3 rounds of timed intercourse followed by frozen embryo IVF [protocols with Dr. John Payne]...walked us through every step and explained everything he was doing during the transfer which meant a lot to my husband and I. He was also compassionate and made sure to mention that there’s hope even if the first transfer wasn’t successful...knowledgeable and can help ease your concerns
The nursing staff [at PREG] is incredibly helpful and timely. It has been rare that they do not return my calls the same day. They also constantly pour into you the knowledge and strength you need for this process...The clinic isn’t a part of a large business and feels very personable. They also work with you to figure out the financial side of things. The staff is incredible and the wait time is very reasonable...3 rounds of timed intercourse followed by frozen embryo IVF
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Payne walked us through every step and explained everything he was doing during the transfer which meant a lot to my husband and I. He was also compassionate and made sure to mention that there’s hope even if the first transfer wasn’t successful.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Ask questions. He is. We knowledgeable and can help ease your concerns.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
3 rounds of timed intercourse followed by frozen embryo IVF
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie)
The nursing staff is incredibly helpful and timely. It has been rare that they do not return my calls the same day. They also constantly pour into you the knowledge and strength you need for this process.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic isn’t a part of a large business and feels very personable. They also work with you to figure out the financial side of things. The staff is incredible and the wait time is very reasonable
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He [Dr. John Payne] did blood work and procedures to help us understand what the problem might be and how to move forward...He was warm and understanding. Answered all of our questions and explained the process well. Let us know all our choices. Gave us guidance on what we should be doing and the time line of the process. We felt very comfortable with him. We look forward to going through this process with him.
They [Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group] are very knowledgeable, compassionate, and warm. They are also available and respond in an appropriate time. They explain the process well and make you feel comfortable with it. I don't really have any complaints...The nursing staff was very knowledgeable and helpful with our needs. They were prompt and made us feel very comfortable. They took all of our concerns seriously... and took they're time to answer all of our questions.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was warm and understanding. Answered all of our questions and explained the process well. Let us know all our choices. Gave us guidance on what we should be doing and the time line of the process. We felt very comfortable with him. We look forward to going through this process with him.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be open and tell your health history.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was great.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
He did blood work and procedures to help us understand what the problem might be and how to move forward.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The nursing staff was very knowledgeable and helpful with our needs. They were prompt and made us feel very comfortable. They took all of our concerns seriously... and took they're time to answer all of our questions.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
They are very knowledgeable, compassionate, and warm. They are also available and respond in an appropriate time. They explain the process well and make you feel comfortable with it. I don't really have any complaints.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Insurance paid some and they let us know where we can get financial assistance
I've only met him [Dr. John Payne] 3 times but he was very nice and walked me through all the steps for each procedure. He was very professional and informative. I do wish I had more contact with him instead of just nurses but I've been very satisfied with everyone...I wanted to transfer 2 embryos but was told he would most likely be against it...The dr and clinic [PREG] has been very helpful during this whole process.
The clinic [Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group] is very helpful and informative. I've had no issues with anything during treatment...I've only met him [Dr. John Payne] 3 times but he was very nice and walked me through all the steps for each procedure. He was very professional and informative. I do wish I had more contact with him instead of just nurses but I've been very satisfied with everyone.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I've only met him 3 times but he was very nice and walked me through all the steps for each procedure. He was very professional and informative. I do wish I had more contact with him instead of just nurses but I've been very satisfied with everyone.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
N/a
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
The dr and clinic has been very helpful during this whole process.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
N/a
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie Biggerstaff )
N/a
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic is very helpful and informative. I've had no issues with anything during treatment. I would definitely recommend this clinic to others and have multiple friends who go here as well who have had success
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Insurance has covered everything so far
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I wanted to transfer 2 embryos but was told he would most likely be against it
He [Dr. John Payne] treats you like a person and really wants to help the best way he can. I would recommend him to anyone trying to have a baby. He even explains everything and makes sure that you understand it before you leave...He took the time to get to know us and explain everything that he would be trying to help us conceive
The place [Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group] is nice and the staff is great. They make sure that you feel comfortable and everyone makes sure to explain everything that you are having done so you can understand it. I would tell anyone that is needing help with having a baby to go see them...He took the time to get to know us and explain everything that he would be trying to help us conceive
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He treats you like a person and really wants to help the best way he can. I would recommend him to anyone trying to have a baby. He even explains everything and makes sure that you understand it before you leave
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
That he is a great doctor
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He took the time to get to know us and explain everything that he would be trying to help us conceive
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The place is nice and the staff is great. They make sure that you feel comfortable and everyone makes sure to explain everything that you are having done so you can understand it. I would tell anyone that is needing help with having a baby to go see them
Dr Payne is great! He explains all treatment options in detail and makes sure you choose the best option for success. He goes over all test results very thoroughly. He explains all testing that needs to be done beforehand so you know exactly what to expect. Highly recommend Dr Payne!... The clinic [Piedmont Reproductive Endo Group-Spartanburg] is very professional and make sure you understand each procedure and option available to you. They help you choose the best option for success!
The clinic [Piedmont Reproductive Endo Group-Spartanburg] is very professional and make sure you understand each procedure and option available to you. They help you choose the best option for success! The staff is very caring and want nothing but positive results. I really feel like they care.... The nursing staff is very caring and they make sure you are as comfortable as possible and explain in details the procedures taking place.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Payne is great! He explains all treatment options in detail and makes sure you choose the best option for success. He goes over all test results very thoroughly. He explains all testing that needs to be done beforehand so you know exactly what to expect. Highly recommend Dr Payne!
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The nursing staff is very caring and they make sure you are as comfortable as possible and explain in details the procedures taking place.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic is very professional and make sure you understand each procedure and option available to you. They help you choose the best option for success! The staff is very caring and want nothing but positive results. I really feel like they care.
He [Dr. John Payne] was nice but going through this, I would want someone to explain and be empathetic. Don’t just make me a number and rush me out. We asked questions, but I felt that I was just another patient. I liked the facility but wanted a little more feeling or understanding.... He was very courteous but very rushed and didn’t explain fully in my opinion.
This facility [Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group-Greenville] is very open with helpful staff. Environment is welcoming and open. New patients are welcomed. The nurses are kind and helpful and are there to help. It’s very nice inside.... He [Dr. John Payne] was nice but going through this, I would want someone to explain and be empathetic. Don’t just make me a number and rush me out. We asked questions, but I felt that I was just another patient.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was nice but going through this, I would want someone to explain and be empathetic. Don’t just make me a number and rush me out. We asked questions, but I felt that I was just another patient. I liked the facility but wanted a little more feeling or understanding.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Go in with an open mind and be prepared for quick answers.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He was very courteous but very rushed and didn’t explain fully in my opinion.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
This facility is very open with helpful staff. Environment is welcoming and open. New patients are welcomed. The nurses are kind and helpful and are there to help. It’s very nice inside. Not sure what else to say.
