[Dr. Rachel McConnell] spoke clearly and was upfront with the process and what we were to expect. She monitored my treatment plan closely and did a successful embryo transfer...I had an option of going to her Westchester office or the NYC location, I chose NYC and the care I received there was impeccable...Have a clear understanding of which office you will be able to commit to visiting. Dr. McConnell works in Westchester and NYC. Pick a location that is convenient for you because you'll be visiting the office often...The Columbia staff was amazing in her absence...
The strengths [at Columbia University] are short wait times in the morning and fast visits. I was in and out within 20 minutes each visit. The weakness would be their afternoon appointments. Those take longer and times may be unpredictable. Some days were quick and others were long...The staff was polite and very concise in follow up emails. I am big on followup and recaps to visits and they did a wonderful job laying everything out for me with instructions on my treatment and how to take my medication...My insurance covered most of it. However, out of pocket, I spent approx. $2,000...
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr. McConnell spoke clearly and was upfront with the process and what we were to expect. She monitored my treatment plan closely and did a successful embryo transfer. The Columbia staff was amazing in her absence.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Have a clear understanding of which office you will be able to commit to visiting. Dr. McConnell works in Westchester and NYC. Pick a location that is convenient for you because you'll be visiting the office often.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr. McConnell came recommended by two other people who successfully gave birth to healthy children under her care. I had an option of going to her Westchester office or the NYC location, I chose NYC and the care I received there was impeccable. Everyone becomes family after months of visits.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Katrina Leong)
The staff was polite and very concise in follow up emails. I am big on followup and recaps to visits and they did a wonderful job laying everything out for me with instructions on my treatment and how to take my medication.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The strengths are short wait times in the morning and fast visits. I was in and out within 20 minutes each visit. The weakness would be their afternoon appointments. Those take longer and times may be unpredictable. Some days were quick and others were long.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rachel McConnell at Columbia University.
My insurance covered most of it. However, out of pocket, I spent approx. $2,000
Dr. McConnell provided my husband and I with an amazing experience from start to finish. She was extremely personable, informative, and thorough...Trust her knowledge and expertise...I highly recommend Dr. McConnell to anyone seeking to grow their family. The patient care and communication was phenomenal. My husband and I were supported throughout the entire journey from start to finish....
Columbia Fertility provided excellent patient care every step of the way...The team we worked with throughout the IVF process were excellent communicators. Each step of the way we were updated and informed. The appointment scheduling was amazing, considerate of time, and extremely responsive. The team clearly communicated all medications and assisted with ordering...I cannot thank the entire team enough for their excellent patient care. The staff was professional and the facilities always immaculate...
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
I highly recommend Dr. McConnell to anyone seeking to grow their family. The patient care and communication was phenomenal. My husband and I were supported throughout the entire journey from start to finish.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Trust her knowledge and expertise !
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr. McConnell provided my husband and I with an amazing experience from start to finish. She was extremely personable, informative, and thorough. We cannot thank the entire team enough for making our families dreams come true.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University.
The team we worked with throughout the IVF process were excellent communicators. Each step of the way we were updated and informed. The appointment scheduling was amazing, considerate of time, and extremely responsive. The team clearly communicated all medications and assisted with ordering.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Columbia Fertility provided excellent patient care every step of the way! I cannot thank the entire team enough for their excellent patient care. The staff was professional and the facilities always immaculate. Even throughout Covid I felt safe and secure.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rachel McConnell at Columbia University.
Insurance covered almost everything. Out of pocket cost was minimal and very reasonable for the amount of care.
