[Dr. Williams] is very candid with probabilities of success with each procedure, but he will think outside the box...He is very busy, but I admire all of what he does as chief of the department and researcher, so I rely more on communication with the nurses...He did not have to, but recided yo personally do my embryo transfer. His bedside manner is outstanding and warm. I suffer from the effects of age and PCOS, and even with these diagnoses, he is open and respects patients' true choices in their hearts
Great and timely sending out of requisitions [at Columbia University]. One time I was not told when my next monitoring date had to be, so I couldn't get an outside monitoring appointment in time. Howev,other than that they are very professional and clear and rely a lot on email. Before starting an IVF cycle there and before paying for the cucle, it is extremely hard to ask questions or clarify details about the cycle. Be prepared to have to be persistent
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
He is extremely warm and motivated to help patients exactly in the way theyvdream yo become parents. He is very candid with probabilities of success with each procedure, but he will think outside the box always to make your dreams come true. Fertility is a very personal and emotional journey and he respects that while providing non-judgmental, world-class care. He is very busy, but I admire all of what he does as chief of the department and researcher, so I rely more on communication with the nurses knowing he is out there trying to make Fertility outcomes better for patients!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Be prepared for the best Fertility doctor there is!
Be patient with the communication part as he is busy- you won't regret it.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
He is incredibly compassionate, and motivated to think outside the box because my results really matter to him. He did not have to, but recided yo personally do my embryo transfer. His bedside manner is outstanding and warm. I suffer from the effects of age and PCOS, and even with these diagnoses, he is open and respects patients' true choices in their hearts... to become parents with their own egg and sperm. He is extremely well educated and knowledgeable, but also spiritually connected somehow.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Letrozole and low dose gonal F/menopur- did not take advantage of the still large egg reserve I have! So we changed it do higher doses of Gonal F and Menopur with Cetrotide as I am at risk of OHSS ++
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Laura Lodico)
Very efficient and on top of my care. I would have just preferred to talk to her on the phone a bit more. But there was a sense of pressure offloaded (I did not need to jump out of work to answer calls!) with the email communication!
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Great and timely sending out of requisitions. One time I was not told when my next monitoring date had to be, so I couldn't get an outside monitoring appointment in time. Howev,other than that they are very professional and clear and rely a lot on email.
Before starting an IVF cycle there and before paying for the cucle, it is extremely hard to ask questions or clarify details about the cycle. Be prepared to have to be persistent and call the admin person and the nurse to e things set up time for day 1.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Zev Williams at Columbia University.
10000usd
Describe Zev Williams's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
He did not push for eset because day 3 transfers would probably be more fruitful at my age, and day 3 embryos can't be tested.
[Dr. Zev Williams is] Worth the wait!...after the septum removal, Dr Williams thought we should try naturally instead of going back to IVF. - I successfully got pregnant the first monitored cycle I did under his care, but unfortunately lost the baby due to chromosomal abnormalities. He performed the D&C - When my hormone levels returned to normal he did an endosee to examine my uterine cavity and a biopsy of my uterine lining to test for endomitritis. - we did another monitored cycle, during which I got pregnant again. Then at 6 weeks I had another miscarriage, due to a differ
[Columbia University is] Very clean, organized, compassionate, etc. I usually don't have to wait too long. I love all the nurses who take my blood - really feel like I've gotten to know them. As well as the ultrasound technicians...just one time, I was scheduled for an endosee and it wasn't put on Dr Williams calendar. But he dropped everything to come do it as fast as he could.
