Rated 5.5
Strongly recommend: 42%Neutral: 17%Don't recommend: 42%5.5
42% strongly recommend
16 reviews
Humanity
6.5
6.5
Humanity

Ratings of 1 mean patients felt this doctor treated them as "a number."

Ratings of 10 mean patients felt this doctor treated them as "a human."

Communication
7.1
7.1
Communication

Ratings of 1 mean poor communication.

Ratings of 10 mean excellent communication.

Frequency Seen
4.2
4.2
Frequency Seen

Ratings of 1 mean patients only saw this doctor once or twice during treatment.

Ratings of 10 mean patients saw this doctor at every appointment.

LGBTQ+ Care
8
8
LGBTQ+ Care

Ratings of 1 indicate an unsatisfactory LGBTQ+ care.

Ratings of 10 indicate an excellent LGBTQ+ care.

Responsiveness
7.1
OK
Responsiveness

Scale is "poor, ok, good, excellent" and measures how responsive a care team was when patients needed to speak to them.

Education

Medical School
Boston U.
Residency
Johns Hopkins
Fellowship
Northwestern

How Doctor Communicates

doctor, nurse available by email
doctor, nurse available by directline
doctor, nurse available by directline
not available by personal cell phone
not available by personal cell phone
Mary Ellen Pavone works in 1 office at

Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Rated 7.7
Strongly recommend: 58%Neutral: 18%Don't recommend: 23%7.7