Dr. McConnell is wonderful. Her bedside manner is to the point yet very kind. She answered any and every question I had and I never once wavered in my trust for her. She is extremely supportive and takes the IVF process step by step with you so you don’t feel overwhelmed...a caring doctor who is experienced and knowledgeable. She never once steered me in the wrong direction. She called me after my egg retrieval and after my implantation to tell me exactly how everything went and what my next steps were
The staff at the clinic [Columbia University] are kind and compassionate. The flatobomists are amazing and supportive as well. It was easy to schedule appointments and I never felt as though my emails or calls would be ignored...I always got an email the same day of my bloodwork telling me what my next steps were. Sometimes the next steps came after 5pm, so that was difficult, but otherwise everything went smoothly
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr. McConnell is a caring doctor who is experienced and knowledgeable. She never once steered me in the wrong direction. She called me after my egg retrieval and after my implantation to tell me exactly how everything went and what my next steps were. I would highly recommended her to anyone. She is my favorite doctor I’ve ever been to.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Trust her judgement and expertise.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr. McConnell is wonderful. Her bedside manner is to the point yet very kind. She answered any and every question I had and I never once wavered in my trust for her. She is extremely supportive and takes the IVF process step by step with you so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Katrina Leong)
I always got an email the same day of my bloodwork telling me what my next steps were. Sometimes the next steps came after 5pm, so that was difficult, but otherwise everything went smoothly.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The staff at the clinic are kind and compassionate. The flatobomists are amazing and supportive as well. It was easy to schedule appointments and I never felt as though my emails or calls would be ignored.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rachel McConnell at Columbia University.
I only had to pay copays and a fee for genetic testing of my embryos but that was all.
Dr. [Rachel ] McConnell was patient, understanding, and matter-of-fact, which was extremely helpful to me and my partner. She got back to me (or one of the nurses did) when I had questions...felt well cared for and the treatments were personalized...make sure to follow all medical protocols and explain everything very well to you.
[Columbia University has] a lot of patients...run very smoothly with a personal touch....take the time to ask if you have any questions or concerns...They make sure to follow all medical protocols and explain everything very well to you...were very attentive and responded promptly...made sure to schedule appointments right away, keep me posted with any updates, and answer all of my questions.
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr. McConnell was patient, understanding, and matter-of-fact, which was extremely helpful to me and my partner. She got back to me (or one of the nurses did) when I had questions. There was always someone there from the practice to help.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
See her! The practice as a whole is run like a well-oiled machine, but with a personal touch.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
The practice takes on a lot of patients, but I felt well cared for and the treatments were personalized.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University.
They were very attentive and responded promptly. They all made sure to schedule appointments right away, keep me posted with any updates, and answer all of my questions.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
They have a lot of patients, but they run very smoothly with a personal touch. They take the time to ask if you have any questions or concerns. They make sure to follow all medical protocols and explain everything very well to you.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rachel McConnell at Columbia University.
Insurance covered most of everything. I had no major issues. Everything would have cost, out-of-pocket, around $7,500.
Dr Mcconnell always knew what my test results were and why I was there. I felt like she always reviewed my chart and was ready to explain to me what was happening and what the next steps would be. She took her time and answered my questions thoroughly...She went above and beyond to speak to the insurance companies and explain my situation. It was great to have her in my corner knowing she was also fighting for me...
[at Columbia University] You are given a Care Coordinator. Mine was Naleeta and she was amazing! We really only communicated through email but she was on top of her emails and timely responses. She makes all your appointments and sends messages to Dr McConnell. She is basically the middle person. Everyone communicated through email for the most part. They have someone who works with the billing part and medications. The entire staff is great. They go out of their way to help you. The only thing is that it is hard to get anyone on the phone but if you email them and ask for a call back someone will call you...
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr. McConnell is an educated and sincerely wonderful doctor. I am so glad that I was referred to her to help me conceive. She was able to help me through the process even though I had a few hiccups on the way. She went above and beyond to speak to the insurance companies and explain my situation. It was great to have her in my corner knowing she was also fighting for me. She really is a miracle worker. I know everyone is different but I have had a few friends who have done treatments with other doctors for years. I was so worried going into this but I was pregnant in under a year. I am so thankful to Dr McConnell and her wonderful staff.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Follow the instructions given to you and be patient. Dr. Mcconnell and her team have everything covered. You do not need to remind them of anything.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr Mcconnell always knew what my test results were and why I was there. I felt like she always reviewed my chart and was ready to explain to me what was happening and what the next steps would be. She took her time and answered my questions thoroughly.