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
He's so smart and intuitive. After two unexplained miscarriages (via viable embryos from IVF) we saw several other doctors, and he was the other one who looked beyond the files/charts and followed his hunch that I had a uterine septum (even though an HSG exam 18 months prior with another doctor showed no issues). He was right. I always feel like he's on my side and has my back. He really takes his time talking with us - he genuinely cares about us and I never feel rushed. Absolutely no weaknesses or cons.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Worth the wait!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Williams is exceptionally caring and tuned into his patients' feelings. I always get the impression he genuinely wants to know how I'm doing emotionally, and is able to pick up on what I'm not saying. He has held my hand as the anesthesiologist prepares me for D&Cs, has gotten tissue boxes for me in anticipation of me getting upset, etc. He always lets me know exactly what to expect and talks me through his process before he begins any exam or procedure.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
- Hysteroscopy to remove septum (another Columbia surgeon actually performed the procedure, after Dr Williams diagnosed it)
- timed intercourse with regular monitoring (bloodwork/ultrasounds to monitor hormone levels and follicle development). When he confirmed I had the septum, not only did he believe it was 99% responsible for my two prior miscarriages (those pregnancies were via IVF), he also suspected it could've been why I wasn't able to get pregnant on my own. So after the septum removal, Dr Williams thought we should try naturally instead of going back to IVF.
- I successfully got pregnant the first monitored cycle I did under his care, but unfortunately lost the baby due to chromosomal abnormalities. He performed the D&C
- When my hormone levels returned to normal he did an endosee to examine my uterine cavity and a biopsy of my uterine lining to test for endomitritis.
- we did another monitored cycle, during which I got pregnant again. Then at 6 weeks I had another miscarriage, due to a different type of chromosomal abnormality. Dr Williams did the D&C again
- Then he did another endosee / uterine biopsy before beginning the next monitored cycle
- Then Covid-19 happened and I can't go in for monitoring
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Very clean, organized, compassionate, etc. I usually don't have to wait too long. I love all the nurses who take my blood - really feel like I've gotten to know them. As well as the ultrasound technicians.
What specific things went wrong at Columbia University?
Lost appointments
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia University.
Just one time, I was scheduled for an endosee and it wasn't put on Dr Williams calendar. But he dropped everything to come do it as fast as he could.
Dr Williams treats each patient like he was treating his wife or daughter. He is kind, patients and truly cares. He is easy to talk and one can tell that his mind is brilliant. He takes the time to call you with results even if it’s 10pm to help alleviate any happy/sad news. ... Williams as he is a master in early pregnancy loss. He diagnosed me with endometriosis and pcos. As a result he began by monitoring my cycles and started a medications routine.
We missed IUIs [at Columbia] due to “forgetting” we needed blood work before. ... The nurses who draw blood and morning monitoring are amazing. Sometimes there is a long wait in the am. The coordinators and the doctors personal nursing staff have very poor communication within each other which resulted in a lot of unnecessary anguish and anxiety for both my husband and myself. We had to call the emergency line more than 5 times to get our medication called into the pharmacy.
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr Williams treats each patient like he was treating his wife or daughter. He is kind, patients and truly cares. He is easy to talk and one can tell that his mind is brilliant. He takes the time to call you with results even if it’s 10pm to help alleviate any happy/sad news.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Whether it’s Dr. Williams or any other doctor, it’s really important to advocate for yourself and don’t be afraid to ask questions and share your needs.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Williams is so patient and compassionate. I have yet to meet a doctor who values his patients ideas and feedback. He takes the time despite being the head of the research and is the fertility director.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Because my husband and I got pregnant naturally two times and it ended in molar pregnancies we decided to seek dr. Williams as he is a master in early pregnancy loss. He diagnosed me with endometriosis and pcos. As a result he began by monitoring my cycles and started a medications routine.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Alissa )
The care coordinator was amazing. But there were many mistakes and anxious moments from mishaps due to miscommunication between them. A lot of mishaps
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The nurses who draw blood and morning monitoring are amazing. Sometimes there is a long wait in the am. The coordinators and the doctors personal nursing staff have very poor communication within each other which resulted in a lot of unnecessary anguish and anxiety for both my husband and myself. We had to call the emergency line more than 5 times to get our medication called into the pharmacy. We missed IUIs due to “forgetting” we needed blood work before.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Zev Williams at Columbia University.
30K+
What specific things went wrong at Columbia University?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Lost results
Provided conflicting information
Failed to convey critical information
Canceled a cycle due to clinic error
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia University.
Dr. Williams took more of a clinical approach with us and I did not feel like they were playing a numbers game or just going through the motions with us. We walked through our plan by steps. ... It was never a check the box feeling I had when working with this office. I also felt that Dr. Williams viewed my health as a priority. ... Dr. Williams took a step back and ran test after test until we were comfortable with moving forward. I also felt that the office walked me through everything to make sure I understood the procedure.