Very welcoming and made me feel important and that he [Dr. John Payne] would do everything in his powder to help us have a family. He listened to me and made me feel as though I mattered. I would highly recommend PREG and their staff to anyone.... Easy to get someone on the phone [at PREG], easy to schedule appointments, billing department is easy to work with, nurses are always available to answer questions or will fall back as soon as they can. The lab techs are great and always very compassionate
Easy to get someone on the phone [at PREG], easy to schedule appointments, billing department is easy to work with, nurses are always available to answer questions or will fall back as soon as they can. The lab techs are great and always very compassionate..... The nursing staff at PREG were wonderful and always made me feel special.... Very welcoming and made me feel important and that he [Dr. John Payne] would do everything in his powder to help us have a family. He listened to me and made me feel as though I mattered. I would highly recommend PREG and their staff to anyone.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Very welcoming and made me feel important and that he would do everything in his powder to help us have a family. He listened to me and made me feel as though I mattered. I would highly recommend PREG and their staff to anyone.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to question something if it doesn’t feel right.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I felt like I was important and not just a number
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Femara, trigger shot, timed intercourse.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The nursing staff at PREG were wonderful and always made me feel special.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Easy to get someone on the phone, easy to schedule appointments, billing department is easy to work with, nurses are always available to answer questions or will fall back as soon as they can. The lab techs are great and always very compassionate.
Care was personalized and Dr. Payne really listened to our concerns...We used IVF with ICSI due to low sperm count...While it is a sensitive topic for men, discussing our options with Dr. Payne did not leave my husband feeling emasculated in any respect (his words!)...for the transfer I took estrogen pills orally and vaginally, in addition to intramuscular progesterone injections
The nursing staff [of PREG]is super sweet, but can seem a bit disorganized...They are definitely so so willing to help, but as always, it’s important to advocate for yourself too if you feel you need confirmation of your plan or don’t understand something you’ve been told...My insurance didn’t cover much of anything, so total WITH medications was about 18k...
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Male infertility isn’t something that is well broadcasted in today’s society (I mean... in reality, is any type of infertility?). While it is a sensitive topic for men, discussing our options with Dr. Payne at PREG did not leave my husband feeling emasculated in any respect (his words!). Dr. Payne was so supportive of us and really made us feel like success was in our future... and it was through IVF with ICSI! Our baby girl is here and growing like a weed!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Request this doctor! I hear good things about the others, but he is just so compassionate!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Care was personalized and Dr. Payne really listened to our concerns. At one point, I had some concerns about a possible complication. Dr. Payne was so patient when he saw me in the office that same afternoon and explained everything in detail.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We used IVF with ICSI due to low sperm count. I had a pretty standard protocol, I think. Different subcutaneous (expensive!) shots in my belly - meticulously timed for the egg retrieval. And lots of ultrasounds. Then for the transfer I took estrogen pills orally and vaginally, in addition to intramuscular progesterone injections. It’s a lot of learning and planning, but you get the hang of it pretty quickly!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The nursing staff is super sweet, but can seem a bit disorganized. This may have been due to some staffing changes at the time. They are definitely so so willing to help, but as always, it’s important to advocate for yourself too if you feel you need confirmation of your plan or don’t understand something you’ve been told.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Strength is their compassion! Weakness may be some feelings of disorganization at times... but honestly it could just be that IVF is simply a whirlwind in itself! They will guide you through all that disorganization :)
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My insurance didn’t cover much of anything, so total WITH medications was about 18k.
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I appreciate my doctor looking out for me and giving me the best options for the health of me and my baby.
Dr. Payne was very warm and caring...listened intently to me and my husbands concerns...took the time to really make me feel like his priority at that moment...great sense of humor...walked into his office with nervous butterflies in my stomach and walked out laughing and feeling hopeful...used Clomid 100mg. Every cycle. Did develop a couple ovarian cyst that ruptured painfully...confirmed with a MRI....NO pregnancy whatsoever was accomplished...
[Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group] was very clean and smelled very nice...waiting room doesn't look very inviting. It makes me feel like I am making a mistake by showing up bc I get emotional when seeing the baby pics on the walls...Receptionist was very sweet but kinda rude...Financial assist was very helpful but hard to understand. We felt like she was too busy to be seeing us...
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne was very warm and caring. He listened intently to me and my husbands concerns. He took the time to really make me feel like his priority at that moment. He was very kind and gentle. Also had a great sense of humor and made his office feel comfortable, like home. I walked into his office with nervous butterflies in my stomach and walked out laughing and feeling hopeful.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He can sometimes talk fast. So be ready to listen.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne was very warm and caring. He listened intently to me and my husbands concerns. He took the time to really make me feel like his priority at that moment. He was very kind and gentle. Also had a great sense of humor and made his office feel comfortable, like home. I walked into his office with nervous butterflies in my stomach and walked out laughing and feeling hopeful.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We used Clomid 100mg. Every cycle.
Did develop a couple ovarian cyst that ruptured painfully. Was confirmed with a MRI.
Had an internal ultrasound.
NO pregnancy whatsoever was accomplished
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Receptionist was very sweet but kinda rude.
The nurses were all amazing. I honestly cannot say anything else about them.
Financial assist was very helpful but hard to understand. We felt like she was too busy to be seeing us.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic was very knowledgeable and compassionate. Dr. Payne talks very fast so make sure u are listening. The nurses are all so sweet. The office was very clean and smelled very nice. The chairs were comfortable but the waiting room doesn't look very inviting. It makes me feel like I am making a mistake by showing up bc I get emotional when seeing the baby pics on the walls.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The only downfall I have with Dr Payne is not being very compassionate during a loss. I had a loss and right after he told me the options I had of miscarrying(cytotec, D&C, natural) he went right in to explaining other options for future pregnancies before I could process the loss...The third frozen transfer I did a transfer of 2 embryos with the 12 extra hrs of progesterone. One of which resulted in a full term live pregnancy and the other which did not
[nurse of PREG] She always answered every question I had an was so very patient with me. When I had my loss she sat there and cried with me and hugged me and helped me through it...They have several clinics in the area and sometimes you have to go to Greenville for certain procedures because the Spartanburg office is not equipped for it. Also when you call a certain office and do not get an answer it will forward to another office so you always can get in touch with someone.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Payne is a great doctor and very kind and thorough. I still continue to see him for an infertility issues I have. The only downfall I have with Dr Payne is not being very compassionate during a loss. I had a loss and right after he told me the options I had of miscarrying(cytotec, D&C, natural) he went right in to explaining other options for future pregnancies before I could process the loss.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is very thorough and kind but you will only see him maybe twice during a cycle. Usually the nurse takes care of you and sees you the whole cycle under the guidance of Dr Payne.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I felt like a number when I had a miscarriage and before I could even process what was going on he informed me that he is always there for me for any future infertility issues and other options I had and it was my last embryo in an IVF cycle.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I did 3 IUIs with Dr Payne all of which failed. I did an egg retrieval and a fresh transfer without success. Then did a frozen transfer without success, then did a mock cycle with uterine biopsy. This showed I needed 12 more hrs of progesterone before transfer. The third frozen transfer I did a transfer of 2 embryos with the 12 extra hrs of progesterone. One of which resulted in a full term live pregnancy and the other which did not. The fourth transfer I did with the extra 12 hrs of progesterone resulted in a positive pregnancy test with a loss at 6 weeks.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie Biggerstaff)
Stephanie was who I primarily seen every time for my 3 IUIs and all 4 of my embryo transfers. She is amazing. She always answered every question I had an was so very patient with me. When I had my loss she sat there and cried with me and hugged me and helped me through it. She is the best.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
They have several clinics in the area and sometimes you have to go to Greenville for certain procedures because the Spartanburg office is not equipped for it. Also when you call a certain office and do not get an answer it will forward to another office so you always can get in touch with someone.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My insurance did not cover any infertility benefits so everything was self pay from the hsg, to 3 IUIs, the egg retrieval, the 4 transfers, the mock cycle and biopsy. I spent well over $25,000 that I am currently paying on between 2 credit cards. Also all of the medications were self pay as well. I would like to do another IVF retrieval and transfer this year because I do not have anymore embryos in storage. However, the cost of paying for another round of IVF is not realistic while I have two credit cards maxed out I am paying on from previous infertility treatments.
