The NHS funding for IVF cycles in the UK has reached its lowest point since 2008, as outlined in a recent report from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). The report highlights a decline in NHS-funded treatments, which experts attribute to various factors including funding constraints, prolonged waiting times, and disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to the HFEA, the number of IVF treatments in 2022 saw an increase compared to pre-pandemic levels, with approximately 52,500 patients undergoing treatment, up from 50,000 in 2019. However, only 27% of these cycles were NHS-funded, marking a significant decrease from 40% in 2012.
The regional distribution of NHS-funded cycles varied across the UK, with notable declines observed in England (17%), Wales (16%), and Scotland (7%) between 2019 and 2022. The East Midlands recorded the sharpest decline, while Yorkshire and the Humber saw an increase of 17%.
A noteworthy trend highlighted in the report is the rising age of patients starting fertility treatment, surpassing an average age of 35 years for first-time IVF patients. This age is notably higher than the average age of first childbirth among women in England and Wales, which stands at 29 years.
Julia Chain, chairwoman of the HFEA, emphasized the importance of early access to fertility treatment due to the declining success rates with age. She pointed to delays in NHS services, exacerbated by the pandemic, and financial challenges as contributing factors to the higher average age of patients seeking IVF.
Despite these challenges, there has been an overall improvement in IVF success rates, with pregnancy rates increasing across various age groups. The report indicates that the average birth rate following IVF treatments has risen from 18% to a preliminary figure of 24% over the past decade.
The demographic profile of IVF patients also reflects evolving societal trends, with a notable increase in single patients undergoing treatment. Ms. Chain underscored the variability of success rates and emphasized the importance of early consultation and timely access to fertility services for maximizing chances of success.
In response to the findings, an NHS spokesperson highlighted the local nature of decisions regarding healthcare provision, affirming the commitment to equitable access to services based on local needs.
The report underscores ongoing challenges in fertility treatment accessibility and calls for continued efforts to address funding constraints and reduce delays in accessing essential healthcare services.
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