Dr Kim is extremely compassionate, patient, and smart...taking the time to explain the fertility cycle and process to me in a way that was easy to understand & made me feel comfortable...taking the time to explain the fertility cycle and process to me in a way that was easy to understand & made me feel comfortable
[RMA of Southern California is] Extremely efficient: I was in & out of AM monitoring in under 15 minutes every day. Great staff: everyone was very kind, patient, and empathic. Very clean & organized...answering questions, jumping on a face time with me when I forgot how to use the follitism pen (and staying on with me for all my shots!)
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim is extremely compassionate, patient, and smart -- proactively taking the time to explain the fertility cycle and process to me in a way that was easy to understand & made me feel comfortable. He always remembered details about my history & checked in on how I was doing -- making the process feel seamless. In addition, I had to push my cycle back 2x because of travel schedules -- and he was always empathic and flexible, stating that I was in control of when we do this. He and his staff are also incredibly efficient -- I was in & out in under 15 minutes for my morning monitoring.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
RMA will move quickly once you go in -- so feel free to share when an ideal time is for you to do the cycle :)
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim is incredibly kind, patient, and empathic -- proactively taking the time to explain the process, fertility cycle, and desired outcome. He laid it all out very clearly (even without me asking!) and checked in on how I was doing when I saw him. In addition, he always remembered details about my fertility history and process -- so I felt like an individual, rather than a number. He made the whole process comfortable, seamless, and efficient -- I'd recommend him (and his amazing nurse team!) to anyone going through this
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
Dr Kim's meds were much easier than most of my friends (because I didn't have to mix them myself) & they resulted in less side effects and 43 eggs. He was also careful to monitor my progress & adjust dosage accordingly.
Follitism & 1 other drug - I loved it because I didn't have to mix anything (most of my friends had to mix their own meds, which sounds harder/more time consuming), so I just popped the needles into the meds & it was quick/easy. Dr Kim adjusted my dosage 2x throughout the process, given my high # of follicles -- to ensure I'd have less side effects, while still helping my ovaries grow to produce a substantial amount of eggs. I then used Lupron & hCG for my trigger shots - Dr Kim gave me the hCG b/c of a condition I have, but he adjusted the dosage down significantly once he saw how high my estrogen levels were to reduce my potential side effects.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Qiana Shuton)
They were extremely compassionate, patient and communicative -- answering questions, jumping on a face time with me when I forgot how to use the follitism pen (and staying on with me for all my shots!), and walking me through how to use the different tools.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Extremely efficient: I was in & out of AM monitoring in under 15 minutes every day. Great staff: everyone was very kind, patient, and empathic. Very clean & organized. I'd recommend RMA to anyone going through this - I will definitely use them again if I ever need fertility care
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
It was about ~$11K in total for the procedures, medicine, and 1st year of storage
Dr. Kim seemed to genuinely care about my experience during the entire process and the outcome. He prescribed things to make the process as easy and cost effective as possible. He called with results himself, every time, including follow ups to see how I was doing...His approach and philosophy also resulted in less time wasted, less pain, less expense, and more ease in general throughout the process. We got pregnant on the first embryo transfer with him and cannot recommend Dr. Kim enough...
Shelli [nurse at RMA of Southern California] was incredible. She was on hand to answer any questions whenever we had any...She showed tremendous compassion and I really felt like she cared about our journey and outcome. She was also super knowledgeable about available research. The front desk was also a delight. They remembered me every time I was there and were always so friendly and warm...
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
We had an unbelievable experience with Dr. Kim. We moved to RMA after a terrible experience elsewhere so we have another clinic for comparison. Everything he did felt in our best interest from the get-go and I felt much more like a human being and patient than a lab rat as a result. He seemed to genuinely care -- not just about outcome but about experience. His approach and philosophy also resulted in less time wasted, less pain, less expense, and more ease in general throughout the process. We got pregnant on the first embryo transfer with him and cannot recommend Dr. Kim enough.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Trust him. He's brilliant.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
We came from another clinic where I felt totally like a lab rat. This was the complete opposite experience. Dr. Kim seemed to genuinely care about my experience during the entire process and the outcome. He prescribed things to make the process as easy and cost effective as possible. He called with results himself, every time, including follow ups to see how I was doing. He was warm and playful, and he made the cycle we did with him an absolute pleasure.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
Based on the IVF medication Dr. Kim prescribed and the success we had with it, I can safely say my previous doctor was overmedicating me. I had fewer shots needed. He also thinks mock ERA cycles were not needed in my case, which cost a lot of time and money at our previous clinic. He also recommended against intrallipid infusions the day of the transfer, and it turns out that wasn't needed either (even though our last doctor upsold us on it). Our previous experience was that anything and everything that COULD work, our last doctor threw at us. Dr. Kim follows the science. He's extremely knowledge and will only ask a woman to undergo certain medication or treatment if and when it's absolutely necessary to achieve the desired outcome. For that I'm super appreciative.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli Carter)
Shelli was incredible. She was on hand to answer any questions whenever we had any (even after I was already pregnant and in the care of an OBGYN). She showed tremendous compassion and I really felt like she cared about our journey and outcome. She was also super knowledgeable about available research. The front desk was also a delight. They remembered me every time I was there and were always so friendly and warm. I felt like they really cared too and were a part of what made the experience so pleasurable.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Everyone there is super friendly and supportive and I could ramble on for hours about how each and every person on staff made the experience so much easier for us. The only weakness (if I'm pressed to name one) is that I have small veins and would have liked someone available there who was great at drawing my blood every visit (and sometimes it was hit or miss -- but to be fair, that has been my experience everywhere).
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
Dr. Kim did eSET for us because he said statistically that results in better success. I can only speak from experience, but it worked for us and now we have multiple embyos left over for the next pregnancy attempt.
Dr Kim is not in favor of dual embryo transfers...He's a true scientist at heart, he really enjoys the process, and the lab work that the embryologist is doing. He wants you to understand the science the same way he does, so he's happy to show images and explain ultrasounds all in real time. He's never too busy for a teaching moment...
RMA Southern CA doesn't do very many cycles per year - less than 500...Despite being a satellite office for a large national clinic, RMA in Southern CA feels more "boutique" than it does national. All the nursing staff knows my name and everyone is up to speed on my specific information...Shared Risk program cost $32,000 for up to 6 egg retrievals and unlimited number of embryo transfers. If unsuccessful, a portion or all of the amount paid is refunded.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
I was reluctant to choose a male doctor - but decided to choose a clinic based on the lab instead of the doctor. I got very lucky with Dr. Kim! He's a true scientist at heart, he really enjoys the process, and the lab work that the embryologist is doing. He wants you to understand the science the same way he does, so he's happy to show images and explain ultrasounds all in real time. He's never too busy for a teaching moment.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
He enjoys answering questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
RMA's headquarters are in NJ and they do some huge number of cycles annually (I think it's over 7,000 - you can check on Fertility IQ). But the Southern California branch is small - they do fewer than 500 per year. This provides the expertise of a national lab, but also the intimacy of a boutique clinic. Everyone always new my name.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
I don't know if my protocols had specific names.
For the first 2 IUIs we used Chlomid. For the third IUI we used the Follistim pen injection. None of the IUIs were successful.
For the Egg Retrieval we used a combination of Flotsam, Estrace (orally), and Ganirelix, Lupron, and Novarel.
For the FET we used Estrace (orally), and progesterone in oil injections.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli)
The Head nurse at RMA Southern CA is Shelli. She is incredibly capable and intelligent and organized - all important for her job. But beyond the basic functions of her position, she is one of those people who is so well suited for what she does. She has the personality and the demeanor to be encouraging but also to stick to the facts.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
RMA Southern CA doesn't do very many cycles per year - less than 500. So they do not have any data on Fertility IQ. I strongly suggest you look at their parent headquarter office RMA in New Jersey to see the quality of work their lab is doing. If you are interested in selecting a clinic based on labs or statistics, then RMA is a clinic you want to keep on your short list. Feel free to ask their staff direct questions about success rates.
Despite being a satellite office for a large national clinic, RMA in Southern CA feels more "boutique" than it does national. All the nursing staff knows my name and everyone is up to speed on my specific information. It feels like concierge medicine.
We qualified for the Shared Risk program with RMA which did require us to pay before starting treatment. I know shared risk is not for everyone, but for us it was a huge relief and allowed us to focus on the treatment.
Meter parking is always available on the side street. And the adjoining office building has courtyard with a cafe, so your partner has a nice outdoor area to wait since covid protocols are still in place.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
RMA does offer a pay-as-you-go option, but we selected the Shared Risk program, which is slightly more expensive upfront, but it caps your costs so they don't spiral out of control if you need multiple retrievals or embryo transfers.
Each IUI cost approx. $1300 (about $240/visit + medications) This amount can fluctuate depending on how you're responding to meds.
