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ggt08
;)
Member since 5/05 5208 total posts
Name:
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I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Was going to do to Dr. Herslag in NSUH- he's out of network but figured it's just a consult. Actually scheduled one for 11-18. Two people at work are pregnant through him two I know had kids through that office..
Then I heard about Dr. Kreiner at LIIVF girl I know just had twins after 3 IVFs with him. Takes my insurance. Did first IVF baby on LI. My friend knows him through her work.
Then I go to Andy today and he swears by Dr..Palter. Not sure if he takes my ins and he's far for me to travel but I like Andy and trust his judgement of character.
Then I heard of dr. Zapantis?
I've heard mixed reviews of all of them.
How the hell am I gonna decide???? 
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Posted 10/20/13 10:45 PM  |
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bookworm
Two Little Rosebuds
Member since 8/09 2106 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
I would recommend consulting somewhere you can expect will try some of the cutting edge treatments that are making gains with egg quality: HGH, testosterone and estrogen priming, co-culture, etc. Doctors that come to mind for this are Owen Davis @ Cornell (co-culture), Wang @ SIRM-NY (where they also do immune testing), or even a telephone consult with an OOT doc who might provide some insight you could take back to a local clinic, such as Drews @ RMANJ or Hesla @ ORM in Portland.
You can always change docs for local treatment if you want, but a consult should be about new ideas. Sometimes we take those new ideas back home and ask to try them out. But IMHO I would definitely suggest going into a real info-gathering place before another cycle.
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| Posted 10/20/13 11:26 PM |
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ggt08
;)
Member since 5/05 5208 total posts
Name:
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I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Unfortunately I can't venture too far right now with teaching. I have to check if the above you mentioned take my insurance. Thank you for your response and opinions.
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| Posted 10/21/13 7:27 AM |
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PhyllisNJoe
My Box Is Broken
Member since 6/11 9145 total posts
Name:
Phyllis
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
You will always get mixed reviews about drs. Most will rave about their own dr if they got them pregnant. If they didn't, and went to another one, they will say the first RE didn't do what they should have because the second one got me pregnant right out the gate.
It's all a matter if opinion.
Sometimes it's not even protocol. Same reason why perfectly fertile couples can take up to a year for a pregnancy. It sometimes just doesn't work. Even when all the stars are aligned.
You have to decide what works best for you. What is it that you are looking for in a different RE? What do you think should be done differently? We all know our bodies and have opinions on why things aren't working. Start there. If you feel I. Your gut it's immune issues, then go to whoever has the best record in finding immune issues and fixing it.
I couldn't imagine what you are feeling right now. And with so many places to choose from, your head must be spinning. Take a breath and do a lil research on the drs you mentioned. Even a poll on here can help.
Message edited 10/21/2013 7:43:04 AM.
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| Posted 10/21/13 7:42 AM |
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PitterPatter11
Baby Boy is Here!
Member since 5/11 7622 total posts
Name:
Momma <3
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by PhyllisNJoe
You will always get mixed reviews about drs. Most will rave about their own dr if they got them pregnant. If they didn't, and went to another one, they will say the first RE didn't do what they should have because the second one got me pregnant right out the gate.
I agree with this. I think it important to look at success rates and for clinics that specialize in your issue.
Like a PP said, you can have a consult anywhere - it does not mean you need to go there.
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| Posted 10/21/13 9:27 AM |
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NYCGirl80
I love my kiddies!
Member since 5/11 10413 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by PhyllisNJoe
You will always get mixed reviews about drs. Most will rave about their own dr if they got them pregnant. If they didn't, and went to another one, they will say the first RE didn't do what they should have because the second one got me pregnant right out the gate.
It's all a matter if opinion.
Sometimes it's not even protocol. Same reason why perfectly fertile couples can take up to a year for a pregnancy. It sometimes just doesn't work. Even when all the stars are aligned.
You have to decide what works best for you. What is it that you are looking for in a different RE? What do you think should be done differently? We all know our bodies and have opinions on why things aren't working. Start there. If you feel I. Your gut it's immune issues, then go to whoever has the best record in finding immune issues and fixing it.
I couldn't imagine what you are feeling right now. And with so many places to choose from, your head must be spinning. Take a breath and do a lil research on the drs you mentioned. Even a poll on here can help.
I couldn't have said it better. There's no right answer for who to get your 2nd opinion from.
If it were me, though, I'd go with who takes my insurance as long as they are still reputable. And all the REs you mention are.
