New data has revealed that half of fertility patients are putting their treatment on hold due to the increasing cost of living. This issue is exacerbated by a lack of transparency in pricing, which leads many patients to abruptly end their IVF journey
Starting a family has become more financially challenging than ever before. With household budgets being squeezed, families are forced to prioritise their spending.
The additional costs associated with fertility treatment are deterring an increasing number of couples from pursuing their family plans. Recent data shows that 95% of fertility patients are worried about the financial burden caused by the cost-of-living crisis, with 49% choosing to suspend their treatment as a result.
James Barr, Managing Director at Bridge Clinic London, expresses concern over these survey results, but acknowledges that they are not unexpected. He believes that patients should not have to make the difficult decision to pause or suspend their treatment due to external factors beyond their control.
Barr highlights the issue of opaque pricing and hidden costs that are prevalent in many IVF clinics and providers. This lack of transparency contributes to the growing number of patients ending their IVF journey prematurely. He suggests that IVF partners should offer affordable treatment to all patients, regardless of their demographic or circumstances. Furthermore, there is a need for greater transparency in pricing structures and the disclosure of specific add-on requirements, such as additional hormone treatment or assisted hatching, before patients commit financially to any treatment.
According to Barr, IVF partners have a responsibility to prioritise affordability in their offerings. Fertility treatment is an emotionally challenging time for many UK families, and reducing the financial burden on patients is an essential step in building trust between patients and clinics. However, affordability should not come at the expense of quality of care.
The ongoing financial pressures faced by IVF providers are causing a negative perception among patients. By providing quality and affordable treatment, the chances of patients completing their IVF journey can be improved. Fertility clinics run the risk of derailing the process if patients are unclear about the financial commitment involved and if the level of care provided is substandard.
Barr concludes by emphasising that the high number of UK fertility patients suspending treatment due to financial pressures is unacceptable. No one should have to endure additional financial hardship to achieve their dream of having a family. IVF providers can take proactive steps to ensure affordability and quality of care are at the forefront of their services, thereby reversing the current trend and encouraging more patients to commit to their IVF journey.
Are you struggling with the cost of IVF? Have you had to suspend treatment due to the financial pressure? If you would like some support, drip us a line at info@ivfbabble.com.
How on earth do you start an IVF journey without plummeting in to dark money pit?