Shared Risk program cost $32,000 for up to 6 egg retrievals and unlimited number of embryo transfers. If unsuccessful, a portion or all of the amount paid is refunded.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
Dr. Kim is very even keel and realistic, knowledgeable and transparent. He described my treatment plans, provided expectations that made sense for me based on my situation (not just someone my age), and was very communicative. He is very genuine and you can tell that he cares about getting a successful outcome...He is a great communicator - happy to share information whenever asked, or explain things in more detail, but also doesn't bombard you with so much data that you can go down the rabbit hole. I appreciate his calm demeanor and his knowledge. He saw me at all monitoring visits and procedures, and seems to be very skilled. I had few side effects from retrievals, and with two rounds of egg retrievals for IVF I had very similar (and positive) results. He c
Shelli [nurse at RMA of Southern California] is great about following up with test results, checking in at the start of the retrieval cycle and on trigger day to make sure you know everything, and going over all protocols...This clinic is very comfortable - it's super clean and you feel comfortable and welcomed, but it also has the look & feel of a medical practice. I first started coming here during the pandemic, so have only seen the clinic operate using COVID protocols. This includes a health screening when they confirm your appointment, taking your temperature and another verbal health screening at check-in, chairs are socially distanced (although I was never waiting with anyone else), everyone wears masks, and partners can't come to appointments. The only time you won't have a mask on is during the retrieval itself. The location is well accessible - close to the 10/405 split. There is parking, but I th
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim is fantastic. I had done an initial consult at another clinic, where the doctor was overly enthusiastic, quick to jump to treatment, and used a lot of euphemisms. This made my husband and I really uncomfortable, as we wanted to understand the science of ART, what we could realistically expect, and what the process would be. Dr. Kim is a perfect fit for us - he wants you to be successful and treats you as a person, but also is great at explaining where you are in your fertility and setting realistic expectations (i.e. if my AMH is low and my AFC on day 3 is 8, a successful retrieval may be 7 eggs, not 30). He is a great communicator - happy to share information whenever asked, or explain things in more detail, but also doesn't bombard you with so much data that you can go down the rabbit hole. I appreciate his calm demeanor and his knowledge.
He saw me at all monitoring visits and procedures, and seems to be very skilled. I had few side effects from retrievals, and with two rounds of egg retrievals for IVF I had very similar (and positive) results. He checked in before and after, and is very patient with any questions. We are so grateful that we found this practice.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Stay calm and don't rush. I think that Dr. Kim is very methodical because he wants to get the best outcome for you (and the outcome is a healthy pregnancy). This may mean things take a little longer - you're not going to start the retrieval process the day of your consult, and since FET is their standard of care, it's going to be another month or more before you transfer. I think it's worth it - I'd rather not rush it. I appreciate that we waited a bit between my two retrieval cycles for my ovaries to calm down and have a better AFC, and he hasn't rushed me on the transfer, either, instead providing guidance on the best timing.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim is very even keel and realistic, knowledgeable and transparent. He described my treatment plans, provided expectations that made sense for me based on my situation (not just someone my age), and was very communicative. He is very genuine and you can tell that he cares about getting a successful outcome.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
IVF - We had the antagonist protocol (Follistim + low-dose HCG, Ganirelix, Leuprolide, Trigger Shot). In one round I was on BCP for a couple of weeks, in the other I wasn't but just had some estrace priming. In one cycle things went a little slower, so I was on Follistim a little longer than the first one, but all was good. I haven't yet started the transfer protocol.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli)
Shelli is amazing! You'll wind up speaking/emailing with her the most, as she is the main point of contact when you call or e-mail. She is a fantastic communicator, understands the science, is compassionate while also being transparent, and has fantastic bedside manner during the retrieval. If there's an outstanding question, she follows up. She, too, really cares about a successful outcome. I can't imagine having as positive an experience as I have had if she were not at this practice.
Shelli is great about following up with test results, checking in at the start of the retrieval cycle and on trigger day to make sure you know everything, and going over all protocols. She was also great with helping me navigate the pharmacy side of things, as my insurance covered some items but not everything was available.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Strengths - This is a smaller clinic that's part of a larger clinical network. To me, this means the best of both worlds: you get the insights from their cutting-edge technology and research, but you also have continuity of seeing the same doctors and nurses and staff when you come in. All of the staff here are so pleasant and skilled. The phlebotomists draw blood (and there's a lot of it) without any discomfort! They are responsive, it's easy enough to get appointments, and they are quick - I don't think I ever waited for more than 5 minutes. The surgical center (for retrievals/transfers) is on site, as is the embryology lab. The only thing not performed on site is the PGT-A testing; they send the biopsies to the east coast.
Another critical thing for me was insurance coverage. I am fortunate enough to have fertility treatments covered by my employer-based insurance, but many "in-network" fertility specialists that I reached out to (including both that my OB-GYN had initially recommended) did not do all of the treatment, and elements of the treatment would be out of network. Because of RMA-So Cal's set-up, the monitoring, retrievals, and fertilization/culturing were all in-house and therefore in-network. The only items out of network are anesthesiology during egg retrieval and the chromosomal testing.
I've seen some clinics that look like a "spa" experience (i.e. chandeliers) or instagram-worthy. That makes me feel a bit uncomfortable - at the end of the day, it's a medical clinic. This clinic is very comfortable - it's super clean and you feel comfortable and welcomed, but it also has the look & feel of a medical practice.
I first started coming here during the pandemic, so have only seen the clinic operate using COVID protocols. This includes a health screening when they confirm your appointment, taking your temperature and another verbal health screening at check-in, chairs are socially distanced (although I was never waiting with anyone else), everyone wears masks, and partners can't come to appointments. The only time you won't have a mask on is during the retrieval itself.
The location is well accessible - close to the 10/405 split. There is parking, but I think it's pricey - there are a lot of much cheaper meters (which are free before 8), and you'll always be in and out within 15-30 mins. There is also bike parking in the garage.
Not a weakness, per se, but when you're a new patient scheduling an appointment, it goes to a call center in NJ (where their largest practice or HQ is). It took a few days to hear back, which worried me at first. Have no fear! Once you become a patient, it's so easy to reach this clinic directly and get appointments quickly.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
My treatments were largely covered by insurance, so I don't have a great sense of out-of-pocket fees. Anesthesia for retrieval was ~$450. PGT-A testing is $300/embryo - I think this is great as many clinics charge a lump sum per batch which is far more expensive (thousands of dollars). I think you'd need to have double-digit embryos for the cost to even get close to what others charge for PGT-A testing.
They work with MDR pharmacy for the stim cycle drugs, unless if your insurance requires another provider. Mine was a hybrid of sorts. The Follistim was ~$250 per vial (1 vial/day) and the low-dose HCG was around $200. MDR is far less expensive than the pharmacy my insurance works with; I think they mentioned that the cash price for a stim cycle would run around $2,500-3,000 had I purchased everything from MDR.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
I think eSET is the standard of care here, but have not yet done a transfer. We are planning to do SET.
[Dr. Thomas Kim] is just a great person - always taking time to answer my questions or check in on me even if I was just there for bloodwork. I felt so cared about as a human...truly took the time to get to know us as people. He is candid without being callous and hopeful without overpromising. He was always available to answer questions and explain where we were headed. One example that comes to mind is that after every ultrasound, he would offer me his hand and help me into a sitting position so we could have a conversation. Something about that made me feel like a human and not just a number or a patient. He is so respectful. Just a gentle, kind man.
I cannot say enough good things about the team at RMA. Every single one of them was kind, compassionate, and knew who I was when I walked in...Retrieval Cycle - $13,600 (includes all visits, ultrasounds, bloodwork, the retrieval itself) $450 for anesthesia (outside party) PGS testing recommended...appreciate how research focused they are. It makes you confident in the approaches they are taking. So thankful for my experience here.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Doctor Kim truly took the time to get to know us as people. He is candid without being callous and hopeful without overpromising. He was always available to answer questions and explain where we were headed. One example that comes to mind is that after every ultrasound, he would offer me his hand and help me into a sitting position so we could have a conversation. Something about that made me feel like a human and not just a number or a patient. He is so respectful. Just a gentle, kind man.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Doctor Kim is efficient and sometimes can explain things quickly. If you need clarification, don’t be afraid to ask for it.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
From the moment I called RMA SoCal, I felt peace. Everyone I interacted with was kind, compassionate, and respectful. Doctor Kim is just a great person - always taking time to answer my questions or check in on me even if I was just there for bloodwork. I felt so cared about as a human.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
Doctor Kim put me on an antagonist protocol. Despite my low ovarian reserve, he felt good about my antral follicle count. I was on Gonal F (400iu) and low dose hCG (20iu). For the last 4 days we added in cetrotide. Trigger shot and retrieval 36 hours later. 9 eggs were retrieved - which was better than what was expected. Unfortunately, only 4 were mature. All 4 fertilized. 1 made it to day 5/6.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli Carter)
I cannot say enough good things about the team at RMA. Every single one of them was kind, compassionate, and knew who I was when I walked in. Azalea and Brittany were always there with a smile and a kind word. Our nurse, Shelli, is wonderful. She was always prompt in replying to emails and making sure I had the information that I needed. She helped out when I wanted to order my meds overseas and answered my many questions. Every person I came into contact with in that office created a comforting environment. Is it strange to almost look forward to your appointment because you enjoy the people you’ll see when you get there? That’s RMA.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
I would recommend RMA to friends and strangers alike. That’s why I’m here! My first clinic made me feel like a number. RMA is the complete opposite. You are a cared about human here. They are great communicators, we always had an easy time getting appointments when we needed them, they worked around our schedule. I also appreciate how research focused they are. It makes you confident in the approaches they are taking. So thankful for my experience here.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
Retrieval Cycle - $13,600 (includes all visits, ultrasounds, bloodwork, the retrieval itself)
$450 for anesthesia (outside party)
PGS testing recommended - $250/embryo
I have not made it to transfer, but I know that’s about $4,500
They also do your check ups until 7 weeks which I believe run somewhere around $150/visit.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
Doctor Kim is pretty firmly behind a SET. They are very confident in the embryos they grow at RMA and feel single embryo is the safest choice.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of Southern California?