Explore Clinic
Chicago
259 E. Erie St., Suite 2400
Chicago, IL 60611

16 patient reviews

2024, Successful
NPS
10
NPS
10
Black or African-American
Income $200K - $499K
Consultant
2nd of 2 Docs
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Successful
being treated by Dr. Pavone for a hysteroscopy, HSG, and endometrial biopsy, and I cannot recommend her highly enough...As an African American patient, finding a provider who understands and respects my background is crucial...took the time to explain each procedure in detail, ensuring I fully understood what to expect
The most notable strength of [Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine] is the exceptional care provided by the staff...Everyone was incredibly nice and attentive, taking the time to answer all my questions thoroughly. The staff demonstrated impressive competence, and their excellent bedside manner made a significant difference
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I recently had the privilege of being treated by Dr. Pavone for a hysteroscopy, HSG, and endometrial biopsy, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. As an African American patient, I’ve often found it challenging to connect with healthcare providers who understand and respect my experiences. Dr. Pavone was a refreshing exception. From my very first consultation, it was evident that Dr. Pavone is not only incredibly skilled but also genuinely compassionate. She took the time to explain each procedure in detail, ensuring I fully understood what to expect. This thorough pre-operative consultation helped to ease my anxiety significantly. I appreciated her patience in answering all my questions and addressing my concerns; it made me feel respected and valued as a patient. During the procedures, Dr. Pavone’s expertise shone through. She conducted everything with professionalism and precision, which gave me a sense of confidence that I was in the best hands possible. What stood out to me was her exceptional bedside manner. She communicated clearly throughout the procedures and made sure I was comfortable, which made a potentially stressful experience much more manageable. Post-operation, Dr. Pavone continued to check in on my recovery, demonstrating her commitment to my well-being. Her warmth and attentiveness made a significant difference, and I felt supported every step of the way. In my experience, Dr. Pavone is severely underrated. She not only combines competence with compassion, but she also fosters an environment where patients feel heard and understood. For anyone seeking a knowledgeable and caring physician, I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Pavone. Her outstanding care and dedication are truly remarkable, and I am grateful to have had her as my doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Give her a chance! Ask all the questions. She will gracefully answer them.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I recently had the pleasure of being treated by Dr. Pavone for a hysteroscopy, HSG, and endometrial biopsy, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. As an African American patient, finding a provider who understands and respects my background is crucial, and Dr. Pavone exceeded my expectations. From the very first consultation, she demonstrated remarkable competence and genuine care. Her thorough pre-operative consultation eased my anxiety; she explained each procedure in detail and answered all my questions, making me feel informed and comfortable. The procedures were conducted with professionalism, and Dr. Pavone’s skill was evident. Her exceptional bedside manner continued post-op, as she checked in on my recovery. In my experience, Dr. Pavone is severely underrated. She combines expertise with compassion, making a potentially stressful experience much more manageable. I am truly grateful for her outstanding care and highly recommend her to anyone in need of similar procedures.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine. (Assigned nurse: Addie)
want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional care I received from my nurse during my recent post-operative recovery. From the moment I arrived, she went above and beyond to ensure my comfort and well-being. Her excellent bedside manner truly made a difference in my experience. She was incredibly patient, taking the time to answer all my questions and addressing any concerns I had. I never felt rushed; instead, she made me feel valued and supported throughout the recovery process. Her attentiveness and kindness created a calming environment, which eased my anxiety significantly. It’s clear that she genuinely cares about her patients, and her dedication to providing outstanding care did not go unnoticed. I am so grateful for the compassionate and professional support she provided. She is a true asset to the healthcare team, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone in need of care. Thank you for making my recovery so much smoother!
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Strengths: The most notable strength of this hospital is the exceptional care provided by the staff. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I was the only patient in the unit. Everyone was incredibly nice and attentive, taking the time to answer all my questions thoroughly. The staff demonstrated impressive competence, and their excellent bedside manner made a significant difference in my comfort level. I never felt rushed, and they were always accessible, which greatly eased my anxiety. Areas for Growth: While my overall experience was positive, there was a small detail that could be improved. I noticed that the trash and bio bins had not been emptied, and the restroom could have been cleaner prior to my arrival in pre-op. Maintaining cleanliness in these areas is important for patient comfort and safety. Overall, I highly recommend this hospital for its outstanding staff and patient-centered approach, while also encouraging attention to cleanliness in the facilities. Thank you for your dedication to patient care!
NPS
10
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
5 of 5
Communication
5 of 5
Frequency Seen
1 of 5
Trustworthiness
5 of 5
Compassion
5 of 5
Explained risks
5 of 5
Adaptability
5 of 5
NPS
10
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
5 of 5
Scheduling
5 of 5
Nursing Staff
5 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
4 of 5
Educational Resources
7 of 5
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2017 - 2018, Unsuccessful
NPS
2
NPS
1
Age 29 - 30
3 IUI
PCOS
European
Income $50K - $99K
Nurse or HC Services
1st of 2 Docs
Doesn't Recommend
Doesn't Recommend
Unsuccessful
I only saw Dr. Pavone for my initial consultation. She performed an US and blood work, and diagnosed me with PCOS based on the results. She told me at our initial meeting that she treats PCOS with 3 rounds of medicated timed intercourse and 3 rounds of medicated IUI. I never saw her again to discuss why the process may not be working or even to change my medication dosage. I felt like it was just a standard “ok you have PCOS this is the plan” but not necessarily a plan for me and my body.
At the end of our 6 IUI/medicated rounds, we decided we were unhappy overall with the care provided from northwestern and decided to switch facilities. When I contacted northwestern about obtaining results from certain procedures or labs, they gave me a hard time. Sent me to medical records who in turn said they didn’t have record of certain results and then I ultimately got sent back to the office and the nurse was able to email it to me.
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Dr Pavone is a very professional women. She spent time with me during my consult and listened to me explain my history and gave my husband and I a plan. She was knowledgeable and polite but was not warm and fuzzy. I only met her once, so I can’t really say how my experience as her patient was since I only spent one hour of my 6 month treatment course with her. I would ask questions through my nurses to her and they would be the communicators of her information. Other than the initial visit, I never felt like my condition (PCOS) was explained to me. I didn’t know why I was ovulating each month, had normal labs, responded to the medication, but wasn’t getting pregnant. No one took the time to explain that to me and when I asked they’d say “the body just sometimes doesn’t take.” Which is fine, but why?! What happens to my eggs in particular? During my IUIs I asked for a change in the planned course of medication dosage and I got shut down. Meanwhile, midcycle, I wasn’t responding to my letrozole and they decided on cycle day 20 to increase my dose and restart the whole process (just like I had suggested on cycle day 1). I feel that if Dr. Pavone saw me in the office as she walked by, she wouldn’t even know if I was her patient. Again, I didn’t have an in-depth treatment course with her- I wasn’t to the point of IVF so maybe I just wasn’t a serious enough case to be seen by a doctor, but I just felt slightly ignored and neglected and I don’t think any patient would like to feel that way.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Be your own advocate and fight for yourself and your body. Ask for meetings and speak up with lots of questions. if your plan isn’t working, don’t just keep going along with it without knowing why.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I only saw Dr. Pavone for my initial consultation. She performed an US and blood work, and diagnosed me with PCOS based on the results. She told me at our initial meeting that she treats PCOS with 3 rounds of medicated timed intercourse and 3 rounds of medicated IUI. I never saw her again to discuss why the process may not be working or even to change my medication dosage. I felt like it was just a standard “ok you have PCOS this is the plan” but not necessarily a plan for me and my body. Also, The office felt very sterile. When you came in for a morning appointment, women were corralled in the hallway waiting to check in- and a women behind a computer shouted “NEXT” and then when you approached the desk she just said “NAME.” Felt very “DMV”- like. Also, each time I came in for an US , the nurse or technician wouldn’t remember why I was there- even though it should be on my chart. They would say things like “is this an US before IVF?” When it would just be my mid cycle scan.
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
In regards to treatment strategies, Dr. Pavone, after diagnosing me with PCOS, decided that trialing three rounds of medicated timed intercourse followed by medicated IUIs would suite my diagnosis well. None of them were successful and we did not change the course for any of the cycles even though I asked to change medication dosage.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine. (Assigned nurse: It was a primary nursing team- Anitra, Syrena, and a few others whom I didnt work with frequently.)
I really enjoyed having a primary nursing team, I felt that it helped narrow down the amount of people I was communicating with. They were very responsive to my emails and I talked to them 99% of the time over my Physician. Anitra was especially compassionate and I felt like she advocated for my care.
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Strengths: they’re apart of a major hospital working on the forefront of medicine. The team of doctors and nurses are very intelligent and worked hard to get a job at the office. Labwork, US, retrieval’s, etc are all performed on location. The communication via MyChart is very easy to use and they respond to your questions within 24 hours. The office waiting room sometimes has snacks available for the patients. Weaknesses: overalll feeling of being “just a number”. Long wait times/ unorganized format for drawing bloodwork & US, unfriendly front desk staff, and felt like a very “sterile” environment. It was also very hard for me to get ahold of medical records that I needed when I transferred doctors.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
My care was 100% covered since my insurance it with the same hospital.
Describe Mary Ellen Pavone's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Non applicable.
What specific things went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
  • Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
At the end of our 6 IUI/medicated rounds, we decided we were unhappy overall with the care provided from northwestern and decided to switch facilities. When I contacted northwestern about obtaining results from certain procedures or labs, they gave me a hard time. Sent me to medical records who in turn said they didn’t have record of certain results and then I ultimately got sent back to the office and the nurse was able to email it to me. I was confused as to why she couldn’t do that for me in the first place instead of giving me the run around. This wasted time and created unnecessary stress on myself and my husband. Also, I needed a certain cycle to be submitted to insurance so that I could get my IVF covered. I left multiple messages with the northwestern care team asking them to submit the information to insurance and got no response for weeks. When I finally got a response, I was told my primary financial coordinator had left the practice “months ago.” While this is fine that someone leaves a job position, it is not fine that my messages were still being sent and taken but no one was responding. I don’t understand how you leave a job and don’t let your patients know who they should contact now that you’ve left. Not only was I unhappy with the care while I was there, but now they’re ruining my chances with my new clinic. I ended up going to medical records myself and making my own copies for my new facility.
NPS
2
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
1 of 5
Communication
3 of 5
Frequency Seen
1 of 5
Trustworthiness
4 of 5
Compassion
3 of 5
Explained risks
3 of 5
Adaptability
1 of 5
NPS
1
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
2 of 5
Scheduling
5 of 5
Billing Department
4 of 5
Nursing Staff
3 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
4 of 5
Educational Resources
4 of 5
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2021 - 2023, Unknown Success
NPS
9
NPS
9
Age 35 - 37
1 IVF
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
European
Income $100K - $199K
Only Doc Seen
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Success w/ Doc Too early to know
I’ve been with Dr Pavone since miscarriage 2 (I’ve had five) and I continue to feel like I am in the best care. She advocates for me with scheduling and has often added me in her schedule for a procedures when I’ve needed to get in quicker...I am always able to get a response when I message her and able to get in to do a tele appointment when I need to...We did IVF to do genetic testing after four miscarriages. Two of which we knew were for genetic abnormalities so it was pretty straight forward that we were looking to transfer a genetically normal embryo
Ultrasound techs [at Northwester Fertility & Reproductive Medicine] have asked if I would like the monitor turned off knowing what we are going to look at is empty, the clinic manager has called me personally to get me in for a d&c the next day knowing how important that is. Sometimes the front desk staff are not able to schedule with wiggle room, but that isn’t cause they are being mean it’s cause that’s what they see in peoples schedules...
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I’ve been with Dr Pavone since miscarriage 2 (I’ve had five) and I continue to feel like I am in the best care. She advocates for me with scheduling and has often added me in her schedule for a procedures when I’ve needed to get in quicker. She knows my history, and knows what I’m going to get stuck on when we talk about next steps. She lets me go deep into the science of what we are doing and I really feel like it’s a partnership that I have full confidence in her care.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Make sure to message and use mycharts when you have questions or need to advocate for yourself. Doctors and clinics can’t read your mind. The schedulers job is to protect doctors schedules, but if you message her she’ll get you in when you ask.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Though the clinic is busy, and that Dr Pavone has days where she is in surgery, I am always able to get a response when I message her and able to get in to do a tele appointment when I need to. I always feel like she explains all my many questions and that our plan is unique to me even though I’m not your typical patient at a reproductive clinic (since I haven’t needed intervention to get pregnant).
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
For my one IVF cycle: The cycle before we did priming with estrogen tablets. After monitoring with labs and ultrasound I started on Gonal F and Menopur. I would go in for morning monitoring either every morning or ever few mornings. My dosage would change with what labs told said and I started Ganirelix on day 5/6 (I can’t remember). When it was determined I was ready I was instructed to do trigger! With Novarel and Lupron at a specific time. We got 14 eggs, 13 matured, 11 were fertilized, and 5 embryos and 3 being tested as genetically normal. I also got pregnant under her care without any interventions two other times (and two times before I became her patient)
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine. (Assigned nurse: It was Jessica and now it’s Mimi)
Dr Pavone has a nurse who does most of the communication with IVF cycles (updating what my labs were for the day and what meds for that night) along with meds and stuff like they for procedures. There is an office staff that does scheduling and calls when they get the request from Dr Pavone. There is also a scheduler who does just procedures both in the office and at Prentice Hospital.
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
The relationship that the clinic has with Prentice is key. When I’ve needed to get in for a procedure I’ve always been able to get in. The clinic is busy, and COVID really shut things down and made time lines everyone hard and yet I have been able to start and get appointments when I needed to, but it does take some advocacy to do so. By the time you get to their office everyone has a story, and the staff their knows it and are very aware of how to work with people who are at such a hard stage in the process to become parents. Ultrasound techs have asked if I would like the monitor turned off knowing what we are going to look at is empty, the clinic manager has called me personally to get me in for a d&c the next day knowing how important that is. Sometimes the front desk staff are not able to schedule with wiggle room, but that isn’t cause they are being mean it’s cause that’s what they see in peoples schedules. I often feel like it’s a team process there because it is. There might be busy days, but I think you have to give some grace because everyone I interact with there cares for all the patients.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
A round of IVF out of pocket (all monitoring and retrieval) is $11,000 with a transfer it’s $15,000 and I believe an out of pocket transfer is $3,000 or $5,000 I can’t remember. Then medications are on top of that.
Describe Mary Ellen Pavone's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
We did IVF to do genetic testing after four miscarriages. Two of which we knew were for genetic abnormalities so it was pretty straight forward that we were looking to transfer a genetically normal embryo.
What specific things went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
  • Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
I’ve had very minor communication errors when protocols have changes and when I notice them they are cleared up right away. The one that stand out is how the prescription for priming was written was different than the instructions in my my charts. I asked about it and it was responded to right away.
NPS
9
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
4 of 5
Communication
5 of 5
Frequency Seen
4 of 5
Trustworthiness
5 of 5
Compassion
5 of 5
Explained risks
5 of 5
Adaptability
5 of 5
NPS
9
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
5 of 5
Scheduling
4 of 5
Billing Department
3 of 5
Nursing Staff
5 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
4 of 5
Educational Resources
7 of 5
LGBTQ+
LGBTQ+
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2021, Unknown Success
NPS
9
NPS
10
Age 34
European
Income $100K - $199K
Nurse or HC Services
1st of 2 Docs
2 IUI With Other Docs
Donor Sperm
LGBTQ+
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Success w/ Doc Too early to know
[Dr. Pavone] was very direct and answered all my questions about IUI in detail, she provided a lot of statistics and didn’t set me up with inaccurate expectations but was also kind and listened well. My partner and I felt heard and comfortable as a queer couple seeking fertility support. She connected us to detailed information of sperm banks, financial information and how she would continue working with us and be available through the process.
[Northwestern Fertility is] Organized, easy to access, kind, informative. They provided all information; plan, insurance, financial possibility’s from the first appointment. Within in the clinic I have been able to access all the care and resources I need; front office/scheduling, financial/insurance counselor, psychologist, lab and specimen storage, delivery of sperm coordination, fertility provider, nursing staff.
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
She was very direct and answered all my questions about IUI in detail, she provided a lot of statistics and didn’t set me up with inaccurate expectations but was also kind and listened well. My partner and I felt heard and comfortable as a queer couple seeking fertility support. She connected us to detailed information of sperm banks, financial information and how she would continue working with us and be available through the process.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Be ready for direct information, she is kind, but ready to get to business.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
At my initial consultation she was clear, direct, personable, kind, but kept to business and was thorough.
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
We started with the initial round of IUI without medications as my labs (TSH, AMH, routine screening labs), ovarian count via ultrasound and fallopian tube were without concern, she said we could discuss use of medications if after 3-6 cycles I was not pregnant but she thought it was quite likely I would get pregnant in that time.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine. (Assigned nurse: Kendall)
She has been very quick to answer my questions, often 1-2hr response, with details and kindness.
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Organized, easy to access, kind, informative. They provided all information; plan, insurance, financial possibility’s from the first appointment. Within in the clinic I have been able to access all the care and resources I need; front office/scheduling, financial/insurance counselor, psychologist, lab and specimen storage, delivery of sperm coordination, fertility provider, nursing staff.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Majority covered by insurance, about 20% out of pocket, this was informed to me upfront prior to any treatments.
NPS
9
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
5 of 5
Communication
5 of 5
Frequency Seen
1 of 5
LGBTQ+ Care
4 of 5
Trustworthiness
5 of 5
Compassion
4 of 5
Explained risks
4 of 5
Adaptability
4 of 5
NPS
10
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
5 of 5
Scheduling
5 of 5
Billing Department
5 of 5
Nursing Staff
4 of 5
LGBTQ+ Care
4 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
5 of 5
Educational Resources
7 of 5
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2017, Unsuccessful
NPS
0
NPS
0
Age 35
2 IUI
Unexplained
Income $500K
Marketer or PR
1st of 2 Docs
1 IVF With Other Docs
1 Embryo Freezing With Other Docs
Doesn't Recommend
Doesn't Recommend
Unsuccessful
After several months of inconclusive testing, she [Dr. Pavone] suggested IUI...I was determined to be unexplained fertility. She required 3 IUIs before she would do IVF. She did not perform the IUI, did not review anything after my bloodwork. In fact after she set the initial plan, I never heard from her again and was left in the hands of a bunch of angry and frustrated nurses...After my second failed IUI, something that was traumatic and ended with physical damage resulting in a needed surgery, I called the office to learn that Dr. Pavone was out on maternity leave. It had been so long since I had met or even seen her, I had no idea that she was pregnant. No one informed me and there was no back-up doctor identified. The office never followed up to give me a new doctor -- I was not even a number to them.
The nurses and US techs [at Northwestern Medicine] are all very angry and unhappy -- likely because overall the practice treats patients much like a fast food restaurant treats its patrons. My experience was already a poor one, and having nurses perform IUIs was starting to solidify my doubt in the practice. With no word from any doctor, I begrudgingly scheduled my third IUI and let the nurse performing the task know that I had had a difficult and painful experience with the first two. An IUI should take about 10 mins but after 40 mins of the nurse trying without success, she asked a doctor to come in and try. A man I had never met came in and roughly attempted to complete the IUI for another 30 mins, growing increasingly frustrated as I writhed in pain. It took so long that my husband had to leave to go back to work; the nurse had to hold my hand and try to calm me due to the pain. Finally, without discussing anything with me, the man opened a drawer, pulled out a pair of what looked like long scissors, and used them to hold/pry/clip open my cervix in order to fit the IUI inside. I bled for several days after this experience. After two months with no period, negative pregnancy tests and terrible, debilitating symptoms, I sought the help of my OBGYN who shared that I had severe damage to my cervix such that I was no longer able to have a period without a surgery. Meanwhile, I called the practice to meet with my doctor and discuss what had happened -- only
