The fertility clinic at the London Health Sciences Centre sees thousands of patients each year, but a plan by the province to pay more of the cost of in vitro fertilization has would-be parents already calling.
On Thursday, the government announced plans to contribute to the cost of one cycle of IVF.
Although Valter Feyles, an LHSC fertility specialist, would like to see more than one cycle covered, he believes this is a good move.
“I'm very pleased the government has decided to fund IVF,” Feyles says.
“For many people there are significant financial difficulties in affording IVF.
It could be another year before expanded fertility services are available in Ontario.
Still, the clinic is fielding inquiries from potential parents.
Dr. Feyles says the funding is precise about conditions and people need to understand what’s covered and what isn’t.
“It's funded for very specific diagnosis, such as bilateral tubal blockage. Their patients who don't have this, don’t get support."
Under the plan, costs associated with IVF, such as medication would also not be covered.
“The medications for a couple undergoing IVF, they can easily spend $3,000 to $4,000,” Feyles says.
It’s estimated the program will cost $50 million a year. It's not clear at this point whether that cost will be covered by OHIP or through tax credits.
The announcement comes at a time demand for IVF is growing and technology is evolving.
“There is a very large amount of research on IVF both in terms of improving pregnancy rates and safety,” he says.
The government says expanded IVF will result in fewer multiple births and high risk pregnancies.
