Three Minutes on a Park Bench with Elena Trukhacheva MD

Patch partner Elena Trukhacheva MD, MSCI, President and Medical Director of Reproductive Medicine Institute tells us the best business advice she's ever received and recommends three great books everyone should read.

Patch: How did you first start working in reproductive health?

Elena Trukhacheva MD: I have always been interested in women's health, specifically in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, and wanted to serve in that arena. Early on, my interest was met with a comment that reproductive medicine was a great area with exciting new developments on the horizon, but that it was very challenging to break into and quite competitive. I took this to mean I couldn't make it…which only doubled my desire. I made it and I love it.

Patch: The Reproductive Medicine Institute offers a lot of helpful advice about fertility treatments. How have fertility treatments changed over the years?

Elena Trukhacheva MD: The biggest breakthrough in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) was In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) which allowed a lot of couples with very abnormal anatomy, abnormal eggs or sperm, to become pregnant. As technology has improved, IVF has become more efficient, making way for new developments in the areas of embryo culture as well as embryo selection. It also allows genetic screening of embryos for single gene diseases as well as chromosomes. Embryo selection has improved dramatically, and allowed to decrease the risks of multiple gestation through single embryo transfers (SET).

Patch: If you had to recommend someone three books, what would they be and why?

Elena Trukhacheva MD: "War and Peace" -- a timeless and grand story of perseverance and the true values of life. "One Hundred Years of Solitude" -- a rich and beautiful story of humankind. "The Master and Margarita" -- a mystical story that illustrates the pursuit of happiness.

Patch: Can you tell us a little bit about Reproductive Medicine Institute's mission?

Elena Trukhacheva MD: Reproductive Medicine Institute (RMI) is committed to working together to bring academic excellence, cutting-edge technology, and skilled experience in a patient-oriented practice to the Chicago area. With more than 150 years of combined experience, we have achieved unmatchable success in reproductive medicine at our Chicago area based practice. Together, we are able to provide patients with the highest possible odds of achieving pregnancy through the best treatment science has to offer.

Patch: What's the best business advice you ever received?

Elena Trukhacheva MD: When I was a fellow at Northwestern, I attended a conference where speakers from practices throughout the country presented. One of the best things I ever heard, and believe in through my own work and life is that You have to produce Value in whatever you do.

Patch: How are you involved in the Chicago community?

Elena Trukhacheva MD: I teach medical residents as part of their training. I am also quite involved in my children's school community and provide support in all needed areas from fundraising to educational planning and development.

Patch: What three questions should people ask themselves when choosing a fertility institute?

Elena Trukhacheva MD: Were all my questions regarding my diagnosis, condition, treatment plan and possible outcomes answered? Do I understand the results of my tests, my diagnosis, and treatment plan? Do I have a good rapport with the physician and his/her staff? Can the clinic offer me the highest level of technology and treatment?

Patch: What makes Reproductive Medicine Institute stand out from the competition?

Elena Trukhacheva MD: RMI is a group practice that combines the excellence and expertise of subspecialist physician, while still maintaining an individual and personal approach with each patient we see.

Patch: How can readers contact you or learn more about Reproductive Medicine
Institute?

Elena Trukhacheva MD: www.teamrmi.com or 866.331.3336