If you want someone who is honest, caring and won't sugar coat it (but will still make you feel good), she [Dr. Kondapalli] is your lady!...Since I have early onset menopause and don't get a cycle, Dr. K had us do a "mock cycle" to make sure my body would appropriately prepare for the actual transfer. While this added an extra month to the timeline, I appreciated the step because it allowed us to do an inexpensive trial run (she had us use cheaper meds that work, just not as good as the expensive ones you use for the actual transfer) before spending a huge chunk of cash and initiating the donor's retrieval, the fertilization, etc.
all the random questions I sent her [nurse at CCRM], she never made me feel like I was bugging her or reaching out too often! She even replied on the weekends and evenings sometimes! She also always knew what was going on with my schedule and remembered details about past conversations...I felt the care and precaution they put into every step to increase chances of success are well worth the cost. They also have a wonderful free support group. We go as often as we can, and love meeting others like us. The counselors are amazing, and it's a great place to get guidance, advice, or just a shoulder to lean on when things feel hard. In the donor group, you're allowed to continue attending after you're pregnant (unlike in the IVF group), and it's a great way to hear other people's success stories as well as celebrate your own.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
She was very kind and warm, and considering the delicacy of the situation, always knew how to say the right thing. She never gave us false promise, but gave us enough hope with the actual facts based on our unique situation.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
If you want someone who is honest, caring and won't sugar coat it (but will still make you feel good), she is your lady!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr Kondapalli knew us by name, even when she ran into us in the waiting room or hallway and we weren't scheduled to see her! She was always so supportive, personable (remembering small details about our life and situation), and overall did an excellent job.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
Since I have early onset menopause and don't get a cycle, Dr. K had us do a "mock cycle" to make sure my body would appropriately prepare for the actual transfer. While this added an extra month to the timeline, I appreciated the step because it allowed us to do an inexpensive trial run (she had us use cheaper meds that work, just not as good as the expensive ones you use for the actual transfer) before spending a huge chunk of cash and initiating the donor's retrieval, the fertilization, etc. After that, the process was pretty "normal". Getting donor eggs, fertilizing, genetic testing (which CCRM highly advises and even though it adds about $6k more, makes sure you don't transfer an embryo that is defective or will miscarry), and then the transfer.
I really feel that all of the tiny precautions and extra steps Dr. K and CCRM build into their process increase the chance for success, and give them credit for us successfully getting pregnant on our first transfer.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Kristi Bishop)
Kristi was UNBELIEVABLY amazing. She was always quick to reply, gave me thorough answers, celebrated with me when things went well, and empathized when they didn't. Every time I got worried, she reassured me and made me feel better. And all the random questions I sent her, she never made me feel like I was bugging her or reaching out too often! She even replied on the weekends and evenings sometimes! She also always knew what was going on with my schedule and remembered details about past conversations.
Beyond Kristi, Dale, Helen and the other nursing team were wonderful. They quickly replied if Kristi wasn't available and were always very knowledgeable and supportive.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
CCRM is a wonderful clinic that I would highly recommend. I don't know the exact numbers, but I do believe they are more expensive than others. That said, I felt the care and precaution they put into every step to increase chances of success are well worth the cost.
They also have a wonderful free support group. We go as often as we can, and love meeting others like us. The counselors are amazing, and it's a great place to get guidance, advice, or just a shoulder to lean on when things feel hard. In the donor group, you're allowed to continue attending after you're pregnant (unlike in the IVF group), and it's a great way to hear other people's success stories as well as celebrate your own.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
To get from zero to transfer, we spent about $55,000. This was all out of pocket!
We lucked out that the medication was covered by insurance (but nothing else), and only had to spend about $1000 on that. I've heard it can be $5-10k if you pay in full.
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
No comments, we had a pretty good chance of success and definitely did not want twins so very easily made the decision to opt for eSET.
However, when I did touch base with Dr. K [Kondapalli] for regroup meetings, she was warm and genuine. ... Dr. K spent a lot of time outlining the basics of IUI and IVF which I understand because you can't assume your patients would have done their own research ahead of time. She was good about providing visual drawings and notes to reiterate what she was verbally describing. ... The business process of CCRM doesn't allow you to connect with your doctor on a regular basis. You deal mostly with your nurse.
They [CCRM] might benefit from having a patient care coordinator rather than relying on the nurses to take care of that too. Overall, I was able to get time sensitive appointments scheduled and get the care I needed. ... I also never got my labs or ultrasound report unless I spoke with a nurse after my follicle checks or specifically asked for my lab numbers. ... You do need to be responsible for your own care so make sure you ask all the questions you need rather than assume they will tell you what you need to know.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. K spent a lot of time outlining the basics of IUI and IVF which I understand because you can't assume your patients would have done their own research ahead of time. She was good about providing visual drawings and notes to reiterate what she was verbally describing. We, admittedly, didn't take as much advantage the first couple of appointments with her to ask her questions. During our 3rd regroup, we made it a point to collect questions we had through out the process so we could get her feedback. She provided sufficient responses to our of our questions. We even had some feedback about the process and our nurse and she addressed them fairly and compassionately.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
This goes for any appointment with your doctor. Collect questions you might have through out your own personally research and reading. Feel free to ask all the questions you might have even if you feel comfortable about what you've already read about the topic. At CCRM, you don't have frequent interaction with your doctor so make sure to take advantage of every regroup meeting. I have not personally taken advantage of this yet but I recommend reaching out to your doctor outside of the normal regroup meetings if you have something specific you want them to address. In terms of care, I believe even if I did not interact directly with Dr. K, that she was privy to my progress, labs, and check ups.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
The business process of CCRM doesn't allow you to connect with your doctor on a regular basis. You deal mostly with your nurse. However, when I did touch base with Dr. K for regroup meetings, she was warm and genuine.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
3 IUIs all with 100mg clomid on days 5-10. Estradiol suppositories 3x day for the first round and 2x a day for the 2nd and 3rd. It wasn't until our IVF stimulation regroup that I saw my lining never got thick enough to be a viable IUI attempt for the 2nd and 3rd. The IUI itself felt like a procedural process rather than a viable attempt at pregnancy. At the time of the IUIs, I did not want to be as involved in my numbers and just blindly followed directions. I wish I would have been more engaged. During my IVF cycle (still in the middle of it), Dr. K's 21 day estrogen priming protocol with 300 iu menopur seemed to have done the trick with 29 follicles (19 of which were bigger). She allowed me to skip a couple of follicle check ultrasounds and labs which I really appreciated. My E2 levels did sky rocket so we dropped down to 75 ui of menopur on day 12 of stims. She also adjusted my trigger protocol to lupron only due to my high E2 levels. My retrieval date was adjusted based on follicle size. Unfortunately, we had purchased additional menopur and Novarel at the start of the stim cycle not knowing that the protocols could change. I wish we had known to order meds incrementally so we wouldn't have extras. The nurse did say she would trade me any medication that hasn't been opened with others I may need for the transfer.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Tracy)
My nurse, Tracy, was very compassionate and easy going. I'm not sure if it as a communication issue with the Dr. or what but there was some confusion along the way. I also never got my labs or ultrasound report unless I spoke with a nurse after my follicle checks or specifically asked for my lab numbers. Requests for copies of my reports in the portal were largely unanswered. A couple of times, I touched base with a different nurse after my follicle checks or over the phone only to learn there were other appointments that I did not know i needed to make. Could this be a business process issue with CCRM by having the nurses act as the care coordinator? I recommend making it a point to ask for results specifically and meet with a nurse after each appointment to make sure multiple nurses have looked at your file and can speak to your progress.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
I've read other reviews here that they felt like a cattle in a cattle call at CCRM. Yes, CCRM has a much larger volume of patients than any other Colorado reproductive endocrinologist. Their business processes are going to reflect that. Some people feel more at ease with regular frequent contact with their doctor rather than regroup appointments at certain points in their care however, I don't believe frequent interaction with your doctor necessarily results in the best care. I do believe there are some downfalls of their business and finance departments. They might benefit from having a patient care coordinator rather than relying on the nurses to take care of that too.
Overall, I was able to get time sensitive appointments scheduled and get the care I needed. The appointments themselves were efficient and straight forward. CCRM's lab and research is supposed to be what gives them the highest success rates. So far, I've observed this to be true. You do need to be responsible for your own care so make sure you ask all the questions you need rather than assume they will tell you what you need to know.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
Fertility first (first time IVF) package allowed 10% off. 21K upfront covered ultrasounds, lab work, regroup appointments with doctor, transfer, ICSI, retrieval and transfers, genetic counseling, 4 PGS embryos. Did not cover diagnostics like doppler test (40 copay but insurance might have covered this), communicable testing ($400 per person), and specialty meds (approximately $5K with about $400 worth left over). The IUIs were probably 2,000 or so each.