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
This review covers my experience with NW RE and Fertility Division from May 2017 -- Dec. 2017. It has taken me over a year to come to terms with my experience and feel comfortable sharing it as a warning for others. We first met with Dr. Pavone in May after two years of TTC; she was great and mild mannered but straight forward. She required months worth of tests before she would make a recommendation on any treatment moving forward. After several months of inconclusive testing, she suggested IUI. We started IUI in Sept. I never met with or heard from Dr. Pavone again. From there on out, I was passed from Nurse to ultra sound tech. The US techs are only available for a short period on weekday and weekend mornings (about 1.5 hours). There is no other time to be seen unless you raise a stink -- which by my third IUI, I was having to do. The nurses and US techs are all very angry and unhappy -- likely because overall the practice treats patients much like a fast food restaurant treats its patrons. My experience was already a poor one, and having nurses perform IUIs was starting to solidify my doubt in the practice. With no word from any doctor, I begrudgingly scheduled my third IUI and let the nurse performing the task know that I had had a difficult and painful experience with the first two. An IUI should take about 10 mins but after 40 mins of the nurse trying without success, she asked a doctor to come in and try. A man I had never met came in and roughly attempted to complete the IUI for another 30 mins, growing increasingly frustrated as I writhed in pain. It took so long that my husband had to leave to go back to work; the nurse had to hold my hand and try to calm me due to the pain. Finally, without discussing anything with me, the man opened a drawer, pulled out a pair of what looked like long scissors, and used them to hold/pry/clip open my cervix in order to fit the IUI inside. I bled for several days after this experience. After two months with no period, negative pregnancy tests and terrible, debilitating symptoms, I sought the help of my OBGYN who shared that I had severe damage to my cervix such that I was no longer able to have a period without a surgery. Meanwhile, I called the practice to meet with my doctor and discuss what had happened -- only to learn that Dr. Pavone had had a baby and was out on maternity leave. No one had ever told me she was pregnant and worse -- I had not seen her in so long that it hadn't been obvious that she was pregnant at all. The practice never bothered to follow up with a backup plan for a new doctor in her place. To say that this was a terrible and traumatizing experience is just scraping what I went through. And I would still be leaving a one star review even if the male doctor had not damaged my cervix so badly. Overall, there are way better practices that you can go to outside of Northwestern that will treat you like a human and not a number, that will respect you as a woman with rights to her body, and who will look after your individual case. Good luck to you in your fertility journey.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Please find another doctor and another practice. You are wasting your precious money, time and efforts here.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I only met with Dr. Pavone once. After my second failed IUI, something that was traumatic and ended with physical damage resulting in a needed surgery, I called the office to learn that Dr. Pavone was out on maternity leave. It had been so long since I had met or even seen her, I had no idea that she was pregnant. No one informed me and there was no back-up doctor identified. The office never followed up to give me a new doctor -- I was not even a number to them.
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
Dr. Pavone required lots of testing, all of which were normal so I was determined to be unexplained fertility. She required 3 IUIs before she would do IVF. She did not perform the IUI, did not review anything after my bloodwork. In fact after she set the initial plan, I never heard from her again and was left in the hands of a bunch of angry and frustrated nurses.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
There are so many nurses that it varied. However the Ultra Sound techs were horrible. I had one nurse that was so horrified by my IUI experience that she held my hand while I cried and wrote a letter to my doctor to share how bad my experience was. I did not get a response from my doctor.
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
The benefit is sitting under Northwestern medicine and sharing MyChart but that is where the pros end. This place is constantly FULL to the brim with hopeful parents-to-be. There is no sitting room. You are less than a number here, you are a drive-through customer. The receptionists are organized and thoughtful. The nursing staff are miserable. Limited windows for critical things like US, bloodwork, long long wait times.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Insurance covered
What specific things went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
  • Failed to call with results
  • Failed to order appropriate test
  • Failed to convey critical information
  • Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
I had a male doctor who was not part of my care plan physically tear my cervix with scissors to perform an IUI without my consent. As a result, I had to have surgery and have a damaged cervix as a result. This damage has impacted IVF (successful with another practice) and natural birth.
NPS
0
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
1 of 5
Communication
1 of 5
Frequency Seen
1 of 5
Trustworthiness
1 of 5
Compassion
1 of 5
Explained risks
3 of 5
Adaptability
1 of 5
NPS
0
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
1 of 5
Scheduling
5 of 5
Billing Department
5 of 5
Nursing Staff
1 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
1 of 5
Educational Resources
1 of 5
LGBTQ+
LGBTQ+
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2016 - 2017, Unsuccessful
NPS
8
NPS
10
Age 32 - 33
2 IVF
Donor Eggs
Latinx
Income $50K - $99K
2nd of 2 Docs
2 IUI With Other Docs
Donor Eggs With Other Docs
Donor Sperm
LGBTQ+
Neutral
Strongly Recommends
Unsuccessful
I felt Dr. Pavone was very cold. She would not show much emotion. Not sure if that is how she always is, or if that is her personality. I expected her to be more personal and excited for us, but maybe that was too much. We hardly saw her, and when we did, it was sort of awkward. ... She definitely knew what she was doing. Always very professional, and very knowledgeable. I never doubted her
They [Northwestern Medicine] are all so very friendly. I love that they can get me in super early before work, and on the weekends. It was easy to get labs and treatments when I had a busy week. I also loved how easy it was to get a hold of a nurse if I had any concerns. ... A urine sample was spilled, so I had to take some more time off to go back in to give another sample. ... [monitoring] It was pretty in and out, the ladies were so very nice and they made me feel comfortabl
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
She definitely knew what she was doing. Always very professional, and very knowledgeable. I never doubted her. I only wish she was more personable, and more warm towards us. She was never rude or anything like that, just cold. Maybe that's her personality. We plan to seek her care for our next baby next year.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
She knows what she is doing, trust her. Don't let her emotionless personality steer you away.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I felt Dr. Pavone was very cold. She would not show much emotion. Not sure if that is how she always is, or if that is her personality. I expected her to be more personal and excited for us, but maybe that was too much. We hardly saw her, and when we did, it was sort of awkward.
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
When we didn't get pregnant the 1st time, she umped the dosage of the meds so that the egg retrieval came up with more eggs. She also upped the dosage for the fertility shots to make sure my body held on to the egg.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
They were all so wonderful and caring! I felt like they knew me on a personal level. They made me feel like part if the family.
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
They are all so very friendly. I love that they can get me in super early before work, and on the weekends. It was easy to get labs and treatments when I had a busy week. I also loved how easy it was to get a hold of a nurse if I had any concerns.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
It was pretty in and out, the ladies were so very nice and they made me feel comfortable.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Out of pocket, for both procedures and treatments, we paid a little under 6k for both my wife and I. We do have private insurance that did cover some of the costs.
Describe Mary Ellen Pavone's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
I always wondered why she chose to only do a single egg transfer opposed to a multiple egg transfer. I always thought that would give me higher chances of conceiving, but she never explained.
What specific things went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
  • Lost or damaged samples
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
A urine sample was spilled, so I had to take some more time off to go back in to give another sample.
NPS
8
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
2 of 5
Communication
2 of 5
Frequency Seen
1 of 5
Trustworthiness
3 of 5
Compassion
1 of 5
Explained risks
4 of 5
Adaptability
5 of 5
NPS
10
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
5 of 5
Scheduling
5 of 5
Billing Department
5 of 5
Nursing Staff
5 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
6 of 5
Educational Resources
7 of 5
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2015 - 2016, Successful
NPS
0
NPS
9
Age 32 - 33
1 IUI
2 IVF
European
Ashkenazi Jewish
Income $100K - $199K
Marketer or PR
Only Doc Seen
Doesn't Recommend
Strongly Recommends
Successful
She [Dr. Mary Ellen Pavone] was not at all compassionate and didn't care about me as a person or my situation. However, she got us the results we wanted. She answered our questions, but sometimes it felt like we were annoying her by asking questions. We took it upon ourselves to understand our situation and I will say that she was willing to answer our questions. We also didn't really see her often - I can only remember 2 appointments before we got pregnant, an
There are a lot of people who go to northwestern, so they have the system down pat. I wouldn't recommend my doctor [Dr. Mary Ellen Pavone], but I thought the system was efficient for the most part, the receptionists were nice, the phlebotomist was awesome, the ultrasound technicians were so lovely. Also, the hours that you went in for monitoring were 7-7:30am on weekdays, which meant I could get to work on time which was clutch. It didn't mess with my schedule which I appreciated (other than making me wake up early, which was not a big deal).
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
She was not at all compassionate and didn't care about me as a person or my situation. However, she got us the results we wanted. She answered our questions, but sometimes it felt like we were annoying her by asking questions. We took it upon ourselves to understand our situation and I will say that she was willing to answer our questions. We also didn't really see her often - I can only remember 2 appointments before we got pregnant, and one appointment after to check-in before she released us to an OBGYN. This was through 4 rounds of IVF, so it seemed like we didn't really know her or she us.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
She is blunt, expect that. Come with questions if you care about the intricate details of your treatment.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
She was very cold and didn't have a good bedside manner. At one point, I thought I had miscarried and went into the office for a checkup. We heard the heartbeat, but didn't know what it was - my husband had to ask to confirm that all looked OK, and she replied with a short, "yes". I started crying, and she didn't acknowledge it. It just seemed a bit callous and not the right response. I would have expected her to tell us as soon as she knew everything looked OK, and possibly to offer some reassuring words (or at least a tissue). In previous meetings, she had also been very short. She answered our questions, but seemed distant. I just figured that's how it was, until I met some of the other doctors who were way more understanding and empathetic (through appointments for embryo transfers and retrievals...it is just done by the doctor in the office that day, not necessarily your own doctor).
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
I don't remember.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
