Ontario is following the footsteps of Quebec, becoming the second Canadian province to fund in-vitro fertilization (IVF) for individuals who are unable to conceive.
For the uninitiated, IVF is an intricate medical process wherein an egg is "retrieved" and later fertilized by a sperm but not within the body. The embryo which results is then shifted to the woman's uterus and implanted.
On Thursday, October 10, the Ontario government revealed that it will help more people who want to get pregnant and grow their family by providing access to treatments that aid in fertility, thereby helping people who are unable to have kids. Starting 2015, Ontario will increase funding for infertility treatments.
Health Minister Deb Matthews said, the Canadian province is set to bear the cost for one "cycle" of IVF treatment for each patient who suffers from "all forms of infertility."
However, the cost of related drug treatments or any additional services will have to be borne by the family in question or their health plan will cover the same.
"Supporting the safe use of modern IVF treatment will result in fewer high risk pregnancies - while at the same time helping thousands of Ontarians realize their dream of having their own family," said Matthews in a statement.
However, Matthews did not reveal the exact amount of IVF costs that will be covered by the Ontario government, but estimated that the province will set aside a $50 million annual budget post the complete implementation of the program.
With the expansion of access to IVF, it is estimated that the Ontario government could fund at least 4000 more people. The move has been welcomed as it will also help control Canada's widespread issue of dangerous multiple births.
"Policies that encourage and reward single embryo transfer will result in better health outcomes for mothers and their babies. I commend the government for taking action to reduce the number of multiple births, which will help to prevent complications and ultimately reduce overall health costs," noted Dr. Ellen Greenblatt, Medical Director of Mount Sinai Centre for Fertility and Reproductive Health.
An advisory body will also be set up by the Ontario government, which will persevere to ensure the deployment of best medical practices. The advisory panel will also ensure that only a single embryo is used in each treatment.