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
Have not transferred yet so don't know for sure. I do recall her saying she recommends single embryo transfers after CCS (PGS) testing due to the high success rates.
we feel that the patient care and bedside manner have been lacking since our initial visit with Dr. Kondapalli...always feel rushed and hesitant to ask questions...wish our provider made us feel like a part of the team...feel like she's reading a script, and if we go off-script with questions or thoughts, she is dismissive and unsupportive
[CCRM Colorado] is obviously well-known and supposedly cutting-edge with their lab and technology...had miscommunications regarding appointments and procedures because of her lack of organization...You will feel like a number, going down an assembly line and checking boxes
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
While CCRM has an unparalleled reputation, and high standards for its lab, we feel that the patient care and bedside manner have been lacking since our initial visit with Dr. Kondapalli. We always feel rushed and hesitant to ask questions, as the doctor comes across as condescending and dismissive. Although we rarely interacted with her (as they'll charge you and make you schedule a full regroup if you want to ask her any questions), we dreaded our calls with her because she makes us feel unheard and uncared for.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
If you are okay with following steps and doing exactly what the doctor says, with no questions, then I'm sure this would be a fine fit. If you feel that you want to be involved in your plan, or have questions about why certain decisions are made, you will likely feel dismissed and ignored.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
The care is very much one-way, not a patient-provider relationship. When there has been a decision we need to make regarding any part of our plan, the provider has not been supportive or helpful. We also had issues with our first transfer, as the nurse forgot to actually schedule the transfer until the night before despite the prep cycle and appts leading up to it. It did all work out, and we are incredibly grateful for our opportunity to have children through CCRM, but IVF is such an emotional, time-consuming, and financially challenging experience that we wish our provider made us feel like a part of the team. Instead, we feel like she's reading a script, and if we go off-script with questions or thoughts, she is dismissive and unsupportive. We've been hesitant to share this feedback in the past, but we do feel that people who are going through IVF deserve to know what type of provider they'll be interacting with.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado.
The nurse for our first retrieval and transfer was in fact kind and compassionate, and did spend a great deal of time on the phone with us. That being said, we frequently had miscommunications regarding appointments and procedures because of her lack of organization.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
The clinic is obviously well-known and supposedly cutting-edge with their lab and technology. We have had a successful pregnancy and birth with CCRM and for that we are beyond grateful. You will feel like a number, going down an assembly line and checking boxes. I felt like I needed more support, compassion, and shared decision-making, but I understand that not every patient needs that.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
We were fortunate to have insurance cover a large portion of our first retrieval and transfer. All-in with medications, the out-of-pocket cost for us was around 16K.
In general, I felt like a number and that Dr. K was just going through the routine of evaluating the data and determining what to do next. All three IUIs felt like she was just going through the motions and gave us the stats on how low the chances of success are for IUI, and that they are much higher for IVF, which, at that time, felt like an 'upsell'. However, when we had a failed IVF cycle from frozen eggs, the doctor set up a meeting with us that same day to talk over our options and answer our questions. That made us feel like a human, because she had no availability on her schedule for over a month, and for her to drop everything to talk to us in about two hours was impactful.
CCRM is a number-churning powerhouse. There are a LOT of patients at any time, and you definitely feel that way. While the waiting rooms themselves are not usually busy, you can tell the staff are constantly busy with scores of patients. I chose CCRM because of their lab quality...I'm still in the middle of our journey so don't have a success story yet, but I am sticking with CCRM as I think the numbers speak for themselves. It also doesn't hurt that CCRM is located right in my backyard, and I feel very lucky to live near such an esteemed clinic and lab.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. K is very knowledgeable and can speak to all the facts in a very matter-of-fact way. I appreciate a doctor that doesn't fluff as I believe it comes off as fake. However, I still think that she could have a bit more compassion overall, and definitely felt like a 'number' at times. I do also feel like she doesn't treat my husband with as much respect as she does me, in that she has a somewhat condescending tone when we're all on the phone together. Not sure if she is like that with all men, but that has been our experience. I also have worries that she is so focused on her specialty of helping cancer patients preserve their fertility (as is detailed on the CCRM website) that those that are not going through cancer treatment are treated as 'less than' or 'less deserving' of her time and attention.
She thoroughly answers all of our questions and takes the time to make sure that when setbacks occur, she is available the same day. Otherwise, don't expect to see/hear much of her, as you will almost exclusively be interacting with your nurse. The only time I've seen or spoken with the doctor was at the initial consult, after doing the day-3 workup with my results, and then after the procedures. My egg retrieval procedure was done by another doctor, who was the surgery doctor for the day (they rotate). After a failed IVF cycle, we spoke with Dr. K the same day, which really improved my overall opinion of her. It seemed like she was willing to fit us in even though she had no general availability for over a month.
Make sure you come prepared with ALL the questions you have when speaking or meeting with Dr. K. We had 30 mins each time, and filled them completely since we rarely get face-time with her. Make sure you advocate for yourself and don't just let the doctor decide what is best. DO YOUR RESEARCH. We asked for some non-traditional procedures for the next round based on research we uncovered, and while she said she and the lab typical don't do them, based on our results, she would allow us to and has seen success in the past in similar scenarios.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Do your research about what is best FOR YOU and your situation. Make sure you ask intelligent questions and know what you're talking about to the best of your ability, to maximize your very limited time with her. You will have to be your own self-advocate; don't rely on the doctor or the clinic to hand-hold you at any point otherwise nothing will get driven forward.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
In general, I felt like a number and that Dr. K was just going through the routine of evaluating the data and determining what to do next. All three IUIs felt like she was just going through the motions and gave us the stats on how low the chances of success are for IUI, and that they are much higher for IVF, which, at that time, felt like an 'upsell'. However, when we had a failed IVF cycle from frozen eggs, the doctor set up a meeting with us that same day to talk over our options and answer our questions. That made us feel like a human, because she had no availability on her schedule for over a month, and for her to drop everything to talk to us in about two hours was impactful.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
For egg freezing, she used an extended estrogen priming - antagonist protocol.
For IVF, we are using OCP (oral contraceptive pill)- antagonist protocol.
For IUI, we used natural cycle (unmedicated) with monitoring
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Ashley)
Ashley is my main nurse under Dr. K. I have only met her in person once when I was doing my initial 3-day workup. I communicate with her regularly in the patient app they have (called Salve), however it's not always Ashley that responds. Sometimes it is another nurse that is covering for her.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
CCRM is a number-churning powerhouse. There are a LOT of patients at any time, and you definitely feel that way. While the waiting rooms themselves are not usually busy, you can tell the staff are constantly busy with scores of patients.
I chose CCRM because of their lab quality, as it was the best in the country according to SART at that time (2021). And their lab absolutely seems like one of the best now that I'm working with them. I was even able to speak with an RE when I requested to, which blew me away and was incredibly insightful. I'm still in the middle of our journey so don't have a success story yet, but I am sticking with CCRM as I think the numbers speak for themselves. It also doesn't hurt that CCRM is located right in my backyard, and I feel very lucky to live near such an esteemed clinic and lab.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
IUI - $2,500 each round
Egg freezing - $11,500 (does not include workup or initial consult)
Egg Thaw & fertilization, including CCS (PGT-A) - $17,620
IVF, including CCS (PGT-A) - $24,200
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
She [Dr. Kondapalli] is very frank about odds and chances, but expresses no effort that she will go out of her way to optimize your chances...she said the phrase "you just didn't win the genetic lottery" twice. I found this language unhelpful and quite hurtful. She did not believe that the protocol had any impact on our outcome or egg quality, and recommended that we use the exact same protocol if we were to try a second IVF cycle....
CCRM is known as a world-class clinic. Their embryology lab and all procedures are done under one roof at CCRM Lonetree. This supposedly results in great embryo outcomes, although we didn't experience the benefits...Nurse Kim was amazing, supportive and compassionate. All the support staff, lab techs and ultrasound techs were all great...
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. Kondapalli doesn't express anything to indicate that she practices nor believes in individualized treatment and/or individualized protocols based on a patient's situation. She is very frank about odds and chances, but expresses no effort that she will go out of her way to optimize your chances. She was very frank in our consult about doing 3 IUIs, and moving onto IVF, which is what we did w/ Dr. Kondapalli. All of our IUIs failed. We moved onto IVF and these were our numbers: we retrieved 15 eggs, 11 mature, 9 fertilized, 6 blastocysts, but all 6 blastocysts were aneuploid. After sitting for one month with these disappointing results and no information from CCRM, we finally had a regroup meeting with Dr. Kondapalli, where she gave us 30 minutes of her time. When she explained what she saw with our IVF cycle, she said the phrase "you just didn't win the genetic lottery" twice. I found this language unhelpful and quite hurtful. She did not believe that the protocol had any impact on our outcome or egg quality, and recommended that we use the exact same protocol if we were to try a second IVF cycle. When I brought up "Gentle IVF" and asked if that could be right for me, she said "yeah we could try that if you want to, that might help with your egg quality." At that point I was furious with her... she's the doctor and supposed to be the expert -- why would I as the patient have to research and bring up other approaches to IVF protocols???