Describe the protocols Rachel McConnell used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
I did a frozen egg transfer because of complications after the egg retrieval. I was glad I had to recover after the egg retrieval. I felt like my body needed it.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Katrina Leong-Nurse)
Nurse Latrina Leong was great
She was in contact with me after every appointment. She kept me uo to date with everything I needed to know including lab results, directions, appointments and what I needed to do. I could reach her when I had a question or concern and she would always call me back or email me. She is so organized and very smart. I could tell she knew exactly what she was talking about. She was very sweet and comforting also. She made me feel comfortable and hopeful that everything would be fine. Great professional to have on the team!
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
You are given a Care Coordinator. Mine was Naleeta and she was amazing! We really only communicated through email but she was on top of her emails and timely responses. She makes all your appointments and sends messages to Dr McConnell. She is basically the middle person. Everyone communicated through email for the most part. They have someone who works with the billing part and medications. The entire staff is great. They go out of their way to help you. The only thing is that it is hard to get anyone on the phone but if you email them and ask for a call back someone will call you.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia University.
Monitoring appointments worked great for me. They were scheduled from 7am-10am. I was able to go before work and get to work early. They were usually quick appointments ranging from 15-30mins total. Only ran late a few times when Dr Mcconnell was not in or the computers were down. But I was still at work on time. Never had to take off or come in late which was great because I had to go 3-4x a week sometimes.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rachel McConnell at Columbia University.
I only paid copays
Describe Rachel McConnell's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
I chose to only have one embryo transfered and Dr McConnell agreed due to medical reasons.
It is very easy to speak to her [Dr. McConnell]. She made me feel comfortable. She didn’t make me feel awful about my body...She simply listened to what my goal was and decided on the best treatment for me...She was so patient with me, and clearly explained all of the tests I would need...she was always on top of my treatment...always reviewed my test results, called me when there was anything she needed me to know, and when it came to routine things, her team would email or call me...
This clinic’s [Columbia University] strength is definitely the work flow. I never waited more than 5 minutes to be called for blood work and then I would go straight into a room for sonograms. The clinic also has somewhat of a spa-like feel. It made me feel relaxed, with its neutral colors...Parking at Westchester is free! Parking at Columbus Circle…..not so much...It really was a pain driving between two separate locations depending on the treatment scheduled...
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
I believe one of Doctor McConnell’s biggest strength is how humble she is. It is very easy to speak to her. She made me feel comfortable. She didn’t make me feel awful about my body. She didn’t question why I wanted more children. She simply listened to what my goal was and decided on the best treatment for me. I read somewhere online that she is an assistant Professor at Columbia. That was a decisive point for me. Anyone who is smart enough to teach other future Doctors can be my Doctor any day! The biggest plus in my book is that she was very understanding about my weight. I never felt like she was looking down on me or wondering how I gained so much weight. She put me on Metformin, and I lost almost 30 pounds. I have had bad experiences with other Doctors making me feel depressed about my body, but Dr. McConnell was so kind. I had two IUI’s that failed. With every IUI, my husband’s sperm count was lower and lower so we went to a urologist who found nothing wrong. However, Dr. McConnell did her own tests on my husband and found he had some kind of sperm infection. He was placed on medication and we moved on to IVF with ICSI after that. The injections for the egg retrieval are no joke ladies. I felt horrible. I had acne everywhere, and felt bloated, and nauseous. During this course of medication Dr. McConnell always contacted me or her team would contact me to share what my results were. I had asked the Doctor to do a fresh embryo transfer, but I had such a large number of eggs retrieved that she called me to say I would need a freeze all cycle. I felt a bit bummed out but looking back, if the Doctor wouldn’t have made that decision for me I probably would’ve had a huge medical problem with OHSS. Thankfully she was always on top of my treatment. I read some of the other reviews about communication with this Doctor. I happen to think the clinic has a good flow, and a good team in place. The Doctor always reviewed my test results, called me when there was anything she needed me to know, and when it came to