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
[Dr. John Payne] He is thorough and spends ample time with me. He is warm and caring and really got to know me and my family...He has always taken the time to explain treatment options in depth, with pictures to help us understand...I took Femara for my IUIs, starting with a low dose and increasing the dose after failed cycles...I did INVOCELL IVF and was on Menopur injections for the stim, which he increased the dose as my follicles were responding more slowly than expected
[nurse of PREG] She was so compassionate and gentle. She was also very good at responding to emails and phone calls in a timely manner...[clinic]They have a wonderful financial advisor who can talk to you about payment options, loans, and is great about checking to see what insurance will cover...PREG typical has an eSET policy unless you are over 37 years old...INVOCELL IVF was about $7,000 plus medications
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is thorough and spends ample time with me. He is warm and caring and really got to know me and my family. I felt very comfortable at my visits. He has always taken the time to explain treatment options in depth, with pictures to help us understand. He adjusts treatments when he doesn’t think you are responding well enough. Very satisfied with my care.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be open to hearing all of your options and to his advice. He is a very good doctor and will give you realistic recommendations and expectations.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne always spent plenty of time with me and would take the time to ask me about my job, hobbies, wife. I felt like I connected with him and I truly like him as a person.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I took Femara for my IUIs, starting with a low dose and increasing the dose after failed cycles. I got pregnant on the fourth cycle but unfortunately miscarried. I did INVOCELL IVF and was on Menopur injections for the stim, which he increased the dose as my follicles were responding more slowly than expected when we got the ultrasound a few days prior to retrieval.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Mary Elizabeth )
Mary Elizabeth was my nurse while I was doing IUI. She was so compassionate and gentle. She was also very good at responding to emails and phone calls in a timely manner. My wife has open heart surgery last fall after giving birth to our daughter, and the entire staff sent us a very thoughtful card in the mail. Mikayla was my IVF nurse. She was so organized and informative. She was very quick to return my calls and emails, and was always so kind. I have never had a bad experience with any of their nurses, technicians, or front desk staff. They are all wonderful.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic is very nice. Comfortable waiting room, and typically for procedures they run on time. They send reminder emails and texts about appointments. They are easy to reach by phone. They have a wonderful financial advisor who can talk to you about payment options, loans, and is great about checking to see what insurance will cover.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
INVOCELL IVF was about $7,000 plus medications. I don’t remember the cost of IUI.
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
PREG typical has an eSET policy unless you are over 37 years old.
Dr. Payne has done a great job of spending time with us and sharing all options...As my treatment progressed we learned things that led us to feel like IVF was our best option due to time, quality, etc...We initially tried to do IUI. We tried two rounds and both times I only produced 1 full size follicle...I also learned during this time I had a low AMH...We then decided to do a mock cycle since we only had one [egg]
[PREG staff] Friendly and compassionate staff. Communicate clearly and quickly and they worked with my hectic schedule a lot.They even helped me with some shots when my husband was out of town...[cost]$12,000 for base IVF Cycle $5,000 for PGS testing Second egg retrieval was closer to $10,000...Their embryologists are also kind, communicative and just as excited as we are for us
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I like Dr. Payne and trust the treatment plan and options he has laid out for us thorough this long process.
When we first met, he thought I didn’t need IVF and said that to me. As my treatment progressed we learned things that led us to feel like IVF was our best option due to time, quality, etc. I struggled with the fact that I was given false hope in a sense. We talked about this incidence and he apologized that was how I felt from the conversation. Since then, our relationship has progressed and he has learned I want as much information as possible, all of the options and his best recommendations. I wish he was in my clinic every day so that he was my only doctor, but he splits his time between other offices. I have liked the other clinicians though, just a small thing I wish was different.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Voice your concerns and ask for all of the potential options so that you can decide what’s best for you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne has done a great job of spending time with us and sharing all options. Over the months we have worked together, he has learned that I’m an information person and to share as much as possible. As my treatment has progressed, I think I have felt more like a human and less like a number.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We initially tried to do IUI. We tried two rounds and both times I only produced 1 full size follicle, and had many resting follicles. I also learned during this time I had a low AMH so I personally felt like time was not on my side so we moved onto IVF. We did an egg retrieval and PGS testing and got one normal embryo after 3 were tested. We then decided to do a mock cycle since we only had one and wanted to make sure timing was right and I didn’t have endometriosis again. The mock told us that the timing needed to be adjusted and the endo was back. I was devastated by that because that meant I needed to go on Lupron for at least two months. I struggled with this part of the protocol because he wasn’t clear. In our initial consult he said 2 months was enough but when the protocol started, he wanted it to be 3. We finally talked through this and after much research and discussion we settled back on two months. We are no preparing for a transfer in a few weeks.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Lynn Fowler )
Lynn and the whole nursing team at PREG are amazing. They have big smiles when you come in the door, they are encouraging when you are struggling and celebrate the wins with you. My previous IVF coordinator Lindsey, was not a fit for me. She did not have good bed aide manner and was too direct for me. She also did not communicate clearly and we almost had an issue with an egg retrieval because of it. Miss Jackie in their lab is so kind and makes that practice just that much better! Their embryologists are also kind, communicative and just as excited as we are for us! That means a lot.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Friendly and compassionate staff.
Communicate clearly and quickly and they worked with my hectic schedule a lot! They even helped me with some shots when my husband was out of town.
I felt like their previous IVF coordinator lindsey was a weakness in that role.