We moved to another clinic that believes in a more individualized approach to IVF protocols and these were our results: 8 eggs retrieved, 5 fertilized, 4 blastocysts and all 4 were euploid. I just had my first FET with a euploid embryo last week. It is very clear to me from these results that my most recent IVF clinic had me on the right protocol, resulting in our 4 euploid/normal embryos.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Do your own research and be your own advocate throughout this process. Learn about the various approaches and protocols and ask if they could be right for you. Don't let Dr. Konapalli's limited amount of time intimidate you into accepting her answers if they don't make sense to you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
I had 4 Clomid IUI cycles with Dr. Kondapalli and 1 IVF cycle. The total amount of time I spent with Dr. Kondapalli was about 30 minutes for our initial IVF consult, and our 30 min debrief appointment that took place one month after our IVF cycle failed. After the disappointment of our IVF cycle, I was shocked that it took one whole month to be able to debrief with Dr. Kondapalli. In that debrief, she was short with us, and literally told me that I "just didn't win the genetic lottery." I found this very cold and hurtful. There was no additional communication, and Dr. Kondapalli was generally unavailable after that.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
Priming with Estrace, 2mg per day
Stim protocol:
Menopur, 2 vials in A.M.
Gonal-F 300 units in P.M.
Clomid 100 mg in P.M.
Dexamethasone tablet in P.M.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Kim Olson)
Nurse Kim was amazing, supportive and compassionate. All the support staff, lab techs and ultrasound techs were all great.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
CCRM is known as a world-class clinic. Their embryology lab and all procedures are done under one roof at CCRM Lonetree. This supposedly results in great embryo outcomes, although we didn't experience the benefits.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
We got a first-time IVF local resident package cost that we paid upfront with the CCRM Finance team.
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
We didn't get any euploid embryos for transfer with Dr. Kondapalli
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Failed to convey critical information
Lost or damaged samples
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
During my initial lab work-ups, CCRM mishandled a blood test for Potassium. I got a call from CCRM telling me that I had a crazy high Potassium level and needed to get medical care right away. I ended up going to an emergency room while on vacation. The ER doctor asked me if I was having any heart palpitations or symptoms of distress, and I said no. All I knew was that CCRM told me I needed to seek medical care right away. We re-did the Potassium test in the ER and the levels were normal. CCRM's lab had simply messed up the test. I went to the ER and got a $600 bill for this ER visit due to CCRM's lab error.
Dr. Kondapalli was extremely thorough in her explanations, talked through the risks and her expectations and answered all our questions calmly and thoughtfully...She said I wouldn't need much IVF medication at all (I have secondary infertility due to loss of my uterus to hemorrhage) and she was right; my cycle went perfectly as planned and has yielded plenty of embryos that we will soon get ccs testing results for...
[at CCRM Colorado] Scheduling and communication errors on a critical day of test appointments. Ordered the wrong medication. Ordered way too much medication. Forgot to do an important test...You have to stay on top of your meds, your calendar, your appointments, and confirm them multiple times because they will not send you reminders or confirm all the changes they make, and they will make mistakes...
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. Kondapalli was extremely thorough in her explanations, talked through the risks and her expectations and answered all our questions calmly and thoughtfully. She patiently stuck with us through more than 20 minutes of technical issues with phone calls (ccrm voip went down, my phone silenced all her calls even with call filtering turned completely off). She said I wouldn't need much IVF medication at all (I have secondary infertility due to loss of my uterus to hemorrhage) and she was right; my cycle went perfectly as planned and has yielded plenty of embryos that we will soon get ccs testing results for.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Do lots of research to prepare for the calls and ask a ton of questions while you have her. It's way too much information to process at once if you have zero background going into it, and you don't get a lot of her time.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. Kondapalli and the nurses, ultrasound techs and phlebotomists were almost all very warm and great at explaining what was happening, what it meant and what would come up next (except one ultrasound tech who was clearly frustrated with my ovaries being right next to each other). The folks I worked with to get all the many appointments scheduled were also great and conscientious.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
A few weeks of priming with progesterone and estrogen, then 10 days of stim. I was on Menopur and Gonal-F with dexamethasone, then added Cetrotide for the last few days. Trigger with pregnyl and lupron.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado.
I worked with two main nurses, Laurie and then Katie bc Laurie left while I was in my IVF cycle. They are both clearly good nurses, caring and supportive and knowledgeable, but fertility treatment is a hell of a lot of detailed logistics and paperwork and they were clearly bogged down in it. I also saw on call nurses over the weekend who talked me through the last few days of my IVF cycle.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
It's a nice clinic that clearly does a lot of business. Nearly of the 20 or so staff I interacted with appeared caring and brilliant and great at what they do. One scheduler, Megan, worked with me several times on all the complicated scheduling and was so patient and thorough and persistent. And we.are still a week out from ccs results for what is looking like a successful IVF cycle.
But coordinating IVF is pretty complicated, and in one cycle they made several mistakes worst thousands of dollars and hours of our time. They initially ordered way too much medication for me, which I thankfully caught and the nurse revised before it cost me an extra $3k. They ordered the wrong $1500 lupron for me and didn't realize until after I had already paid for it. They were able to order me the right one in time to keep the cycle on track, but I had to pay for that one too and I haven't been able to get reimbursed for the wrong one.
We had to come to Lone Tree the day after Thanksgiving for some carefully timed tests and that day was a circus. I think they had just hired a new receptionist, and she kept confidently giving us wrong information. They had moved some of my husband's appointments back 45 minutes and didn't tell us until we got there for mine an hour earlier. So we had to scramble to adjust our childcare (not easy in a pandemic when you only have one car). They also told us it was an hour later and not 45 minutes, so when my husband showed up an hour later they scolded him for being 15 min late. At those same appointments multiple staff told him they didn't need to give a urine sample even though he kept asking about it. That afternoon the nurse called him to come back and give a urine sample. And finally, after the receptionist had told me twice that I was all done, I had gone to get the kids from childcare and they told my husband to tell me to come back to meet with nurse. That was a really stressful day.
You have to stay on top of your meds, your calendar, your appointments, and confirm them multiple times because they will not send you reminders or confirm all the changes they make, and they will make mistakes.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
Workup: $5k including extra genetic testing
Meds: $5k
IVF cycle with CCS: $7k plus anesthesia
(All prices after insurance)
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Lost appointments
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
Scheduling and communication errors on a critical day of test appointments. Ordered the wrong medication. Ordered way too much medication. Forgot to do an important test.
Dr Kondapalli was overly chipper for my liking. She drew pictures of the embryo and sperm on a piece of paper. I’m sure some people like that, but I found it condescending...I also felt she shamed me when I tried to question their plan to do ICSI with CCS...I tried to push for multiple transfer and she strongly encouraged against it. She said she would only transfer one of the worst embryos if we did 2.
I was assigned a nurse [at CCRM Colorado] but it always ended up being someone else who spoke to me on the phone or via the portal...The clinic is very cold and has a few protocols they use for anyone. I felt very much that they take the “expert” stance and don’t respect patients’ opinions...with meds it ended up being around $25,000
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr Kondapalli was overly chipper for my liking. She drew pictures of the embryo and sperm on a piece of paper. I’m sure some people like that, but I found it condescending. She also told me she “knew exactly” what my issue was- that my eggs are too “hard” for sperm to penetrate. Well, 3 failed transfers later , and a blood clotting disorder diagnosed after 2 fails, that’s clearly not the issue. I’d rather a dr be upfront with me and not state everything as fact. I also felt she shamed me when I tried to question their plan to do ICSI with CCS. I asked about the long term safety of CCS and she looked appalled. This is still a newer treatment and I thought it was fair to ask.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Be aware you can’t change drs at CCRM. I had a personal referral to a different dr in the clinic after my first fail and she wouldn’t allow it even though the other dr was ok with it. I would recommend choosing a different dr if you go with ccrm.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
You’ll have to pay to have any kind of communication with your dr. The nurses will answer your questions and are generally nice (though I felt like an annoyance when trying to contact them). The clinic is very cold and has a few protocols they use for anyone. I felt very much that they take the “expert” stance and don’t respect patients’ opinions.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
I used the PAL protocol, and it seemed to work well (though I’ve only had miscarriages and fails with the embryos produced even though they’re normal). They don’t allow you to be on any other kinds of supplements or vitamins during the stims.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado.
I was assigned a nurse but it always ended up being someone else who spoke to me on the phone or via the portal. Even when I spoke with the nurse at my monitoring appointments, it was often someone different. It made me question if I really even had been assigned my nurse.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
CCRM apparently has a good reputation, but it seems to be only related to them dealing with DOR/issues with getting embryos. That was not my issue and I felt I could’ve saved money elsewhere with the same results . You’ll also notice CCRM does a lot of advertising, which I think brings in much of their business. They even sponsor blogger posts.
Pluses for me was that it was very quick to get in and out of monitoring appointments , and the retrieval procedure went really smoothly.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
I think with meds it ended up being around $25,000
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
I tried to push for multiple transfer and she strongly encouraged against it. She said she would only transfer one of the worst embryos if we did 2.
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Lost paperwork
Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
I was given conflicting information multiple times from different people . This information was really important and I felt there were no apologies or follow through. The IVF process is already emotional enough, but this was extremely distressing to me. Getting paperwork to our next clinic was a nightmare too.