routine things, her team would email or call me. I didn’t find anything wrong with this. Also, out of respect for the Doctor, I would always email her nurses, and let them get back to me throughout the day with the Doctor’s answer. This is just something that I prefer to do when a Doctor has a team in place, but every patient is different. I managed to get pregnant with twins on my first frozen embryo transfer! I did have another Doctor from the clinic do my embryo transfer. But, all those Doctors work together as a team. My embryo transfer was done by Doctor Turocy. I felt great! There was no pain before or after the procedure. It’s going to sound a little odd, but my favorite part about the embryo transfer was meeting the embryologist! Meeting him was great! There was something about seeing the person who was up close and personal with my future babies that made me so happy!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
For any future patients I would say, have patience with your treatment. I was so frustrated with all the blood work and uterine tests I had to do at first because I just wanted to get it over with and be pregnant. There were also times where I kept thinking, “I think the Doctor doesn’t realize I am too heavy for such low dosages”. But, at the end the dosages she had me on were perfect for me. And if I already felt sick with such low dosages, I can’t even imagine doing it my way with all the pills I wanted to take to just get it over with! This Doctor works in a team, and has help from a lot of wonderful people that schedule her appointments, and help her with sonograms, and emails, and calls, etc. If that’s not what you are looking for than this is not the place for you. I happen to love it because there was always a support person around. They have an emergency line you can call after hours. I used it once, and a Doctor called me back in 5 minutes. So it’s a give and take. With this Doctor you will have support 24 hours a day. I liked that because it was my first time needing fertility treatments so I didn’t know what to expect. And the cherry on top…the Columbia website saids Doctor McConnell is a also one of their professors. So, obviously she knows what she is doing.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
During my first visit with Dr. McConnell, I hadn’t filled out any of my required documents with my history. She noticed this, and sat with me asking me every question one by one and filled everything out for me. She was so patient with me, and clearly explained all of the tests I would need. What I appreciated the most about Dr. McConnell is that I have been struggling with my weight, and she spoke to me about things I can eat during my Fertility treatments without making me feel bad about myself. Some Doctors just don’t realize the struggle is real, and their patients already know they have a weight problem, there is no need to bring it up constantly. This Doctor was always very understanding, and would tell me things like, “keep doing what your are doing with the vegetables and fruits”. I also liked that coming from such a chaotic work environment, this Doctor was a welcome change in my life. The way she spoke was always in such a tranquil manner as if she didn’t have a care in the world! I loved that! And to add to that, the clinic had a spa like feeling so I always felt relaxed. I remember when I came in for a sonogram one day and I was complaining of leg pain, the Doctor called me right away worried asking for more information on my pain. I also remember when I had over 20 eggs retrieved, she called me very concerned over the possibility of OHSS and would give me advice on what I should eat and drink to lower my risks. She was always checking up on me, so I definitely didn’t feel like just a number to her.
Describe the protocols Rachel McConnell used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
I did two IUI’s with Letrozole and Gonal F for trigger shot. I wasn’t ovulating and she diagnosed me with PCOS. Aside from that, she started me on Metformin a few months before The first IUI. I believe I had two follicles for both the IUI’s, but it was later discovered that my husband had a sperm infection so neither of my IUI’s worked. The sperm infection was discovered with a culture that is not part of the semen analysis. After his treatment, we moved on to IVF with ICSI. My insurance approved the ICSI because the infection had caused a huge drop in my husband’s sperm count. For my IVF cycle, I had 21 eggs retrieved. The Doctor said there were more but were extremely difficult to get to so they were left behind. The egg retrieval for me was extremely painful. The Doctor explained that my ovaries are further up in my body so they are difficult to get to. They had to press down to try to see the eggs and get to them. They tried for a long time and they tried hard to get all the eggs. But, I ended up with 21, which is still a good number. 19 of those were mature, 17 fertilized, and I got 12 Blastocyst. That was a freeze all cycle. Doctor McConnell decided on a freeze all to give my body time to recover and reduce my chances of OHSS. Doctor Turocy did my embryo transfer. She said I had some very high quality embryos. Overall, I am very happy with the outcome. I am currently 9 weeks pregnant with twins!
