As Union Budget 2024-25 approaches, leaders from the In vitro fertilization (IVF) sector are urging the government to integrate broader support for fertility treatments into its financial planning. Dr. Sheetal Jindal, Senior Consultant and Director of the Medical Genetics Program at Jindal IVF, Chandigarh, has emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach in the upcoming budget.
Dr. Jindal acknowledged previous budget allocations for conditions like sickle cell anemia and thalassemia but called for a wider scope of coverage in the upcoming financial plan. “We strongly advocate for the inclusion of preventive measures such as Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) for genetic disorders in national healthcare frameworks. There is also an urgent need for increased funding in assisted reproductive technologies, particularly IVF,” she stated. Dr. Jindal also highlighted the importance of fostering public-private partnerships to enhance access to reproductive treatments, especially for lower-middle-class families. She recommended introducing tax incentives for private healthcare providers who offer reduced-cost fertility treatments to economically disadvantaged patients and called for comprehensive insurance coverage that includes multiple IVF cycles, as repeated attempts are often necessary for success.
Furthermore, Dr. Jindal urged the launch of a nationwide awareness campaign to educate the public about fertility issues and available treatments, aiming to reduce stigma and promote early intervention. She believes that prioritizing these reforms in the upcoming budget could significantly improve healthcare inclusivity and affordability in the domain of reproductive health.
Abhishek Aggarwal, Chief Business Officer at Birla Fertility & IVF, echoed these sentiments, pointing out the progress made through government initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) and the National Health Mission. However, he stressed the need for greater focus on infertility issues, given the country’s vast population and declining fertility rates. According to a research report by The Lancet, India’s total fertility rate (TFR) is projected to drop to 1.29, with one in five Indians expected to be senior citizens by 2050. “We must address these emerging challenges proactively and avoid the pitfalls experienced by other nations,” Aggarwal warned.
He concluded that integrating fertility and IVF treatments into insurance coverage would not only make healthcare more affordable but also support couples aspiring to become parents, ultimately contributing to the health and stability of future generations.
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