Failed to inform you of changes in protocol
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of Southern California.
The only thing that was a challenge during our retrieval cycle happened because I needed to take my medication midday. They were changing up my protocol in the day or two leading up to retrieval, but I didn’t get that information until after already taking my medication for the day. That caused a bit of stress, but all ended up being fine.
Dr. Kim is a fantastic communicator...made it very clear to me what parts of the process had to be based on my results...aware of how they were modifying things as they went along....very good at giving a sort of "primer" to my partner who hadn't done as much research...has a lovely sense of humor
RMA was clearly the most organized and clear, which I found very reassuring...have a 24h nurse on call for any over-the-phone help that's needed...facilities are clean and calm, and the receptionists are lovely and helpful. Parking is very easy as well...only complaint with the staff is that one of the nurses in the phlebology lab was very careless and rough
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim is a fantastic communicator, and made it very clear to me what parts of the process had to be based on my results, so i was very aware of how they were modifying things as they went along. Dr. Kim was also very good at giving a sort of "primer" to my partner who hadn't done as much research, which was useful for bringing him into the process and not being intimidated it.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
My only piece of advice is to let patients know in advance that the routine bloodwork and ultrasounds can ONLY be scheduled early in the morning, and there's no option to come in later in the day. This created havoc for me because I live on the other side of the city and had to deal with rush hour traffic both ways, which was terribly inefficient for so many short and frequent visits. It would have been useful to know about their scheduling limitations before committing to working with RMA.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim presents information in a very easily-understandable way, but also happily cut to the chase when it became clear i'd done a lot of research prior. He is conservative in his estimations of the result as to not disappoint, which I appreciated. He has a lovely sense of humor and shared his opinion with me and my partner throughout the process, as to how the treatment should progress.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Jessica)
Jessica was my assigned nurse, and she was a very clear and organized communicator, very friendly, and present at almost all of my routine exams.
My only complaint with the staff is that one of the nurses in the phlebology lab was very careless and rough with drawing my blood and injured the vein in my left arm, leaving it tender with a blue and green bruise that's taken two weeks to heal. After leaving a complaint with my primary nurse, I was assigned different lab nurses who drew my blood from that point on were very skilled, careful and gentle.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Of all the clinics i set up consultations with, RMA was clearly the most organized and clear, which I found very reassuring. They have a 24h nurse on call for any over-the-phone help that's needed (which I had to use once, and found it very comforting and helpful). The facilities are clean and calm, and the receptionists are lovely and helpful. Parking is very easy as well.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
My treatment was about 13k all together, incliding consultation, anaesthesia, medication, and labs, which are not included in the clinic price.
Dr. Kim was everything I was looking for our IVF journey...so honest without being rude...set proper expectations...ability to answer all 1,000 of my questions....welcomed my interest in wanting to know every detail...so calm, so knowledgeable and confident...only does things when the conditions are perfect and not mediocre
[RMA of Southern California] is clean, quiet and beautiful! Everyone is knowledgeable and friendly...moves fast and effectively to help you meet your family goals...Emily was amazing to us...provided packets and tons of information...always set clear direction during my egg retrieval and transfers
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim was everything I was looking for our IVF journey. I am an absolute information junky so when it came time to do research on doctors I visited a few and when I met Dr. Kim I immediately knew he was the one. He was so honest without being rude, he set proper expectations with me and I very much appreciated his ability to answer all 1,000 of my questions. I did so much research for years knowing this is where I would end up and I believe he could see that and welcomed my interest in wanting to know every detail. Dr. Kim is amazing at what he does and so confident. His bedside manner matched what I was looking for. He's so calm, so knowledgeable and confident in his work. He only does things when the conditions are perfect and not mediocre! That's why he stood out to me. He understands if we do something, we do it right or not at all!
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
I would advise to do your research. Dr. Kim might not be for everyone and that is ok! But when you go expect honesty, perfection and no less. He is not a Doctor to cut corners or brush you off. He is there to help you meet your goals at the end of the day!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr.Kim and the entire staff at RMA were so welcoming to my husband and I. Everyone down to my phlebotomist, our nurse Emily, and Dr.Kim were so caring. We appreciated their understanding and commitment to making our experience an amazing one. They understood we drove over 2 hours to get to their office everyday and were so accommodating. We felt like a family by the end of our journey. Everyone in the office always seemed so happy to see us and we were so excited to see them. Even when we were going through the loss of one of our transfers they were all so apologetic and essentially held our hand through the grief. Our experience was truly unmatched and amazing.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Emily Wright )
Emily was amazing to us! She would always speak to both my husband and I! My husband attended EVERY SINGLE appointment and she saw how invested he and I were. She answered all my questions, she provided packets and tons of information (she's knows I'm an information junkie!), and always set clear direction during my egg retrieval and transfers
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Clinic is clean, quiet and beautiful! Everyone is knowledgeable and friendly . I don't see very much wrong with the clinic. Everyone is on the same page and attentive. I would say the clinic moves fast and effectively to help you meet your family goals
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of Southern California.
I loved monitoring appointments! The machines are so new and clear. The only downside is the appointments are down bright and early! And like I said we were driving over 2 hours for every appointment. But aside from that they are very thorough in their finds and monitoring
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
Under my employer we were offered IVF help through Progyny. Our costs lucky were very low and all payments were collected through Progyny and not through the clinic itself
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
Dr. Kim only does single transfers which was fine with us. He understands the risk of doing multiples and I appreciate that he does it this way
[Dr. Kim] first analyzed, my ovarian reserve, and my husband sperm. Once he had that information, we decided three egg retrieval’s. Per his suggestion, we did them all before our first embryo transfer his suggestion to do a natural cycle embryo transfer. Allow me to take as minimal drugs as possible and rely on my natural cycle to decipher, went to transfer our embryo. Our first try was successful as I knew it would be
The clinics care and staff [at RMA of Southern California] are stellar & by far their biggest strength. The finance department was in transition when i onboarded and could definitely be better coordinated with the medical team & their procedures...They communicated clearly, and made sure that I was on top of all appointments, drugs, and was equipped with any information needed to complete treatment. My nurse, Emily, was well in her pregnancy by the end of my treatment, yet I always felt taken care of
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim gave us facts and statistics, right from the first consultation. He analyzed our numbers and gave his professional medical opinion but always left room for possibility. He was very attentive to our goals and our priorities. For example, knowing that we preferred as natural a process as possible, he suggested that we do a natural cycle for embryo transfer. He’s consistent Karen empathy allow me to feel safe and relaxed throughout this entire process and greatly contributed to the success of a starting our family.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Ask as many questions as you need to feel informed and safe about the process. Dr. Ken is willing to fully explain the pros and cons and options thoroughly. He will give you information that is concise, clear, science based, while also analyzing your numbers and adjusting methods to give you the best outcome possible, it is truly a team effort working with Dr. Kim
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim and his staff were always attentive, informative and mindful of our questions, concerns and priorities. He made sure we were aware of the statistics, best practices, possible outcomes while keeping empathy and a positive outlook in tact.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
Doctor came first analyzed, my ovarian reserve, and my husband sperm. Once he had that information, we decided three egg retrieval’s. Per his suggestion, we did them all before our first embryo transfer his suggestion to do a natural cycle embryo transfer. Allow me to take as minimal drugs as possible and rely on my natural cycle to decipher, went to transfer our embryo. Our first try was successful as I knew it would be. Prior to working with Dr. Kim, other doctors have told us we probably would not get pregnant without ever analyzing our numbers first. Dr. Kim never jumped to conclusions or made assessments without first understanding the numbers, the odds and the options in all situations. Explain them clearly and well with empathy and compassion.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Emily Wright)
Emily Wright and the entire medical staff, an RMA Southern California, are wonderful & thorough. They communicated clearly, and made sure that I was on top of all appointments, drugs, and was equipped with any information needed to complete treatment. My nurse, Emily, was well in her pregnancy by the end of my treatment, yet I always felt taken care of, and grateful for her attentive manner even during maternity leave
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
The clinics care and staff are stellar & by far their biggest strength. The finance department was in transition when i onboarded and could definitely be better coordinated with the medical team & their procedures.