Dr. Kondapalli seems very sympathetic and caring during treatment. During my embryo transfer she was very gentle and kind. She explained everything well and made sure you understand the potential outcomes... For my egg retrieval, Dr. Kondapalli worried about over stimulation of the ovaries so I went on a PAL Protocol with Menopur, Gonal-F and Cetrocide with Lupron injection. Dr Kondapalli has stated she would change this protocol for future retrievals as we didn't get as many eggs as we hoped.
The nurses [at CCRM Colorado] are all very competent and caring. They answer questions patiently. They allow you to call or email and usually get back to you in a day or two with email or later that day with a call...CCRM seems to prefer single embryo transfer especially if you have gone through genetic testing... can sometimes be difficult to get appointments right when you want them but usually not too far off.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. Kondapalli seems very sympathetic and caring during treatment. During my embryo transfer she was very gentle and kind. She explained everything well and made sure you understand the potential outcomes.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Come prepared with your list of questions. The consultations go very quickly and it can seem like you got all your questions answered but you want to take that opportunity when you see the Dr. because her availability can be limited. However, most questions the nurses can answer for you.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr Kondapalli is very warm and energetic. She explains things clearly when you meet with her. Most of the time you are interacting with the nurses but they check in with her.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
I was treated as PCOS-like symptoms for my IUI cycles which we only performed when on the right ovary due to a blocked tube that showed up during testing. I took letrozole for those cycles and produced the right size embryo and timing for ovulation. For my egg retrieval, Dr. Kondapalli worried about over stimulation of the ovaries so I went on a PAL Protocol with Menopur, Gonal-F and Cetrocide with Lupron injection. Dr Kondapalli has stated she would change this protocol for future retrievals as we didn't get as many eggs as we hoped. For the transfer I was on BCPs/Lupron/Suppository/Progesterone in oil QOD. I had a prefect lining so we will likely use this protocol again.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Brittney)
The nurses are all very competent and caring. They answer questions patiently. They allow you to call or email and usually get back to you in a day or two with email or later that day with a call. If you nurse isn't available, another nurse steps in and usually can pick up where you left off.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
CCRM is at the top of the game but because of that there can be some feel of being categorized into protocols. They always look at what is best for your needs but there is feel they have seen it all before. Not really a bad thing. Due to the popularity, it can sometimes be difficult to get appointments right when you want them but usually not too far off.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
My insurance didn't cover anything. Diagnostic testing ran about $1000. An IUI cycle was about $1200 and a cycle where we couldn't do IUI but was medicated was $650. IVF before medication came as a package with retrieval, genetic testing, freezing and one transfer. Coast up front was $21,000. Meds were another $4000 I think. The second embryo transfer is expected to cost $6400
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
CCRM seems to prefer single embryo transfer especially if you have gone through genetic testing. The prefer to reduce the risks associated with multiples
She always takes the time to thoroughly explain things to my and my husband. She and her staff always remember me, ask me how I'm doing, and give me hugs. I feel like they really care about me. ... Dr. K [Kondapalli] is amazing. She always thoroughly explains everything. I love the drawings she does as the are a good "take-away" and I refer to them often. She never seems put off by a question. I always feel really happy and optimistic after I've had a regroup with Dr. K.
While it sucks to be a self-pay patient, they do make it pretty easy on us. ... My only other "wish" for CCRM is that I wish they had a robust online portal. ... I love Angelica! [nurse] ... She's super organized, clearly knows her stuff, and is also really nice and encouraging. She feels more like a friend helping me through this. I am very type A and extremely organized and it's so nice that I don't have to worry about anyone at the clinic dropping the ball. ...
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. K is amazing. She always thoroughly explains everything. I love the drawings she does as the are a good "take-away" and I refer to them often. She never seems put off by a question. I always feel really happy and optimistic after I've had a regroup with Dr. K. Dr K also did a fibroid removal surgery for me and it went super smoothly. She even billed it as gynecological instead of for fertility so that it would be covered by my insurance (I have no infertility insurance coverage). She's amazing and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her to anyone.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions. Also, save the drawings she gives you! They are super helpful to look back at later.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
She always takes the time to thoroughly explain things to my and my husband. She and her staff always remember me, ask me how I'm doing, and give me hugs. I feel like they really care about me.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
We did 2 IUIs with Femara/letrozole. She chose letrozole over clomid because I have a history of optical migraines. I had no ill side effects from the letrozole. I produced 1 mature follicle on 5mg, and 3 mature follicles on 7.5mg. We have no MFI. Both IUIs failed. After that we moved on to IVF which Dr. K was very supportive of. As I am 37, with an AMH of .3 and AFC of 6, I don't have time to waste. We are doing the early embryo banking program with 2 retrievals planned (for now). For my first IVF round, she did an estrogen patch priming protocol with Cetrotide during priming. Stim meds were 150 Menopur, 300 Gonal F, Omnitrope, and dexamethasone. I am still in stims, but had my regroup the other day. I have 9 follicles, but some aren't growing so she has added 7.5mg letrozole to my protocol since I responded well to it. She also mentioned she already has an idea of how she will change up my priming for next time. I appreciate how responsive she is to how my body reacts to the meds. I also love that they do a lot of monitoring during stims so they know what's going on. I think I would be much more anxious if they weren't monitoring as closely. I haven't had my retrieval yet so don't know results yet.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Angelica)
I love Angelica! I was sad when she went on maternity leave (though completely understandable of course). The nurses filling in with her did a good job, but I didn't get to really know them and I felt a little lost not having a dedicated nurse. But they were always super responsive and answered all of my questions. I'm glad Angelica was back when we started IVF. She's super organized, clearly knows her stuff, and is also really nice and encouraging. She feels more like a friend helping me through this. I am very type A and extremely organized and it's so nice that I don't have to worry about anyone at the clinic dropping the ball. They are so on top of everything.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
While it sucks to be a self-pay patient, they do make it pretty easy on us. The packages are clearly spelled out and I haven't had any issues with billing. I've heard that this experience can be very different if you're trying to work with insurance and CCRM. The only weakness I've experienced is with one particular staff member. I don't know her name, but she is always working the checkout desk at the Rose office. She isn't very nice and I always feel like I'm being super annoying by trying to check out and PAY THEM MASSIVE AMOUNTS OF MONEY. She also never gives me the itemized receipt, which I always get at checkout at the Lonetree office. But other than that everyone is great. Maybe not the best sign, but the check-in front desk lady knows me by face now. I guess I am there .a lot!
My only other "wish" for CCRM is that I wish they had a robust online portal. They do not use it for anything other than "email" communication. I do not have copies of many of my test results and often won't get details unless I ask my nurse specifically. (They always give it when I ask.) I have been downloading my medical records for my personal files for years, so it feels weird not to have access to them. I also wish you could schedule appointments online and not have to call every time. They make it easy when you call, I'd just prefer to do it online.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
IUI cost $458 + $200 for each ultrasound ... probably around $1000-1500 total per IUI. For IVF, with the early embryo banking program, we'll pay $38500 for 2 retrievals (including all monitoring), one frozen embryo transfer, and CCS/PGS testing for up to 6 embryos. Meds for Retrieval #1 cost $5500.
[Dr. Laxmi Kondapalli] was very understanding, honest, and positive...After an abysmal first round she adjusted the protocal to meet my unique needs. I always felt that she was forth right with our chances and a great cheerleader...[eset approach]Was ultimately given the choice, but well educated on the risks and small chance of an increase in pregnancy rate...
[CCRM Colorado] They are extremely timely, I never had to wait for an appointment...There is a strong network and community of patients who provide each other with informal advice and support. The clinic offers counselors that specialize in infertility as well as free support groups...Sometimes it is confusing when your primary nurse has a day off who you need to talk with to get an answer...We had 3 retrivals, ICSI, Freezing, CCS testing, one frozen transfer for 45,000+ meds.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Great doctor. After an abysmal first round she adjusted the protocal to meet my unique needs. I always felt that she was forth right with our chances and a great cheerleader. She didn't walk away when i think a lot of other REs would after some not great numbers and a bad first round, but she was always honest about our chances of IVF working.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
She really is on your side.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Laxmi was very understanding, honest, and positive
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
Round 1) Priming with BC, lupron, stimming with high doses of Clomid, Menopur, and Follistim.
Round 2+3) Priming with Lupron, Estrace, Testosterone, and stim with Clomid, Menopur and Follistim.
Lots of supplements.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at CCRM Colorado.
They often seem to have a high ratio of patients. Sometimes it is confusing when your primary nurse has a day off who you need to talk with to get an answer.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
Excellent lab, lots of patients go through so experience with a wide range of issues. Sometimes this can make the clinic feel impersonal. They are extremely timely, I never had to wait for an appointment. They see many people who have failed at other clinics and find success with them. There is a strong network and community of patients who provide each other with informal advice and support. The clinic offers counselors that specialize in infertility as well as free support groups.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at CCRM Colorado.
Monitoring appointments were during a time frame in the morning. They always got me in very quickly. My nurse would let me know if I needed to go in the next day for monitoring.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
We had 3 retrivals, ICSI, Freezing, CCS testing, one frozen transfer for 45,000+ meds.
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
No comment. Was ultimately given the choice, but well educated on the risks and small chance of an increase in pregnancy rate.