The nursing staff was fine. Because of the way they were set up, you didn't really get to know any of them. They required only phone conversations or messages - no email. They also each worked on different days...so of the 3 nurses, one worked M,W,F and one worked T,W,Th, etc. It was hard to remember which worked when and each had separate lines, so if you needed to reach someone that day, it was annoying because if I called one that wasn't working that day, I would just have to call back and leave a message for another. They were responsive though and and usually called back within 4 hours.
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
There are a lot of people who go to northwestern, so they have the system down pat. I wouldn't recommend my doctor, but I thought the system was efficient for the most part, the receptionists were nice, the phlebotomist was awesome, the ultrasound technicians were so lovely. Also, the hours that you went in for monitoring were 7-7:30am on weekdays, which meant I could get to work on time which was clutch. It didn't mess with my schedule which I appreciated (other than making me wake up early, which was not a big deal).
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
It was kind of like a cattle call, but I actually liked how efficient it was.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
My insurance paid for it.
Describe Mary Ellen Pavone's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
She told us about SET and seemed to want us to choose that. We didn't, and she didn't seem to care. Although she didn't really seem to care about us, so it isn't that surprising.
What specific things went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
  • Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
At any clinic, during the 1.5 years I was attending regularly, I would expect some random things to happen. Overall, the care was good and the "issues" weren't really big issues that affected my treatment in anyway.
NPS
0
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
2 of 5
Communication
4 of 5
Frequency Seen
2 of 5
Trustworthiness
3 of 5
Compassion
1 of 5
Explained risks
4 of 5
Adaptability
4 of 5
NPS
9
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
5 of 5
Scheduling
4 of 5
Billing Department
5 of 5
Nursing Staff
3 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
5 of 5
Educational Resources
6 of 5
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2014 - 2016, Unsuccessful
NPS
8
NPS
9
Age 33 - 35
2 IUI
3 IVF
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Male Factor
European
Income $200K - $499K
Nurse or HC Services
Only Doc Seen
Neutral
Strongly Recommends
Unsuccessful
Because of diminished ovarian reserve, typically we've used max doses of gonadotropins and I've actually responded fairly well for what would be expected. I've also tried DHEA, Co-Q 10, various other supplements, herbal remedies, acupuncture - have pretty much tried it all. Dr. Pavone always discussed these with me and most importantly went over the benefits and risks.
I felt that the IVF Coordinators [at Northwestern Medicine's Fertility Clinic] could be really rude at times. While I understand they are busy, I often felt like they never took time to discuss results. Their hours are interesting in that it seems like you can't get a hold of any of the IVF nurses after 3 PM on a weekday...The new office space and lab are amazing - very state of the art. I like that they are open 7 days a week and that there is a doctor always on call for any emergent need. The monitoring runs smoothly and quickly.
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Dr. Pavone is very intelligent and knows that data behind the most recent theories in fertility care. In being on this road for as long as we have, unfortunately, I've done a lot of reading and gotten A LOT of 'advice' from people who really think they understand fertility better than specialists. No matter what crazy thing I brought to Dr. Pavone, she always took time to discuss peer-reviewed literature and why something made sense or didn't make sense.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
She has always taken the time to explain the ins and outs of our fertility care to both me and my husband and returned my calls promptly when she could (i.e. wasn't in the operating room or seeing other patients in clinic).
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
Because of diminished ovarian reserve, typically we've used max doses of gonadotropins and I've actually responded fairly well for what would be expected. I've also tried DHEA, Co-Q 10, various other supplements, herbal remedies, acupuncture - have pretty much tried it all. Dr. Pavone always discussed these with me and most importantly went over the benefits and risks.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
I felt that the IVF Coordinators could be really rude at times. While I understand they are busy, I often felt like they never took time to discuss results. Their hours are interesting in that it seems like you can't get a hold of any of the IVF nurses after 3 PM on a weekday.
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
The new office space and lab are amazing - very state of the art. I like that they are open 7 days a week and that there is a doctor always on call for any emergent need. The monitoring runs smoothly and quickly.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
I felt like this clinic is a well-oiled machine in the mornings. There are certainly some patients who complain a lot about having to do any waiting but I felt that if you got there somewhat early, you would get in and out in good time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Fortunately, our insurance has covered all of our procedures. We've only had to pay copays for procedures and medications.
NPS
8
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
5 of 5
Communication
5 of 5
Frequency Seen
4 of 5
Trustworthiness
5 of 5
Compassion
4 of 5
Explained risks
5 of 5
Adaptability
4 of 5
NPS
9
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
5 of 5
Scheduling
5 of 5
Billing Department
5 of 5
Nursing Staff
4 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
6 of 5
Educational Resources
7 of 5
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2016, Unsuccessful
NPS
4
NPS
4
Age 31
5 Fertility Medications
PCOS
European
Income $200K - $499K
Marketer or PR
1st of 2 Docs
IUI With Other Docs
Doesn't Recommend
Doesn't Recommend
Unsuccessful
She does not think outside of the box and would only consider one approach with my case. When I had asked for additional bloodwork or supplements to take her response was "sure, if you want to". I really just wanted her opinion based on her experience rather than what a study said. She may have too many patients or just not enough experience.
Northwestern has a beautiful new office and seem to have a smooth operation to get people in and out. However, they don't treat anyone as individuals, just as another woman coming in and out. They seem to have a 1 size fits all mentality and just try the same plan on everyone based on a study. They do not go above and beyond in any way. Whether its new treatment options, showing support or getting more insight into why pregnancy is not successful. I have a feeling they show more interest in IVF cases. If you are just starting out on your journey, don't come here first.
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Dr. Pavone is very intelligent and does everything by the book. I met her during my initial visit and then did not see her again, however, we did speak on the phone. Dr. Pavone seems to be socially awkward. Like she wants to say something but then censors herself and reverts to only using clinical language to answer a question. She does not think outside of the box and would only consider one approach with my case. When I had asked for additional bloodwork or supplements to take her response was "sure, if you want to". I really just wanted her opinion based on her experience rather than what a study said. She may have too many patients or just not enough experience.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Do your own research and don't expect her to find creative solutions. Always ask to talk to her over the phone -- she is very short over email.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I had to remind the doctor and nurses of my case, my test results each time we talked. I felt like when I didn't, they gave me generic answers or "studies show" answers.
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
During my first appointment, Dr. Pavone quickly diagnosed me with PCOS based on one ultrasound and 3 long cycles. This diagnosis took me by surprise as I have never had any hormonal issues. She quickly moved forward with her plan. 3 cycles of letrozole (better for women with PCOS) and timed intercourse, 3 cycles of letrozole and IUI, and if those were unsuccessful, move on to IVF. I ended up doing 5 rounds of letrzole and timed intercourse because I missed ovulation (I ovulated before day 14) twice. Despite not ever trying IUI, she said she would advise only one cycle of IUI then moving to IVF. At this point, being only 30 and feeling like it was moving too quickly, I sought out a 2nd opinion.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
At NW, you don't have one or two nurses. You deal with whoever is on staff at that time. The nurses work with all the doctors and I saw about 4-5 different nurses over the course of my time. Some of the nurses are better than others. Catherine and Neieve were pretty good -- they showed compassion and explained my situation. Jeannette (I think) was awful. She always seemed rushed, she never knew the specifics of my case and she was not compassionate whatsoever. I dreaded seeing her there on the days I had an ultrasound. The primary form of communication is via MyChart messages. This seems great but the nurses don't answer any questions with detail.
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Northwestern has a beautiful new office and seem to have a smooth operation to get people in and out. However, they don't treat anyone as individuals, just as another woman coming in and out. They seem to have a 1 size fits all mentality and just try the same plan on everyone based on a study. They do not go above and beyond in any way. Whether its new treatment options, showing support or getting more insight into why pregnancy is not successful. I have a feeling they show more interest in IVF cases. If you are just starting out on your journey, don't come here first.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Insurance covered just about everything. For 10+ ultrasounds, HSG test, 10+ bloodwork panels, I've paid about $150.
What specific things went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
  • Failed to call with results
  • Provided conflicting information
  • Failed to convey critical information
NPS
4
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
1 of 5
Communication
2 of 5
Frequency Seen
1 of 5
Trustworthiness
4 of 5
Compassion
2 of 5
Explained risks
3 of 5
Adaptability
1 of 5
NPS
4
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
4 of 5
Scheduling
5 of 5
Billing Department
5 of 5
Nursing Staff
3 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
3 of 5
Educational Resources
5 of 5
2014 - 2015, Unsuccessful
NPS
2
NPS
4
Age 36 - 37
4 IUI
3 IVF
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
European
Income $200K - $499K
Nurse or HC Services
1st of 2 Docs
1 IVF With Other Docs
Doesn't Recommend
Doesn't Recommend
Unsuccessful
She [Dr Pavone] was open to trying knew things, up to a point, but we finally had to move on when she refused to try any other protocols and was convinced we should be moving onto DE (donor egg). I have DOR and was responding poorly to her protocols----she tried EPP with high doses of follistim/menopur and threw in ganirelix at the end, and when two rounds of that yielded very low follicles, she then tried clomid, followed by follistim/menopur/ganirelix when I commented on how I seemed to respond much better to clomid than I did all the expensive injectables. I did better on the clomid, but still not that great,
It's complicated. The clinic definitely treats you like a number; the nurses do all the callbacks and all the communication....One thing about using any doctor at Northwestern is that your procedures will be done by whoever is on call and not actually your doctor, so you may have strangers doing your egg retrievals or transfers.
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I actually liked Dr. Pavone initially quite a bit and found her good at accepting suggestions and letting me pursue some more testing that a second opinion doctor had given me when we weren't making progress. She was open to trying knew things, up to a point, but we finally had to move on when she refused to try any other protocols and was convinced we should be moving onto DE (donor egg). I have DOR and was responding poorly to her protocols----she tried EPP with high doses of follistim/menopur and threw in ganirelix at the end, and when two rounds of that yielded very low follicles, she then tried clomid, followed by follistim/menopur/ganirelix when I commented on how I seemed to respond much better to clomid than I did all the expensive injectables. I did better on the clomid, but still not that great, yet she wouldn't try anything else, not even a micro-dose lupron protocol. If we wanted to proceed with her, it would have to be with the clomid protocol, which could only be done a few times due to limits on clomid exposure, and even then, she was pushing us to consider DE or adoption, which we had told her wasn't an option for us at this time. I do think that compared to the other docs at NW, she's one of the best and she's the most liberal (besides Dr. Marsh) and aggressive. She just gave up on my quicker than I think she should have, especially since I am only 37 (young for IVF, I keep being told).
