COVID-19 Information

We are honored to be a part of your journey and we are committed to providing you and your family the best care possible. Our top priority is the safety of our patients and staff as we all try to navigate life in the setting of COVID-19 together.

-The FSMG Team

Vaccines

FSMG physicians highly recommend Covid-19 vaccinations and booster, when eligible.

COVID-19 vaccination is safe and highly effective at preventing infection and severe outcomes of COVID-19 infection, including death. Vaccination continues to be highly recommended by ASRM, ACOG, SMFM, and CDC for all persons who are pregnant or considering pregnancy.

ASRM

ACOG

CDC

Office Safety Protocols

Our team has used the recommendations of ASRM, ACOG, CDC, and the state and local Departments of Health, as well as our own experienced clinical and laboratory team, to develop a set of safety protocols to minimize the risk of COVID-19 exposure.

This short guide explains how we can provide safe fertility care using carefully designed protocols. Our doctors and staff are working continuously to keep everyone safe while providing the highest quality fertility treatment.

Please note these protocols are under constant review and will be updated as needed. Any changes will be directly communicated on our website. (revised 1/11/2022)

For Patients:

• Please do not come to the clinic if you are experiencing any symptoms suggestive of COVID infection or have had a positive COVID test within the past 5 days or if you have a Covid exposure in the last 5 days AND are not boosted or (if booster eligible) or you are not  vaccinated
• When you arrive at our clinic for any in-office appointments, please come to the front door and wait outside.
• A staff member will meet you outside for a temperature check and Covid screening questionnaire prior to entering the building.
• If you do not meet our Covid screening criteria, you will be asked to reschedule.
• Please wear a tight-fitting mask. NO CLOTH or bandana masks.
• ONLY patients are permitted in the clinic (no partners, children, or other guests).

SDCRS

• Patients undergoing egg retrieval are permitted one guest for pick up only.
• Our team will call your guest when you are ready to be discharged from surgery.
• Your guest must comply with our safety protocols outlined above including the use of a mask (non-cloth) at all times as well as undergoing screening.

Semen Drop off

• FSMG continues to offer semen analysis and sperm freezing for our patients.
• In order to limit the time spent in our office, we require all samples to be produced at home.
• Instructions and cups for at-home semen collection are available for pick-up at FSMG.
• Samples must be dropped off by the individual who collected it.
• When dropping a sample off, you will be required to undergo the screening under the section: ‘Screening before Entry’

FAQ’s

Q: How is FSMG protecting their team and the office:

• Each FSMG team member undergoes the same screening processes outlined for patients.
• All surfaces are disinfected between patients and on an hourly schedule.
• Some team members are working remotely so they may serve you from the safety of their homes.

Q: What should I do if I become sick with a fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath?

• Please contact your primary care provider.
• If you have difficulty breathing, please go to the nearest Emergency Department.
• Please avoid contact with others. We all play a vital role in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
• Please contact FSMG to make us aware of your illness.
• Your physician will collaborate with you to determine the appropriate next steps in your care plan.

Q: What happens if I get exposed to COVID-19 during my IVF cycle?

• If you demonstrate symptoms of COVID-19 or if you are confirmed to have COVID-19, your cycle will be delayed or canceled.
• If you are exposed to COVID-19 your cycle may be delayed or canceled subject to the discretion of your physician.
• This decision is not made lightly, as we understand the impact of cycle cancellation on our patients and their fertility journeys. Delays or cancellations are to protect you, as it may be unsafe to undergo anesthesia with respiratory illness, as well as to protect patients and staff from potential exposure.

Q: What is the Refund Policy for Any Cycle Disruptions Due to COVID-19

If a cycle is cancelled, there are typically financial sequelae. Our financial team is here to assist you if you should have any questions regarding your benefit coverage.