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
I had another doctor who said they sent the results of a mammogram to CCRM - Lone Tree. CCRM Lone Tree said they didn't receive it.
I had many many orders called into a specialty IVF clinic. I went on a Saturday once to pick up an order and they didn't have it in their system.
I felt comfortable with her [Dr. Laxmi Kondapalli's] preference to only transfer one embryo...She gave us a 7% chance of an IUI working and it worked, which makes me think we had greater than a 7% chance. She was not clear about the overall bad odds of IVF working for us and led us to believe it would likely work. I think she operates based more off of statistics than individual cases...She spoke to us like we are children complete with drawing pictures. I found it hard to get her to just level with us and talk to us as if we are peers. Initially, she painted a very negative outlook for us and suggested we go straight to IVF. We decided to try an IUI and were successful. It made us feel like she is in the business of selling IVF. When we attempted IVF for a second child, she painted an extremely rosy picture, and we were unsuccessful. From the little diagram she drew explaining our odds, we thought we had a 65% chance of success with IVF. Turns out we misunderstood what she meant/said - so, I don't trust her communication.
We used an antagonist protocol and did not respond as well as they [staff at CCRM Colorado] predicted. They predicted 16 eggs and we had 6 mature...We are generally happy with the nursing staff. We mostly see them and rarely see the doc. They usually respond to our messages quickly and seem to advocate for us with the business office, getting prescriptions, etc...During my stim cycle, they decided to have me do another dose of Gonal-F, but did not let me know. So I had to race to the local pharmacy 10 minutes before they closed and pay out of pocket. Also, I'm the one who called in to ask if they wanted me to take the dose and if I hadn't done that, I wouldn't have known and would've missed the dose entirely. You really have to be on your game.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
We found her to be condescending. She spoke to us like we are children complete with drawing pictures. I found it hard to get her to just level with us and talk to us as if we are peers. Initially, she painted a very negative outlook for us and suggested we go straight to IVF. We decided to try an IUI and were successful. It made us feel like she is in the business of selling IVF. When we attempted IVF for a second child, she painted an extremely rosy picture, and we were unsuccessful. From the little diagram she drew explaining our odds, we thought we had a 65% chance of success with IVF. Turns out we misunderstood what she meant/said - so, I don't trust her communication.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
She seems very by the book and makes decisions based on statistics rather than an individual patient. I'm so glad we attempted IUI against her advice.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
I felt an urgency when we met, like we were on the clock and she was anxious to move on to her next task. She also quickly turns to drawing pictures to explain things, which makes me feel like I'm in grade school. She gave us a 7% chance of an IUI working and it worked, which makes me think we had greater than a 7% chance. She was not clear about the overall bad odds of IVF working for us and led us to believe it would likely work. I think she operates based more off of statistics than individual cases.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
We used an antagonist protocol and did not respond as well as they predicted. They predicted 16 eggs and we had 6 mature.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Katie)
We are generally happy with the nursing staff. We mostly see them and rarely see the doc. They usually respond to our messages quickly and seem to advocate for us with the business office, getting prescriptions, etc.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
It feels a bit cold and I don't like how open the business desk is. I do think the receptionists can be unprofessional. Everyone in the waiting room can hear you discussing your business there.
I do think it is a well-oiled machine. You are in and out quickly, get your results quickly, get answers quickly. I have found them to be efficient and respectful. I do have confidence in the nurses and doctors.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
-Initial diagnostic costs - 4k
-IUI x 4 @ $800
-Sperm samples x 6 @ $300
-Frozen sperm deposits x 2 @ $450
-IVF 30k
I'm sure there's more...
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
I felt comfortable with her preference to only transfer one embryo, but I don't really want multiples.
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
During my stim cycle, they decided to have me do another dose of Gonal-F, but did not let me know. So I had to race to the local pharmacy 10 minutes before they closed and pay out of pocket. Also, I'm the one who called in to ask if they wanted me to take the dose and if I hadn't done that, I wouldn't have known and would've missed the dose entirely. You really have to be on your game.
I did three retrieval’s [with Dr. Laxmi Kondapalli] and every one was different...We also did more aggressive priming each time starting with BCP, then luteal estrogen priming, and then extended estrogen priming...I genuinely feel that Dr. Kondapalli cares about her patients and the outcomes. I know she even texted my nurse who was off work after my egg retrieval to tell her how well it went. She’s great!
I think the nursing staff [at CCRM Colorado] is fantastic and one of their strengths. I also really enjoy how quickly they can get you in for appointments and how well they all communicate. The financial side of the business could use some work. They don’t really communicate well and it’s hard to get the data and numbers from them...I can’t say enough good things about my nurse. She was on top of it and I felt like she was truly invested in every procedure and outcome.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. Kondapalli does a great job explaining and drawing everything out so you have something to leave with. I also appreciated that she would change my protocol whenever things did not go as expected and was constantly striving for improvement.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Continue to ask questions, I learned so much by asking the detailed questions and felt like I had more understanding and control over my treatment.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
I genuinely feel that Dr. Kondapalli cares about her patients and the outcomes. I know she even texted my nurse who was off work after my egg retrieval to tell her how well it went. She’s great!
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
I did three retrieval’s and every one was different. We started with 2 vials menopur and 225 gonalf. The second was 2 vials menopur, 300 gonalf, 2 tabs clomid, and HGH. The last retrieval we did 2 vials menopur and 150 gonalf (best results). We also did more aggressive priming each time starting with BCP, then luteal estrogen priming, and then extended estrogen priming.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Angelica)
I can’t say enough good things about my nurse. She was on top of it and I felt like she was truly invested in every procedure and outcome.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
I think the nursing staff is fantastic and one of their strengths. I also really enjoy how quickly they can get you in for appointments and how well they all communicate. The financial side of the business could use some work. They don’t really communicate well and it’s hard to get the data and numbers from them.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
The costs were presented up front however, it was difficult to understand what pieces could/would be covered with insurance and which weren’t.
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
She ultimately left it up to use which is what I preferred.
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
They were always on top of calling with results but I was in the middle of switching nurses and one result got dropped. It happens!
My experience so far has been positive with Dr. K [Dr. Kondapalli] but I'd prefer more communication with her (rather than just the nurses and other staff). She takes time to explain options and the situation and doesn't make me feel rushed or that I'm asking too many questions.... I've attempted 3 IUI's. The first IUI I was on the max amount of Clomid (150 mg)... my follicles weren't growing, so she added injectable Menopur.
Overall, I have felt that the staff [CCRM] has cared about me and my success. The nurses (who you mainly deal with) have been sympathetic and available. I feel they understand my disappointment and frustrations.... I was scheduled for my IUI on a specific date and time.... When I got to the clinic for my scheduled IUI, I was told my appointment wasn't until the following week, which was totally wrong.... I don't know if that two hours made a difference in my results (of course they claimed it wouldn't) but I was very upset and concerned.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
My experience so far has been positive with Dr. K but I'd prefer more communication with her (rather than just the nurses and other staff). She takes time to explain options and the situation and doesn't make me feel rushed or that I'm asking too many questions.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself and push if you need or want more information or guidance.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Overall, I have felt that the staff has cared about me and my success. The nurses (who you mainly deal with) have been sympathetic and available. I feel they understand my disappointment and frustrations.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
I've attempted 3 IUI's. The first IUI I was on the max amount of Clomid (150 mg) and I hated it! The clomid really messed with my head and I was extremely emotional and irrational. I developed one follicle and a negative pregnancy test. The second IUI I was on the max Clomid again (which I was terrified of, but didn't have a bad experience this time) but my follicles weren't growing, so she added injectable Menopur. I seemed to have the opposite affect from the Menopur and my follicles didn't respond at all, so she removed me from the Menopur and had me do another round of Clomid (150mg) - that seemed to do it and I ended up with three follicles, but I had another negative pregnancy test. This last IUI attempt, I did the max Clomid (150mg) and wasn't responding at all, so she added the menopur again. After another week, my follicles were very small and it didn't look like my body was responding to the meds at all. We decided to cancel the round. I am going to attempt an unmedicated round, since the meds don't seem to be working anymore and if that doesn't work, I will move onto donor egg/embryo.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Gracie)
I've been pleased and impressed with the nurses.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
CCRM has a good reputation as far as the "experts" in the field - however, it feels a little like a bottomless money pit. I also had a mix-up with the scheduler which almost ruined my entire IUI cycle - I was disappointed that nobody followed up with me after the mix-up to apologize.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
$200 for every ultrasound visit, approx. $150 for the IUI procedure. Clomid is pretty cheap (about $25-$30) and the menopur was approx. $800 per round.
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Lost appointments
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
I was scheduled for my IUI on a specific date and time - everything is dependent on this timing, including when you take your trigger shot and when they thaw and prep the sperm. When I got to the clinic for my scheduled IUI, I was told my appointment wasn't until the following week, which was totally wrong. I explained the situation and they were able to get the sperm thawed and prepped and asked me to come back two hours later. I don't know if that two hours made a difference in my results (of course they claimed it wouldn't) but I was very upset and concerned.
