I paid for IVF out of pocket at GW and did not have any problems with the financial side of things. I bought one of their package deals that allows for two retrieval cycles and transfer of all frozen embryos (until you get pregnant). Technically you are supposed to do a retrieval cycle, then transfer whatever embryos you get. If that doesn't work, you do another retrieval cycle, and transfer those embryos.

Our first retrieval didn't go that well, only ended up with two that were frozen at day 3. Dr Frankfurter recommended doing another retrieval cycle pretty much right away instead of transferring those two -- because of my age he didn't want me to end up with nothing and have needless delays. He spoke with the finance people to make sure they knew that was the plan and that I wouldn't have to pay extra even though I wasn't following the "program" as laid out in my contract.

I really appreciated that small act of kindness -- Dr F is really wonderful. In my experience so was everyone else at GW. For finance issues, I worked with Connie who was diligent and thorough.

I am acupuncturist working with fertility patients and my office is close to both of these two facilities. From the discussion with my patients, I feel a better impression on GW as the director Dr. Frankfurter quite experienced. I also agree with other folks on the short of staff patients feel. However, the doctor is the most important factor in choosing the fertility clinic. I also have some good comments on Shady Grove. But again, it is related to certain doctors. And Shady Grove has many locations around the area so they have strict protocol to follow. Considering this, better to ask your friends who went to SG and get some referrals of the best doctors there. I also put some comments in my blog in my office web site AcupunctureWellnessFan.com which I also share with my new patients.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:From what I understand, GWU also is willing to disclose the gender of the embryos if tested, and will let you choose what to implant. SG doesn't. It's a consideration for some.

This is no longer the case. Shady Grove changed their policy and will now disclose the gender and/or let you choose what to implant.

I'm a Shady Grove patient and have had a positive experience overall with my doctor, nurse, and everyone in the office. My only complaints have been about the financial department, but we had a unique and difficult case so I'm trying to cut them some slack.

GREAT news!! Thank you!