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| Posted 10/21/13 9:34 AM |
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jessnbrian
Only God knows His plan for us
Member since 4/13 7238 total posts
Name:
Jessica
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I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Are you looking to SWITCH RE's or have someone look over your chart and tell you what they would recommend IF you were to switch? If it were me, and I was looking more for a CHART REVIEW, I'd go with the doctor that had the reputation for trying new things and being the most cutting edge.
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| Posted 10/21/13 10:04 AM |
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ShhhTTCin11
3 under 3?!
Member since 5/11 2229 total posts
Name:
Coleen
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I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
All of those REs have great reputations and high success rates.
I went to LI IVF and was happy there. That being said, male factor is probably the least complicated of issues. I'd try meeting with a doctor that is convenient for you and takes your insurance. Stress is such a huge factor in IVF and you dont want to add the stress of time and money unless you need to. See if they have any different ideas. I'd also meet with a doctor that may think outside the box a bit more. Maybe he will or won't have different ideas. You can always bring back what they say to the doctor you decide to go with.
Best of luck!
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| Posted 10/21/13 10:19 AM |
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ggt08
;)
Member since 5/05 5208 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by jessnbrian
Are you looking to SWITCH RE's or have someone look over your chart and tell you what they would recommend IF you were to switch? If it were me, and I was looking more for a CHART REVIEW, I'd go with the doctor that had the reputation for trying new things and being the most cutting edge.
Basically I want an RE to look over my chart and tell me if there is anything Trivax should have done or should do in the future. I like Trivax but I want to make sure Im getting the best care and not being overlooked.
Thing is- all seems ok with me.
No history of any issues besides ovarian tumor that had to be removed.
Water sono showed everything was good
My SO analysis was excellent. My bloodwork is normal.
Trivax just thinks its a matter of tweaking meds a bit more and pushing to Day 5 this time. first time my embryos grew on the slow side. This time they grew a bit faster. they are very good quality and are doing icsi to guarantee most fertilize and even did assisted hatching for this last one. I think they are doing a lot each time to help improve- I guess I want a second pair of eyes to tell me this.
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| Posted 10/21/13 11:37 AM |
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ggt08
;)
Member since 5/05 5208 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by PitterPatter11
Posted by PhyllisNJoe
You will always get mixed reviews about drs. Most will rave about their own dr if they got them pregnant. If they didn't, and went to another one, they will say the first RE didn't do what they should have because the second one got me pregnant right out the gate.
I agree with this. I think it important to look at success rates and for clinics that specialize in your issue.
Like a PP said, you can have a consult anywhere - it does not mean you need to go there.
I get that but my ins doesnt cover multiple consults from new doctors for the same issue. So I would have to choose one dr. to consult with and get a second opinion. Thats my issue. Who to choose??? i'm a Libra so Im indecisive to begin with!!!
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| Posted 10/21/13 11:38 AM |
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jessnbrian
Only God knows His plan for us
Member since 4/13 7238 total posts
Name:
Jessica
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by ggt08
Posted by jessnbrian
Are you looking to SWITCH RE's or have someone look over your chart and tell you what they would recommend IF you were to switch? If it were me, and I was looking more for a CHART REVIEW, I'd go with the doctor that had the reputation for trying new things and being the most cutting edge.
Basically I want an RE to look over my chart and tell me if there is anything Trivax should have done or should do in the future. I like Trivax but I want to make sure Im getting the best care and not being overlooked.
Thing is- all seems ok with me.
No history of any issues besides ovarian tumor that had to be removed.
Water sono showed everything was good
My SO analysis was excellent. My bloodwork is normal.
Trivax just thinks its a matter of tweaking meds a bit more and pushing to Day 5 this time. first time my embryos grew on the slow side. This time they grew a bit faster. they are very good quality and are doing icsi to guarantee most fertilize and even did assisted hatching for this last one. I think they are doing a lot each time to help improve- I guess I want a second pair of eyes to tell me this.
To me, it sounds like you want someone who might think "out of the box", so I would go with someone (for this second opinion) that has that kind of reputation - not someone who is "just like" the other doctors.
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| Posted 10/21/13 11:41 AM |
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CindySN23
Stop, Think & Breathe...
Member since 8/11 3550 total posts
Name:
Cindy
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I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
If it were me I would consult with a dr. who will think outside of the box which includes immunity testing. I know NSUH specifically Hershlag does not believe in it. I would consult with SIRM since all the other RE's which include NSUH, RSNY and LIIVF would probably have the same opinions related to that.
Oh and your going to get mixed reviews on ALL RE's since some will recommend or not recommend depending on if they were successful at the practice or not.
I got pregnant at RSNY but its not the place for everyone so when I recommend an RE I will always tell ppl the positives and negatives with a facility and let them decide if that is the place for them. Not every facility is for everyone.