Dr. Kim took the time to understand my personal background - both related to infertility and not - and explained the reproductive process and the diagnosis I had received at a previous clinic clearly and with respect to my ethnicity and medical history. This continued every step of the way...is extremely intelligent and understanding. He took me seriously as an individual, and seemed really invested in a positive outcome for our family. He took time to answer any question I had. I appreciated that he performed almost every ultrasound personally
[RMA of Southern California] Strengths: 1. Very small clinic, so it's extremely personalized...very single ultrasound was performed by one of the doctors or Emily, the nurse practitioner -- someone I knew and who knew me. 2. It's connected to the larger RMA network, so they are at the forefront of research...3. Dr. Kim is no-nonsense...4. They were very flexible about allowing my acupuncturist to treat me in house. Weaknesses...I don't love their email system or the app they use. The emails are difficult to access from a mobile device, and the app doesn't update consistently.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim is extremely intelligent and understanding. He took me seriously as an individual, and seemed really invested in a positive outcome for our family. He took time to answer any question I had. I appreciated that he performed almost every ultrasound personally, and that he reviewed the results of any ultrasound performed by Dr. Landay or NP Emily Wright. He also put me at ease - one of the first things he told me was that I was paying him a lot of money for his expertise and knowledge, and that I should focus on all the other areas of my life and not stress about doing all the research or letting anxiety get in the way of my treatments. I appreciated this, because IVF is so stressful, and in general, I have issues with stress triggering physical symptoms. But, even with that caveat, he always answered my questions thoroughly and with tenderness - I was never brushed off, just reassured that I was in good hands. I also appreciated that he didn't overwhelm me with information - he shared each step of the protocol as it was necessary for me to know, since he was flexible about making adjustments when necessary and wanted to minimize my anxiety.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
He is open to questions and feedback, so be vocal! Trust him when he says he cares.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
I felt like a human from the moment I walked in. I have a lot of allergies to foods and medications, and am usually not taken seriously by medical professionals. Priscillia, the tech who took my initial vitals and general intake, took my medical history extremely seriously, and went over the ingredients that would be used in the ultrasound for my consultation. During my consultation, Dr. Kim took the time to understand my personal background - both related to infertility and not - and explained the reproductive process and the diagnosis I had received at a previous clinic clearly and with respect to my ethnicity and medical history. This continued every step of the way. Each person I spoke to - from billing to reception to medical techs to nurses to doctors - knew who I was, what my medical history entailed, what my fertility history entailed, and where my anxieties lay. I was offered services specific to my religious practice. Most importantly, when I suffered an ectopic pregnancy followed the first transfer and had to go to the ER to terminate it, Dr. Kim and the on-call nurse Merrissa were in constant communication with the ER doctor, even though it was a Saturday. Additionally, Dr. Kim tweaked my treatment protocols based on my unique sensitivities.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
For my egg retrieval, I did injections of low dose HCG and Follistim and trigger shot before retrieval. For my first transfer cycle, I took estradiol, initially 2 doses of 2mg orally and then upped to 3 doses, one vaginally. Then, I added injections of progesterone in olive oil (I have a sesame allergy)- 1 cc daily. I used metrogel the night before the transfer and a progesterone suppository the morning of. I did get pregnant, but it resulted in a likely ectopic pregnancy which I had terminated in the ER with injections of methotrexate. We switched treatment protocols for my second transfer, since Dr. Kim hypothesized that my extreme allergic history may have led to inflammation of my uterus, and we weren't 100% confirmed that the pregnancy was ectopic (I was told by the ER doctor that this is the case 15% of the time - the embryo was growing at a rate that indicated it was ectopic and I experienced severe cramping and bleeding but the embryo could not be found in either my uterus or fallopian tubes). The second transfer protocol included only 2mg of estradiol 2x a day, progesterone in olive oil at 1cc 1x a day, doxycycline to prevent infection (about a week before), medrol steroids to prevent inflammation (3 days before, day of, day after), metrogel, and a progesterone suppository. This transfer did not result in a pregnancy. For my third transfer, we switched to a natural protocol, as Dr. Kim hypothesized that perhaps my immune system was reacting to the embryo as a foreign body since the whole cycle was synthetic, and if we convinced my body that it was pregnant naturally, the embryo would stick properly. For this cycle, we began with birth control, then letrazole pills to boost ovulation. I didn't respond as well to the letrazole as expected, so he tweaked the protocol to add in a few days of Follistim, initially at 100 and then dialed down to 75 and then back to 100. This stimulated three eggs, and then we triggered ovulation. Then, I did progesterone in olive oil injections (1cc) - usually the protocol would be a progesterone suppository, but I was allergic to the inactive ingredients in the suppository so Dr. Kim adjusted the medication. I had had a bad stomach reaction to the doxycycline, so we nixed that but kept the steroids in from the previous cycle, with a slightly adjusted timeline (2 days before, 1 day of, 2 days after), metrogel, and progesterone suppository. This resulted in a pregnancy, and I am now nearly 20 weeks along!
Some other notes - a previous doctor suggested I take Vitamin B, a probiotic, Vitamin D, and magnesium. I did this for my egg retrieval and the first transfer cycle (minus the Vitamin B, 5000 IU of Vitamin D). I didn't feel great on all the vitamins and skipped them for cycle #2. On Dr. Kim's recommendation, I added them back in for cycle #3 (2000 IU vitamin D).
I also did acupuncture before each procedure - 12 sessions before my egg retrieval, weekly before my transfers, as well as one treatment before and after each transfer. Dr. Kim was supportive of acupuncture and made space for my acupuncturist to treat me in the clinic.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Three nurses, one for each cycle. Emily Wright oversaw my egg retrieval and first transfer. Torrie Washington took over my second transfer when Emily went on maternity leave. I had issues with Torrie, so I requested a switch and was assigned to Merrissa Wowk.)
I had different experiences with each nurse.
Emily, my first nurse, and a nurse practitioner, was very good. She had excellent bedside manner, especially following my pregnancy termination. There were times I felt like she didn't explain everything super clearly - I was a bit more nervous about doing the injections correctly than I think she understood. But overall, she was a good communicator and very competent, and I felt safe and cared for.
Torrie was my second nurse. She was very new and it showed. My only concern at all with RMA is my experience with Torrie. She had terrible bedside manner - sometimes was rude, dismissive, and acted like I was bothering her when I had questions. But most egregiously, she made several mistakes. She called in some prescriptions incorrectly, not paying attention to my allergies. She had difficulty placing the ultrasound monitor during my second transfer and Dr. Kim had to take over. She also gave me misinformation about when to start taking birth control pills for my third cycle. I had a feeling she was wrong (she suggested I take them on Sunday regardless of whether I started my period, and I'd always been told to take birth control at the start of a menstrual cycle). I called the clinic to address my concerns and switch nurses, and Pooja, who was the nurse in charge, was extremely understanding, immediately switched my care to Merrissa, clarified my medication instructions, and promised to review Torrie's training. To her credit, I had a medication emergency at 6am when Torrie was the on call nurse, and she was kinder to me then and made sure to contact Merrissa before giving me advice because she said she didn't know the answer and wanted to make sure she gave me the correct information. I appreciated that growth.
Merrissa is AMAZING!!! I am so glad she got to be my nurse. She took care of me virtually as the on-call nurse when I had to go to the ER for the ectopic pregnancy and was incredibly knowledgeable and compassionate. As my primary nurse, she took the time to explain each step of the protocol, made sure I understood the medication instructions, took care to pivot with regards to my allergies, and had the most wonderful bedside manner. I felt so safe with her. She was invested in my journey and really understood me as an individual. I wish she could be my nurse throughout pregnancy.
Also - shoutout to Pooja. Not only was she helpful in solving my issues with Torrie, but she was the on call nurse one night when I had a medication emergency and calmly talked my husband through it (I was too upset to get on the phone). She also prepped me for my egg retrieval. I have small veins, and it was difficult to hook in the IV, and she led a team for 45 minutes to get the IV inserted, keeping me calm the entire time and taking care to avoid triggering a nerve condition I have in my right leg that can be exacerbated by needles.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Strengths:
1. Very small clinic, so it's extremely personalized. Even on the rare occasion I was treated by Dr. Landay, the other doctor in the practice, I was reassured that she knew everything about my specific case. Every single ultrasound was performed by one of the doctors or Emily, the nurse practitioner -- someone I knew and who knew me.
2. It's connected to the larger RMA network, so they are at the forefront of research. This was also helpful because I had to get an ultrasound over Thanksgiving weekend and was able to visit the clinic in New Jersey for my monitoring while I was visiting family on the east coast. Dr. Kim made it clear that it was important for my mental health to get time with family, and I was lucky to have access to the extended team.
3. Dr. Kim is no-nonsense. At another clinic I went to, I felt blamed for my infertility, and was given advice to change my lifestyle in ways I found extremely stressful. Here, Dr. Kim was clear that it my decreased ovarian reserve was a genetic condition and no amount of changing my lifestyle could give me more eggs. It took a lot of pressure off, and allowed me to focus on my treatment and my life.
4. They were very flexible about allowing my acupuncturist to treat me in house.
Weaknesses:
1. Torrie was not a good nurse. I hope she gets more training.
2. I don't love their email system or the app they use. The emails are difficult to access from a mobile device, and the app doesn't update consistently.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
Egg retrieval - $15,500
Anesthesia - $550
PGT-A - $300 per embryo
PGT-M - $400 per embryo
Transfer - $4575
These prices are for those with no coverage for infertility. Some blood tests and ultrasounds were run through my insurance.
The clinic uses MDR pharmacy, which offers some of the best discounts on fertility meds and provides all syringes, alcohol swabs, and sharps containers for free, and they offer some patient discounts on certain medications.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
RMA Socal only performs single embroy transfers, and I think that's great.
What specific things went wrong at RMA of Southern California?
Failed to call in prescriptions to pharmacy
Failed to convey critical information
Failed to consider drug intolerance
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of Southern California.
Torrie forgot to call in medication once, and on several occasions called in medications I was allergic to. She also gave me the wrong information regarding when to start birth control.
However, the other nurses were exceptional, and Merrissa in particular was very clear about my allergies and made sure to call in the right doses and double check everything.
He [Dr. Thomas Kim] was extremely rude and condescending. At the consult he told an elaborate story about "an ideal American couple" with very generic names and good careers and super fertile which wasn't relevant and very triggering. He literally laughed at me when I shared a statistic I read. When I complained to the office about him, he went on to call me back and again was pushy with his perspective even though I said I never wanted to work with him.