I also shared on another survey that it would be nice if they had a counselor and provided a journal to patients to track their journey.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
$12,000 for base IVF Cycle
$5,000 for PGS testing
Second egg retrieval was closer to $10,000 since we had not done our transfer
I wish the baseline scan was included in the IVF package. It’s annoying paying an additional $170 at that appointment when you have just shelled out a ton of money for the cycle and it’s a part of it in my opinion.
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I too want a safe and healthy pregnancy so I agree with his approach. However, when you are a woman that desperately wants a baby and a family and you have never been pregnant, you really want to go for two. I go back and forth on it but I trust his judgement and have followed his lead on a single embryo transfer.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I shared these previously in another answer. Lindsey did not tell me to continue taking my birth control continuously and to start a new pack instead of taking the sugar pills prior to an egg retrieval. I asked some clarifying questions which is when we realized this. Thankfully, I was able to double up and the egg retrieval went forward as scheduled but that would have been a huge mistake. Additionally, I had issues with her filling presciprions and sending them to the right pharmacy.
Dr. Payne seemed kind and wanted the best outcome possible. He discussed different treatment options and made his best guess suggestions...He prefers to do single embryo transfers as he said they are better for both Mother and baby...After 3 iUI attempts, we adopted a frozen embryo and I did the full drug cycle of pills and shots. I got a positive result and then miscarried soon after.
Someone always returned my calls after I left questions. All the nurses [of PREG] were very kind and pleasant to work with...Staff were very responsive with any questions and returned calls. Everyone was very kind. The only drawback was that different people handled each separate aspect of care or finances so there was a lot of bouncing back and forth between departments/people.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne seemed kind and wanted the best outcome possible. He discussed different treatment options and made his best guess suggestions. The one setback we had was that he let us attempt 3 IUI's when my spouse first began his Clomid treatment until another doctor told us that the medicine he was taking would need a full 9-12 months to work-not 2 months. Because of that, we wasted a lot of money for the IUI attempts and my fertility shots for no reason when we should have waited but we were not told about the time frame for the male factor treatment. It was a long shot anyway and we decided to continue with Dr. Payne but just change the treatment option.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Expect to pay about twice whatever you thought the treatment will cost. About half of the expenses are not included in a quoted cost. I don't know if that is the same everywhere or not.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne explained the different treatment options to get the best outcome.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I don't remember the drug names now, but I did both pills and shots for each IUI attempt and my husband did pills for the 2nd two IUI attempts. After 3 iUI attempts, we adopted a frozen embryo and I did the full drug cycle of pills and shots. I got a positive result and then miscarried soon after.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Someone always returned my calls after I left questions. All the nurses were very kind and pleasant to work with.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Staff were very responsive with any questions and returned calls. Everyone was very kind. The only drawback was that different people handled each separate aspect of care or finances so there was a lot of bouncing back and forth between departments/people.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Everything costs about twice the quoted estimate because it seemed like every visit we heard "oh, that part is not included, that's extra, etc". They do offer financing packages and they do file insurance if you have coverage. Just know going in that it will cost you more than expected, or at least more than I expected!
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
He prefers to do single embryo transfers as he said they are better for both Mother and baby.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
We were diagnosed with male factor infertility. We did one IUI with no treatment prescribed for my husband. The 2nd & 3rd IUI attempt they gave my husband Clomid. After 3 attempts, another doctor at the clinic told us that the male Clomid treatment takes at least 9-12 months before it might work and that it was a waste of money for us to do those pointless IUI attempts. It was a big expense for the IUI's not to mention the waste of drugs/shots that I had to take and the side effects I had to deal with for those 3 months for no reason. We were not told initially how long the male factor needed to take the drugs before attempting IUI or we certainly would have waited.
Dr. Payne is very personable and kind. He takes time with his patients and understands from personal experience the pain of infertility. He did not always see me for the visits, but when he did he was very informative...[new patient advice]Try to get a game plan when you see him instead of making a separate appointment. Take time to write down questions prior to visits...
[staff of PREG] Front desk is great...nurse is wonderful! So kind and lighthearted and compassionate...Every month with medication and ultrasounds was about $500 (12 months) that was just with Flamara and HCG shot. The Simply IVF process was about $13,000, now $9000 to fertilize and generically test the last 15 we have...[clinic errors]Just more lack of communication, not seeming to be a priority at times.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne is very personable and kind. He takes time with his patients and understands from personal experience the pain of infertility. He did not always see me for the visits, but when he did he was very informative.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Try to get a game plan when you see him instead of making a separate appointment. Take time to write down questions prior to visits.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne was always very friendly, some of the nurses have been nice but others have been really rude. Finance was extremely rude at one point and had me in tears.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We tried with Flamara first and an hCG trigger shot. Did that for six months, and then had surgery to remove scar tissue from a previous C-section. After that we tried flamara and gonnel-F, with HCG for several months. Then did ivf (simply) with a frozen transfer after that didn’t take :( After getting pregnant with a miracle baby the month before IVF again (she had a genetic abnormality- 3 sets of chromosomes) we are now going to use the remaining 15 eggs to try for another healthy baby.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Kristina )
At times she’s been really sweet, other times very rude and non-compassionate. I received an email from her recently that was incredibly unprofessional. Trying to have grace because she’s young and hasn’t gone through infertility.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Front desk is great, love Debra. Megan another nurse is wonderful! So kind and lighthearted and compassionate. The finance department has one staff member (Alex) who is SO rude and had me in tears. We’ve paid over $16k with PREG and she was not compassionate that I had just lost a 3 month old baby after trying for two years.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Every month with medication and ultrasounds was about $500 (12 months) that was just with Flamara and HCG shot. The Simply IVF process was about $13,000, now $9000 to fertilize and generically test the last 15 we have.
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Thankful, but it is nerve wracking with the possibility of multiples.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Scheduled the wrong procedure
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Just more lack of communication, not seeming to be a priority at times.