Dr. Kondapalli was one of the best physicians that I have ever worked with, if not the best....She was amazing and surpassed all of my very high expectations....In addition to her clinical skill, I highly recommend Dr. Kondapalli because she will genuinely care about you and your results and she will go above and beyond to help you in any way that she can...She came in early for me around 6am and then traveled to her other location to start her normal work day afterward. I will never forget the kindness and selflessness that she showed to me and I cannot recommend her enough.
The billing office [at CCRM] is unkind and gave me a lot of misinformation, other than that it was a great experience. The strength was the obvious experience and skill of the physicians and nurses who work there... I am from out of state, but it was more than worth it to travel in to have the opportunity to work with Dr. Kondapalli.... She arranged for the OR schedule to take me in early and she came in to perform my retrieval on a day when she was not supposed to be working at that location. She came in early for me around 6am and then traveled to her other location to start her normal work day afterward.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. Kondapalli was one of the best physicians that I have ever worked with, if not the best. I am a physician myself and I have extremely high standards for medical care. I sought out Dr. Kondapalli after a well respected physician colleague of mine recommended her after she helped her to achieve a successful healthy pregnancy. I am from out of state, but it was more than worth it to travel in to have the opportunity to work with Dr. Kondapalli. She was amazing and surpassed all of my very high expectations. This was my second experience with IVF and the first one was not a positive one at all. During my first egg retrieval, only 8 eggs were retrieved and three embryos were created. These aren't horrible results for many IVF families, but 8 eggs from a relatively young and healthy person without fertility issues, is very disappointing. When I started seeing Dr. Kondapalli it was apparent from the very beginning that I was dealing with an entirely different level of expertise. To make a sports reference, it was like I went from T-ball to the major leagues. She was able to retrieve 28 eggs, 22 of which fertilized. This is a remarkable retrieval result and it is entirely due to Dr. Kondapalli and her unparalleled attention to detail, conscientious monitoring and skilled adjustments throughout the entire process. In addition to her clinical skill, I highly recommend Dr. Kondapalli because she will genuinely care about you and your results and she will go above and beyond to help you in any way that she can. Due to the day that my retrieval fell on, I was scheduled to have my retrieval performed by another undoubtedly skilled physician at CCRM. I traveled to Denver from out of state specifically for Dr. Kondapalli, so I was understandably really upset and disappointed that the person who I had come to trust was not going to be there for one of the most important steps in the process. I expressed my disappointment to Dr. Kondapalli and she did something for me that I will never forget. She arranged for the OR schedule to take me in early and she came in to perform my retrieval on a day when she was not supposed to be working at that location. She came in early for me around 6am and then traveled to her other location to start her normal work day afterward. I will never forget the kindness and selflessness that she showed to me and I cannot recommend her enough.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Definitely go to her.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Due to the day that my retrieval fell on, I was scheduled to have my retrieval performed by another undoubtedly skilled physician at CCRM. I traveled to Denver from out of state specifically for Dr. Kondapalli, so I was understandably really upset and disappointed that the person who I had come to trust was not going to be there for one of the most important steps in the process. I expressed my disappointment to Dr. Kondapalli and she did something for me that I will never forget. She arranged for the OR schedule to take me in early and she came in to perform my retrieval on a day when she was not supposed to be working at that location. She came in early for me around 6am and then traveled to her other location to start her normal work day afterward. I will never forget the kindness and selflessness that she showed to me and I cannot recommend her enough.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
The billing office is unkind and gave me a lot of misinformation, other than that it was a great experience. The strength was the obvious experience and skill of the physicians and nurses who work there.
I rarely spoke to my doctor. She seemed uninterested in trying anything with me other than the repeated suggestion I move to IVF, which I could not afford at the tome...I felt Dr Kondapali was not genuine. Her enthusiasm seemed false...When pressed to try things out of the standard protocol, she was completely unwilling...She refused to treat me for more than six IUI cycles. I found another doctor, with 10 years more experien
Billing at CCRM is a veritable nightmare. Phone calls are rarely returned without persistence, the same holds true for email. I also had a nurse to be able to call a prescription in timely to my mail order clinic, but we resolved it without me missing my cycle thankfully. The phone systems were down over the holidays in 2016, at a critical day and my cycle.... think CCRN fantastic lab, and several high-quality doctors. The greatest frustration point I have with them is cost,
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
I felt Dr Kondapali was not genuine. Her enthusiasm seemed false, like that of a cheerleader in a movie. When pressed to try things out of the standard protocol, she was completely unwilling. Her only suggestion was that I moved to IVF. She refused to treat me for more than six IUI cycles. I found another doctor, with 10 years more experience than her who was willing to give it at least a year, given the fact that he had had women my age become pregnant. I believe Dr Kondapali was more concerned with her statistics and bringing in the IVF Revenue than actually helping me have a baby within the limits I was faced with the financially and age wise.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Do not go looking to her for compassion. Also, make sure you’re well educated on the process because the nurses are not always equal in their knowledge. I would highly recommend Dr. Schoolcraft, because Ellie, his nurse is extremely knowledgeable, and serves as an excellent substitute when he’s not directly available for questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
I rarely spoke to my doctor. She seemed uninterested in trying anything with me other than the repeated suggestion I move to IVF, which I could not afford at the tome
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
Dr Kondapali let me do one natural cycle at my request. The second cycle, we tried a relatively low dose of Clomid 50mg and one or two Menopur injections for boosting. After that, we moved to Femara 10mg ( I reported side effects from Clomid) plus Menopur 150. When that didn’t work, I believe we increased to 300. That was for two additional cycles. After that, I switched clinics when she broke the news to me that she would only do six medicated cycles with me and that no one else in the practice would touch me either for more than that.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Can’t remember name)
The nurses often had to go back to the doctor to get answers to questions. This was a different experience to the one I’m having now with Dr. Schoolcraft Nurse Ellie who is able to answer almost all of my questions. Whenever I would get upset, because a cycle failed or just the Billing stress got to me, I would shed tears. Twice the nurses suggested I “speak to the psychologist”, which of course, comes with a hefty fee of over $200 I believe.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
I think CCRN fantastic lab, and several high-quality doctors. The greatest frustration point I have with them is cost, followed by the fact that you cannot switch doctors if you’re unhappy. I think that’s ludicrous. They made a one time exception for me because I came back for a different procedure – IVF, and told them I wasn’t coming unless I could have a doctor other than Kondapali. They gave me Dr. Schoolcraft as I requested.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
Since this was covered under insurance, it’s hard to estimate what my out-of-pocket actually was, because they are still processing claims that are over a year old! The billing process was terrible. The cost of my IVF procedure I estimate at about $40,000 including additional diagnostics and medication above the cost of the procedure.
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
I am at the beginning stages of IVF so I cannot answer this as of yet
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost appointments
Failed to call with results
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
Billing at CCRM is a veritable nightmare. Phone calls are rarely returned without persistence, the same holds true for email. I also had a nurse to be able to call a prescription in timely to my mail order clinic, but we resolved it without me missing my cycle thankfully. The phone systems were down over the holidays in 2016, at a critical day and my cycle. I was only able to get answers by guessing at Dr. Schoolcraft email address and letting him know of the phone issue and that I needed a nurse. I had my initial appointment for consultation booked on the wrong day. Then, had a receptionist to be extremely rude to me about changing the appointment, when it truly wasn’t a change.
Dr. Kondapalli was very friendly and seemed invested in our case...Dr. Kondapalli made some adjustments to round 2, but same result, negative pregnancy test. When we went into our consult after the second failed attempt it was disheartening to hear that she was already recommending surrogacy or adoption. We still had so many questions, as this didn't make sense to us, and I felt like I needed to take things into my own hands, rather than fully relying on CCRM.
CCRM has a great clinical team - I had many eggs fertilize, and so far I haven't had any issues with my embryos surviving the freeze and thaw...While I was under care, I had many different nurses (one terminated, one went on maternity leave, etc.). This created some issues, as there was clearly a lack of communication. In one instance, my calendar was incorrect and I had to contact them to fix it and change my protocol. In another instance, I had not heard about my pregnancy test results and had to call in before they closed for the day. That's how I found out about my second failed attempt, which broke me.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Our path has been turbulent, considering that we had to change doctors after egg retrieval and prior to the embryo transfer. We were told that we had very good chances of pregnancy, and felt extremely confused when we got a negative pregnancy test. Dr. Kondapalli made some adjustments to round 2, but same result, negative pregnancy test. When we went into our consult after the second failed attempt it was disheartening to hear that she was already recommending surrogacy or adoption. We still had so many questions, as this didn't make sense to us, and I felt like I needed to take things into my own hands, rather than fully relying on CCRM.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Be your own advocate.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. Kondapalli was very friendly and seemed invested in our case.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
The first round of IVF was pretty typical - I didn't have any hormone issues, and so we used the lowest doses possible. For the second round of IVF, Dr. Kondapalli didn't have any changes other than suggesting that we use the progesterone oil. During my consult after the second failed attempt, she recommended that we try a uterine scrape (I wonder why she didn't try this before). I asked her whether we could forgo using the hormone medications, and she said that we could if we wished, which I appreciated.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado.