The office [Columbia University] has done a wonderful job of keeping to schedule. I never had to wait more than 10 minutes during morning monitoring, even when there was a full waiting room. Staff always had smiles on their faces and you get to know the nurses well. ... I found it much easier to communicate with my nurse via email and would receive responses within 24 hours. ... They communicate all updates in a timely fashion.
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Williams was exactly who we needed after an unsuccessful attempt at IVF with another clinic. Dr. Williams took more of a clinical approach with us and I did not feel like they were playing a numbers game or just going through the motions with us. We walked through our plan by steps. It was A to B. When we got to B we stopped assessed and moved to C. It was never a check the box feeling I had when working with this office. I also felt that Dr. Williams viewed my health as a priority. After my third miscarriage (2 natural, 1 IVF), another clinic said I should jump right into another cycle. I felt like something was missing and I needed to know that I was okay. Dr. Williams took a step back and ran test after test until we were comfortable with moving forward. I also felt that the office walked me through everything to make sure I understood the procedure. At another clinic I was told to watch youtube videos to figure out some stuff. It was just a different experience for me, and I feel lucky to have found Columbia when I did.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Williams is extremely sought out and very busy, but I never felt that he didn't get back to me. When I was going through setbacks, Dr. Williams would call me personally just to check up on my mental well being - he really truly cares. If I was unable to get a hold of him, my nurse was able to get the information I needed.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
The office has done a wonderful job of keeping to schedule. I never had to wait more than 10 minutes during morning monitoring, even when there was a full waiting room. Staff always had smiles on their faces and you get to know the nurses well.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Dr. Williams stopped an IVF cycle Day 8 into meds as he felt I could get better results with a different attempt, so we switched to IUI that month. When we were ready for another IVF round, I was put on Chlomid, Menapur and Follistim. I never really had a reaction to meds, but this go around with the addition of the Chlomid I was super tired - exhausted. I never felt hormonally out of control, just tired and sleepy after the Chlomid so I started taking it right before bed instead of the morning.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Laura)
The staff at the office were very nice. I found it much easier to communicate with my nurse via email and would receive responses within 24 hours.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Its in a new space - spacious and very clean. I always felt comfortable during my visits. If you see a packed waiting room, don't fret, they are very organized and I never waited for monitoring more than 10 minutes. If I were waiting for my doctor that was a bit different and if they were running late they always told me. They communicate all updates in a timely fashion.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Zev Williams at Columbia University.
Cost of IVF with ICIS, PGD and transfer was around $22,000. Medication costs were approximately $5,000 per cycle.
When we had our initial consultation, Dr. Williams carefully listened to us, paid attention to every detail, reviewed our medical records and explained to us that our initial diagnosis was wrong ! ... Dr. Williams has a very out of the box open minded approach when diagnosing his patients. He has a brilliant mind and a kind heart. ... He works very gently and has refined bed side manners. ... He made sure to give me a call back even on days the center was closed
Columbia University Medical Center is a nice place, staff is polite and friendly. office looks clean and busy, they offer very flexible appointments the atmosphere is very calm and relaxing, in general I was very satisfied wit the service I got in Columbia University Medical Center. ... Laura is a wonderful RN with a very pleasant personality, she is responsive, understanding and gets things done swiftly. Laura is a excellent communicator between you and your doctor. Her smile is pure sun shine !