Dr Payne was nice enough. He wasn't rude by any means. I think the only thing I noticed is that even though I told him we didn't really want IVF, he insisted on explaining it anyway...it kind of felt a little "sales pitchy"... Dr Payne didn't see any issues with my fertility so he proceeded with IUI and offered medication. I did like that he allowed us to make our own choices on that and wasn't pushy at all. One time, my medicine didn't respond very well and he upped my medicine and I had a great response
I have nothing but good things to say about this clinic [PREG]. They are always so kind and nice. They are so flexible with the schedule and accomodating to my work schedule. Donna and Kim are always so friendly at the front desk and Missy the office manager has been helpful with insurance and payments. Sally in the lab, well she's just always fun and has a smile and so does the woman who does the lady who draws blood.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I think I've already covered this for the most part. I really haven't had much experience with Dr. Payne. I'm sure he is doing plenty behind the curtain :) Okay, it wants to keep going....It's been a while but I remember Dr Payne being nice and listening to what my partner and I wanted. He was calm which made me feel relaxed and the only thing i didn't like was the insistence on talking about IVF but like I said, I was probably nervous and only wanted to focus on IUI.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
To trust his judgement. He has advised me on medicine and that has been helpful. I also someone assume he may have to do with hiring nurses and every member of his office is incredible. So he must have good judgement. The front desk staff (donna and kim) are so nice. All the nurses, Sally in the lab, the lady who draws blood, the office manager! Everyone is just great there! :)
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Payne was nice enough. He wasn't rude by any means. I think the only thing I noticed is that even though I told him we didn't really want IVF, he insisted on explaining it anyway...it kind of felt a little "sales pitchy" That being said, I really did only see him once and I was super nervous. Everyone in his office is so nice and I am quite sure he is nice too. He has managed my meds also and has made good decisions with that. Dr Nichols did one of my tests in Greenville and he was super nice also.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Dr Payne didn't see any issues with my fertility so he proceeded with IUI and offered medication. I did like that he allowed us to make our own choices on that and wasn't pushy at all. One time, my medicine didn't respond very well and he upped my medicine and I had a great response. When I had polyps he quickly had me scheduled for surgery to have them removed. Now that I write all this down, I feel a little bad for mentioning all the "sales pitchy" stuff. I think I was just nervous. Laying it all out there, It seems Dr. Payne has been very thorough with my care.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Mary Elizabeth Wesley )
Mary Elizabeth was incredible. She has been with us for every IUI and always made us feel comfortable. No concern or question was too silly. We always laughed and made things as light as possible. I can't imagine doing any of this without Mary Elizabeth. Even when things don't turn out the way we hoped, she has a way of validating it all and helping us feel for hopeful.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I have nothing but good things to say about this clinic. They are always so kind and nice. They are so flexible with the schedule and accomodating to my work schedule. Donna and Kim are always so friendly at the front desk and Missy the office manager has been helpful with insurance and payments. Sally in the lab, well she's just always fun and has a smile and so does the woman who does the lady who draws blood. Everyone really is great. I honestly can't think of any weaknesses of this clinic other than the fact that they haven't discovered a way to make sure that every person gets pregnant on the very first try-that would be a cool trick. But considering how hard it is to do this whole thing for all these months, I"m glad it's at this clinic.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
It was about $5000 to get us started and $2100 each time we try. but that includes 1000 for sperm. There was a 1600 surgery to remove polyps.
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Dr Payne speaks too quickly. I would like to see him slow it down. When you are getting news that is new to you and you’re trying to process/understand, the dr needs to slow it all down. Sometimes I felt I couldn’t get a word in or had to have him explain multiple times.... Started with TI and femara. Then moved to femara and ovidrel. Now with femara, ovidrel and gonal f. Adjusting dosages as going through. Playing with the medicine to find what works.
I have really liked everyone I have come into contact with here [PREG]. From the nurses to the phlebotomist to the drs. Most of them show the compassion that’s needed in this field and under this stress. I would make sure the ask more questions if you need financial assistance at the financial meeting as I needed some follow up on that.... Blood work was run twice in the same week that didn’t need to be run. They ate the cost for us but I had already paid both bills so it was still a frustrating experience
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Payne speaks too quickly. I would like to see him slow it down. When you are getting news that is new to you and you’re trying to process/understand, the dr needs to slow it all down. Sometimes I felt I couldn’t get a word in or had to have him explain multiple times.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Make sure you understand what he is saying and if you don’t, make him explain it again.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Payne tried to get everything out for us with a decent bedside manner. He spoke quite fast at times which I assume is because he does the same speech all the time. But for us it was the first which is why I don’t agree I was 100% treated like a human.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Started with TI and femara. Then moved to femara and ovidrel. Now with femara, ovidrel and gonal f. Adjusting dosages as going through. Playing with the medicine to find what works.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Kristina)
Love Kristina. She’s available via email or phone and always gets back to me in a timely manner. She explains things to me if I need her to and shows compassion when I am frustrated with the process.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I have really liked everyone I have come into contact with here. From the nurses to the phlebotomist to the drs. Most of them show the compassion that’s needed in this field and under this stress.
I would make sure the ask more questions if you need financial assistance at the financial meeting as I needed some follow up on that.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
So far we are averaging between $300 to $800 a month in costs. This can still go up.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Failed to order appropriate test
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Blood work was run twice in the same week that didn’t need to be run. They ate the cost for us but I had already paid both bills so it was still a frustrating experience to get reimbursed. I wished they did better and just gave me a check or added it to my account to remedy.
Dr. Payne really took the time to sit down and explain our options while also giving his best recommendation of where to start. I always find it reassuring when everything is laid out but also sit and discuss the best plan for us. I felt like we got an individualized plan for us.... He was very direct and open about our options and his recommendations. These visits can be overwhelming and he did a good job of keeping us at ease.
Very quick to get you in. Very flexible with my schedule. They did forget to send over my medication once but remedied quickly, most of the staff [PREG] have struggled with infertility themselves, the nurses did my IUI and US except for baseline... All the nurses have been excellent. They are so supportive and encouraging. Kristina gave me her personal phone number to call for any questions or concerns
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I felt he was very thorough in going through our paperwork from my GYN. He was very direct and open about our options and his recommendations. These visits can be overwhelming and he did a good job of keeping us at ease.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
It’s okay to be overwhelmed. Write down questions because there were so many things after that I forgot or didn’t think to ask
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne really took the time to sit down and explain our options while also giving his best recommendation of where to start. I always find it reassuring when everything is laid out but also sit and discuss the best plan for us. I felt like we got an individualized plan for us.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
I have been doing 2 cycles for IUI. First I did 5 days at 7.5 mg femara but didn’t have response so I did 5 more days “stair step” with 1 follicle resulting. Triggered with ovidrel and IUI next morning. Negative result.
2nd IUI: increased 7.5 femara for 7 days with good results. 2 follicles. Triggered and IUI next morning. Negative result.
3rd IUI: 7.5 for 7 days again. In the process
If negative, will move onto IVF
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Kristina )
All the nurses have been excellent. They are so supportive and encouraging. Kristina gave me her personal phone number to call for any questions or concerns
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Very quick to get you in. Very flexible with my schedule. They did forget to send over my medication once but remedied quickly, most of the staff have struggled with infertility themselves, the nurses did my IUI and US except for baseline
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Unfortnately our insurance doesn’t cover any form of infertility treatment. Our initial visit was $200, our baseline US $290, each follicle scam $190, each IUI $500, ovidrel $107 per shot, and $40 ish for bloodwork
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
N/a
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to order appropriate test
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I didn’t have my prescription for femara called in and unfortunately it was on a Friday when they close at noon. However I was able to get in touch with the on call nurse and get it ordered
He’s [Dr. John Payne] very down to earth and genuinely wants to give a patient the best care he can given the situation. With my first transfer, he told us that we may have a miscarriage because the embryos didn’t look as good as they would have liked. When we did lose the heartbeat he told us that it wasn’t our fault and there could have been a number of reasons why we had a miscarriage.
