On August 25^th, 2023, Conceptions Reproductive Associates of Colorado announced they were acquired by Reproductive Medicine Associates (RMA), one of the nation’s leading reproductive service providers with fertility centers in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, Texas, California, and Washington.

We sat down with the Chief Operating Officer from Conceptions, Glenn Proctor, MHA, and Dr.Tom Molinaro, Director, IVIRMA America to talk about what the acquisition means for both groups and what benefits patients and referring providers should expect.

Why did Conceptions join the RMA network of U.S. fertility centers?

Conceptions COO, Glenn Proctor, MHA: That’s easy; best in class science, success, and patient support. In our field, RMA has an excellent reputation for high success rates and like Conceptions, has been committed to research that can help more hopeful patients become parents. The other thing is that they are a physician-led organization, which was very important to us. Doctors are making the big decisions on a day-to-day basis, not just accountants and MBA’s.

While RMA is large in scale with centers across the U.S., they have a very localized approach when it comes to clinical care. They are very selective with who is part of the network that we like. When needed, we are now able to lean into a national network for scientific, clinical, as well as operational insights and best practices that improve local patient care.

Dr. Tom Molinaro, Director, IVIRMA: Conceptions has been a high-performing program for many years, and we knew that they could teach us something too. While this is an acquisition, financially speaking, it feels more like collaboration and partnership. We’re excited! Unlike a lot of other IVF centers, Conceptions made self-investments into their practice especially the IVF lab that has made them one of the top IVF centers in the U.S. It was clear from our first conversations we share the same values when it comes to science, safety, and success for their patients.

What changes should be expected over the next several months for staff and patients?

GP: Now that the financial aspect has been closed, we’re going to take our time to examine what parts of the RMA network are best suited for us. Things like the electronic medical records (EMR) system and procurement processes will be aligned sooner rather than later, I think. But we’re not going to rush. Our physicians and staff remain in place to help our patients today and tomorrow.

TM: We acquired Conceptions because of who they are, not what we want to make them or something else. Of course, there will be some changes in process and operations but one step at a time.

What does this mean for local patients and referring providers?

GP: From Denver to Colorado Springs and everywhere in between, our patients have greater access to new technologies and research that has the potential to shorten their time to success. We were impressed with how RMA embryologists share and communicate across the network – that will benefit our patients to be sure.

From an operational standpoint, we have greater resources for education and training tools for our staff. We’re very excited to use RMA’s proprietary EMR system, which is a best-in-class platform. Based on patient feedback, their patient portal alone is a great upgrade for our patients!

TM: At RMA we conduct several clinical research projects every year which are open to patients from across the U.S. Conceptions patients will now be able to enroll in clinical trials many of which offer discounted fees for services and or medications. OB/GYN’s and other referring physicians want their patients to have access to the most successful paradigms and safest technologies. From single embryo transfer to endometrial synchrony, we continue to support the referring community by getting their patients back to them pregnant, safely, and in the shortest time possible.

How is the RMA network different from other networks in Denver?

GP: As I look around our community, many IVF centers are part of networks that are managed by non-clinicians. Nothing wrong with that but that just doesn’t work for our team of providers and our patients too.  Also, many networks seem very focused on marketing and branding, maybe too much so. That’s not us.

Philosophically speaking, we’re focused on science, success, and the total patient experience. Yes, medicine is a business and needs a lot of commercial supervision, but this is healthcare. We’re treating people, not spreadsheets, and all our decisions start with that notion.

TM: Well said, Glenn. As much as we’re a network, we recognize that healthcare care decisions are very local decisions and as a business, we must allow for that. I think that willingness is unique to the RMA network of fertility centers.

 Will Conceptions become a branded RMA practice?

TM: Not sure yet but yes it’s likely over time. Conceptions is a well-known and trusted local brand so we’re not in a rush to change things. In the long run it makes sense, but again we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it.

GP: We’re not changing things overnight, but the RMA brand is a strong one in our field and will likely move to that over time.

Last question, with its great recreational opportunities and quality of life, Denver is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. Will RMA employees be able to move to Denver (laugh)?

TM: Yes, we already have a list! From New Jersey to Los Angeles and now Denver, we want the best people across our network of fertility centers. We’re able to move people around when and if the opportunity presents itself.

GP: Funny, no one has asked me about moving to New Jersey (laughs). But they should! The RMA facility in New Jersey boasts a world-class embryology laboratory and research facilities. If I were a young embryologist or clinician, I would want to spend some time there. And the pizza there is awesome too!

About Conceptions Reproductive Associates of Colorado

For over 20 years, Conceptions Reproductive Associates of Colorado has been a pillar of success and hope for patients across Colorado and around the world with clinical outcomes that meet or exceed US benchmarks. Whether you live in Cherry Creek, Lone Tree, and Littleton, or you’re visiting us from Colorado Springs, Los Angeles, or Chicago, our team of experts has deep roots in the Colorado community and is dedicated to a safe and successful experience. Visit Conceptions today to learn more.

Conceptions is now part of the RMA network of U.S. fertility centers. To learn more about RMA visit www.rmanetwork.com.