While I was under care, I had many different nurses (one terminated, one went on maternity leave, etc.). This created some issues, as there was clearly a lack of communication. In one instance, my calendar was incorrect and I had to contact them to fix it and change my protocol. In another instance, I had not heard about my pregnancy test results and had to call in before they closed for the day. That's how I found out about my second failed attempt, which broke me.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
CCRM has a great clinical team - I had many eggs fertilize, and so far I haven't had any issues with my embryos surviving the freeze and thaw. That being said, I haven't had a successful transfer, and sometimes question the viability of the embryos (even though they have been genetically tested, etc.).
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
We were talked into doing every test and procedure, as there were male infertility issues that we had questions about.
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
We chose one embryo for the first attempt, as she said that I had a very high chance of pregnancy. She recommended transferring two embryos for the second attempt. I have no complaints about this approach.
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost appointments
Failed to call with results
Lost results
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
My first nurse got my calendar wrong and fortunately I caught it and they made changes in time before it messed anything up.
Another nurse did not provide me with my pregnancy test results. I had to call in before they closed for the day and ultimately found out that I had a negative test result - it was extremely difficult to hear the news this way.
At first I was thrilled to have her [Dr Kondapalli] as a doctor. She was energetic and fun. It became clear very quickly that she made many mistakes - we had to correct her. She misdiagnosed and recommended the wrong protocols. She pushed donor sperm despite the fact that we said repeatedly we did not want that. We met with her 3 times. After our last attempt, we refused to meet with her because of her complete lack of care.
We have moved on to another clinic [from CCRM] who has taken very good care of us and we have already had signs of more success. After some time, I plan to contact the patient advocate at CCRM to explain the MANY mistakes that were made. It breaks my heart thinking about the way they treat couples and women and I hope what happened to us never happens to anyone else.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
At first I was thrilled to have her as a doctor. She was energetic and fun. It became clear very quickly that she made many mistakes - we had to correct her. She misdiagnosed and recommended the wrong protocols. She pushed donor sperm despite the fact that we said repeatedly we did not want that. We met with her 3 times. After our last attempt, we refused to meet with her because of her complete lack of care.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
See another doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
She frequently confused information. She had never read our chart when we went to meet with her. She made many mistakes. We only met with her 3 times. She refused to admit she made mistakes.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
She first put me on an antagonist protocol, it produced a lot of eggs but my estrogen skyrocketed. The second protocol was the same but with estrogen priming. My estrogen hit almost 7,000. She refused to admit that it was the protocol and actually had the nerve to say, "we could change the protocol, what do you think we should do?"
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at CCRM Colorado.
It's hard to blame the nurses because they are underpaid, overworked and not trained. I never had one nurse - I spoke to several who frequently made mistakes.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
A money-making machine that pushes donor egg and sperm to boost their numbers.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at CCRM Colorado.
Cattle-call line.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
In total, almost $75,000 including one unnecessary surgery for my husband. Result: 0 embryos
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Lost paperwork
Lost appointments
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Lost results
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Scheduled the wrong procedure
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
We have moved on to another clinic who has taken very good care of us and we have already had signs of more success. After some time, I plan to contact the patient advocate at CCRM to explain the MANY mistakes that were made. It breaks my heart thinking about the way they treat couples and women and I hope what happened to us never happens to anyone else.
She [Laxmi Kondapalli] is a great doctor, but she doesn't explain as much as I would like. In some cases, I don't think that I got to make decisions knowing all of the facts. In addition, she is very, very conservative in her advice. She may order every test on the planet, and doesn't seem aware in the least what the financial burden for the patient is. I suspect that at her new clinic, CCRM, she may also steer a borderline IVF candidate towards a donor before another doctor.
The nurses were poor communicators and could not relay or answer important questions. And the bottom line is the clinic's performance, meaning that they cherry pick cases to keep their numbers up...CCRM, where I briefly followed up with Dr. Kondapali after she moved, feels like an elitist, greedy place. The intake process was infuriating and insulting, the receptionists infuriating, and the nurses poor communicators and detached. Everyone says that CCRM has great doctors, but the administration of the clinic is a nightmare and it is the doctor's responsibility.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
She is a great doctor, but she doesn't explain as much as I would like. In some cases, I don't think that I got to make decisions knowing all of the facts. In addition, she is very, very conservative in her advice. She may order every test on the planet, and doesn't seem aware in the least what the financial burden for the patient is. I suspect that at her new clinic, CCRM, she may also steer a borderline IVF candidate towards a donor before another doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
If you have a complicated case and want a clearer briefing about your options, maybe use one of the other doctors in the practice.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
I saw her at the University of Colorado Advanced Reproductive Medicine clinic in her capacity as an oncofertility specialist. She was very upbeat, kind and engagged.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
CCRM, where I briefly followed up with Dr. Kondapali after she moved, feels like an elitist, greedy place. The intake process was infuriating and insulting, the receptionists infuriating, and the nurses poor communicators and detached. Everyone says that CCRM has great doctors, but the administration of the clinic is a nightmare and it is the doctor's responsibility.
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Lost paperwork
Failed to call with results
Failed to convey critical information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
We got few of our questions answered, paid thousands for a batch of tests, and decided in the end that we would rather go anywhere but CCRM. Getting set up for our first appointment was ridiculous, they required that we print out 30 pages, sign them, scan and email them back because they are "paperless". If you are about to throw down $40K on medical treatment, I believe the clinic should be able to scan my paperwork without me resorting to using my employer's scanner! The nurses were poor communicators and could not relay or answer important questions. And the bottom line is the clinic's performance, meaning that they cherry pick cases to keep their numbers up.
[Dr.] Kondapalli cared for our clinical needs and our emotional responses to them. She always connected with us and used kindness and compassion... was thorough, competent, patient, and concerned for our needs and preferences. She was attentive to our questions and always seemed glad to see us. I felt completely comfortable in her care and trust her completely...she understands how daunting this process is and is totally willing to dig into details or teaching.
CCRM is a large clinic so it can feel a bit like a baby factory at times. However after you've been there a while you will see how much the whole staff does care about you and your outcomes...Kate K is a perpetually caring and wonderful nurse. She bends over backwards for her patients and is always willing to lend a reasurrance or double check anything. She is kind, empathetic, and always hopeful and with you wherever you are in your process.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. Kondapalli was thorough, competent, patient, and concerned for our needs and preferences. She was attentive to our questions and always seemed glad to see us. I felt completely comfortable in her care and trust her completely.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
If you have a concern or question, just speak up--she understands how daunting this process is and is totally willing to dig into details or teaching.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Kondapalli cared for our clinical needs and our emotional responses to them. She always connected with us and used kindness and compassion.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Kate K)
Kate K is a perpetually caring and wonderful nurse. She bends over backwards for her patients and is always willing to lend a reasurrance or double check anything. She is kind, empathetic, and always hopeful and with you wherever you are in your process.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
CCRM is a large clinic so it can feel a bit like a baby factory at times. However after you've been there a while you will see how much the whole staff does care about you and your outcomes. They do the best treatment and ha e the best outcomes which I think at times can lead to less of a customer service view-since they don't need to.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
Our IVF cost was 21,000 and we spent about 8,000 on meds and 2,000 on acupuncture and adjunct treatments.
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to order appropriate test
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
There are so many details to a fertility process some details might get missed, but overall excellent care.
I'm not able to get a thick lining. Dr K[ondapalli] used a STIM FET cycle which other doctors wouldn't use. I became pregnant both times. I appreciated how she was willing to try different techniques...very personable, she is positive and you can tell she cares...Good with communication, spends a lot of time to explain procedures, positive, will develop innovative plan. Will call after positive and unsuccessful results. Really feel like she cares and is in this with you.
CCRM [Colorado] likes to transfer one embryo at a time...a lot of staff means someone is always available. high quality nurses. don't always explain small details, like follow up steps after loss. with any clinic the patient always needs to understand the protocol and ask a lot of questions. I've found (and other patients I've talked to have found) that their billing office is often disorganized and will charge incorrectly. make sure to always know what you should be charged for and be ready to dispute any incorrect charges.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Good with communication, spends a lot of time to explain procedures, positive, will develop innovative plan. Will call after positive and unsuccessful results. Really feel like she cares and is in this with you.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Ask a lot of questions
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
very personable, she is positive and you can tell she cares
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
I'm not able to get a thick lining. Dr K used a STIM FET cycle which other doctors wouldn't use. I became pregnant both times. I appreciated how she was willing to try different techniques.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Angelica)
Very caring, thorough, organized
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
up to date surgery center, a lot of staff means someone is always available. high quality nurses. don't always explain small details, like follow up steps after loss. with any clinic the patient always needs to understand the protocol and ask a lot of questions. I've found (and other patients I've talked to have found) that their billing office is often disorganized and will charge incorrectly. make sure to always know what you should be charged for and be ready to dispute any incorrect charges.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
I've done a total of 4 retrievals and 8 FET cycles at two clinics. With acupuncture and medication I've spent over $120,000. Don't remember specifically at CCRM but it is more expansive than the first clinic I went to.