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Be proactive and keep doing your own research. She is not going to give lots of suggestions or think outside the box for you, but is open to trying things if you want to (ie, she let me have a laparoscopy after my 3rd failed attempt at ER when I asked about it and also did a huge panel of immunology testing at my request even though I hadn't had recurring miscarriages---I wanted testing b/c I wanted information preemptively in case it could prevent a miscarriage should we ever get pregnant).
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
It's complicated. The clinic definitely treats you like a number; the nurses do all the callbacks and all the communication. While monitoring, when you get your ultrasounds at Northwestern, the US techs are NOT allowed to discussed the ultrasound with you at all, so you have to awkwardly have your vagina probed by someone when you're dying to know if your follicles are progressing or not, but instead, you have to wait about 5-6 hours for a nurse who has never met you to give you your update. That part is very dehumanizing. Dr. Pavone, however, was more humane and if I had a question for her, she would attempt to answer it, although her written communication skills are very frustrating. and it often felt like she hadn't even read or comprehended my questions. Via phone or in person, she was much better, though, and I was satisfied with her answers. One thing about using any doctor at Northwestern is that your procedures will be done by whoever is on call and not actually your doctor, so you may have strangers doing your egg retrievals or transfers.
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
for IUIs---clomid CDs 2-6 and then ovidrel trigger, used ultrasound monitoring. IVFs---1st and 2nd attempts, did estrogen priming then started follistim/menopur once menses started, then added in ganirelix towards the end. Pavone felt this was the best approach for women with DOR. Both of these cycles yielded very low follicle development; 2 mature eggs the first round, and then the second was converted to IUI (and only then b/c I insisted I wasn't wasting an insurance-covered ER on 1-2 follicles). First round had nothing to transfer. Obviously BFNs both those rounds 3rd and 4th IVF attempts: clomid 150mg CD 2-5, then added on follistim/menopur/saizen/ganirelix. Better follicle recruitment, 3rd round poor egg quality, but 4th round, finally with 3 perfect embryos to transfer. For the 4th attempt, it should be noted that I had started to use a ton of antioxidant supplements recommended by a 2nd opinion RE and had also started seeing a chinese medicine practitioner and was using chinese herbs and acupuncture weekly). BFNs both those rounds. Pavone like the response to clomid and didn't want to change anything up if we proceeded with her.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
There was a high turnover with the nursing staff---some of them were great, but then I also had a couple who clearly didn't know how ovulation and the hormones were related (ie, checking progesterone the day of ovulation isn't actually going to show you anything b/c it won't have risen by then, but the nurse insisted on doing it anyways). One nurse clearly was in a bad mood when doing my IUI (they do all the IUIs at Northwestern---not the docs) which was really awkward. Half the time, they didn't know why I was there and I'd have to tell them, since they didn't seem to keep notes in the charts. Also, you have to play phone tag all the time b/c they never actually answer the phone, so you have to leave a message to call back and then hope you are able to answer it when they do.
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
it's a new clinic, so it's state of the art and has a beautiful view of Lake Michigan. The phlebotomists are friendly and so are the US techs, but you are not allowed to ask the techs anything about what they see on the US (also, you are not allowed to see the US screen when they're doing your US---how awkward!). It does run pretty smoothly, though, and you can be out of there by 7:30a if you have to go in for monitoring. It can feel a little like a cattle call, though, b/c women start lining up in the hallway before it opens and you are standing in line with a bunch of women whose hormones are raging and you're all pissed that you're waiting. I think if they just opened the doors and let people come sit in the waiting room, it would feel more civilized.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
See earlier comment about the clinic. Monitoring hours are 7a-7:45 M-F and 8a-8:30 on Sat/Sun. If you weren't there before 7 and standing in line, it could take up to an hour to get out, but it's faster than trying to get monitoring done at FCI.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
IUIs were about $1200 each with the ultrasounds, meds, and actual insemination. IVFs were covered under insurance once I changed plans, but would've been 8-9K for the package, not including medicine costs. Office visits were $250-350 and the labs were expensive, too, since they were through Northwestern.
What specific things went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
  • Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
  • Failed to order appropriate test
  • Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
I had to use a specific pharmacy for my fertility meds, but when I was getting Saizen (human growth hormone), the nurse insisted on calling it into the local Healey Pharmacy....long story short, I ended up having to pay $850 for the medicine b/c it wasn't sent to the right pharmacy and I didn't have time to get the other pharmacy the rx. For the most part, the clinic is run well and I've never worried about them having significant screw ups.
NPS
2
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
4 of 5
Communication
2 of 5
Frequency Seen
2 of 5
Trustworthiness
5 of 5
Compassion
4 of 5
Explained risks
4 of 5
Adaptability
3 of 5
NPS
4
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
4 of 5
Scheduling
4 of 5
Billing Department
2 of 5
Nursing Staff
2 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
6 of 5
Educational Resources
6 of 5
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2013 - 2014, Unsuccessful
NPS
0
NPS
0
Age 27 - 28
3 IUI
Anovulation
Unexplained
European
Income $50K - $99K
1st of 3 Docs
1 IVF With Other Docs
Doesn't Recommend
Doesn't Recommend
Unsuccessful
I respect doctors that can be blunt and straightforward, but also appreciate empathy and heartfelt support. Dr. Pavone acted like a robot at each appointment. She never asked how I was feeling or asked for my opinion. Because I suffered from eating disorders in the past, I felt that Dr. Pavone blamed me for my infertility problems. While they may have contributed to it, I went into early menopause at 25 and that wa
I was surprised to learn that Dr. Pavone did not do the insemination herself for each of my 3 IUI’s. A nurse [at Northwest Medicine] named Elaine did each insemination. She was knowledgeable but I would have liked the chance to speak to Dr. Pavone to explain what was happening and what I could expect. For labs and ultrasounds, I often waited more than 45 minutes in a room full of women. The nurses who I worked with were nice, but I always felt like just a number to them. Many times, no one called with my results like they were supposed to so I’d have to leave a message and hope that someone called me that afternoon so I knew if I should stay on the same dosage of medication.
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I was referred to Dr. Pavone by a co-worker who had a good experience with her. I unfortunately did not have a single positive interaction with her and regret not switching doctors sooner. I understand that infertility is a very indepth and complicated area of medicine to practice. I respect doctors that can be blunt and straightforward, but also appreciate empathy and heartfelt support. Dr. Pavone acted like a robot at each appointment. She never asked how I was feeling or asked for my opinion. Because I suffered from eating disorders in the past, I felt that Dr. Pavone blamed me for my infertility problems. While they may have contributed to it, I went into early menopause at 25 and that was unrelated to any previous issue I had. Dr. Pavone did do an HSG to check for issues but should have also checked my uterus with a hysteroscopy, but she didn’t. Because of that, I had three unsuccessful medicated IUI’s that never could have worked because of polyps and scar tissue on my uterus. I believe Dr. Pavone was quick to write off many of my symptoms and didn’t look into things as much as she should have. She decided on a route of treatment very quickly and didn’t seem to take my opinions or that of previous doctors into account. I was a poor responder to my first round of medication. She upped my Menopur dosage so much and so quickly that I suffered from ovarian hyper stimulation. I called her office for days saying I was in a lot of pain and she said it was normal and brushed off my complaints. I finally told a nurse I needed to be seen and they said they would try to squeeze me in. I ended up waiting for 4 hours in the waiting room before they remembered I was there. Dr. Pavone was not apologetic about my wait. Once she realized how swollen my ovaries were, she did apologize but didn’t change my dosage.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I would never recommend that anyone work with Dr. Pavone. However, if they decided to, I would recommend that they act as a strong advocate for themselves. I wish I had stood up to Dr. Pavone and fought for myself. Dr. Pavone is very quick to make judgements and is not very open to other opinions. She does not care about her patients on an emotional level, so someone who needs a caring doctor should not work with Dr. Pavone.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Her clinic staff never remembered me, Dr pavone did not remember my name, look me in the eye or care about me.
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
She did 3 medicated IUIs and upped my dosage each time. She never did a scan of my uterus. Had she done so, she would have known that polyps and scar tissue blocked an embryo from implanting
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
The nurses treated patients like a herd of cattle trying to rush us through. They acted like I was bothering them when I called. They even forgot about me in a waiting room for 4 hours.
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
I was surprised to learn that Dr. Pavone did not do the insemination herself for each of my 3 IUI’s. A nurse named Elaine did each insemination. She was knowledgeable but I would have liked the chance to speak to Dr. Pavone to explain what was happening and what I could expect. For labs and ultrasounds, I often waited more than 45 minutes in a room full of women. The nurses who I worked with were nice, but I always felt like just a number to them. Many times, no one called with my results like they were supposed to so I’d have to leave a message and hope that someone called me that afternoon so I knew if I should stay on the same dosage of medication.
What specific things went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
  • Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
  • Lost paperwork
  • Lost appointments
  • Failed to call with results
  • Failed to order appropriate test
  • Failed to send your chart to another clinic
  • Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
  • Lost results
  • Provided conflicting information
  • Failed to convey critical information
  • Failed to consider drug intolerance
  • Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
The doctor forgot to mention to take off a hormone patch. They failed to listen to problems from my dosage, causing sever ovarion over stimulation. They didn't find uterine polyps and scar tissue.
NPS
0
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
2 of 5
Communication
1 of 5
Frequency Seen
3 of 5
Trustworthiness
1 of 5
Compassion
1 of 5
Explained risks
1 of 5
Adaptability
2 of 5
NPS
0
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
1 of 5
Scheduling
2 of 5
Billing Department
2 of 5
Nursing Staff
2 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
3 of 5
Educational Resources
4 of 5
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2014 - 2015, Unsuccessful
NPS
0
NPS
0
Age 35 - 36
1 IUI
2 IVF
Unexplained
European
Income $200K - $499K
1st of 2 Docs
2 IVF With Other Docs
Egg Freezing With Other Docs
Doesn't Recommend
