March 09, 2025
The B.C. government is providing details about its publicly-funded in vitro fertilization program, which was first announced last year.
However, fertility specialists say some questions remain unanswered.
Fertility coach Laura Spencer told Global News that major details still need to be finalized, including which fertility clinics will be participating.
But she said it is good to have some information.
The B.C. government has allocated $68 million over two years for one-time funding of up to $19,000 for one round of IVF for each patient who qualifies.
Applicants must be between 18 and 41 years old.
“That’s so young,” Spencer said. “And means a baby is just out of reach for some people.”
Dr. Jason Hitkari, co-founder of Olive Fertility Centre, is among the experts working with the ministry of health to finalize the details of the complex program.
“I’m really pleased with the funding for fertility care,”‘ he said.
“But I’m not sure it’ll be enough for everybody to get care right away. I think our patients really want to know, ‘How does the wait-list system work?'”
The program’s start date has been delayed by three months from April 1 to July 2, which is when applications can be submitted to the ministry by a patient’s doctor.
“What’s going to happen on that day?” Hitkari asked.
“Is it going to be a zoo of trying to put applications in? With patients getting upset or frustrated, or worried that they’re not being put in the right priority?”
The B.C. government said applications will be reviewed in the order they are received.