They [PREG- Greenville] sent us a bill for over a thousand dollars and I had no idea what it was for and had a hard time trying to get it taken care of. Finally got it squared away. Then we go to our frozen transfer appointment thinking we had to pay $3100 but thankfully the coordinator had found mistakes and the clinic had actually owed us $3172.... Wait time is ridiculous even if you arrive early for an appointment. Especially when I live 40 or more minutes away and have to wait 30-45 minutes before I’m even called back. I know everyone likes to ask a lot of questions and try to get as much out of their appointment as possible, but maybe they need to have a better schedule.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He’s very down to earth and genuinely wants to give a patient the best care he can given the situation. With my first transfer, he told us that we may have a miscarriage because the embryos didn’t look as good as they would have liked. When we did lose the heartbeat he told us that it wasn’t our fault and there could have been a number of reasons why we had a miscarriage.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Even though everything about infertility is expensive, Dr. Payne is very down to earth and will try to help and explain everything so you understand what all is going on. He will try to help the self pay patients as much as possible.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I didn’t feel rushed through anything when I first started going since I hadn’t learned a lot about infertility treatments yet.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Normal ivf protocol with someone with diminished ovarian reserve and having to use a donor due to my husband’s infertility.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The Spartanburg office nurses are amazing. A couple at the Greenville office are good. I prefer the Spartanburg ladies. Ms. Jackie that would always draw my blood is the best and super nice.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Wait time is ridiculous even if you arrive early for an appointment. Especially when I live 40 or more minutes away and have to wait 30-45 minutes before I’m even called back. I know everyone likes to ask a lot of questions and try to get as much out of their appointment as possible, but maybe they need to have a better schedule.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Some were quick others I had to wait and was late to my job.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Too much. Probably over $20000
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
We did transfer two 3 day embryos only because they were growing slow and thought maybe they would have a better chance back inside me.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
They sent us a bill for over a thousand dollars and I had no idea what it was for and had a hard time trying to get it taken care of. Finally got it squared away. Then we go to our frozen transfer appointment thinking we had to pay $3100 but thankfully the coordinator had found mistakes and the clinic had actually owed us $3172.
Dr. Payne explains the risks, next steps and is optimistic in a field that is sometimes hard for the patient to be optimistic.... We started out using letrozole 5mg for days 3-9 of the cycle with a scan on day 12 to check follicle size. The size of the follicles determined when we would do the trigger shot of ovidrel for timed intercourse. We tried this for two months before increasing my dose of letrozole to 7.5 mg. This resulted in a positive test that led to a chemical pregnancy with a few months. We had to wait for 2-3 months for my body to return to normal before we started the 7.5 mg of letrozole days 3-9, scan on day 12 and trigger of ovidrel. During the summer of 2018, we had to add the injections of gonal-f for days 8-11. I had follicles dissolve in May 2018, so the extra medicine was added for additional stimulation. We continued this course through the fall with timed intercourse. We attempted IUIs with that same medicines (letrozole 7.5 mg CD 3-9, gonal-f CD 8-11, scan on around CD 12 to determine trigger of ovidrel). We are currently taking a month off seeing how our next step would be IVF with frozen embryo transfer and that is much, much more expensive even with insurance.
Most of the nurses [at PREG-Greenville] that I've spoken with or have been seen by have been excellent and very caring. Meagan Vanzant and Kristina Housworth are excellent nurses who are very caring and optimistic. They are great with patients and let them know the information from the scans. They have a wonderful "bedside manner". I have had one nurse, Lauren Smythe, who was not as helpful. She didn't share my information about the lining or follicle size. She questioned my knowledge as to how we normally did things and didn't believe me until she looked at my chart.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne explains the risks, next steps and is optimistic in a field that is sometimes hard for the patient to be optimistic. He shows compassion and builds real relationships with those who trust him for their care. I hate that we have to go through this infertility journey, but I am glad that we have the knowledge and skills of Dr. Payne and his colleagues.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne will do everything that he can to help you. He will try a "plan" three times before adjusting it to try something else.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne takes the time to explain the options and procedures to his patients. He is realistic and hopeful. Even when we went through a chemical pregnancy, he was optimistic and supportive.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We started out using letrozole 5mg for days 3-9 of the cycle with a scan on day 12 to check follicle size. The size of the follicles determined when we would do the trigger shot of ovidrel for timed intercourse. We tried this for two months before increasing my dose of letrozole to 7.5 mg. This resulted in a positive test that led to a chemical pregnancy with a few months. We had to wait for 2-3 months for my body to return to normal before we started the 7.5 mg of letrozole days 3-9, scan on day 12 and trigger of ovidrel. During the summer of 2018, we had to add the injections of gonal-f for days 8-11. I had follicles dissolve in May 2018, so the extra medicine was added for additional stimulation. We continued this course through the fall with timed intercourse. We attempted IUIs with that same medicines (letrozole 7.5 mg CD 3-9, gonal-f CD 8-11, scan on around CD 12 to determine trigger of ovidrel). We are currently taking a month off seeing how our next step would be IVF with frozen embryo transfer and that is much, much more expensive even with insurance.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Meagan Vanzant and Kristina Housworth are who I've seen most often.)
Most of the nurses that I've spoken with or have been seen by have been excellent and very caring. Meagan Vanzant and Kristina Housworth are excellent nurses who are very caring and optimistic. They are great with patients and let them know the information from the scans. They have a wonderful "bedside manner". I have had one nurse, Lauren Smythe, who was not as helpful. She didn't share my information about the lining or follicle size. She questioned my knowledge as to how we normally did things and didn't believe me until she looked at my chart. I get that nurses can't always rely on what the patients say, but we had been going there for over a year by this point. I was very familiar with the normal routine of the scan and about when the trigger shot would be. I felt more like a number to Lauren than a person.
Meghan Parris who assisted on two of the three IUIs was also extremely kind to us and treated us like humans. From the office staff to the lab and nursing staff, most of the workers make you feel better about these crazy processes that we have to go through.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
They will do their best to encourage you to be hopeful. They want the procedures to succeed and your dreams of starting a family to come true. We have a hour and a half drive to get to the Greenville PREG location, but it is worth it because of the care and compassion that we receive.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
We have insurance that helps cover some of the cost.
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Not applicable at this time.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Lost appointments
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I had one time when an appointment that I booked over the phone wasn't scheduled in. I had made two appointments over the course of the phone call. The office still squeezed me in.
The critical information being failed to related to the patient was in reference to the nurse, Lauren, who didn't tell me anything about my scan like the nurses normally did.
He [Dr. John Payne] suggested two different routes for me and explained the probable outcome of both. I chose the more affordable option. He explained in great detail how to do the medicines, the dates and the times to take them and what each one of them was used for. He also encouraged me to call or come by the office if I needed help or had any questions or concerns.
