“My goal with each new patient that I have the privilege of working with is to provide them with the best care possible no matter what the problem turns out to be that is causing their infertility issues. I am very aware of how scary and anxiety provoking the “treatment road” can be and my desire is to ease that burden by being available to my patients by phone, texts or emails to answer questions no matter how small, and by providing treatment options that fit their wishes, ethics and pocketbook; while offering them the most up to date advances in the field of REI.
I will always be optimistic for success with whatever is tried but also upfront about the highest success options available, intensity to expect and any risks involved. The most rewarding and most fun part of my job is making that call with the first positive pregnancy test and experiencing the excitement of the first ultrasound with the ability to see the baby and a normal heartbeat. I thank God daily that I am able to have a small part in the miracle of a new life.”
Meet Dr. Schell
Dr. Schell is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology, with a sub-specialty board certification in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. In addition to these areas, Dr. Schell has special interests in diagnosing and treating hormone dysfunction conditions including endometriosis, thyroid problems, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and complex pituitary and adrenal issues.
Dr. Schell earned her medical degree at Loma Linda University Medical School in Loma Linda, California, where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She spent her clinical time at Wayne State University/Hutzel Hospital in Detroit, Michigan and completed her Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellowship at the University of Illinois/Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Schell has extensive experience in laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis and pelvic pain issues and recently added robotic training to her skills to provide the best surgical options for her patients.
Dr. Schell’s practice philosophy is rooted in an approach to compassionate care that provides each patient with a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan based on their specific needs. This approach falls in line with the mission and promise that the Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago provides to each patient.
Dr. Debra Schell Profile
Research:
- Schell, DL et al. Combined Ultrasonography and Amniocentesis for Pregnant Women with Elevated Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein: Revising the Risk Estimate, Journal of Reproductive Medicine, Vol 35, No. 5, 543-546, May 1990. Also Poster Presentation at the American Society for Human Genetics Meeting, Baltimore, MD. 11/1990.
- Schell, DL, Mavroginis PA, Fazleabas, A. Verhage, H. Epidermal Growth Factor, Transforming Growth Factor Alpha, and EGF-R Location in the Baboon (Papio Anubis) Oviduct During Steroid Treatments and the Menstrual Cycle. J. Soc. Gynecologic Invest., Vol. 1, No. 4, 269-276. 1994. Also Poster Presentation at the Society of Gynecologic Investigation 3/1994.
Undergraduate Education
Andrews University-Graduated Summa Cum Laude
Berren Springs, MI
June 1981
Medical Education
Loma Linda University Medical School
Loma Linda, California
June 1985
Residency Training
Residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI
Completed June 1990
Infertility Fellowship Training
University of Illinois/Michael Reese Hospital
Chicago, IL
Completed June 1993