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
When we had our initial consultation, Dr. Williams carefully listened to us, paid attention to every detail, reviewed our medical records and explained to us that our initial diagnosis was wrong ! we had a few other medical professionals review our case in the past. He was the "firs one" to realize that we were off track and misled. Dr. Williams has a very out of the box open minded approach when diagnosing his patients. He has a brilliant mind and a kind heart. He analyzes a situation from every angle and possibility before customizing your treatment plan. He patiently addressed our concerns and answered all our questions in a clear sensible way. Although he is very realistic and careful not to promise, he gave us a sense of security and hope.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Give your doctor as much information as you can. When it comes to diagnosing and treating infertility "small" details matter, "big time!" Also, don't be shy to ask. understanding whats going on puts you ease,
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Not only we were treated human, with dignity, patience and respect, we always felt priority ! Dr. Williams genuinely cared for our success. He always took the time to explain things making eye contact while he spoke. He works very gently and has refined bed side manners. He made sure to give me a call back even on days the center was closed, Dr. Williams went a long way, beyond his call of duty, to ensure my safety and well being. Dr. Williams is one of a kind, both, as an expert in his medical field and in being a devoted, dedicated doctor.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Two rounds antibiotics, vitamin D, aspirin
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Laura Lodico)
Laura is a wonderful RN with a very pleasant personality, she is responsive, understanding and gets things done swiftly. Laura is a excellent communicator between you and your doctor. Her smile is pure sun shine !
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
Columbia University Medical Center is a nice place, staff is polite and friendly. office looks clean and busy, they offer very flexible appointments the atmosphere is very calm and relaxing, in general I was very satisfied wit the service I got in Columbia University Medical Center.
We came to Dr. Williams after a number of miscarriages. He started off by reviewing all the repots from our previous Doctors. ... Dr. Williams is very intelligent and always informed with the latest studies. ... Dr. Williams was very polite to us, he made us feel that he has all the time for us. He explained every detailed until we understood it. He explained the process and steps. We felt very comfortable, knowing that Dr. Williams is monitoring every step of the way just as if we're his only patient.
The Clinic [Columbia University] is a well kept and calm environment. The staff is friendly and accommodating. The documents are very organized, prescriptions are sent directly to the pharmacy for on time delivery. It's easy to get in touch with a doctor or nurse, everyone is there to help you and make you feel important. ... Laura [nursing staff] was always there for us, if we had any questions we knew that we can rely on Laura.
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
From the minute we got to know Dr. Williams, we were delighted, because he showed us that he is here for us, and will be with us along the journey. Dr. Williams is very intelligent and always informed with the latest studies. His bright insight in every situation, gave us the feeling of trust. He knows each patient and follows up with them.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
If you want to have a Doctor that won't leave a stone unturned, meet Dr. Williams.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Williams was very polite to us, he made us feel that he has all the time for us. He explained every detailed until we understood it. He explained the process and steps. We felt very comfortable, knowing that Dr. Williams is monitoring every step of the way just as if we're his only patient.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
We came to Dr. Williams after a number of miscarriages. He started off by reviewing all the repots from our previous Doctors. He took multiple blood tests and monitored the sugar levels. Then he did a Sanagram to try to identify the cause. The cause he identified was a combination of blood clotting that were around the embryo and high sugar levels that didn't allow the placenta to connect properly to the embryo. I was put on a low carb and sugar diet and baby aspirin. I was monitored until he confirmed that it was a safe and successful pregnancy.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Laura)
Laura was always there for us, if we had any questions we knew that we can rely on Laura.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The Clinic is a well kept and calm environment. The staff is friendly and accommodating. The documents are very organized, prescriptions are sent directly to the pharmacy for on time delivery. It's easy to get in touch with a doctor or nurse, everyone is there to help you and make you feel important.
Dr. Williams for the first time, he had figured out the source of our infertility (Asherman’s syndrome) and had scheduled the first surgery we needed to work on correcting it! Within 6 months, the corrective procedures had been completed and we were ready to try again—and WITHIN ONE YEAR, we were pregnant with our daughter who was born months later! After five years of pregnancies, and other fertility doctors who would not treat us for fear that we may skew their success numbers after so many unexplained losses, Dr. Williams took us as patients—understood our grief and responded with compassion and hope. We have a family now because of him.
I think the strength [Columbia] of the clinic depends on what doctor you get—Dr. Williams always made you feel like a priority but some of the clinic staff did not seem entirely organized or thorough. That being said, they were always friendly. The facilities may not be as nicely furnished or new as other centers, but there is definitely a lot of human talent within the walls...Laura was thorough and positive from the beginning. Like Dr. Williams, her approach to her role was more of an ally than a nurse. I felt that with each positive result, she was cheering us on!
