got pregnant on my 3rd iui attempt and after my son was born, we actually took him in so dr Murray and the staff could meet the miracle baby they helped me and my husband get, they felt like extended family. We are now trying for baby #2 with dr. Murray again and are currently in iui cycle number 2 right now.

Describe the protocols Michael Murray used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

Cycle day 1 was first day of full flow period and call to let dr. Murray know Cycle day 3-7 was 100mg of Clomid daily Cycle day 8-12 was estrace (?mg) twice daily Cycle day 11 start using home ovulation kit in the morning call with a positive result If no positive result by cycle day 13, then call for next day appointment. As soon as I got a positive on the ovulation kit, called office and I had a same day appointment for an ultrasound to confirm ovulation and good follicle size. Received a trigger shot of ovidrel and iui scheduled for the next day. Day of iui, husband gave sperm sample and roughly 2hrs later was iui....another ultrasound to see if ovulation occurred. If not, then another iui was scheduled for the next day. Starting the day after the last iui start progesterone vaginal suppositories nightly. If no period shows by 17days after iui then beta hcg blood test is ordered to check for pregnancy

Doctor

Michael Murray

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Michael Murray Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2023, Unsuccessful

Age 33

7 Fertility Medications

PCOS

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

Neutral

Strongly Recommends

Unsuccessful

Review of

Laurie Lovely Northern California Fertility Medical Center

[Dr. Lovely] took the time in our consultation, to review all options thoroughly with us...We live several hours away the clinic so with follow-up consultations, she did telephone appointments...I was very concerned with the fact that my hormones were not where they should be specifically, my testosterone levels. She referred me to supplements and things to change in my everyday lifestyle, specifically diet and exercise to help with the imbalance...

At times, I felt that it was such a rushed appointment [at Northern California Fertility Medical Center]. Considering I drove several hours to get there and not truly get more than a couple of minutes with a nurse. It’s stressful, and at times I felt like there was a lack of communication. Just an, OK come back in a couple of days because the ultrasound was not showing the results we hoped for...For an 11 - 20 minute telephone appointment was $140...Each office visit appointment with ultrasound monitoring was $465...

How was your experience with Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr. Lovely is a very kind individual. I felt like she took the time in our consultation, to review all options thoroughly with us. She answered all questions that we had. We live several hours away the clinic so with follow-up consultations, she did telephone appointments, which was convenient for us. I had a list of questions and without having to ask, she covered everything we were wanting to know.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

It is extremely overwhelming and emotional to deal with infertility. Dr. Lovely really seems to care and will take the time to address your concerns.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Her bedside manner was amazing! I joked after meeting her that she really lived up to her name, she was absolutely lovely.

Describe the protocols Laurie Lovely used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

I was very concerned with the fact that my hormones were not where they should be specifically, my testosterone levels. She referred me to supplements and things to change in my everyday lifestyle, specifically diet and exercise to help with the imbalance.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

At times, I felt that it was such a rushed appointment. Considering I drove several hours to get there and not truly get more than a couple of minutes with a nurse. It’s stressful, and at times I felt like there was a lack of communication. Just an, OK come back in a couple of days because the ultrasound was not showing the results we hoped for.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Each office visit appointment with ultrasound monitoring was $465. For an 11 - 20 minute telephone appointment was $140.

Doctor

Laurie Lovely

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Laurie Lovely Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2022 - 2023, Successful

Age 28 - 29

1 IVF

Male Factor

Unexplained

European

Native American

Income $200K - $499K

5th of 5 Docs

2 Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Neutral

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

I liked that he [Dr. Manuel Doblado] was the doctor that got me pregnant, but he was initially very dismissive of my concerns. It took 2 embryo losses for him to acknowledge my signs of Adenomyosis. He also was cold and forgetful that he was my doctor...There was an instance when I went to a lining check appointment and he was the doctor scheduled to see me that day. He came into the room and asked who my primary doctor within the clinic was even though it was him. It also said his name pretty big at the top of my chart so he definitely forgot the human part of the process that day.

