Government Expanding Access to Fertility Services

The Provincial Government is improving access to fertility services in the province, including in-vitro fertilization and egg preservation, that will eventually eliminate the need to travel outside of the province to access IVF treatment, improving the quality of life and well-being for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians seeking treatment.

The review included consultation with key people with direct experience and expertise in fertility services, including previous and current clients of fertility services and people considering using fertility services in the future. The report recommended providing funding upfront so patients do not have to find alternative methods to pay for treatment while awaiting reimbursement.

Based on the review:

• The subsidy for IVF is now one-time funding of up to $20,000. This is an increase from the previous funding of $5,000 per IVF cycle up to a maximum of three cycles.

• The Department of Health and Community Services is beginning consultation with stakeholders to create a plan to establish IVF services within the province, which may include legislative changes, procurement and infrastructure requirements, and human resource implications.

Since 2021, 230 individuals have availed of the IVF subsidy program for an investment of $2.1 million.