I was able to get an appointment quickly [at RMA of Southern California]. The office was clean and there was plenty of spots to wait. They had extra masks. They didn't lose any of my information. All emails were sent in a secure platform (except the email from Dr. Kim). I was seen quickly once I arrived at the clinic. They took my vitals and weight and height...[Dr. Thomas Kim] was was extremely rude and condescending
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
During our consult for some reason he told an elaborate story about "Sarah" and "John" who were two "all-American good looking couple with great jobs. John works in technology. Sarah works in business. They have a home and Sarah is very fertile". The story went on for forever and it wasn't relevant to me or to my situation but he kept on telling it. And he wasn't sensitive to the fact that as someone with POI/DOR I was not interested in hearing the success rates of a highly fertile couple. Also how much money they make and their hypothetical home and hypothetical jobs weren't relevant at all. I gave him a statistic from NIH and Pub med that he literally laughed at. I left the appointment upset. I emailed a complaint and he called me back and said "sorry I came across in a bad way but I just want to tell you that I'm right" so basically in "apologizing" he was more concerned about his ego and being proven right. Even though he actually was wrong and I sent the link to the research article to prove it. On the phone call he kept berating me again about how unlikely it is that I will ever get pregnant. Which I already know but he did not need to do that. All he needed to do was apologize and I didn't even ask the office for an apology. But instead he said "sorry if I came across wrong but I just really want you to know how impossible it will be for you to get pregnant". Again, unneeded. I hung up on him and emailed the office again telling them I never want to work with them and I don't want him to ever contact me again and then got ANOTHER email from him again repeating again how impossible pregnancy would be for me. It was like he wanted to crush every hope and wish. I get it. 5% is not a great statistic but you don't have to keep telling me that over and over when I already said I don't want to work with you.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Just skip the consult all together.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
He was extremely rude and condescending. At the consult he told an elaborate story about "an ideal American couple" with very generic names and good careers and super fertile which wasn't relevant and very triggering. He literally laughed at me when I shared a statistic I read. When I complained to the office about him, he went on to call me back and again was pushy with his perspective even though I said I never wanted to work with him.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
He recommended donor eggs
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
I was able to get an appointment quickly. The office was clean and there was plenty of spots to wait. They had extra masks. They didn't lose any of my information. All emails were sent in a secure platform (except the email from Dr. Kim). I was seen quickly once I arrived at the clinic. They took my vitals and weight and height.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
Dr. Kim was a great fit for our family and situation, and our interaction with him was a high point in a long fertility journey that included fertility medications, IVF, surrogacy and plenty of other complications before we were blessed with our children. This is a wonderful doctor if you enjoy straightforward communication, being as active a participant as you want in your treatment decision, and evidence-based treatments.
RMA of SoCal is a finely tuned machine. I had almost 0 wait time in all my many visits. They are organized with patient records and in communication. Overall this clinic made a traditionally traumatic experience much better and even enjoyable at times. I recommend them highly...[nurse] Shelli Carter at RMA is an absolute gem, compassionate, always 100% organized - all of my 30 or so visits here started and ended in time. She answered all the questions I had throughout my cycles (connecting me with Dr Kim if necessary), provided supplemental data I asked for, and exercised a high level of care and involvement in my treatment. She is amazing!
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim was a great fit for our family and situation, and our interaction with him was a high point in a long fertility journey that included fertility medications, IVF, surrogacy and plenty of other complications before we were blessed with our children. This is a wonderful doctor if you enjoy straightforward communication, being as active a participant as you want in your treatment decision, and evidence-based treatments.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Be straightforward and ask any questions you have about the process. Dr. Kim is very patient and knowledgeable.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim and his staff were with me for three years of fertility treatments, including a beautiful surrogate journey and a surprise natural pregnancy. Communication was prompt, appointments always started on time, I got answers to all questions about my treatment. Overall I felt the team truly cared. Appointments were always a great part of my day.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
Letrozole resulted in a chemical pregnancy 3 IVF freeze-all: retrieved 35 eggs resulting in 8 PGS normal embryos. Lining was always way too thin for a transfer and was unresponsive to estrogen. We progressed to surrogacy for one of the frozen embryos -> first transfer worked -> living child I had 1 successful natural pregnancy almost a great later. Although this was not a pregnancy created at RMA, they were kind enough to give full monitoring up to 9weeks, where I was transferred to an OB -> currently 25 weeks pregnant.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli Carter)
Shelli Carter at RMA is an absolute gem, compassionate, always 100% organized - all of my 30 or so visits here started and ended in time. She answered all the questions I had throughout my cycles (connecting me with Dr Kim if necessary), provided supplemental data I asked for, and exercised a high level of care and involvement in my treatment. She is amazing!
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
RMA of SoCal is a finely tuned machine. I had almost 0 wait time in all my many visits. They are organized with patient records and in communication. Overall this clinic made a traditionally traumatic experience much better and even enjoyable at times. I recommend them highly.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
Dr. Kim recommends eSET for euploid frozen embryos.
Dr. Kim spent so much time talking to me about my history, different treatment options, and expected outcomes. And every single time I had an appointment at the clinic, I saw Dr. Kim...he's honest and tells it how it is...I was grateful to Dr. Kim for sharing facts and science to back everything that he recommended, and for explaining the information in a way that made sense and was digestible...
Shelli [nurse at RMA of Southern California] was FANTASTIC. She always called me the same day I was seen for morning monitoring and spent ample time thoroughly reviewing my levels, my meds, and answering my hundred questions...I always saw the same few faces during my appointments, which made the experience feel much warmer...And I never waited more than a few minutes to be seen. And the clinic itself is beautiful - it looks brand new, and so modern....
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim has all the qualities of a fantastic doctor. He is kind and gentle with his approach - I always felt how invested he was in my success. At the same time, he's honest and tells it how it is. As someone who is naturally a control freak in life, it was very difficult for me to accept that I can't control my fertility. But I was grateful to Dr. Kim for sharing facts and science to back everything that he recommended, and for explaining the information in a way that made sense and was digestible. It made the uncontrollable feel a little more manageable.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Don't be afraid to ask questions! If something doesn't make sense to you straight away, Dr. Kim will be able to explain it clearly so that you feel comfortable with the information.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
From the beginning, Dr. Kim spent so much time talking to me about my history, different treatment options, and expected outcomes. And every single time I had an appointment at the clinic, I saw Dr. Kim. He managed my care from A-Z! Additionally, while I was in cycle and going in for monitoring visits, his nurse Shelli would call me that same afternoon and review my lab results and medications for the following few days. I always felt SO taken care of by the two of them.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
For my retrieval cycle, I had an antagonist cycle IVF with PGT-A. Used Estrace, Follistim, low dose HCG, Ganirelix, and Pregnyl/Lupron trigger. I responded much better than anticipated, so Dr. Kim adjusted my meds and dosage as I got closer to my retrieval. He had me trigger at the perfect time to maximize the number of eggs retrieved as well as avoid hyperstimulation.
For my transfer cycle, I had a medicated cycle and took Estrace and progesterone (in oil, intramuscular).
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelli)
Shelli was FANTASTIC. She always called me the same day I was seen for morning monitoring and spent ample time thoroughly reviewing my levels, my meds, and answering my hundred questions. She was just as invested and instrumental in my care as Dr. Kim, and I am so so thankful she was my nurse.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Love the entire staff at RMA!! I always saw the same few faces during my appointments, which made the experience feel much warmer. The girls at the front desk always greeted me with a smile, asked me how I was doing, and celebrated each milestone along with me, which was so sweet and comforting.
I was always able to get an appointment quickly and super early in the morning, so I wouldn't have to miss work. And I never waited more than a few minutes to be seen. And the clinic itself is beautiful - it looks brand new, and so modern.
Dr. Kim is very patient, during our first consult, he took time to understand our prior failure with another clinic and the protocol that we followed. He was very honest and forthcoming in answering all our questions/concerns. After our first consult, I had complete faith in his approach and treatment protocol for us...We used the long lupron protocol, stimmed for 8 days, resulting in 11 eggs, 8 fertilized with ICSI, and we had 2 day 6 blastocysts. We elected to do PGS, which resulted in a single normal embryo.
[RMA New Jersey] Strengths: - Excellent team of doctors and nurses. Every single doctor I met was extremely efficient and also friendly. - Excellent embryology lab, this is a critical factor in their success rates. - Short wait times for monitoring, I was in and out in about 15-30 minutes...Nicole was my primary point of contact throughout my treatment (IVF/FET) cycles. She would call me back with results, instructions and next steps in a timely manner. On days when she was out of office, the person covering would always reach out in a timely manner as well. She promptly responded to all my phone calls and emails.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
Dr. Kim is very patient, during our first consult, he took time to understand our prior failure with another clinic and the protocol that we followed. He was very honest and forthcoming in answering all our questions/concerns. After our first consult, I had complete faith in his approach and treatment protocol for us.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
Dr. Kim and entire staff of RMA treated me with empathy, kindness and excellent attention to detail. I was never made to feel like another statistic/number, I believe my doctor and nurse sincerely cared for the outcome of my treatment.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey and their degree of success.
We used the long lupron protocol, stimmed for 8 days, resulting in 11 eggs, 8 fertilized with ICSI, and we had 2 day 6 blastocysts. We elected to do PGS, which resulted in a single normal embryo.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey. (Assigned nurse: Nicole Michaels)
Nicole was my primary point of contact throughout my treatment (IVF/FET) cycles. She would call me back with results, instructions and next steps in a timely manner. On days when she was out of office, the person covering would always reach out in a timely manner as well. She promptly responded to all my phone calls and emails.
Describe your experience with RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
Strengths:
- Excellent team of doctors and nurses. Every single doctor I met was extremely efficient and also friendly.
