UT Health Science Center Fertility Center listed among best in U.S.

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The cover of the July issue of Town & Country magazine.

San Antonio (June 29, 2004) – The South Texas Fertility Center at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio is recognized as one of “America’s Top Infertility Clinics” in the July issue of Town & Country magazine. The article lists Robert S. Schenken, M.D., professor and chairman of the department of obstetrics and gynecology at the Health Science Center, as a noted physician who sees patients at the San Antonio center. The Health Science Center is the only center in the Southwest and among only 12 centers to make the list.

The other centers include those at Johns Hopkins, the Cleveland Clinic and Stanford.

“It is a significant honor to be included with these centers that are recognized around the country and around the world as the best centers for reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI),” said Craig A. Witz, M.D., associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology and director of the REI division. “All of the personnel in our center, from nurses to physicians to laboratory personnel to secretaries, take this work very seriously. The people who come to us feel they have received personalized care from an entire health care team that cares for them.”

What should patients look for in choosing a top-notch center? “Programs should offer a broad range of services and not specialize in just one type of treatment,” said Robert Brzyski, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Health Science Center and director of the in vitro fertilization (IVF) program at the South Texas Fertility Center. “Patients also should look for their physicians to participate in professional organizations such as the Society for Assisted Reproduction Technology and to be certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology with subspecialty certification in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. That reflects extensive training and experience. Ongoing certification on an annual basis ensures continuing quality.”

All of the Health Science Center faculty physicians in the South Texas Fertility Center – Drs. Schenken, Witz and Brzyski – have the REI subspecialty certification.

The fertility center averages 340 patient visits a month, said Jana Lee Normandin, clinic manager. The center offers comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic options for couples. Treatment includes endoscopic surgery, microsurgery, ovulation induction and various methods of IVF, including with sperm donation and/or egg donation. The fertility procedures are performed on site.

“Our Health Science Center affiliation affords us greater opportunities for collaboration in reproductive research,” Dr. Brzyski added. “One specific area is research in polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition that is associated with multiple health risks, including infertility.”



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