Message edited 10/21/2013 11:49:37 AM.
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| Posted 10/21/13 11:44 AM |
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jessnbrian
Only God knows His plan for us
Member since 4/13 7238 total posts
Name:
Jessica
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by ggt08
Posted by PitterPatter11
Posted by PhyllisNJoe
You will always get mixed reviews about drs. Most will rave about their own dr if they got them pregnant. If they didn't, and went to another one, they will say the first RE didn't do what they should have because the second one got me pregnant right out the gate.
I agree with this. I think it important to look at success rates and for clinics that specialize in your issue.
Like a PP said, you can have a consult anywhere - it does not mean you need to go there.
I get that but my ins doesnt cover multiple consults from new doctors for the same issue. So I would have to choose one dr. to consult with and get a second opinion. Thats my issue. Who to choose??? i'm a Libra so Im indecisive to begin with!!!
DON'T go by what the insurance says they cover with regards to MULTIPLE CONSULTS. I cannot stress that enough. MOST doctors DO NOT USE CONSULT CODES anymore, they will use a NEW PATIENT code instead. For this reason, a NEW PATIENT is different than a CONSULT. I would just chose the doctor, THEN LET THEM VERIFY BENEFITS - that is their job, if they don't verify and inform you of the benefits it is NOT on you to pay! I would make it clear when you call to schedule that you are concerned about insurance coverage and that you would like a call PRIOR to the appointment as to what your responsibility will be. I RECOMMEND THIS WITH ANY DOCTOR - NOT JUST FOR IF/RE's.
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| Posted 10/21/13 11:44 AM |
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I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
I LOVED Dr. Zapantis.
FM me if you have any questions!
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| Posted 10/21/13 12:03 PM |
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Lillies
Grateful for my babies!
Member since 2/12 4571 total posts
Name:
<3
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
I did that with Dr. P.. I thought I didn't like the fast paced offices.. went to a single Dr practice with cutting edge machines and techniques who I wanted to look over my chart and see what RS was missing.. after two consults, turns out he agreed with them and what they were doing.. didn't like clomid for me but I knew that already myself. Point is, it helped immensely to leave and get a second view point on what was going on.
I would first stick with an office that accepts your insurance. IF gets super $$ and there are great offices in NY that accept ins. We are lucky living out here.. so many cities only have one IF specialist and we have many to choose from. This is what makes it so difficult for us lol
I agree with Phyllis.. people tend to be more outspoken with offices that got them pregnant and more neg with places that didn't.. even if they had similar protocol.. so check out the statistics more than anything..
I am glad you are going for the hsg.. not only will it give a good view of your uterus to see if there are any anatomical issues, but overall it will give you some peace of mind! Very important!
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| Posted 10/21/13 12:44 PM |
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Lillies
Grateful for my babies!
Member since 2/12 4571 total posts
Name:
<3
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by mama2b
If it were me I would consult with a dr. who will think outside of the box which includes immunity testing. I know NSUH specifically Hershlag does not believe in it. I would consult with SIRM since all the other RE's which include NSUH, RSNY and LIIVF would probably have the same opinions related to that.
Oh and your going to get mixed reviews on ALL RE's since some will recommend or not recommend depending on if they were successful at the practice or not.
I got pregnant at RSNY but its not the place for everyone so when I recommend an RE I will always tell ppl the positives and negatives with a facility and let them decide if that is the place for them. Not every facility is for everyone.
I agree with SIRM!!
Call them and get an appt reserved.. just in case bc they book months out. What I like about them is that they test for immune issues.. I personally may not have any but if I get to that point that IVF is not sticking, then I will have to check out that route.
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| Posted 10/21/13 12:47 PM |
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ggt08
;)
Member since 5/05 5208 total posts
Name:
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I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
The thing is I like my practice- I like Dr. Trivax. The two cycles i did IVF, he did change the protocol. He also wants to change a bunch of things this time too. I guess I feel like I have to get a second opinion just to prove to myself its ok to stay with him another round. I do have great insurance and have a chunk of that left so I need a dr at this point who takes my insurance. After Sandy hit last year, our house and my SO businesses were destroyed so its been a rough year finanacially. I guess if this round doesnt work, I will take it further with immune issues etc and go to SIRM in city. Does SIRM have a LI location?
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| Posted 10/21/13 3:48 PM |
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Melis2700
LIF Adolescent
Member since 10/09 508 total posts
Name:
Melissa
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
I went to dr trivax also and I really liked him and still think he is a good doctor. Ultimately I felt he was over looking my endo which after second opinion ended up being stage 4. I had surgery and found a new re and first Ivf after surgery worked. There are so many things to consider and when I switched I looked at what office had the best success percentages currently! Fm if u have any questions and good luck!!