A weakness is their [Northern California Fertility Medical Center] patient load. They are one of the few IVF clinics in the area so they are very full and have long waitlists. That said, of the clinics I’ve been to, they are the absolute best! I would tell a new patient to be prepared and organized going into the consultation and advocate for themselves. With so many patients, it is easy to be overlooked.

How was your experience with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

I liked that he was the doctor that got me pregnant, but he was initially very dismissive of my concerns. It took 2 embryo losses for him to acknowledge my signs of Adenomyosis. He also was cold and forgetful that he was my doctor.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Advocate for yourself

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

There was an instance when I went to a lining check appointment and he was the doctor scheduled to see me that day. He came into the room and asked who my primary doctor within the clinic was even though it was him. It also said his name pretty big at the top of my chart so he definitely forgot the human part of the process that day.

Describe the protocols Manuel Doblado used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

We had a very standard egg retrieval with follistim, Menopur, Ganirelix, leuprolide and Novarel. The first and second FET consisted of follistim, letrozole, estrogen, progesterone and HCG. After a positive receptivia we treated with the highest dose of Orilissa for 2 months and then the same FET protocol but added in a steroid pre transfer.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Wendy)

All of the nurses were so helpful and caring!

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

A weakness is their patient load. They are one of the few IVF clinics in the area so they are very full and have long waitlists. That said, of the clinics I’ve been to, they are the absolute best! I would tell a new patient to be prepared and organized going into the consultation and advocate for themselves. With so many patients, it is easy to be overlooked.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

For a retrieval and two transfers and all medication for that it was $25,000. For the 3rd transfer and medication, it was around $5,000

Doctor

Manuel Doblado

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2022, Consult

Age 25

1 Fertility Medications

PCOS

Latinx

Income $50K - $99K

Sales Representative

2nd of 2 Docs

8 Fertility Medications With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Success w/ Doc Too early to know

Review of

Laurie Lovely Northern California Fertility Medical Center

[Dr. Lovely] treats you with kindness and understand you. She goes over your chart on what you have done prior coming to the clinic. As a patient i felt that she understand me on what i am going thru. She explain every detail on IUI and IVF. She tells you the differences between them and tells you what she recommends. She gave me information on my PCOS and the treatments i'm going to do

The [Northern Cal Fertilty] staff is very patient. My care coordinator answers my emails when i have questions same with the nurses and medical assistant...The greatest strength of the clinic is Friendly staff. And weakness would be a long wait time for the new patient but that's understandable because the facility can only handle so much

How was your experience with Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Doctor Lovely is a doctor you want to see when your at you last hopes. She treats you with kindness and understand you. She goes over your chart on what you have done prior coming to the clinic. As a patient i felt that she understand me on what i am going thru. She explain every detail on IUI and IVF. She tells you the differences between them and tells you what she recommends. She gave me information on my PCOS and the treatments i'm going to do. As well she will send a letter/email to myself and my obgyn on my next steps and what treatments i'm going to do.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Be patient and believe in your doctor and clinic.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

I felt like a human when i spoke with her because she cares for her patients. she explains your treatments and our next steps on whats next.

Describe the protocols Laurie Lovely used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

I still haven't done my treatments. But she puts all the information in your chart and explains everything to you.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: sandie jordan)

The staff is very patient. My care coordinator answers my emails when i have questions same with the nurses and medical assistant.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

The greatest strength of the clinic is Friendly staff. And weakness would be a long wait time for the new patient but that's understandable because the facility can only handle so much. Clinic is already giving its 100%.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Consultation cost is average. Rest depends on what type of treatment you get. But overall Cost are not higher than average.