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Nurse Katrina and Nurse Naleeta)
The first thing I received after my initial appointment with Doctor McConnell was a list of my care team, their phone numbers, and emails. This was the first Doctor I have been to in general that provided me with the contact info for their entire team so I appreciated that. I worked closely with Nurse Katrina, and Nurse Naleeta. Nurse Katrina always called me just to let me know my results, to help me with placing my injections in the correct location, etc. She would then follow up with an email about the next steps to take. Nurse Naleeta always handled my appointments. She would never give me an issue with scheduling. I continued to work though out my treatment so she was very understanding. The nursing staff at the Westchester Location were like my second family. Even the receptionist knew my name when I walked in! When I was finally pregnant they all congratulated me! It’s like they become invested right along with you.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
This clinic’s strength is definitely the work flow. I never waited more than 5 minutes to be called for blood work and then I would go straight into a room for sonograms. The clinic also has somewhat of a spa-like feel. It made me feel relaxed, with its neutral colors. I visited the Columbus Circle location for my IUI’s, my egg retrieval, and my embryo transfer. I wasn’t a fan of that location but it was mostly because of traffic, and horrible parking. Parking at Westchester is free! Parking at Columbus Circle…..not so much! There were a few things I didn’t like about the Manhattan location. One, after my egg retrieval I used the restroom in the back where women rest and the blinds in the restroom are see through! Who on earth made that decision. There are other buildings with windows facing directly into the restroom. Second, I wish I would’ve gotten a picture of my little two embryos that were transferred. I got other souvenirs, like the tube they were frozen in. But, it would have been nice to see my little babies before. Third, during my egg retrieval I overheard the nurses speak to some of the other patients and they were offered to have the lights off to rest, and to have the curtains closed, and I wasn’t. I believe it was maybe because I was having a hard time after the retrieval, throwing up and everything, and the nurses wanted to watch me. But, it would have been nice to lay there in peace. It would have helped me feel better faster . I would like to mention one last thing. This Clinic needs to make all of their locations full service. It really was a pain driving between two separate locations depending on the treatment scheduled. Having everything in Westchester would have been very nice! I live in the City and still chose to drive to Westchester to avoid the City traffic. But Westchester doesn’t do IUI’s, or egg retrievals, or embryo transfers, or semen analysis, etc.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia University.
My monitoring appointments were in the morning hours. Usually between 7 and 9am. I would only see a few females every time I was there. They are very efficient because I would only wait about five minutes and sometimes nothing at all.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rachel McConnell at Columbia University.
My costs were just my 30 dollar co-pay. My insurance covered my IUI’s, my IVF cycle and all my medication.
Describe Rachel McConnell's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
Doctor McConnell allowed me to transfer two embryos because of my age. They both stuck!
What specific things went wrong at Columbia University?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia University.
The only issue I ever had was one day one of the prescriptions was not at the pharmacy, but I called their emergency line and my prescription was called in the same day
[Dr. McConnell] was always very patient with me and answered all of my questions. She also provided me with honesty. If I didn't understand something she was very patient with me and had no hesitation to review whatever I needed. She was very supportive to me as well as my partner...I was having ivf treatment and hormonal medicine To help get my body ready as well as to support the fetus.We had about 5 years of trying prior to going to going to fertility clinic. So we were doing all we can to get my body ready. I had 2 cycles and the 2nd cycle I became pregnant.
I had no issues with the [Columbia University] overall. They were organized and informative. I never had to wait too long to be seen if not within the 2-5 minutes of me coming in. They were welcoming and warm. Whenever I had a questions I could always email or call...My care team was wonderful. They always notified me what was going on and what I needed to do. If I was confused about something they never hesitated to call me to elaborate. They were extremely supportive and sympathetic.
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
She was always very patient with me and answered all of my questions. She also provided me with honesty. If I didn't understand something she was very patient with me and had no hesitation to review whatever I needed. She was very supportive to me as well as my partner.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Be open and honest about what your goals are when trying to conceive. You don't have to hesitate to say the things that you want and don't want. If you don't understand something, definitely ask her.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
All of my questions were always answered. The team never made me feel foolish. They always encouraged me and gave me the utmost support.
