Nearly two years after pledging to provide free or subsidized infertility treatments to childless couples, public hospitals in Mumbai have started delivering on their commitment.
At Cama Hospital near CSMT, 361 women grappling with infertility concerns have sought help from the outpatient department since April. Basic treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) have already led to around 30 successful pregnancies. For those requiring more extensive procedures, including in-vitro fertilization (IVF), the hospital anticipates commencing treatments within the next month or two, pending the acquisition of necessary licenses for advanced laboratory operations.
Dr. Tushar Palve, Superintendent of Cama Hospital, highlighted the significance of IVF, where eggs or embryos are handled in a laboratory setting, especially considering the exorbitant costs involved in private clinics, which can exceed Rs 1 lakh per cycle. The initiative at public hospitals thus serves as a crucial intervention, given that approximately 10% of the adult population faces some form of infertility.
Similar efforts are underway at other public hospitals like KEM Hospital in Pareel and LTMG Hospital in Sion. At KEM Hospital, known for pioneering India’s second IVF baby 38 years ago, preparations are underway to launch IVF treatments within the next three months. “We have initiated IUI treatments while finalizing the civil and technical installations required for advanced IVF procedures,” stated Dr. Sangeeta Ravat, Dean of KEM Hospital.
Meanwhile, at Sion Hospital, over 60% of the laboratory groundwork has been completed, according to Dr. Mohan Joshi, the hospital’s dean.
Despite the delay attributed to bureaucratic processes and logistical challenges in securing donations and equipment, civic administrators remain optimistic. “Securing donors and finalizing technical teams for civil work are time-consuming tasks,” explained a senior administrator.
On World IVF Day, experts underscored the importance of enhancing access to assisted reproduction technology (ART) for infertile women, highlighting systemic gaps in support and information. An editorial in The Lancet medical journal cautioned against potential shifts in focus from evidence-based patient care to commercial interests within the fertility industry.
As public hospitals in Mumbai inch closer to realizing their promises of accessible infertility care, stakeholders and experts continue to advocate for sustained efforts to improve healthcare inclusivity and patient support.
Related Links:
