It looks like Ontario will be covering IVF.

Posted by & filed under IVF, News.

It hasn’t passed yet, but with a majority government and no changes to the proposed budget, Ontario plans to cover IVF.

The devil is always in the details, of course.

From the budget:

“The government will provide additional support for people in this province who want to become parents by expanding coverage of infertility services for one cycle of in vitro fertilization per patient per lifetime for all causes of eligible infertility. Enhancing coverage makes infertility services more affordable and increases access to more than 4,000 additional patients annually. The government is also committed to developing a stronger quality and regulatory framework for those providing infertility services to ensure patients receive safe, high-quality care.”

It’s a good start! But right now I have a lot of questions.

I look forward to finding out how “eligible” is defined by the government. Will there be age limits? Will using donor sperm or donor eggs impact eligibility? How will the need for IVF be defined? IVF isn’t the right path for everyone. Check out our previous blog post on this topic.

As I’ve mentioned in another previous posts on provincial IVF funding, Ontario will need an expert panel. Converting these words into a well-regulated structure that meets the needs of most people is going to be hard work. There is a lot to be learned from Quebec’s two year long consultation process.

This is a significant move. Along with Quebec, now Canada’s two largest provinces will be providing support. Hopefully this vote by Ontario encourages Alberta to move forward, who I’ve heard is close to funding IVF too. Manitoba already provides excellent tax credits.

If there is a role in the future for a patient advocate, I will let you know.

As soon as I am able to, I will talk about what expected timelines will be.

It is my sincere hope that all eligible Canadians will have increased access to the care they deserve.

4 Responses to “It looks like Ontario will be covering IVF.”

  1. Erin

    Hello. Will this coverage extend to medications as well or just for the procedures?

    Reply
  2. Erin

    Hello. Will this coverage extend to medications as well or just the procedures. Thanks

    Reply

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