Describe the protocols Rachel McConnell used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
I was having ivf treatment and hormonal medicine To help get my body ready as well as to support the fetus.We had about 5 years of trying prior to going to going to fertility clinic. So we were doing all we can to get my body ready. I had 2 cycles and the 2nd cycle I became pregnant.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Naleeta and Katrina)
My care team was wonderful. They always notified me what was going on and what I needed to do. If I was confused about something they never hesitated to call me to elaborate. They were extremely supportive and sympathetic.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
I had no issues with the clinic overall. They were organized and informative. I never had to wait too long to be seen if not within the 2-5 minutes of me coming in. They were welcoming and warm. Whenever I had a questions I could always email or call, even if my mind was just running away from me. They always listened to my thoughts and concerns.Whenever I had a questions I could always email or call, even if my mind was just running away from me. They always listened to my thoughts and concerns.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia University.
It was easy and flexible. We had a window of time to make our appointments. And the appointments were fast and easy.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rachel McConnell at Columbia University.
I had a very positive experience with Dr. McConnell. She was responsive, helpful, and supportive throughout the entire process. As a patient I felt like I was in expert hands. She provided sound guidance and I appreciated her warm and empathetic manner. It's hard to find critical feedback, honestly...Dr. McConnell changed my medication protocol to Microdose Lupron (leuprolide acetate). That really worked for me-- I had 2 retrieval cycles with that protocol, resulting in 4 great quality PGT tested embryos. I did a medicated transfer and it worked
The nurse and care coordinator and broader cafe team was excellent [at Columbia University]. Highly organized. I felt educated, resourced, supported, communicated-with and informed the entire way...would not transfer multiples when the embryos were PGT tested...digitally advanced w/easy online booking for monitoring visits, great location, professional team, in-house lab, timely operations and follow up, prompt appointments, plenty of educational resources provided for procedures and treatments, empathetic bedside manner...
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
I had a very positive experience with Dr. McConnell. She was responsive, helpful, and supportive throughout the entire process. As a patient I felt like I was in expert hands. She provided sound guidance and I appreciated her warm and empathetic manner. It's hard to find critical feedback, honestly.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Feel encouraged to take an active role in understanding the strategy of your treatment plan. Ask all the questions you need to ask- Dr. McConnell is great and can provide insights and feedback based on current medical best practices.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
My experience from tip to tail was beyond impressive.... Having a full & dedicated care team with specialists, coordinators, nurses, etc provided me with a level of support I didn't even know I could expect from a medical experience. The team is stellar. The most touching part is that I truly felt like they were ROOTING for me the whole time and despite seeing so many cases, I felt like they really cared about me having a positive outcome. The empathetic, kind, gentle bedside manner cannot be understated.
Describe the protocols Rachel McConnell used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
I did IVF primarily for genetic reasons so PGT testing was crucial. I had 3 cycles. The med protocol for the first cycle was Menopur, Gonal F, clomiphene, cetrotide, and ovidrel. I had a poor response in the first cycle and we ended up with 1 mature egg which resulted in 1 PGT normal embryo, of medium quality, which failed to implant. (I had an ERA test done before the transfer to ensure receptivity.) The second and third cycle, Dr. McConnell changed my medication protocol to Microdose Lupron (leuprolide acetate). That really worked for me-- I had 2 retrieval cycles with that protocol, resulting in 4 great quality PGT tested embryos. I did a medicated transfer and it worked.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Katrina Leong)
The nurse and care coordinator and broader cafe team was excellent. Highly organized. I felt educated, resourced, supported, communicated-with and informed the entire way.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Strengths: digitally advanced w/easy online booking for monitoring visits, great location, professional team, in-house lab, timely operations and follow up, prompt appointments, plenty of educational resources provided for procedures and treatments, empathetic bedside manner.
Weaknesses: I don't think I can provide any helpful critical feedback.... This was exactly the experience I would want from a fertility clinic
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rachel McConnell at Columbia University.
My insurance plan covered costs, luckily, but I had to cover the difference. I probably spent around $2 out of pocket, all in.