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Williams always explained our treatment thoroughly and set expectations for possible outcomes. Although you can see that he has a brilliant mind, he was always patient with our many questions, offering insight into the hows and whys of each step. But more than anything, he treated my husband and I like the family we were trying to become—like two parents for whom he would help find answers rather than two people who were trying and failing at making a family. It’s a subtle difference but the effect is that we felt at all times that we had an ALLY rather than just a PHYSICIAN. A Physician might tell you why you keep losing your keys. An Ally helps you find them. Dr. Williams never had an observation that he didn’t quickly follow with a plan and a “what questions do you have for me?”
I had to have two corrective surgeries and several other procedures in between to diagnose and correct my Asherman's—and through each one, he helped us maintain hope. When we conceived our daughter (only 9 months after meeting Dr. Williams for the first time!) I’ll always remember how he congratulated us: “You’ve got some really exciting milestones ahead!’
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Bring your data and know your clinical history—Dr. Williams brilliantly connected a sensitivity to gluten (that I was completely unaware of!) as a potential cause for some of my earlier miscarriages. He will ask you everything, even things that don’t seem associated as he rules out possible causes—so be open, honest and as thorough so as to help him as much as possible!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Doctor Williams and his nurse, Laura, truly understood my feelings of desperation for help and helplessness because my husband and I had experienced 11 miscarriages and a neonatal loss and had no answers as to why. They both treated us with urgency, and from the very first consultation, outlined a plan of tests that would help us find answers, and ultimately, hope. Within one week of meeting Dr. Williams for the first time, he had figured out the source of our infertility (Asherman’s syndrome) and had scheduled the first surgery we needed to work on correcting it! Within 6 months, the corrective procedures had been completed and we were ready to try again—and WITHIN ONE YEAR, we were pregnant with our daughter who was born months later! After five years of pregnancies, and other fertility doctors who would not treat us for fear that we may skew their success numbers after so many unexplained losses, Dr. Williams took us as patients—understood our grief and responded with compassion and hope. We have a family now because of him.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
I believe we began with testing for various auto-immune and sensitivity disorders as well as genetic testing on past embryos and my husband and I. Then a hysteroscoopy revealed scar tissue and lesions inside the uterus. Two further adhesolysis procedures followed with baloon insert and rounds of estrogen following to regrow uterine lining.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Laura)
Laura was thorough and positive from the beginning. Like Dr. Williams, her approach to her role was more of an ally than a nurse. I felt that with each positive result, she was cheering us on!
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
I think the strength of the clinic depends on what doctor you get—Dr. Williams always made you feel like a priority but some of the clinic staff did not seem entirely organized or thorough. That being said, they were always friendly. The facilities may not be as nicely furnished or new as other centers, but there is definitely a lot of human talent within the walls.
Dr. Williams always made eye contact when he spoke to me, and I felt as though he was constantly assessing my emotional reaction to whatever information he was giving me....Although Dr. Williams is absolutely brilliant in his field of expertise, he is also extremely humble. He treats his patients with genuine empathy and a unique sensitivity....One Round of Antibiotics - due to Chronic Endometritis (low grade uterine infection which can inhibit fertility and/or cause miscarriage) Operative Hysteroscopy for Asherman's Syndrome - to remove moderate scarring which was found on my cervix and inside my uterine cavity Vitamin D supplementation Folic Acid supplementation Baby Aspirin + Lovenox Injection - due to an ACE Gene Mutation Metformin - due to insulin resistance
When you walk into Columbia Fertility, there is a sense of calm about the place. It seems as though there was a lot of thought put into the way the space is structured - lots of natural light, open airy spaces, soft music in the background and an overall beautiful decor....I must note that when you are trying to reach a nurse or a secretary by phone, there is usually some waiting time, and you do get transferred around a bit...their online patient portal to be severely lacking - appointment summaries and test results are never posted....Laura [nurse] was a great liaison between us and Dr. Williams. She was always the one to call us with results, and she made sure that we understood each step of our protocol.