Doctor

Laurie Lovely

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Laurie Lovely Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2021 - 2022, Unsuccessful

Age 35 - 36

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Consultant

2nd of 2 Docs

3 IUI With Other Docs

Neutral

Strongly Recommends

Unsuccessful

Review of

Laurie Lovely Northern California Fertility Medical Center

You are in good hands. No need to be nervous she knows what she [Dr. Laurie Lovely] is doing...I felt very comfortable and not nervous about the dosage of fertility medication. She is very knowledgeable. Very gentle with administering the IUI. She answered all my questions and kept a positive outlook.

Very clean. Front desk staff [at Northern California Fertility Medical Center is] very welcoming. Hardly any wait time for your appointment. My male partner didn't like the music choices in the room that he goes into. Also, the sink to wash up sprays all over. The cup that he puts his sample into is rough on the edges.

How was your experience with Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

I felt very comfortable and not nervous about the dosage of fertility medication. She is very knowledgeable. Very gentle with administering the IUI. She answered all my questions and kept a positive outlook.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

You are in good hands. No need to be nervous she knows what she is doing.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

I always got a call back the same day.

Describe the protocols Laurie Lovely used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

Clomid 100mg for 5 days, Estrogen for 5 days, daily low dose aspirin, daily prenatal. HCG trigger shot then IUI the next day. 3 cycles of this exact protocol. First cycle 4 follicles, Second cycle 3 follicles and then third cycle 4 follicles. Chemical pregnancy after the third cycle.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

If I had a question that they couldn't answer they would go out of their way to get the answer for me.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Very clean. Front desk staff very welcoming. Hardly any wait time for your appointment. My male partner didn't like the music choices in the room that he goes into. Also, the sink to wash up sprays all over. The cup that he puts his sample into is rough on the edges.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Laurie Lovely at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Ultrasounds about $200. Sperm Washing and IUI $500. Meds $150.

Doctor

Laurie Lovely

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Laurie Lovely Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2019 - 2020, Unsuccessful

Age 29 - 30

2 IUI

Unexplained

European

Income $100K - $199K

Only Doc Seen

Neutral

Unsuccessful

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Doctor [Doblado] was warm, compassionate and very professional. As a younger doctor, he may not have as much experience as others in the practice, but he seems to know his stuff. He tends more towards the “chill” personality side, which can be a positive or negative depending on what you are looking for. Overall, find him responsive to questions and was never condescending or hurried.

IUIs were covered by insurance, were no more than $400/each including all meds (Clomid + trigger shot)...[NoCal Fertility Medical Center] Clinic is organized, staff are kind, they are respectful of your time. I would sometimes prefer more flexibility during some of the treatments to accommodate work schedule but I’m sure it’s set up that way for a reason...

How was your experience with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Doctor was warm, compassionate and very professional. As a younger doctor, he may not have as much experience as others in the practice, but he seems to know his stuff. He tends more towards the “chill” personality side, which can be a positive or negative depending on what you are looking for. Overall, find him responsive to questions and was never condescending or hurried.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. He takes the time to answer them and does not trivialize your concerns.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Doctor was compassionate and warm. Quick to answer questions and emails and takes as much time with you as needed.

Describe the protocols Manuel Doblado used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

Two back-to-back Clomid IUIs. Both did not result in pregnancy.

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Very competent and willing to work with you on scheduling concerns.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Clinic is organized, staff are kind, they are respectful of your time. I would sometimes prefer more flexibility during some of the treatments to accommodate work schedule but I’m sure it’s set up that way for a reason.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Manuel Doblado at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

IUIs were covered by insurance, were no more than $400/each including all meds (Clomid + trigger shot)

Doctor

Manuel Doblado

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Manuel Doblado Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2017, Successful

Age 34

Male Factor

Income $50K - $99K

Only Doc Seen

IVF With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Carlos Soto-Albors (retired)Northern California Fertility Medical Center

I had a very good experience with Dr. Soto. He was very clear and made sure I understood what was happening and offered the best options. During the consultation he told us the options we may face but in order for us to know what’s going on there are numerous tests that we will need to do. After the results came he contacted me to provide an update and told us what the best treatment option he recommends...he allows you to make that decision [about Eset]. He explain to you the risks but you ultimately make the decision.