- Excellent embryology lab, this is a critical factor in their success rates.
- Short wait times for monitoring, I was in and out in about 15-30 minutes.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
Monitoring was very efficient. I went to Basking ridge location for most of my monitoring.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
I had excellent insurance coverage, which covered most of treatment cost. I was responsible for co-pays, deductible, co-insurances.
At times he [Dr. Kim] seemed cold and clinical but I can appreciate now how being a Doctor Who is more emotional about it would've made it harder for me. ..When it came time to decide whether not to do a fourth cycle he laid out the odds for us in a very matter-of-fact factor and again I appreciate that he was not emotional about it and try to use percentages and averages to explain what the possibilities were of things working
I was still working full-time in New York when I had to go through treatments [at RMA] so while some people may not like the fact they see the same doctor or staff every time they come in it was a strength for me since I didn't ever have to worry about getting an appointment for blood work...The only problem I had was with the accounting department...Maria made the whole process much more painful and if I could have moved clinics I would have.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
Overall I was happy. At times he seemed cold and clinical but I can appreciate now how being a Doctor Who is more emotional about it would've made it harder for me. I think you did a good job at explaining what we were dealing with. When it came time to decide whether not to do a fourth cycle he laid out the odds for us in a very matter-of-fact factor and again I appreciate that he was not emotional about it and try to use percentages and averages to explain what the possibilities were of things working
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
I think I think as a patient you have to take into consideration your personality and when interviewing prospective doctors consider how their bedside manner will work as either a pro or con for you
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
I think he had a good combination of being frank about what we were dealing with but being sympathetic to the situation
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey and their degree of success.
After reviewing the percentage of successful birth with IUI compared IVF it only seemed to make sense to do the IVF since it had such a higher rate of success even though it was more invasive. Looking back now on the second cycle we did which we started as an IVF but switched are you why because my follicles were not growing properly seems like kind of a waste of money
Describe your experience with the nursing staff at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
You saw different people different nurses different doctors every time you went in but working full time made it difficult to schedule things. This clinic turned out to be the right situation for us because we could always get a early morning appointments before heading to work even though I only saw Dr. Kim I handful of times
Describe your experience with RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
Drinks would be the flexibility. I was still working full-time in New York when I had to go through treatments so while some people may not like the fact they see the same doctor or staff every time they come in it was a strength for me since I didn't ever have to worry about getting an appointment for blood work
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
Too many to remember but I think each IVF retrieval cycle cost about $6000 and medication cost another $4000. The frozen transfer cost about $3000 and the medications about $1500
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
We had already decided we were only going to do one embryo at a time and did not want to chance twins. Also out of four attempts of IVF cycles we only ended up with two embryos and decided to transfer them separately anyway. If we had ended up with more embryos I still don't think we would have done multiple transfers
What specific things went wrong at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
Provided conflicting information
Describe the specific things that went wrong at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
The only problem I had was with the accounting department. Having to pay for everything out of pocket was stressful. Maria made the whole process much more painful and if I could have moved clinics I would have.
He [Dr Kim] was patient and kind and explained everything thoroughly. There was excellent communication. At our initial consult, Dr. Kim explained everything in such detail and made sure we understood what was going on. Once testing and treatment started, my nurse was an amazing resource and would contact me sometimes multiple times a day to update me and check on how I was doing.
I have been nothing but happy with them [RMA of New Jersey]. Their wait times are excellent - during morning bloodwork I'm normally in and out in less than ten minutes. I've never had to wait more than 15 minutes. Their lab is top notch. They don't check on embryos until day 5, which can be nerve wracking, but it is better for the embryos to not be disturbed. The whole team is very professional....There was excellent communication. At our initial consult, Dr. Kim explained everything in such detail and made sure we understood what was going on. Once testing and treatment started, my nurse was an amazing resource and would contact me sometimes multiple times a day to update me and check on how I was doing.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
He was patient and kind and explained everything thoroughly.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
There was excellent communication. At our initial consult, Dr. Kim explained everything in such detail and made sure we understood what was going on. Once testing and treatment started, my nurse was an amazing resource and would contact me sometimes multiple times a day to update me and check on how I was doing.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey and their degree of success.
I was on an estrogen-primed antagonist protocol. I had bloodwork and ultrasounds on day 3 (baseline), after 3 days of stims, after 5 days, and after 6 days. I triggered after 6 days of stims. My stims were 150 IU of menopur and 200 IU of follistim. I started ganirelix on day 4 of stims. At my egg retrieval, 3 eggs were retrieved, of which 2 were mature. Both of my two eggs were fertilized with ICSI and both made it to 5 day blastocysts. One was transferred to me, resulting in my current pregnancy, and the other was frozen. I am very pleased with these results, especially with my DOR.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey. (Assigned nurse: Anne Tepper )
Anne was absolutely wonderful. She was my main line of communication and was incredibly easy to reach. Some days she would call me multiple times to update me and see how I was doing. She didn't let any setbacks get to me and kept reminding me of the end goal. I would highly recommend her.
Describe your experience with RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
I have been nothing but happy with them. Their wait times are excellent - during morning bloodwork I'm normally in and out in less than ten minutes. I've never had to wait more than 15 minutes. Their lab is top notch. They don't check on embryos until day 5, which can be nerve wracking, but it is better for the embryos to not be disturbed. The whole team is very professional.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
Morning monitoring is between 6-7:30 on weekdays (until 10 on weekends). I never had to wait more than a few minutes. They understand that you have to go to work and get you in and out quickly and efficiently, while still feeling cared for.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
My insurance covered almost everything except for the occasional $10 copay and the cost for embryo cryopreservation and storage (explicitly excluded as part of the NJ state mandate).
Dr. Kim is a professional and experienced. We liked to call him the "embryo whisperer", as we always had positive results when he did our transfers. As his patient, he came down to personally do my transfers. I appreciated that.... When we went back to Dr. Kim to try again after our loss, he grieved with us and made us feel like we had a second chance. And we did. We did two back-to-back retrievals and the first embryo we transferred resulted in my now three year old son.
RMANJ is a excellent clinic with high success rates and experienced, usually compassionate doctors that are willing to work with you to provide the best standard of care. The office visits are very efficient. That said, one of the downsides is probably a long wait time for initial consults and workups. Usually a month or more out.... Ann Tepper was my nurse when I got pregnant with the twins...and then when I came back for my eSet with my son.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
Dr. Kim is a professional and experienced. We liked to call him the "embryo whisperer", as we always had positive results when he did our transfers. As his patient, he came down to personally do my transfers. I appreciated that.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
You do deal with the nurses more than the actual doctor on a day-to-day basic, but if you have questions or concerns ... always feel that you can reach out to him.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
Dr. Kim is compassionate. Our first transfer of two embryos resulting in a twin pregnancy, which I lost at 22 weeks. When we went back to Dr. Kim to try again after our loss, he grieved with us and made us feel like we had a second chance. And we did. We did two back-to-back retrievals and the first embryo we transferred resulted in my now three year old son.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey and their degree of success.
We used the Antagonist Protocol, although I don't really know his rationale for using them. I pretty much put my faith in that he knew what he was doing. Some of the injectables we used were ... Follistim AQ, Menopur, Ganirelix, Ovidrel. I always produced a good amount of eggs, just not necessarily PGD normal ones.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey. (Assigned nurse: Ann Tepper, then Jennifer Dwyer)
Ann Tepper was my nurse when I got pregnant with the twins...and then when I came back for my eSet with my son. She was great, always very communicative but also very much to the point. Jennifer was my nurse during my remaining two eSet that unfortunately let to a chemical and negative pregnancy test. She was also compassionate and reliable. I loved them both.
Describe your experience with RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
RMANJ is a excellent clinic with high success rates and experienced, usually compassionate doctors that are willing to work with you to provide the best standard of care. The office visits are very efficient. That said, one of the downsides is probably a long wait time for initial consults and workups. Usually a month or more out.
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
It was an efficient well-oiled machine, with sometimes a bit of a wait in the morning. Weekends are very hectic ... best bet, get there early.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
With my insurance, my costs were minimal. The largest cost was PGD/CCS. Other payments were co-pays and some lab fees and minor medication supplies and supplement costs.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
After the loss of my twins at close to 22 weeks, I did not want to risk multiples. So it was pretty much eSET or nothing, after that. Dr. Kim agreed.
Dr. Kim truly understood what my husband and I were going through. Him and his wife also dealt with infertility.... so he knows what it does to you and how it changes you. He helped find me clinical studies to help save me money since my insurance didn’t cover IVF.... We started with injectibles. He did recommend we go straight to IVF. I knew he was right because my husbands sperm count, mobility and morphology were all low.
Their strength are all in their numbers. Looking up their SART was what made me switch fertility clinics. Possibly weaknesses might be they [RMA of New Jersey] have taken over another fertility group and opened many more offices since I have been a patient. I am not sure if all the new offices and staff have the knowledge and compassion as the staff back when they weren’t all over NJ. I still would recommend them in a heart beat. Because of them I have my two beautiful twin girls
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
As previous stated before Dr. Kim is an amazing man and someone who also dealt with infertility so he knows what it does to you and how it changes you. He helped find me clinical studies to help save me money since my insurance didn’t cover IVF.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
Trust his opinions and trust him as a doctor.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
Dr. Kim truly understood what my husband and I were going through. Him and his wife also dealt with infertility. Their infertility issues was the reason he switched to reproductive medicine. He always made me feel comfortable and confident which is what you need when you’re in a cycle. You don’t need to be discouraged. He also went out of his way to go my transfer when we wasn’t the doctor on call that day. I recommended him to so many of my friends and those who used him all have their babies now.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey and their degree of success.