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Although Dr. Williams is absolutely brilliant in his field of expertise, he is also extremely humble. He treats his patients with genuine empathy and a unique sensitivity. At times, it almost felt as though Dr. Williams was being more sensitive to our emotional needs than we ourselves were being. We always felt that he was truly listening to us with his full attention. His kindness can also be seen in the way that he treats his staff - always introducing the nurses by name to the patient, and always talking to them in a respectful manner.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Have a list of questions ready, because he will be willing to answer them all.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Williams always made eye contact when he spoke to me, and I felt as though he was constantly assessing my emotional reaction to whatever information he was giving me.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
One Round of Antibiotics - due to Chronic Endometritis (low grade uterine infection which can inhibit fertility and/or cause miscarriage)
Operative Hysteroscopy for Asherman's Syndrome - to remove moderate scarring which was found on my cervix and inside my uterine cavity
Vitamin D supplementation
Folic Acid supplementation
Baby Aspirin + Lovenox Injection - due to an ACE Gene Mutation
Metformin - due to insulin resistance
Prometrium (vaginally) - due to low levels of progesterone in the early weeks of my pregnancy
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Laura)
Laura was a great liaison between us and Dr. Williams. She was always the one to call us with results, and she made sure that we understood each step of our protocol. She was the one that we reached out to whenever a question came up, and she was never more than a phone call or email away... and always with a smile!
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
When you walk into Columbia Fertility, there is a sense of calm about the place. It seems as though there was a lot of thought put into the way the space is structured - lots of natural light, open airy spaces, soft music in the background and an overall beautiful decor. There never seemed to be more than 5 or 6 other patients waiting in the waiting room, which made me more comfortable taking the time I needed with my doctor, without having to worry about holding up a waiting room full of angry patients. I had some insurance issues in the beginning, but I found the billing department to be very accommodating, and they did their best to help straighten it out. I must note that when you are trying to reach a nurse or a secretary by phone, there is usually some waiting time, and you do get transferred around a bit which can be frustrating. I also find their online patient portal to be severely lacking - appointment summaries and test results are never posted.
What specific things went wrong at Columbia University?
Dr. Williams is careful and compassionate, and took time and care to tailor a treatment plan. He was available to talk when requested, and was able to explain all options to help us make decisions. he also addressed possible causes of my partners infertility as well as mine...For both cycles, Dr. Williams used oral medication instead of injectable medication because my body did not respond particularly well to the injectables, and there were other indicators that oral medications may be more successful. The first cycle resulted in three eggs in one embryo that arrested. The second cycle was not completed due to poor results.
The doctors and their knowledge are this clinic's [Columbia University] strengths. Communication is it's weakness. CWRC is the opposite of the standard IVF mill, so there is more specified patient care. However, it can result is a haphazardness that effects treatment options...I was assigned a Primary Nurse and a care coordinator. I was contacted most often by a different nurse. The entire staff is fine. They are not at all coordinated, which has made follow through more difficult.
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Williams is careful and compassionate, and took time and care to tailor a treatment plan. He was available to talk when requested, and was able to explain all options to help us make decisions. he also addressed possible causes of my partners infertility as well as mine.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Be persistent.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Williams took the time to listen to my concerns and learn about my specific case. He discussed in depth with me the treatment option that would work best for me and my partner, and was available to speak, usually within a day, if I requested.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
For both cycles, Dr. Williams used oral medication instead of injectable medication because my body did not respond particularly well to the injectables, and there were other indicators that oral medications may be more successful. The first cycle resulted in three eggs in one embryo that arrested. The second cycle was not completed due to poor results.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University.
I was assigned a Primary Nurse and a care coordinator. I was contacted most often by a different nurse. The entire staff is fine. They are not at all coordinated, which has made follow through more difficult.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The doctors and their knowledge are this clinic's strengths. Communication is it's weakness. CWRC is the opposite of the standard IVF mill, so there is more specified patient care. However, it can result is a haphazardness that effects treatment options.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Zev Williams at Columbia University.
$5,000 for partial IVF cycle
What specific things went wrong at Columbia University?
He [Dr. Williams] is very kind and smart. He explains everything step by step and what the risks are. He spends time with you until you feel comfortable with what is next. He gets back to you with answers to questions and makes sure you are comfortable with decisions moving forward.... Have an idea of what you want to do. Dr Williams will give you his suggestion for the highest chance of results but the decision is yours.... Letrozole for annovulation with IUI to increase chances.