Strengths are they [staff at PREG] are all very professional, welcoming, friendly, knowledgeable, caring, understanding, and are very eager to help in any way they can. Anytime I had a question or concern they always had an answer for me...Stephanie, along with the entire staff in the Spartanburg office was amazing! They were all very kind and very helpful. They made me feel welcome every visit. And most importantly, they let me know they were with me every step of the way.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Payne was very informative and explained everything in great detail. He made sure I understood everything he explained and he also went over all the factors. He also explained the percentage of the outcome with IVF treatment. He answered all questions that I had and if he did not know, he made sure to find out the answers from his staff.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is very honest and very thorough. He is also very thoughtful and caring.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Payne was very helpful. He listened to me and allowed me to ask as many questions as possible. After the procedure failed, he emailed me and also had his nurse email me a few times to see how I was doing.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
He suggested two different routes for me and explained the probable outcome of both. I chose the more affordable option. He explained in great detail how to do the medicines, the dates and the times to take them and what each one of them was used for. He also encouraged me to call or come by the office if I needed help or had any questions or concerns. Fertility treatment is very stressful but he took his time to made sure I felt confident and understood everything I had to do. I did the medicine as directed and went for egg retrieval. The retrieval was a bit uncomfortable and I was very nervous. The staff was very courteous and kind and made sure I knew that everything was ok. Once the retrieval was finished, my eggs and sperm were placed in a small tube and then inserted behind my cervix. I had that in place for five days. On the fifth day, i had the device removed and my egg transferred. I was instructed to keep doing the shots and the following Friday I went to the office for bloodwork for a pregnancy test. The test was negative and I was very hurt. The staff was very sympathetic and let me know they were there for me. They also did a follow up on me for a few weeks to make sure I was ok. I am very anxious to try again one more time and praying this time the treatment works!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Stephanie)
Stephanie, along with the entire staff in the Spartanburg office was amazing! They were all very kind and very helpful. They made me feel welcome every visit. And most importantly, they let me know they were with me every step of the way.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Strengths are they are all very professional, welcoming, friendly, knowledgeable, caring, understanding, and are very eager to help in any way they can. Anytime I had a question or concern they always had an answer for me.
I can't identify any weaknesses, I truly appreciate everything this staff has done for me
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Dr. Payne asked us a lot of questions about my medical history and what we wanted out of the process...He presented information clearly so myself and my partner could understand it...He prescribed metformin in order to help with PSCOS before I tried my first IUI. [he] prescribed Clomid for certain cycle days and a Ovadriel shot for each IUI cycle. He then changed my medication to Fermara.
[nurse of PREG] they all have a great demeanor and they are knowledgeable...Strengths- secretary always answers the phone when you call Able to get you in for an appointment and offer numerous dates/times...I had to pay around $1,000 for a consultation and the initial test/scans that were performed. I had to pay around 20% of my IUI procedures. My Clomids were around $6 and the Ovidrel shots were $50. Donor sperm was paid out of pocket
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
During my initial consultation, Dr. Payne asked us a lot of questions about my medical history and what we wanted out of the process. He was able to give us percentages of different treatment plans and the cost of those procedures. I tried 4 IUIs before I became pregnant and later had a miscarriage. After my cycles, Dr. Payne suggested different medicines for a successful pregnancy. After my miscarriage, he told us that we should move on to IVF in which he explained the procedure, cost, insurance and success rate. He even offered to write a personalized letter to my insurance company when my pre authorization was denied.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Have an open mind. What worked for a friend who did fertility treatments may not work for you
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I feel like Dr. Payne knows me each time I went into the office along with the office staff. He presented information clearly so myself and my partner could understand it.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
Dr. Payne ordered a number of test/procedures in order to make sure I was capable of having a baby. He prescribed metformin in order to help with PSCOS before I tried my first IUI. Dr. Payne prescribed Clomid for certain cycle days and a Ovadriel shot for each IUI cycle. He then changed my medication to Fermara. When he changed my medication to Fermara, I got pregnant.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I love their staff! Stephanie at the front desk, is very friendly and always has a positive demeanor. I've come in contact with a number of nurses in the office and they all have a great demeanor and they are knowledgeable. The lady who draws blood (Ashley maybe) very nice and one of the nurses (Kelsey maybe)
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Strengths- secretary always answers the phone when you call
Able to get you in for an appointment and offer numerous dates/times
Someone calls you back within 24 hours in you leave a message
Weakness- I've had different nurses do my follicle scans, wish sometimes it was the same nurse everytime
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I discovered after I changed jobs that infertility was apart of my insurance. Before that, I had to pay around $1,000 for a consultation and the initial test/scans that were performed. I had to pay around 20% of my IUI procedures. My Clomids were around $6 and the Ovidrel shots were $50. Donor sperm was paid out of pocket
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Dr Payne is always very thorough. He explains everything. If myself or husband ask a question, he explains it and is alwsys engaging. He lets us know what the next step is at the end of each visit. He is personable and down to earth... My husband and I are dealing with male infertility. I have had all testing and passed them all; bloodwork, hysterscope, ultrasound. I do ovulate, I have a regular cycle, my falopian tubes are open, uterus is normal, ovaries loom good and I have plenty of eggs. My husband has low sperm count and motility. He was put on Metformin and now he is on clomid to hopefully boost his count enough to do IVF
The clinic [Piedmont Reproductive Endo Group- Greenville] overall is amazing. Everyone is friendly and welcoming. New patients will see they made the best decision after their first visit. They have encouraging words from other successful patients posted and that is very encouraging.... I have yet to find one complaint about the nursing staff. Everyone is so friendly and helpful. They are like a family.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr Payne is always very thorough. He explains everything. If myself or husband ask a question, he explains it and is alwsys engaging. He lets us know what the next step is at the end of each visit. He is personable and down to earth.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be prepared to have a comfortable experience. Going to a fertility doctor can be stressful and make you nervous. Dr. Payne is calming and genuinely nice. All of your fears will fly out of the window when you consult with Dr Payne. Very worth it!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Everyone in the office is so warm and down to earth.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
My husband and I are dealing with male infertility. I have had all testing and passed them all; bloodwork, hysterscope, ultrasound. I do ovulate, I have a regular cycle, my falopian tubes are open, uterus is normal, ovaries loom good and I have plenty of eggs. My husband has low sperm count and motility. He was put on Metformin and now he is on clomid to hopefully boost his count enough to do IVF. (praying the our insurance will cover it) Dr Payne says we could be pregnant by Christmas!
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I have yet to find one complaint about the nursing staff. Everyone is so friendly and helpful. They are like a family.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic overall is amazing. Everyone is friendly and welcoming. New patients will see they made the best decision after their first visit. They have encouraging words from other successful patients posted and that is very encouraging.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
My copay is $85
The hysterscope was around $300
Bloodwork and ultrasound was around $290
Sperm Analysis was around $100
I believe Dr. Payne's strongest strength is his ability to be completely honest. He told us about possible risks and different routes we can take without holding any information back. I look forward to continuing our fertility treatments with Dr. Payne and hopefully conceive a beautiful healthy baby within the next year.... The billing nurse stayed after hours with us to discuss the difference in cost between tubal reversal and simply IVF. We were told it's cheaper ($7,000 ) to get a tubal reversal, but it might not work due to unforeseen risks. Simply IVF is higher ($7,500), but more likely to work in our condition.