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
CCRM likes to transfer one embryo at a time
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Lost paperwork
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
billed incorrectly. they did fix it when brought to their attention
Dr. Kondapalli seems very knowledgeable and explains things in plain english. She’s also very positive and caring. She seems very on top of the testing and takes your whole medical history into account when treating you....She has a wonderful beside manner, and makes you feel like your success really matters to her.... The nursing staff [CCRM] is responsible for patient communication and can, at times seem disorganized. I don’t have one dedicated nurse and things can get lost in the game of telephone
The nursing staff [CCRM] is responsible for patient communication and can, at times seem disorganized. I don’t have one dedicated nurse and things can get lost in the game of telephone... Tests that I had already completed were ordered more than once, because of a timeline and communication error on the part of the nursing staff.... Strengths are: knowledgeable doctors, and a great laboratory.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. Kondapalli seems very knowledgeable and explains things in plain english. She’s also very positive and caring. She seems very on top of the testing and takes your whole medical history into account when treating you.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Give her all of you medical information, even if you think its irrelevant.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
She has a wonderful beside manner, and makes you feel like your success really matters to her.
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
We are about to start our first ivf protocol
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at CCRM Colorado.
The nursing staff is responsible for patient communication and can, at times seem disorganized. I don’t have one dedicated nurse and things can get lost in the game of telephone
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
Strengths are: knowledgeable doctors, and a great laboratory. One of the highest success rates in the country.
Cons are: poor communication with nursing staff, sometimes you need to remind them what doctor told you.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
a bit over 3,000 for each IUi - thankfully covered by insurance.
21,000 IVF with icsi and ccs testing (due to recurrent miscarriages)
What specific things went wrong at CCRM Colorado?
Failed to order appropriate test
Describe the specific things that went wrong at CCRM Colorado.
Tests that I had already completed were ordered more than once, because of a timeline and communication error on the part of the nursing staff.
My first IUI cycle [wtih Dr. Laxmi Kondapalli] resulted in a positive pregnancy. Unfortunately, it was discovered to be an ectopic pregnancy in my left tube. Dr. Kondapalli dropped everything and performed emergency life-saving surgery to remove my tube. I am eternally grateful to her for her professionalism and for how seriously and exceptionally she treated such a terrifying experience...looked at our situation and gave us personalized recommendations.
Everyone is very knowledgeable [at CCRM Colorado] and when my situation became life-threatening, everyone took it very seriously and made sure I was okay. You do have to advocate for yourself, as well, but I’ve neevr had a hard time getting a response and I’ve always felt like I was taken seriously if I had a question or concern...My first IUI cycle resulted in a positive pregnancy. Unfortunately, it was discovered to be an ectopic pregnancy in my left tube. Dr. Kondapalli dropped everything and performed emergency life-saving surgery to remove my tube. I am eternally grateful to her for her professionalism and for how seriously and exceptionally she treated such a terrifying experience.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. Kondapalli looked at our situation and gave us personalized recommendations. Then, when my pregnancy was ectopic and moments away from rupturing, she performed emergency surgery to remove my left Fallopian tube and most likely saved my life.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
She is very willing to answer any questions you may have, so definitely come prepared with a list!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
My first IUI cycle resulted in a positive pregnancy. Unfortunately, it was discovered to be an ectopic pregnancy in my left tube. Dr. Kondapalli dropped everything and performed emergency life-saving surgery to remove my tube. I am eternally grateful to her for her professionalism and for how seriously and exceptionally she treated such a terrifying experience.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Tracy and Erin)
Tracy was my primary nurse during the IUI and Erin was my nurse during the ectopic pregnancy and salpingectomy.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
CCRM is the best for a reason. Everyone is very knowledgeable and when my situation became life-threatening, everyone took it very seriously and made sure I was okay. You do have to advocate for yourself, as well, but I’ve neevr had a hard time getting a response and I’ve always felt like I was taken seriously if I had a question or concern.
We always felt she [Dr. Laxmi Kondapalli] had time for all of our questions, understood our history and cared about the success of our cycle!...has a wealth of knowledge. She used pictures/drawings to show the process. This helped to have a visual understanding of what we would experience...spoke truthfully about all results...is a bright light in a journey that could be very dark!
Helen [nurse at CCRM Colorado] was a pleasure! She was quick to respond to emails and phone calls. She never made you feel that you asked too many questions...They are skilled and able to look at each case independently. I love that they have a research department and that you have the opportunity to be part of a trial if the doctors feel you would benefit...Orders for monitoring and prescription orders were always prepared and ready quickly!
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Dr. K has a wealth of knowledge. She used pictures/drawings to show the process. This helped to have a visual understanding of what we would experience. She always had time for our questions and spoke truthfully about all results. Dr. K is a bright light in a journey that could be very dark!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Contact her for a consultation! I learned more in a 30 minute conversation about my 3 previous cycles with another doctor from her, than anytime during each cycle.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
We always felt she had time for all of our questions, understood our history and cared about the success of our cycle!
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Helen)
Helen was a pleasure! She was quick to respond to emails and phone calls. She never made you feel that you asked too many questions. Orders for monitoring and prescription orders were always prepared and ready quickly!
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
CCRM Lone Tree is a fabulous clinic! They are skilled and able to look at each case independently. I love that they have a research department and that you have the opportunity to be part of a trial if the doctors feel you would benefit.
I like doctors that work collaboratively, that don't get huffy if you have questions. Dr Kondapalli was great in that respect. I think she was one of the newer doctors at CCRM when I saw her but I thought her approach was a good fit for me...Great bedside manner. Very compassionate....have a list of questions ready so you can make the most of your one on ones with the doctor, since you often interface with nurses instead...Doctor was great.
[CCRM] Lab is world renowned. Business office was truly bad - lots and lots of room for improvement there. In addition to errors on their part and inability to coordinate with insurance company properly, lots of times they simply wouldn't respond - there is no excuse for that. Took many months of weekly efforts on my part to get reimbursed part of the upfront fee since I had insurance coverage...My nurse was very responsive. The one thing I didn't like is she only worked 4 days a week, so if it was her off day, you had to wait for a callback from someone who didn't know your situation very well.
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
I like doctors that work collaboratively, that don't get huffy if you have questions. Dr Kondapalli was great in that respect. I think she was one of the newer doctors at CCRM when I saw her but I thought her approach was a good fit for me.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Like any clinic, have a list of questions ready so you can make the most of your one on ones with the doctor, since you often interface with nurses instead.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Great bedside manner. Very compassionate.
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Nicole )
My nurse was very responsive. The one thing I didn't like is she only worked 4 days a week, so if it was her off day, you had to wait for a callback from someone who didn't know your situation very well.
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
Doctor was great. Lab is world renowned. Business office was truly bad - lots and lots of room for improvement there. In addition to errors on their part and inability to coordinate with insurance company properly, lots of times they simply wouldn't respond - there is no excuse for that. Took many months of weekly efforts on my part to get reimbursed part of the upfront fee since I had insurance coverage. It shouldn't be that hard.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
It was around 20k upfront, even if you had insurance coverage that would reimbursing them. I think PGD was additional, but can't recall the details.
She [Dr. Laxmi Kondapalli] was very loving & supporive which is a big deal when you are paying so much money & so hopeful. She had a great bedside manner & obviously did a great job! She was also very good with my parents who had a lot of questions & concerns. She treated us like humans not just another patient. She also sent a card when we got positive results. She's a wonderful human & an incredible dr!
[CCRM CO is] Run like a well oiled machine. It's expensive but well worth it. It's clean, run well & everyone is very nice... Honestly, everyone was amazing. I did not have a bad experience with anyone!!... She [Dr. Laxmi Kondapalli] was very loving & supporive which is a big deal when you are paying so much money & so hopeful. She had a great bedside manner & obviously did a great job! She was also very good with my parents who had a lot of questions & concerns. She treated us like humans not just another patient. She also sent a card when we got positive results. She's a wonderful human & an incredible dr!
How was your experience with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
She was very loving & supporive which is a big deal when you are paying so much money & so hopeful. She had a great bedside manner & obviously did a great job! She was also very good with my parents who had a lot of questions & concerns. She treated us like humans not just another patient. She also sent a card when we got positive results. She's a wonderful human & an incredible dr!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
Nothing, no advice. They would find out how great she was all on their own!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado?
She was very loving, kind, positive and supportive. My favorite doctor ever!!!
Describe the protocols Laxmi Kondapalli used in your cycles at CCRM Colorado and their degree of success.
I don't remember the exact specifics but they really tailor it for the individuals needs. We did a frozen embryo transfer & it produced twins :)
Describe your experience with your nurse at CCRM Colorado. (Assigned nurse: Leslie Reisig)
Honestly, everyone was amazing. I did not have a bad experience with anyone!!
Describe your experience with CCRM Colorado.
Run like a well oiled machine. It's expensive but well worth it. It's clean, run well & everyone is very nice
Describe the costs associated with your care under Laxmi Kondapalli at CCRM Colorado.
around $40,000.00
Describe Laxmi Kondapalli's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at CCRM Colorado.
No, they knew best with my history & did warn us that we could possibly have twins. We were good with that & trusted them.