The clinic [Northern California Fertility Medical Center] was amazing. If you left a message you would get a call back within the hour. They were very prompt with getting back with you. Also, the staff is extremely nice. Sometimes when you’re going through so much you can sometimes be more agitated and overwhelmed and their staff is so kind and eases your frustration.

How was your experience with Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Trust him and his knowledge.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr. Soto was very sensitive and provided his undivided attention throughout the emotional journey.

Describe the protocols Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

I do not remember much it’s been couple of years now.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Susan)

She was awesome. She would call and check in regularly. She had so much compassion for what she did.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

The clinic was amazing. If you left a message you would get a call back within the hour. They were very prompt with getting back with you. Also, the staff is extremely nice. Sometimes when you’re going through so much you can sometimes be more agitated and overwhelmed and their staff is so kind and eases your frustration.

Describe the costs associated with your care under Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

I had health insurance at the time so the insurance paid a big chunk and I paid around 10K. It was a big help.

Describe Carlos Soto-Albors (retired)'s approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

No he allows you to make that decision. He explain to you the risks but you ultimately make the decision.

Doctor

Carlos Soto-Albors (retired)

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Carlos Soto-Albors (retired)Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2015 - 2016, Unsuccessful

Age 35 - 36

3 IUI

Income $50K - $99K

Teacher

2nd of 3 Docs

Neutral

Strongly Recommends

Unsuccessful

Review of

Carlos Soto-Albors (retired)Northern California Fertility Medical Center

I felt like he [Dr. Carlos Soto-Albors] is rushed and does not give time that I deserve as a patient paying a lot of money. Sometimes he was great and personable, but being that I did 5 egg donations for others and am now having infertility issues myself I need that emotional support...At times personable and not rushed, other times very rushed which left me stressed with questions and concerns. He is a great doctor, but when you see so many it is hard to have quick appts. It is apparent when he is stressed or has stuff going on. I enjoyed him most when he gives full attention in the appointment. I think he has compassion, shows concern and explains things well most of the time.

I loved Marcie. Sometimes nurses were great other times I felt like I was forgotten about especially when i was not called back and communicated with about the undressing of my husband's sperm. I almost felt like they had forgotten to pull it out...I felt like he [Dr. Carlos Soto-Albors] is rushed and does not give time that I deserve as a patient paying a lot of money. Sometimes he was great and personable, but being that I did 5 egg donations for others and am now having infertility issues myself I need that emotional support...At times personable and not rushed, other times very rushed which left me stressed with questions and concerns. He is a great doctor, but when you see so many it is hard to have quick appts. It is apparent when he is stressed or has stuff going on. I enjoyed him most when he gives full attention in the appointment. I think he has compassion, shows concern and explains things well most of the time.

How was your experience with Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

At times personable and not rushed, other times very rushed which left me stressed with questions and concerns. He is a great doctor, but when you see so many it is hard to have quick appts. It is apparent when he is stressed or has stuff going on. I enjoyed him most when he gives full attention in the appointment. I think he has compassion, shows concern and explains things well most of the time.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Have questions and concerns ready

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

I felt like he is rushed and does not give time that I deserve as a patient paying a lot of money. Sometimes he was great and personable, but being that I did 5 egg donations for others and am now having infertility issues myself I need that emotional support

Describe the protocols Carlos Soto-Albors (retired) used in your cycles at Northern California Fertility Medical Center and their degree of success.