Doesn't Recommend
Unsuccessful
She did not have a warm bedside manner. She did not meet with us often. Even after setbacks or bad news we had to request conference calls. She went on maternity leave and we had no idea we had been transferred to another doctor....It was often hard to reach someone. The nurses did not use email. One cycle had to be postponed due to a miscommunication with my hormones.
We were frustrated with the miscommunication around my hormone treatments causing my cycle to be cancelled. We were also disappointed when we were not informed Dr. Pavone went on maternity leave and we were assigned a new doctor. We left this clinic after that.
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
She did not have a warm bedside manner. She did not meet with us often. Even after setbacks or bad news we had to request conference calls. She went on maternity leave and we had no idea we had been transferred to another doctor.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
You have to be a good self-advocate in order to gett all of your questions answered. Don't look for a lot of support with the emotional piece of fertility.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
We were often told about the clinic's motivation to increase their success rates. That seemed more important than treating us as humans with feelings.
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
We did pgd and pgs, which we got the sense she preferred we didn't do. When we didn't get a lot of embryos on our first cycle we tested our embryos on day 3 rather than day 5, which in retrospect is not what we would do now. That cycle was unsuccessful.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine. (Assigned nurse: Deb Longtin)
It was often hard to reach someone. The nurses did not use email. One cycle had to be postponed due to a miscommunication with my hormones.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
It was pretty efficient. I always made sure to get there early so I could be seen the soonest. The techs were always very nice.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
My insurance covered most costs.
What specific things went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
  • Failed to send your chart to another clinic
  • Failed to convey critical information
  • Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
We were frustrated with the miscommunication around my hormone treatments causing my cycle to be cancelled. We were also disappointed when we were not informed Dr. Pavone went on maternity leave and we were assigned a new doctor. We left this clinic after that.
NPS
0
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
1 of 5
Communication
1 of 5
Frequency Seen
1 of 5
Trustworthiness
3 of 5
Compassion
2 of 5
Explained risks
5 of 5
Adaptability
4 of 5
NPS
0
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
4 of 5
Scheduling
4 of 5
Billing Department
3 of 5
Nursing Staff
1 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
4 of 5
Educational Resources
5 of 5
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2012 - 2013, Unsuccessful
NPS
0
NPS
0
Age 26 - 27
3 IUI
1 IVF
1 Egg Freezing
European
Income $100K - $199K
1st of 3 Docs
1 IVF With Other Docs
1 Egg Freezing With Other Docs
Doesn't Recommend
Doesn't Recommend
Unsuccessful
[Dr Pavone was] kind and has good bedside manner, but not willing to change protocol or try new things. Did not want to look into endometriosis as a possibility for our troubles (which I had suspected I had since age 11), said my husbands morphology and motility were fine (wasted our time with 3 IUIs) when another clinic said otherwise and did not want to work with a reproductive immunologist. I ended up leaving her and finding out I did indeed have immunological disorders and stage III endometriosis. Went on to have a successful ICSI cycle with a new clinic after 3 failed IUIs and 1 failed ICSI cycle at Northwestern. I also was told I could get up right after our fresh transfer at Northwestern and didn't need to wait. Dr. Pavone never once performed any of my IUIs, egg retrieval or transfer.
She [nurse at Northwestern] seemed very busy, wasn't great at walking us through protocols and would be very curt with me when I had questions. I was kind of afraid to contact her, because she was not very compassionate or helpful....Cattle call, but I assume most clinics are like that. The second clinic we changed to was the same....I would look elsewhere and seek a RE that is more flexible and finding out what is wrong and treating those issues. I felt a lot of my concerns weren't addressed or looked into. Once I went to a new RE that was willing to look into possible immune issues and endo and treat them I had a successful ICSI cycle.
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Kind and has good bedside manner, but not willing to change protocol or try new things. Did not want to look into endometriosis as a possibility for our troubles (which I had suspected I had since age 11), said my husbands morphology and motility were fine (wasted our time with 3 IUIs) when another clinic said otherwise and did not want to work with a reproductive immunologist. I ended up leaving her and finding out I did indeed have immunological disorders and stage III endometriosis. Went on to have a successful ICSI cycle with a new clinic after 3 failed IUIs and 1 failed ICSI cycle at Northwestern. I also was told I could get up right after our fresh transfer at Northwestern and didn't need to wait. Dr. Pavone never once performed any of my IUIs, egg retrieval or transfer.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I would look elsewhere and seek a RE that is more flexible and finding out what is wrong and treating those issues. I felt a lot of my concerns weren't addressed or looked into. Once I went to a new RE that was willing to look into possible immune issues and endo and treat them I had a successful ICSI cycle.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
She was very kind and had a good bedside manner.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine. (Assigned nurse: Tiffany?)
She seemed very busy, wasn't great at walking us through protocols and would be very curt with me when I had questions. I was kind of afraid to contact her, because she was not very compassionate or helpful.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Cattle call, but I assume most clinics are like that. The second clinic we changed to was the same.
What specific things went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
  • Failed to call with results
  • Failed to convey critical information
NPS
0
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
5 of 5
Communication
2 of 5
Frequency Seen
2 of 5
Trustworthiness
4 of 5
Compassion
3 of 5
Explained risks
4 of 5
Adaptability
1 of 5
NPS
0
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
4 of 5
Scheduling
2 of 5
Nursing Staff
2 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
3 of 5
Educational Resources
4 of 5
2020, Unknown Success
NPS
9
NPS
9
Age 32
Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Male Factor
Income $50K - $99K
Doctor
1st of 2 Docs
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Success w/ Doc Not sure
I think that Dr. Pavone so far has been professional and came with a good plan. The waiting for appointments were short and easily we got our tests back within few days. ... I think that Dr. Pavone was professional and after consultation with our current situation she came with a good plan. We are eager to start the process of IUI or IVF after Clovis-19 is over.
Quick appointments [at Northwestern Med] for test and results. Very clean and organized. Felt a warm environment. Weakness is that they didn’t communicate to us the results of my husband the second time and we had to call to find out that the results were out ... The waiting for appointments were short and easily we got our tests back within few days. The nurses are good as well.
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I think that Dr. Pavone so far has been professional and came with a good plan. The waiting for appointments were short and easily we got our tests back within few days. The nurses are good as well. We still didn’t start our fertility treatment due to Covid. The tests so far were done in a proper manner.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Ask as many questions and do search at home to what to expect
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I think that Dr. Pavone was professional and after consultation with our current situation she came with a good plan. We are eager to start the process of IUI or IVF after Clovis-19 is over.
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
We have been prescribed some vitamins for my hubby to increase his sperm motility and concentration. Meanwhile I have been prescribed clomid and a shot when I will start the IUI process
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
The nurses are very helpful and friendly
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Quick appointments for test and results. Very clean and organized. Felt a warm environment. Weakness is that they didn’t communicate to us the results of my husband the second time and we had to call to find out that the results were out
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Around 1k after our insurance
What specific things went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
  • Failed to call with results
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
They did not communicate to us that the results of my husband were out and they weren’t out on the app as well
NPS
9
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
5 of 5
Communication
5 of 5
Frequency Seen
2 of 5
Trustworthiness
5 of 5
Compassion
4 of 5
Explained risks
5 of 5
Adaptability
5 of 5
NPS
9
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
5 of 5
Scheduling
5 of 5
Billing Department
4 of 5
Nursing Staff
4 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
5 of 5
Educational Resources
7 of 5
2017 - 2022, Successful
NPS
10
NPS
10
Age 31 - 36
2 IUI
1 IVF
Endometriosis
Income $200K - $499K
Doctor
Only Doc Seen
Strongly Recommends
Strongly Recommends
Successful
Although Dr Pavone is not warm and fuzzy but she's extremely smart, knowledgeable and highly skilled at what she does. Her understanding and knowledge is not just limited to her field of Reproductive Endocrinology but in fact she has very strong general medical knowledge as well...She quoted guidelines and evidence based data and recommended eSET...
Overall, they [Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine] have a great team there, a well oiled machine...Very evidence based. Protocols are guided by objective data. They are uptodate on the latest guidelines. They are really at par, if not ahead of, with the latest guidelines. As an academic institute the entire team is very knowledgeable...Dr Pavone is not warm and fuzzy but she's extremely smart, knowledgeable and highly skilled at what she does. Her understanding and knowledge is not just limited to her field of Reproductive Endocrinology but in fact she has very strong general medical knowledge as well
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Although Dr Pavone is not warm and fuzzy but she's extremely smart, knowledgeable and highly skilled at what she does. Her understanding and knowledge is not just limited to her field of Reproductive Endocrinology but in fact she has very strong general medical knowledge as well. Northwestern's success rate is not as high as some other clinics and one of the reasons is that they see more complex patients who have already been at other clinics in the Chicago area. Overall, they have a great team there, a well oiled machine.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Dont hesitate to ask questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
I had very good communication. They went far and beyond to explain the basis of each treatment modality.
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
I dont remember the details.Its been a while.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Very professional.The best of the best.
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Very evidence based. Protocols are guided by objective data. They are uptodate on the latest guidelines. They are really at par, if not ahead of, with the latest guidelines. As an academic institute the entire team is very knowledgeable.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
efficient, well oiled machine
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
at least 20 k as it was all out of pocket and not coveerd by my crappy insurance.
Describe Mary Ellen Pavone's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
She quoted guidelines and evidence based data and recommended eSET.
NPS
10
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
5 of 5
Communication
5 of 5
Frequency Seen
2 of 5
Trustworthiness
5 of 5
Compassion
5 of 5
Explained risks
5 of 5
Adaptability
5 of 5
NPS
10
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
5 of 5
Scheduling
4 of 5
Billing Department
5 of 5
Nursing Staff
5 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
6 of 5
Educational Resources
7 of 5
Verified
Verified