They [Columbia University] run efficiently and there is little wait time. They return calls same day and answer questions. The financial department could be more clear about exact costs and what insurance has already paid for.... They are compassionate and sweet. They always explain everything thoroughly.... He [Dr. Williams] is very kind and smart. He explains everything step by step and what the risks are. He spends time with you until you feel comfortable with what is next.
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
He is very kind and smart. He explains everything step by step and what the risks are. He spends time with you until you feel comfortable with what is next. He gets back to you with answers to questions and makes sure you are comfortable with decisions moving forward.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Have an idea of what you want to do. Dr Williams will give you his suggestion for the highest chance of results but the decision is yours.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
He is very compassionate and called to tell us he was sorry for our loss.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Letrozole for annovulation with IUI to increase chances. Menopur next for low LH with IUI.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Alissa )
They are compassionate and sweet. They always explain everything thoroughly.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
They run efficiently and there is little wait time. They return calls same day and answer questions. The financial department could be more clear about exact costs and what insurance has already paid for.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Zev Williams at Columbia University.
He [Dr. Zev Williams] gave me the attention I needed and was my advocate through a complex maze of infertility exploration, diagnosis, treatment and surgery. I needed surgery for uterine fibroids and he identified that as the cause of two early losses. He then recommended surgery by other surgeons through Columbia and made sure I got the absolute best surgeons to do three complicated surgeries that had great results. Dr. Williams acted as my advocate and made sure surgeons that he recommended were top notch and were giving my case the attention that it deserved.
nurses and staff could be more responsive [at Columbia University]...Laura [nurse] was really non-responsive. I felt her hours were very limited in a way that made things move slower. When I did get through to her she didn't seem to know a lot about my case...The clinic's administrators, including Alyssa, Dr. William's administrator, and the nurses and techs who took blood and organized appointments were excellent and extremely kind. When I found out I was pregnant after a year of treatment and we got past the risky early phases, the front desk staff gave me a huge hug and kisses and we all celebrated together. They are all really excellent.
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
My experience as Dr. Williams' patient couldn't have been better. He gave me the attention I needed and was my advocate through a complex maze of infertility exploration, diagnosis, treatment and surgery. I needed surgery for uterine fibroids and he identified that as the cause of two early losses. He then recommended surgery by other surgeons through Columbia and made sure I got the absolute best surgeons to do three complicated surgeries that had great results. Dr. Williams acted as my advocate and made sure surgeons that he recommended were top notch and were giving my case the attention that it deserved. When navigating fertility treatment in the NYC, I think advocacy from your primary fertility specialist is an incredible asset. I had that in Dr. Williams. His knowledge of treatments and early miscarriage loss seems to be really unparalleled and I felt very very comfortable with him in my corner that I would end up where I needed to be. I eventually did end up pregnant without an early loss within one year of starting treatment with Dr. Williams. Dr. Williams was essential in diagnosing the problem, getting me the surgeries I needed from the right surgeons, and making sure it was safe for me to try to conceive again without a continued or increased risk of a third loss. He was just fantastic and I can't recommend him enough.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
His nurses and staff could be more responsive.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Williams had the most incredible bedside manner that I have ever seen from a Doctor. He is the best doctor I have ever had. He is incredibly caring, an amazing listener and truly works through the emotional as well as medical complications that come with fertility treatment.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
See comments above.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Nurse Laura)
Laura was really non-responsive. I felt her hours were very limited in a way that made things move slower. When I did get through to her she didn't seem to know a lot about my case. She didn't seem to have the ability (or motivation?) to move my case forward during initial diagnostics and testing at the pace and in the efficient manner that I would have preferred. I had to get very involved to make sure certain labs got the requests and paperwork that were needed. I think this inefficiency ended up adding a few weeks to a month between certain tests and delayed my case because of certain errors and failures to properly fill out paperwork. At a time where every day counts in a woman's mind who is trying to conceive later in life, responsiveness and efficiency should be given more attention and people without the motivation to advocate for themselves could really be held back by this issue.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The clinic's administrators, including Alyssa, Dr. William's administrator, and the nurses and techs who took blood and organized appointments were excellent and extremely kind. When I found out I was pregnant after a year of treatment and we got past the risky early phases, the front desk staff gave me a huge hug and kisses and we all celebrated together. They are all really excellent.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Zev Williams at Columbia University.