Describe Rachel McConnell's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
My clinic would not transfer multiples when the embryos were PGT tested.
[Dr. Rachel McConnell] told me that she believed I wouldn’t need IvF but after the first failed IUI, I was concerned it wouldn’t work and she recommended to try 1-2 more cycles and if it still didn’t work she can proceed with IVF. I’m so glad I listened to her and the 2nd cycle worked and I am now 8 weeks pregnant with a healthy baby...She is the most caring doctor I have ever met. Make sure you ask her all the questions you have. She makes sure to make you very comfortable every step of the way and no question is “stupid”.
Katrina [nurse at Columbia University] was a blessing in disguise. She has been there for me since day 1. I would email her and call her over the smallest things, sometimes even 2-3 times a day and she never made me feel like I was being a bother...The clinic was very accommodating. They didn’t make me wait longer then 5 mins while I checked in even once in the 5 months I was with them. They are all very caring and nice and had smiles on their faces.
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr. McConnell made sure everything was done the right way. We’ve had a few obstacles along the way like infections, and instead of rushing it, she made sure we paused everything and got treated and then continued. No where did I feel rushed with her. She took her time to tell me everything that was going on as well as my chances with each IUI. She also told me that she believed I wouldn’t need IvF but after the first failed IUI, I was concerned it wouldn’t work and she recommended to try 1-2 more cycles and if it still didn’t work she can proceed with IVF. I’m so glad I listened to her and the 2nd cycle worked and I am now 8 weeks pregnant with a healthy baby.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
You will not regret your choice. She is the most caring doctor I have ever met. Make sure you ask her all the questions you have. She makes sure to make you very comfortable every step of the way and no question is “stupid”.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr. McConnell and her staff took time out to answer all my questions and concerns. They followed up when it was not necessary to see how I’m feeling. They were always patient and available for me. And explained everything in detail.
Describe the protocols Rachel McConnell used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Started off with Letrozole 2.5mg. When that didn’t work, we changed dosage to 5.0 which also didn’t work so we changed it to 7.5 which worked for me. Then when the follicle was matured, I took a injection. While pregnant, I am currently taking progesterone suppositories.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Katrina Leong)
Katrina was a blessing in disguise. She has been there for me since day 1. I would email her and call her over the smallest things, sometimes even 2-3 times a day and she never made me feel like I was being a bother. She listened to my concerns and gave me advise and followed up with dr. McConnell as well. She went above and beyond any other nurse I’ve ever had. Even when she was out of office, I would receive a email back from her, which just shows how much she cares about her patients.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The clinic was very accommodating. They didn’t make me wait longer then 5 mins while I checked in even once in the 5 months I was with them. They are all very caring and nice and had smiles on their faces.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rachel McConnell at Columbia University.
My insurance covered the visits with a copay of $60 per visit. The IUI procedure they did not cover, which cost me about $670 per round. Besides that, I paid a copay for meds. The progesterone is $35 for the month, the Letrozole was about $13 and the injection cost me about $75 each time (2 times -1 for each cycle)
Dr McConnell was always there to answer my calls. She answered all my concerns. I never had to wait. The whole team from nurses to financial coordinator everyone was really helpful. Dr McConnell was always honest with us and I really appreciate that about her...I asked Dr McConnell that I wanted to do ERA test before the transfer and if she would be ok with that. She was totally in favor of ERA test ( atleast in my case)...
Over all very happy with Columbia Hospital...Their locations are very convenient. They always answer phone calls on time. Nurses and staff are always fast answering emails. Appointments wait times is always not too bad...I am really thankful to Dr McConnell and her team to always be there for me. They answered all my questions and everyone was always very helpful.
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr McConnell was always there to answer my calls. She answered all my concerns. I never had to wait. The whole team from nurses to financial coordinator everyone was really helpful. Dr McConnell was always honest with us and I really appreciate that about her.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Ask questions and let them know your goals and what is in your mind. Dr McConnell’s team listens.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr McConnell always listened to me concerns and gave the best suggestions.