He adjusted my meds because of my thin lining. He told me my cervix was closed and to use a certain tool in order to perform iui

Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Appointments are gard, talking directly to a dr or scheduling nurses is hard

Doctor

Carlos Soto-Albors (retired)

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Carlos Soto-Albors (retired)Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2015, Successful

Age 28

1 IVF

1 Egg Freezing

1 Embryo Freezing

Anovulation

Diminished Ovarian Reserve

PCOS

Poor Egg Quality

Uterine Fibroids

Income $100K - $199K

Nurse or HC Services

1st of 4 Docs

1 IUI With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Successful

Review of

Sahar Stephens Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Dr. Stephens looked at our fertility struggle individually. She didn't compare us to other couples. Our protocol wasn't standard, and she made sure we agreed with every step of the process.

Dottie [Northern California Fertility Medical Center nurse] is the absolute best. She came in on her day off to be there the day we started our IVF process. She always made sure she was up to date on our progress...We saw all the doctors at one point for monitoring...t first this was hard with monitoring, but we found the diverse opinions to be helpful.

How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr.Stephens looked at our fertility struggle individually. She didn't compare us to other couples. Our protocol wasn't standard, and she made sure we agreed with every step of the process.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr. Stephens is one of the newest doctors in the clinic, but she is also the one who is most up to date on new methods, and isn't afraid to try things that aren't standard. If there is ever any question she will consult her team of colleagues.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr. Stephens and her staff knew us by name, and knew exactly where we were in the process.

Describe your experience with your nurse at Northern California Fertility Medical Center. (Assigned nurse: Dottie)

Dottie is the absolute best. She came in on her day off to be there the day we started our IVF process. She always made sure she was up to date on our progress. Her instructions were clear, and she was compassionate. She would call and check on me during the process.

Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

We saw all the doctors at one point for monitoring. They work together to be open 7 days a week. At first this was hard with monitoring, but we found the diverse opinions to be helpful. It required me to miss work quite often as the monitoring appts were mostly mid morning to allow for change in medications for the evening.

Doctor

Sahar Stephens

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Sahar Stephens Northern California Fertility Medical Center

2016, Unsuccessful

Age 36

Unexplained

Income $100K - $199K

Teacher

1st of 3 Docs

3 IUI With Other Docs

Strongly Recommends

Neutral

Unsuccessful

Review of

Sahar Stephens Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Dr Stephens is extremely kind and patient. She called me personally...Dr Stephens is calm, cool and collected. She explains things thoroughly and follows through with things. She makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Dr. Stephens gets back to you in a timely manner. She addresses concerns and is very honest.

Communication could be better. Dealing with waiting for a nurse call back can be tough. Appointments can be hard to schedule. A friend is going through BIG and showed me how egg donors bios and pictures are online. I did several egg donations years ago. I would not have done it if my info was that easy to access. This seems like a privacy issue. I would say putting it on the portal would be better. Maybe more people would donate.

How was your experience with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr Stephens is calm, cool and collected. She explains things thoroughly and follows through with things. She makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Dr. Stephens gets back to you in a timely manner. She addresses concerns and is very honest.

What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

To have questions ready because it's easy to forget when in the moment.

During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Sahar Stephens at Northern California Fertility Medical Center?

Dr Stephens is extremely kind and patient. She called me personally.

Describe your experience with Northern California Fertility Medical Center.

Doctor

Sahar Stephens

Humanity

Communication

Frequency Seen

Trustworthiness

Compassion

Explained risks

Adaptability

Clinic

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

Sacramento

Operations

Scheduling

Billing Department

Nursing Staff

Clinic Atmosphere

Educational Resources

Review of

Sahar Stephens Northern California Fertility Medical Center

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Northern California Fertility Medical Center

5 doctors work here

CDC Success Rates

Available Resources

This clinic has 1 office
Visit clinic website

175 patient reviews

Filter by patient information

Learn from top medical experts

Northern California Fertility Medical Center

5 doctors work here

CDC Success Rates

Available Resources

This clinic has 1 officeVisit clinic website

175 patient reviews

Learn from top medical experts

This clinic has 1 office
Visit clinic website