My Cigna health plan covered Dr. Williams as a specialist. Some labs were out of pocket, but then the labs would negotiate rates for patiences without coverage. I didn't pay that much out of pocket for my clinical visits. I didn't need any invasive fertility treatment other than my surgery to remove fibroids which was also covered by my insurance other than a deductible.
Describe Zev Williams's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
NA
What specific things went wrong at Columbia University?
Lost paperwork
Failed to call with results
Failed to order appropriate test
Failed to send your chart to another clinic
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at Columbia University.
Dr. Zev Williams is an amazing, kind hearted, and intelligent physician. He was very through in explaining step by step what the treatment plan will be. He was very attentive to any questions or concerns I had throughout the treatment. From the consultation visit until we conceived, he always made my husband and I feel very important and extremely cared about. We still keep great communication regarding the progress of my pregnancy. I recommend any patient to see him or his colleagues.
The clinic [Columbia] was very pleasant, from the front desk check-in process to back end phlebotomy experience, everyone is always smiling and attentive. They know you by your name when you are there for every visit. Also, when doing morning monitoring, you were in and out of the office within 15-20 minutes. There was never a long wait for morning monitoring, so you will always make it to work on time...Laura Lodico, RN is an amazing nurse who works extremely well with Dr. Zev Williams and the team at CURC. Laura was very attentive to my questions and concerns and got back to me with answers immediately. She always followed up with lab results immediately when it is available and always checked in after treatment to see how I was feeling. She made me feel very special.
How was your experience with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Zev Williams is an amazing, kind hearted, and intelligent physician. He was very through in explaining step by step what the treatment plan will be. He was very attentive to any questions or concerns I had throughout the treatment. From the consultation visit until we conceived, he always made my husband and I feel very important and extremely cared about. We still keep great communication regarding the progress of my pregnancy. I recommend any patient to see him or his colleagues.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Zev Williams at Columbia University?
If you want the best experience with treatment and success in conceiving, he is the physician you want to see and his colleagues.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Zev Williams at Columbia University?
Dr. Zev Williams and colleagues (just to name a few-Drs. Eric Forman and Briana Rudick) are amazing physicians. They were very attentive to all my questions and concerns throughout my treatment. Questions and concerns were answered immediately to a few hours when asked. Staff and physicians knew my name and greeted me each time I was in the office. It was a family feel and they were going through each step with my husband and I.
Describe the protocols Zev Williams used in your cycles at Columbia University and their degree of success.
Preparation for egg retrieval: Gonol F 225U daily for 10-12 days, Menopur 75U daily for 10-12 days, Cetrotide for 5 days; HCG trigger injection x 1. To produce follicles for retrieval.
ICSI with the retrieved follicles and allow 5-6 day fertilization and freeze embryos.
Frozen embryos have greater success rates of conceiving than fresh embryo transfers with timing.
Describe your experience with your nurse at Columbia University. (Assigned nurse: Laura Lodico, RN)
Laura Lodico, RN is an amazing nurse who works extremely well with Dr. Zev Williams and the team at CURC. Laura was very attentive to my questions and concerns and got back to me with answers immediately. She always followed up with lab results immediately when it is available and always checked in after treatment to see how I was feeling. She made me feel very special.
Describe your experience with Columbia University.
The clinic was very pleasant, from the front desk check-in process to back end phlebotomy experience, everyone is always smiling and attentive. They know you by your name when you are there for every visit. Also, when doing morning monitoring, you were in and out of the office within 15-20 minutes. There was never a long wait for morning monitoring, so you will always make it to work on time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Zev Williams at Columbia University.
Insurance covered a lifetime of $30,000 for infertility treatment. Had to pay deductibles, co-insurance and copayments. But, the clinic have payment options for patients that would need to pay out of pocket.
Describe Zev Williams's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at Columbia University.
Dr. Zev Williams wanted to transfer a single embryo, but was not opposed to two embryos being transferred, if we wanted.