Describe the protocols Rachel McConnell used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
I saw Dr McConnell first for consultation in 2018. From the beginning I mentioned to Dr McConnell that I am open to any test that could help us determine the cause of infertility. Dr M recommended to do IUI. We did two IUIs without success and moved on to IVF. With IVF cycle I was able to get 16 eggs. However after genetic testing only 3 embryos were normal. I asked Dr McConnell that I wanted to do ERA test before the transfer and if she would be ok with that. She was totally in favor of ERA test ( atleast in my case). We transferred one embryo last year and I just had baby boy. I am really thankful to Dr McConnell and her team to always be there for me. They answered all my questions and everyone was always very helpful.
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at Columbia University.
The whole nursing staff was always so helpful.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Over all very happy with Columbia Hospital. My whole family goes to Columbia. Their locations are very convenient. They always answer phone calls on time. Nurses and staff are always fast answering emails. Appointments wait times is always not too bad.
Describe Rachel McConnell's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
She [Dr. McConnell] always took the time to call and explain any questions or concerns I had...Always was super responsive and compassionate. Even called after hours to answers questions I had. Also made me feel super comfortable...Prior to egg retrieval Gonal-F 900 unit- 3 pens Menopur 75 unit- 20 vials Cetrotide 0.25mg- 8 Kits Novarel 5,000 unit- 2 vials Leuprolide Trigger- 1 kit Then for tranfers and after estrace twice a day and progesterone injection every evening...
Everyone I encountered at the clinical [Columbia University] was compassionate and always made me feel comfortable...Front desk staff and nurses were all super friendly. All the doctors were wonderful. I never waited in the waiting room for more than five minutes even the few times I was late because of traffic...Everyone doctor and nurse I encountered was so friendly and everyone was really great with communication...
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
She was great from day one. Took the time to explain everything from the beginning. Always was super responsive and compassionate. Even called after hours to answers questions I had. Also made me feel super comfortable!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
To make sure you ask questions
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
She always took the time to call and explain any questions or concerns I had
Describe the protocols Rachel McConnell used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Prior to egg retrieval Gonal-F 900 unit- 3 pens
Menopur 75 unit- 20 vials
Cetrotide 0.25mg- 8 Kits
Novarel 5,000 unit- 2 vials
Leuprolide Trigger- 1 kit
Then for tranfers and after estrace twice a day and progesterone injection every evening
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Katrina )
Always answered all of my questions promptly. Trained me on how to use the meds. What great all around
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Everyone I encountered at the clinical was compassionate and always made me feel comfortable. Everyone doctor and nurse I encountered was so friendly and everyone was really great with communication! The only improvement I was say is giving you a time for procedures a little sooner than they do.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at Columbia University.
Front desk staff and nurses were all super friendly. All the doctors were wonderful. I never waited in the waiting room for more than five minutes even the few times I was late because of traffic.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rachel McConnell at Columbia University.
My insurance covered my treatment expect the genetic testing which we paid about 2500 for
Dr. McConnell was very thorough, clear and compassionate throughout my entire treatment. She explained all steps during and moving forward. She also took all questions with expertise. She was able to treat my PCOS in one cycle...[she] listened to all my and my husband's concerns throughout the entire process..
The entire Columbia team is a well oiled machine. You never have to send multiple emails or make multiple phone calls. They reach out and respond immediately. I have never seen a practice work as well as they do...Dr. McConnell was very thorough, clear and compassionate throughout my entire treatment. She explained all steps during and moving forward
How was your experience with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr. McConnell was very thorough, clear and compassionate throughout my entire treatment. She explained all steps during and moving forward. She also took all questions with expertise. She was able to treat my PCOS in one cycle.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Listen and ask questions, she will always respond.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Rachel McConnell at Columbia University?
Dr. McConnell listened to all my and my husband's concerns throughout the entire process.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Katrina Leong)
The entire staff at Columbia was timely, organized and responsible throughout the entire process.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The entire Columbia team is a well oiled machine. You never have to send multiple emails or make multiple phone calls. They reach out and respond immediately. I have never seen a practice work as well as they do.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Rachel McConnell at Columbia University.