We started with injectibles. He did recommend we go straight to IVF. I knew he was right because my husbands sperm count, mobility and morphology were all low. But my insurance covered IUIs so we did those until we maxed out (4 cycles). We then did a natural ivf cycle, it was all completely free. He said chances would work with a singleton pregnancy but it also had low chances of working because it wasn’t a medicated cycle. Unfortunately I didn’t have an egg in the one follicle I produced that cycle. After that we went straight to ivf. I remember worrying that I was getting enough follicles and dr Kim listened to my concerns looked at all the monitoring reports and in the end I had a great retrevial. 19 collected, 15 were mature, 14 fertilized and 8 in total after GENETIC testing.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey. (Assigned nurse: Lauren Nervi)
My primary nurse was amazing. I loved her. Always so responsive and so smart. All the nurses on staff were amazing as well.
Describe your experience with RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
Their strength are all in their numbers. Looking up their SART was what made me switch fertility clinics. Possibly weaknesses might be they have taken over another fertility group and opened many more offices since I have been a patient. I am not sure if all the new offices and staff have the knowledge and compassion as the staff back when they weren’t all over NJ. I still would recommend them in a heart beat. Because of them I have my two beautiful twin girls
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
I was always in and out in the basking ridge office. I loved the office itself too. It was beautiful, clean and bright.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
Monitoring days/bloodwork days, I had no copay. They performed double IUIs for the cost of one. IVF cost was 10,500 ICSI AND genetic testing was included (part of study)
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
Rmanj really try to keep your transfer to a minimum of 1 because it is safer on the mother and the babies. However the study I was a part of I had to transfer 2 embryos.
He is honest, yet open to patient suggestions. Most importantly he gets the job done. He is a very intelligent doctor. I felt like I was in good hands with Dr.Kim....Dr. Kim said he would not consider putting two embryos in me. Flat out told me I was little and I have had a previous fibroid removal sergury...He also recommended testing of the embryos since before I began with him I had 3 losses in a row...once you meet with him you will see how passionate he is about getting you results.
There [RMA - Somerset] strength is in there results! The support services they connect you with and offer. The testing lab on sight. Their availability and skill. Weaknesses: sometimes you feel like you are just on an assembly line. However, work it,it is worth it!...[Nurse] I did not find her to be a good communicator and she was rude...[Monitoring Appointments] I was glad that they started early so I could get to work on time.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
He is honest, yet open to patient suggestions. Most importantly he gets the job done. He is a very intelligent doctor. I felt like I was in good hands with Dr.Kim. I have heard some say he is not the hand holding type. However, what I needed was someone who would be blunt and get us pregnant. We owe him the world! We have our absolute blessing as a result of his skills and talent in the field.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
My advise if schedule a meeting or phone call with him, if you need attention. He probably has so many patients to keep track of. However, once you meet with him you will see how passionate he is about getting you results. He is probably spending a lot of time considering and reviewing all of his patient treatment plans.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
I could tell he was eager and hard working. I knew he wanted to get results.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey and their degree of success.
Dr. Kim said he would not consider putting two embryos in me. Flat out told me I was little and I have had a previous fibroid removal sergury. I am glad he recommended this. He also recommended testing of the embryos since before I began with him I had 3 losses in a row. This was also awesome! Our transfer was successful using the tested embryos and we were able avoid possible implanting two translocation embryos that would have resulted in miscarriage.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey. (Assigned nurse: Andrea)
I did not find her to be a good communicator and she was rude. I do not think she is working here any more. I heard his new nurse is nice.
Describe your experience with RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
There strength is in there results! The support services they connect you with and offer. The testing lab on sight. Their availability and skill.
Weaknesses: sometimes you feel like you are just on an assembly line.
However, work it,it is worth it!
Describe your experience with your monitoring appointments at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
I was glad that they started early so I could get to work on time.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
I don't remember, but I was fortunate to have my insurance cover a great deal of it.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
He was definitely for SET with testing. He emphasized safety and health for the children and mother
He [Dr. Thomas Kim] was clear and easy to understand. Very straightforward which I appreciated. I felt like he was the best in his field and I felt safe putting my trust in him. During the procedures he was very kind and reassuring. He made it less scary and I felt like everything would work out...Dr Kim only does singles no multiples as it is harder on the body and would be more likely to succeed with one.
Overall really great. Some of the new [RMA of Southern California] staff are inexperienced which could lead to miscommunication. So be on top of everything yourself. Read all documents fully, you don’t want any surprise bills. Really easy to work with...It always felt like they took my case seriously and did their best when problems arose. They were always available and reassuring...Dr Kim only does singles no multiples as it is harder on the body and would be more likely to succeed with one.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
He was clear and easy to understand. Very straightforward which I appreciated. I felt like he was the best in his field and I felt safe putting my trust in him. During the procedures he was very kind and reassuring. He made it less scary and I felt like everything would work out.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Be informed about all the pricing before you start.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
It always felt like they took my case seriously and did their best when problems arose. They were always available and reassuring.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
For the transfer I took estradiol pills and progesterone shots daily. This continues until week 10 of the pregnancy.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shelly)
Shelly was amazing! She was very informative and always available. She was easy to talk to and it felt like she cared and was invested in our case.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Overall really great. Some of the new staff are inexperienced which could lead to miscommunication. So be on top of everything yourself. Read all documents fully, you don’t want any surprise bills. Really easy to work with.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
The initial treatments were a set price. After a confirmed pregnancy is when the bills rack up for each ultrasound and blood draw.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
Dr Kim only does singles no multiples as it is harder on the body and would be more likely to succeed with one.
Dr Kim is kind, reliability, and professional! After my consult I knew he was the DR for me because of the human manor he took and the detailed explanations he walked me through. I was never rushed off the phone and every question I had was answered...time to explain my exact age and rates of fertility so set my expectations. Our plan was very custom to me!...The process was simple for my 2 retrievals (one egg freezing and the second embryo freezing). ~2 weeks of injections and then retrieval...
The clinic [RMA of Southern California] is a well oiled machine! I never waited too long and the front desk team is fabulous. Azelia at the front desk was one of the reasons I choose RMA. She was kind and very informative, especially with billing...Clarifying that Emily Wright is a NP and one of the best I've ever worked with. She was also very kind and prompt with her responses! I knew she was reliable since I had a 3pm on Friday issue and she left her personal number for me to call all weekend...
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim is kind, reliability, and professional! After my consult I knew he was the DR for me because of the human manor he took and the detailed explanations he walked me through. I was never rushed off the phone and every question I had was answered.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
If you're between Dr Kim and another Dr., meet with Dr Kim and you'll understand why all of the high marks.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim to time to explain my exact age and rates of fertility so set my expectations. Our plan was very custom to me!
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
The process was simple for my 2 retrievals (one egg freezing and the second embryo freezing). ~2 weeks of injections and then retrieval.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Emily Wright)
Clarifying that Emily Wright is a NP and one of the best I've ever worked with. She was also very kind and prompt with her responses! I knew she was reliable since I had a 3pm on Friday issue and she left her personal number for me to call all weekend.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
The clinic is a well oiled machine! I never waited too long and the front desk team is fabulous. Azelia at the front desk was one of the reasons I choose RMA. She was kind and very informative, especially with billing.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
I had Progyny coverage which RMA works with regularly and it was a seamless experience.
I was a 40 yr old single woman with a blocked tube. IUI was recommended with the help of Clomid and an objectively that I dont remember. We did IUI on 2 co securities mornings and I was pregnant with twins on that first try...Dr. Kim was was great. I got the results I wanted quickly so I did not need to see him often. He was surprised at how good my eggs were and said I had the eggs of a 34 year old. I trusted him with all procedures.
They were great start to finish. I wish my actual procedure could have been done closer to me ( my office was in West Orange but IUI and genetic counseling was further away in Basking Ridge)...So organized it surprised me. Everything was coordinated seamlessly. Wait times were always reasonable...Dr. Kim was was great. I got the results I wanted quickly so I did not need to see him often. He was surprised at how good my eggs were and said I had the eggs of a 34 year old. I trusted him with all procedures.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
Dr. Kim was was great. I got the results I wanted quickly so I did not need to see him often. He was surprised at how good my eggs were and said I had the eggs of a 34 year old. I trusted him with all procedures.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
He was friendly and approachable.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey and their degree of success.
I was a 40 yr old single woman with a blocked tube. IUI was recommended with the help of Clomid and an objectively that I dont remember. We did IUI on 2 co securities mornings and I was pregnant with twins on that first try.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
So organized it surprised me. Everything was coordinated seamlessly. Wait times were always reasonable.
Describe your experience with RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
They were great start to finish. I wish my actual procedure could have been done closer to me ( my office was in West Orange but IUI and genetic counseling was further away in Basking Ridge)
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
My insurance covered all tests, medications, and care. My out of pocket expense was for the donor sperm and IUI procedure.
He [Dr. Thomas Kim] was a good doctor, knew what he was talking about, was happy to explain things to me, and did not mind being asked questions or explaining his reasoning for things. He did not act like every question I had was questioning his "authority" as a doctor. This was not the case with previous REs. The only thing that I did not like was that he suggested transferring two donor egg embryos. I wanted eSet and he was fine with that.