I absolutely loved the nursing staff [at PREG-Spartanburg]. While waiting in the lobby we were constantly asked if we needed anything to make us more comfortable such as a different selection of magazines or a bottle of water. They even apologized to us for the long wait after only waiting 15 minutes to see the doctor.... The billing nurse stayed after hours with us to discuss the difference in cost between tubal reversal and simply IVF. We were told it's cheaper ($7,000 ) to get a tubal reversal, but it might not work due to unforeseen risks. Simply IVF is higher ($7,500), but more likely to work in our condition.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I believe Dr. Payne's strongest strength is his ability to be completely honest. He told us about possible risks and different routes we can take without holding any information back. I look forward to continuing our fertility treatments with Dr. Payne and hopefully conceive a beautiful healthy baby within the next year.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
The advice I would give to a prospective patient of Dr. Payne is to be patient and try to have tough skin. He's not like normal doctors that perform different treatments on you to just get paid. Dr. Payne will be honest with you and let you know before you waste your time and money.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Dr. Payne talked to me like an actual person and broke down possible routes that we can take in order to conceive. He explained the process might be long and hard, but he'll try his best to make our dreams of having a baby reality.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I absolutely loved the nursing staff. While waiting in the lobby we were constantly asked if we needed anything to make us more comfortable such as a different selection of magazines or a bottle of water. They even apologized to us for the long wait after only waiting 15 minutes to see the doctor.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic I visited was very small with about 8 chairs and a table full of different magazines, but at the same time the office was very inviting and cozy. It made me feel confident about the process ahead.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The billing nurse stayed after hours with us to discuss the difference in cost between tubal reversal and simply IVF. We were told it's cheaper ($7,000 ) to get a tubal reversal, but it might not work due to unforeseen risks. Simply IVF is higher ($7,500), but more likely to work in our condition.
We trust Dr Payne with our treatment and so far it's been a good experience. As we further the treatment I believe we'll continue to receive a high level of care. He's been very informative and goes into detail about each step of the process and ensures that we get the chance to ask whatever questions we may have.... We were told that we will be great candidates for traditional IVF. So we don't have to use any nontraditional methods. We will do hormone treatment to prepare to retrieve eggs then get embryos naturally. Then we should be able to use day 3 or day 5 embryos for the IVF. After that it should proceed as normal.
The clinic [PREG- Greenville] itself has been great. No complaints at all. It's a good environment and all the staff is friendly and courteous. They ensure that you are well taken care of and informed about the entire process.... The staff is kind and friendly. They're very helpful and organized as well. They make sure to call ahead for appointments and cancellations. The financial staff is very knowledgeable and does a great job of explaining the process and costs involved.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
We trust Dr Payne with our treatment and so far it's been a good experience. As we further the treatment I believe we'll continue to receive a high level of care. He's been very informative and goes into detail about each step of the process and ensures that we get the chance to ask whatever questions we may have.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Be open and honest with all of your questions and concerns. And don't be hesitant to express anything you might not be sure about.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
He is courteous and explains the process and expectations very well. Seems to understand the delicate nature of the situation.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
We were told that we will be great candidates for traditional IVF. So we don't have to use any nontraditional methods. We will do hormone treatment to prepare to retrieve eggs then get embryos naturally. Then we should be able to use day 3 or day 5 embryos for the IVF. After that it should proceed as normal.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The staff is kind and friendly. They're very helpful and organized as well. They make sure to call ahead for appointments and cancellations. The financial staff is very knowledgeable and does a great job of explaining the process and costs involved.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
The clinic itself has been great. No complaints at all. It's a good environment and all the staff is friendly and courteous. They ensure that you are well taken care of and informed about the entire process.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Between $8,000 and $13,000
Describe John Payne's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
We haven't gotten far enough into the process with Dr Payne to have a detailed comment yet.
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
A very minor error. The staff thought I needed to come in for a consultation with the Doctor regarding low sperm count but I didn't. They caught the mistake the same day and canceled the appointment. Very minor inconvenience.
I felt that the dr [Dr. Payne] was concise and detailed in all dealings. Considerate and supportive when needed and looked after my best interests both personally and financially. I received all the appropriate information that I needed at each stage of this journey and felt like I was patiently listened to when I needed more answers or support.... With my severely diminished egg reserve, the best treatments were oral hormones, ultrasound and hormonal injections to encourage follicle development. We did one cycle "naturally" and then 6 cycles with IUI. None of these cycles resulted in a pregnancy and we are now looking at IVF.
Clean, convenient setting with lots of parking and easy accessibility. Good weekly hours but very short hours on Friday. Occasionally, I had to wait 30-45 minutes for a scheduled appointment because the clinic [PREG] was understaffed. That was a little difficult with my work schedule but the nurses and dr were always very apologetic. I had a few issues over the weekend and had to call the answering service. The nurse on call got back to me promptly and, in the one instance that warranted it, got in touch with the dr on call immediately.
How was your experience with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
I felt that the dr was concise and detailed in all dealings. Considerate and supportive when needed and looked after my best interests both personally and financially. I received all the appropriate information that I needed at each stage of this journey and felt like I was patiently listened to when I needed more answers or support.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Ask all the questions that you need. I think sometimes women don't feel like they can ask for what they need and it's so important to feel like you have a handle on all the different aspects of your fertility.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
The doctor, nurses and the receptionists at the practice made a point to know me and be supportive during this whole experience.
Describe the protocols John Payne used in your cycles at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group and their degree of success.
With my severely diminished egg reserve, the best treatments were oral hormones, ultrasound and hormonal injections to encourage follicle development. We did one cycle "naturally" and then 6 cycles with IUI. None of these cycles resulted in a pregnancy and we are now looking at IVF.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group. (Assigned nurse: Mikela)
All of the support staff are personable, welcoming, understanding and helpful.
Describe your experience with Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
Clean, convenient setting with lots of parking and easy accessibility. Good weekly hours but very short hours on Friday. Occasionally, I had to wait 30-45 minutes for a scheduled appointment because the clinic was understaffed. That was a little difficult with my work schedule but the nurses and dr were always very apologetic. I had a few issues over the weekend and had to call the answering service. The nurse on call got back to me promptly and, in the one instance that warranted it, got in touch with the dr on call immediately.
Describe the costs associated with your care under John Payne at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
$35 for oral hormone
$100 for Ovidrel shot
$180 Ultrasound
$475 IUI treatment
I can't remember how much the bloodwork was for the lab
$100 semen analysis
What specific things went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group.
I had a couple blood draws for my post ovulation progesterone level assessment that were never communicated to me. I had to call the clinic and request the results. In one instance, they never called me back with the information.