Patient Testimonial
Dr. Lersten was incredible—always positive, warm, and genuinely supportive. Her kindness and encouragement made a difficult time feel a little easier, and I always felt like I was in good hands. If you’re navigating the challenges of starting a famil, I highly recommend Dr. Lersten.

Dr. Gannon made me feel truly cared for—she was very thorough, kind, and knowledgeable, which really put me at ease. I went in feeling nervous, but left feeling completely comfortable and confident in her care. The entire team, including the staff, made me feel like a priority.

Shady Grove Fertility provides exceptional care and support under the expertise, knowledge and professionalism of Dr. Patounakis. He is incredibly successful at his work as well as thorough, compassionate and patient. I highly recommend Dr. Patounakis and the entire team at Shady Grove Fertility.

Dr. Kim and team are the best of the best. We switched clinics and have had a great experince. He truly listens to your concerns, never does the same thing twice, and is very involved in your journey. I would refer anyone to go to there in a heartbeat!

I had a wonderful experience with IVF at Shady Grove. The staff were incredibly friendly and supportive throughout the entire process. I am especially grateful for Dr. Sally Vitez, whose positivity and expertise made a significant difference. I couldn’t be more thankful for her and the entire team!

Dr. Kim is an amazing doctor and person. Since our first encounter with him, we just knew we were in the right hands. He is so very detailed, thorough, and kind hearted. He makes you feel comfortable from the moment you meet him.


Biography

Ellie Andres, PA-C, earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology at Elon University in North Carolina. She then continued her studies at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and completed her Master of Medical Science in the Physician Assistant Program.    

Ellie comes to SGF with over a decade of experience as a Physician Assistant, including time spent in Medical Endocrinology and Reproductive Endocrine & Infertility. 

Since joining SGF in 2022, Ellie’s responsibilities include counseling patients on various fertility treatments, performing monitoring, baseline and saline ultrasounds, intrauterine inseminations (IUI), endometrial biopsies, mock embryo transfers, HSGs and more. 

Ellie currently cares for patients as a physician assistant at SGF Carolina’s Raleigh location.  

Education

  • Bachelor of Science in Biology: Elon University North Carolina
  • Master of Science in Medical Science – Physician Assistant: Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina
  • Perform ultrasounds including baseline, monitoring, and obstetrical   
  • Perform intrauterine inseminations (IUI)  
  • Perform hysterosalpingograms (HSGs)  
  • Perform saline sonograms/mock embryo transfers (SIS/MET)  
  • Perform urgent care evaluations for pain and/or bleeding  
  • Perform gynecological procedures such as endometrial biopsies   
  • Perform physical exams   
  • Review lab results and assist in clinical decision making for patients   
  • American Society for Reproductive Medicine
  • American Academy of Physician Assistants
  • North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants 
  • Triangle Association of Physician Assistants

Q&A

Having been a Physician Assistant for over a decade, I truly feel there is nothing more rewarding than helping families of all walks of life build their desired family. The connections made with patients during what is often a difficult and stressful journey are priceless. I am excited to continue my career in this field with Shady Grove Fertility.

I enjoy spending time with my family, outdoor activities and listening to true crime podcasts.

I am a Raleigh/Cary native and have an identical twin sister!