He [Dr. Thomas Kim] was a good doctor, knew what he was talking about, was happy to explain things to me, and did not mind being asked questions or explaining his reasoning for things. He did not act like every question I had was questioning his "authority" as a doctor. This was not the case with previous REs. The only thing that I did not like was that he suggested transferring two donor egg embryos. I wanted eSet and he was fine with that.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
He was a good doctor, knew what he was talking about, was happy to explain things to me, and did not mind being asked questions or explaining his reasoning for things. He did not act like every question I had was questioning his "authority" as a doctor. This was not the case with previous REs. The only thing that I did not like was that he suggested transferring two donor egg embryos. I wanted eSet and he was fine with that.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey?
He took the time to meet with me, had clearly read my long infertility history.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey. (Assigned nurse: Ann Marie)
They were great.
Describe your experience with RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
They were a bit like a bus station waiting room but everyone was kind and compassionate and I didn't feel like just a number.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
He suggested transferring two donor egg embryos but I insisted on eSet.
Dr Kim worked up a plan based on my age, weight ( I have a higher bmi) and my previous insecurities with a different provider. He made me feel like we were doing the right thing and gave me a confidence...did a basic egg retrieval followed by a frozen embryo transfer. Due to my age we had all embryos genetically tested.
Clean, great location and great hours to balance work and the procedures. They were also very transparent on pricing. The only weakness is that parking is paid...Every day I received through communication directly from my nurse. She was always there with a positive outlook
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim worked up a plan based on my age, weight ( I have a higher bmi) and my previous insecurities with a different provider. He made me feel like we were doing the right thing and gave me a confidence I hadn’t had before
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Be open minded and understand that infertility treatment is flexible if you are
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim worked with me not just a book! He made me feel confident in the plan and his team kept me updated through every step.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
We did a basic egg retrieval followed by a frozen embryo transfer. Due to my age we had all embryos genetically tested.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Emily )
Every day I received through communication directly from my nurse. She was always there with a positive outlook even when my body wasn’t feeling great. The team kept me feeling positive
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
Clean, great location and great hours to balance work and the procedures. They were also very transparent on pricing. The only weakness is that parking is paid but that’s normal in Los Angeles so it was to be expected
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
I used my insurance so I am not sure
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
We did not discuss multiple embryos due to my own desires
Dr Kim is one of the top doctors in this field. His skill and expertise are enormous...was able to perform a surgical procedure within minutes that a different doctor attempted twice unsuccessfully...bedside manner isn’t the warmest, he is very genuine and cares about his patients...a caring but busy doctor...also very responsive to emails and phone calls with questions of all types...
[RMA of Southern California] is well run, thorough and efficient. They generally communicate well and be as helpful as they can in most instances. It’s important for new patients to come in with questions and to do some of their own reading about things that can increase their chances of succes...Merissa Wowk is my nurse there now. She is also really sweet and prompt at responding to calls and phone calls.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr Kim is one of the top doctors in this field. His skill and expertise are enormous. He was able to perform a surgical procedure within minutes that a different doctor attempted twice unsuccessfully.
While his bedside manner isn’t the warmest, he is very genuine and cares about his patients.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Ask lots of questions.
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Dr. Kim is a caring but busy doctor. The nurses and staff were generally very kind and warm. They were also very responsive to emails and phone calls with questions of all types.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
I don’t remember
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Shells Carter and Merissa Wowk )
Shells Carter doesn’t work there anymore, but she was amazing. Very prompt in responding to calls and emails, very patient and thorough in explaining and Re-explaining everything to me. Very kind and patient.
Merissa Wowk is my nurse there now. She is also really sweet and prompt at responding to calls and phone calls. I haven’t had as much interaction with her as she is new to the team.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
The clinic is well run, thorough and efficient. They generally communicate well and be as helpful as they can in most instances. It’s important for new patients to come in with questions and to do some of their own reading about things that can increase their chances of succes. Dr Kim also has recommendations in this area. Ask him.
We absolutely loved working with Dr. Kim and highly recommend him...he explained information directly but with compassion and care. He didn’t sugarcoat anything and for that, we were very appreciative. He asked us about what we hoped to achieve, and based on those answers, he helped us put together a plan. Of course, this plan would change as we discovered more about our fertility issues, but we were always discussing information and making the plan together.
We feel so safe and at home at RMA. We're lucky to have them on our team...Our nurses were incredible and helped make a long and difficult journey as seamless as possible...Every single person we've encountered throughout our visits (and there were a lot of them!) was so kind and caring. Calls and emails were returned promptly and scheduling appointments was a breeze.
How was your experience with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
We absolutely loved working with Dr. Kim and highly recommend him. I did tons of research on doctors and clinics in our area before deciding to move forward with his services at RMA.
Before meeting Dr. Kim, we met with one other RE at a trendy fertility chain for a consultation and immediately decided they were not for us. When we came to Dr. Kim, he explained information directly but with compassion and care. He didn’t sugarcoat anything and for that, we were very appreciative. He asked us about what we hoped to achieve, and based on those answers, he helped us put together a plan. Of course, this plan would change as we discovered more about our fertility issues, but we were always discussing information and making the plan together. Dr. Kim would call personally to check in on us and discuss our results and next steps throughout the process. The more we got to know him, the more confidence and trust we had in him.
After my third and final retrieval, we faced a tough situation where I had a minor case of OHSS that required a visit to the ER and my husband came down with COVID the same day. Dr. Kim called three different times to make sure that I was recovering well and that my husband was feeling better. He genuinely cares.
We got pregnant from our first embryo transfer and we know we’ll be returning to Dr. Kim when it’s time to continue expanding our family. He’s a wonderful human being.
What's one piece of advice would you give a prospective patient of Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. He's not a doctor who will overwhelm you with information, but if you ask him to break things down, he will very clearly. Have patience and trust!
During treatment, were you treated like a number or a human with Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California?
After our initial consultation at RMA, much of our treatment for MFI was outsourced to a urologist recommended by Dr. Kim. While we weren’t seeing Dr. Kim regularly during months of treatment my husband’s urologist prescribed, Dr. Kim was still in the loop with our case. My husband went to RMA regularly for labs during this time, and every time we visited, the team was always very kind and looked after us so well.
We knew we picked the correct team to help us through this journey. Once we began the IVF process, it became even clearer that we were in the right place. During months of difficult news and anxious waiting, we always felt supported and our team showed us so much compassion. We felt encouraged to ask questions, chat, call, and email to alleviate any of our concerns.
Dr. Kim always called to deliver results and chat through our questions - even on weekends when we figured results wouldn’t be available until the following week. When you’re waiting for such important news, not having to wait that extra 24 or 48 hours makes such a difference.
Describe the protocols Thomas Kim used in your cycles at RMA of Southern California and their degree of success.
My baseline tests were all normal. We hoped to do a single retrieval, however, I ended up doing three back-to-back retrievals to secure an adequate number of PGT embryos for how large of a family we hope to have.
For each retrieval, I was prescribed a modest medication regimen which my body responded to well. My protocol consisted of Estrace and Progesterone tablets, and injections of low-dose HCG, Gonal F, and Lupron. We were closely monitored throughout each round and decided to take a one-month break before our FET.
We did a medicated FET cycle and were lucky enough to have success on our first try. My FET protocol consisted of Estrace tablets and PIO injections, followed by Metrogel & progesterone bullet right before the transfer. After the transfer, I continued my PIO shots until I was 10 weeks pregnant.
Describe your experience with your nurse at RMA of Southern California. (Assigned nurse: Emily & Merrissa)
Our nurses were incredible and helped make a long and difficult journey as seamless as possible. We began our process with Emily and were transitioned to Merrissa when Emily was out for an extended period. Both Emily and Merrissa were very responsive and amazing at answering our endless questions. They're very organized and great communicators. Throughout so many phone calls and visits, they began to feel like family. Trustworthy, compassionate, and each with great a sense of humor - we really couldn’t ask for more.
We had one call in particular with Emily during our months of treatment with my husband's urologist where we were feeling so overwhelmed and defeated. Emily listened to us and was so encouraging. That conversation was a turning point in our mindset and helped get us through a very difficult time.
The majority of my communication throughout this process was with Merrissa. She's extremely detail-oriented and always made time for me. I can't thank her enough for responding to alllllll of the emails I sent her. My husband came with me to every single appointment - even just for bloodwork - and we would always pop our heads into the nurses' office next door to say hello to Merrissa. She's a gem.
Describe your experience with RMA of Southern California.
We wouldn't consider going anywhere else. Every single person we've encountered throughout our visits (and there were a lot of them!) was so kind and caring. Calls and emails were returned promptly and scheduling appointments was a breeze. Juana and Priscilla did the majority of my bloodwork and they were both pros and wonderful people to chat with. While Dr. Kim was on vacation, we had a few appointments with Dr. Landay for morning monitoring and she was absolutely lovely.
I dreamt of the day we'd graduate from our clinic for months, and by the time graduation day came, it was really difficult to leave. We feel so safe and at home at RMA. We're lucky to have them on our team.
Describe the costs associated with your care under Thomas Kim at RMA of Southern California.
We're very lucky to have amazing insurance which includes fertility benefits. All billing was handled through our fertility benefits administrator. The process was seamless. The majority of our entire treatment protocol was covered by insurance.
Describe Thomas Kim's approach to eSET (elective single embryo transfer) vs. multiple embryo transfer at RMA of Southern California.
We knew we'd do an eSET to maximize our chances of success. We felt very comfortable with this method and were given clear information that helped us understand the process and why this is the standard of care.