This patient has provided documentation of treatment at this clinic.

2020 - 2021, Successful
NPS
7
NPS
10
Age 32 - 33
2 IUI
Unexplained
Latinx
Income $50K - $99K
Only Doc Seen
Neutral
Strongly Recommends
Successful
[Dr. Mary Ellen Pavone] strength is asking all the right questions for symptoms and life progression in fertility. Her weakness was not communicating after a tragic miscarriage which made me so sad...Not much of a warm conversation but hopefully we will soon....Please ask as many questions as you possibly can...I just took fertility shots
Positive energy for this practice [Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine]...I loved the staff and the way they remembered my name and asked how I was feeling...Just a warm communication follow ups and resources on income to help with medication. I would have preferred to be contacted on how the medication was while taking it and checking if I needed a change in medication
How was your experience with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Her strength is asking all the right questions for symptoms and life progression in fertility. Her weakness was not communicating after a tragic miscarriage which made me so sad. I did not know what to expect in a miscarriage and how it was going to make me feel emotionally. I would have liked that warm feeling of support and compassion because this is a sensitive topic and life process.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
Please ask as many questions as you possibly can and tell the doctor how your relationship between you and your husband want with her on this journey in making a family.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine?
It was just a visit to get the process started and to get to the pregnancy step. Not much of a warm conversation but hopefully we will soon. Positive energy for this practice.
Describe the protocols Mary Ellen Pavone used in your cycles at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine and their degree of success.
I just took fertility shots
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
I loved the staff and the way they remembered my name and asked how I was feeling
Describe your experience with Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Just a warm communication follow ups and resources on income to help with medication. I would have preferred to be contacted on how the medication was while taking it and checking if I needed a change in medication
Describe the costs associated with your care under Mary Ellen Pavone at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
Medication cost me
Describe Mary Ellen Pavone's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine.
N/A
NPS
7
Doctor
Mary Ellen Pavone
NPS
Humanity
3 of 5
Communication
5 of 5
Frequency Seen
2 of 5
Trustworthiness
5 of 5
Compassion
4 of 5
Explained risks
4 of 5
Adaptability
5 of 5
NPS
10
Clinic
Northwestern Fertility & Reproductive Medicine
Chicago
NPS
Operations
5 of 5
Scheduling
5 of 5
Billing Department
3 of 5
Nursing Staff
5 of 5
Clinic Atmosphere
4 of 5
Educational Resources
5 of 5

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