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| Posted 10/21/13 5:02 PM |
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ggt08
;)
Member since 5/05 5208 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by Melis2700
I went to dr trivax also and I really liked him and still think he is a good doctor. Ultimately I felt he was over looking my endo which after second opinion ended up being stage 4. I had surgery and found a new re and first Ivf after surgery worked. There are so many things to consider and when I switched I looked at what office had the best success percentages currently! Fm if u have any questions and good luck!!
Who did you switch to?
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| Posted 10/21/13 5:16 PM |
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Melis2700
LIF Adolescent
Member since 10/09 508 total posts
Name:
Melissa
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by ggt08
Posted by Melis2700
I went to dr trivax also and I really liked him and still think he is a good doctor. Ultimately I felt he was over looking my endo which after second opinion ended up being stage 4. I had surgery and found a new re and first Ivf after surgery worked. There are so many things to consider and when I switched I looked at what office had the best success percentages currently! Fm if u have any questions and good luck!!
Who did you switch to?
I see dr. Kukkonen at Li ivf
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| Posted 10/21/13 5:36 PM |
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lbro26
LIF Infant
Member since 8/11 222 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
please take medicine with food even though it says take on empty stomach. I ended up getting sick at wrk because i took on an empty stomach.
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| Posted 10/21/13 5:46 PM |
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bookworm
Two Little Rosebuds
Member since 8/09 2106 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by ggt08
Unfortunately I can't venture too far right now with teaching. I have to check if the above you mentioned take my insurance. Thank you for your response and opinions.
I'm also a teacher and I'm pretty sure we have the same ins. Davis/Cornell is in-network/center for excellence. All of the others are OON (including SIRM, which doesn't have a LI satellite, tho Cornell does) but the reimbursements are good. I understand you're not free to travel for IVF, but that's not really what a second opinion is about, especially since you're not unhappy with your clinic, per se. There's just a lot out there and people are having success with it and your doc isn't talking about it. And the docs at the big clinics around here will all say pretty much the same thing, like PP said.
Again, I would hear as many opinions as you can and bring the ideas back to your doc to say, hey, can we try this?
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| Posted 10/21/13 7:27 PM |
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babyfever24
LIF Adult
Member since 1/11 3340 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by Lillies
Posted by mama2b
If it were me I would consult with a dr. who will think outside of the box which includes immunity testing. I know NSUH specifically Hershlag does not believe in it. I would consult with SIRM since all the other RE's which include NSUH, RSNY and LIIVF would probably have the same opinions related to that.
Oh and your going to get mixed reviews on ALL RE's since some will recommend or not recommend depending on if they were successful at the practice or not.
I got pregnant at RSNY but its not the place for everyone so when I recommend an RE I will always tell ppl the positives and negatives with a facility and let them decide if that is the place for them. Not every facility is for everyone.
I agree with SIRM!!
Call them and get an appt reserved.. just in case bc they book months out. What I like about them is that they test for immune issues.. I personally may not have any but if I get to that point that IVF is not sticking, then I will have to check out that route.
Definitely get on the waiting list, just an FYI Dr. Wong starts monitoring at 8 am and Dr.T starts at 9 am, defintely not ideal if you don't work in the city.....however i absolutely love it there.
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| Posted 10/21/13 8:18 PM |
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pp1107
LIF Adolescent
Member since 1/08 831 total posts
Name:
P
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
I went on 4 consults before I chose by new RE. It's always good to have them review your records and see what they would do. I asked them what protocols they would recommend to get me the most eggs and best quality. I don't have the same insurance but there was never an issue with insurance not covering the consult.
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| Posted 10/22/13 10:47 AM |
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ggt08
;)
Member since 5/05 5208 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm having a tough time choosing who to go for a second opinion
Posted by bookworm
Posted by ggt08
Unfortunately I can't venture too far right now with teaching. I have to check if the above you mentioned take my insurance. Thank you for your response and opinions.
I'm also a teacher and I'm pretty sure we have the same ins. Davis/Cornell is in-network/center for excellence. All of the others are OON (including SIRM, which doesn't have a LI satellite, tho Cornell does) but the reimbursements are good. I understand you're not free to travel for IVF, but that's not really what a second opinion is about, especially since you're not unhappy with your clinic, per se. There's just a lot out there and people are having success with it and your doc isn't talking about it. And the docs at the big clinics around here will all say pretty much the same thing, like PP said.
Again, I would hear as many opinions as you can and bring the ideas back to your doc to say, hey, can we try this?
This is true. Thanks for opinion and information.
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| Posted 10/22/13 6:34 PM |
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