So just why does our PCT delay support for IVF?

A very interesting piece of research that confirms the link between Down's syndrome and childbirth later in life begs the question - why on earth does our PCT delay support for those needing assistance until they are at an age where the statistics show they are so much more likely to carry a baby with Down's syndrome? The risk of having a baby with Down's syndrome is one in 940 for a woman aged 30. But by age 40, the risk rises to one in 85. Surely our PCT should see the manyfold benefits (of which a reduced risk of Down's syndrome is just one example) of childbirth at a younger age, not just look at their Balance Sheet?

Drinking alcohol and the effects on IVF results

We just came across this article about drinking during courses of IVF. We took the decision not to drink before and during our treatment and, although I (male partner) found it difficult at times, it was ultimately worth it. Obviously it is impossible to tell whether the alcohol abstinence was a factor in our success but it was a very small price to pay.

Egg screening for IVF

It seems that egg screening success rates are now backed up by real scientific evidence. As yet to be offered on the NHS (well, live in North Yorkshire and you don't even get 'vanilla' IVF, never mind advanced screening techniques) but some private clinics now offer it - it is said to be particularly effective for older women who carry greater risks of giving birth to babies with defects.

Well, how did our PCT fair in the CareQuality Commission survey?

After last year's disasterous results where North Yorkshire and York PCT scored as WEAK there really was only one way up. This year they managed to reach the heady heights of FAIR. Of course this isn't really acceptable. It is certainly not acceptable for those of us unable to get access to a service that most PCTs offer and, yes you've guessed it, NICE and the Government recommend is provided.

Further correspondence from the PCT

After asking for clarification on the impending re-instatement of an IVF service for us unfortunates living in a home with a North Yorkshire postcode, Gill Fox made this statement...

From April 2010, this PCT along with the other 13 PCTs in the Yorkshire & Humber Specialised Commissioning Group, will adhere to a collaborative policy around assisted conception services. This PCT has also agreed that, from that date, all eligible couples will be able to access 1 NHS funded cycle of IVF/ICSI providing they meet eligibility criteria. The age parameters for access will be as per NICE guidance.

As part of on-going discussions, differing PCT eligibility criteria are currently being re-assessed so that all PCTs can sign up to an agreed set, thus helping to dispel any suggestion of a post-code lottery. I have been actively involved in these discussions and I do not anticipate very much change from the present criteria around age of patient(s), previous children by this or other relationships etc although there will be some minor adjustments.

Until April 2010, NYY PCT continues not to routinely commission IVF/ICSI unless the female partner is 39 years and 6 months of age or it is a case of exceptional clinical need. At some point in early 2010, all GPs and consultants will receive further information on the new policy and criteria together with reiteration of referral guidelines.

So there we have it - exact eligibility has not yet been confirmed, but it should mean that a much greater number of couples will now be able to access IVF treatment. They are still some way off meeting NICE and Government targets for proper levels of provision for the service though, but it is a step in the right direction.

Extract from North Yorks NHS board meeting - recommencement of IVF...

So... We have it, in black and white. Finally our wonderful PCT has taken its first tentative steps back on the IVF ladder. At some point in the future they may reach the dizzy heights of meeting NICE guidelines and providing the three courses that are recommended.

Still, it is a start.

10. Provision of Sub- fertility Service
The IVF service was not commissioned from February 2007 and treatment stopped as a result in May 2007. At this point there was a waiting list of patients for 2 years. There were 200 on the list and this has reduced naturally to 100. There is a difficulty with patients meeting the 18/52 waiting list targets and 36/52 would fit the provision of the service better due to the timings and delivery of treatment. There is £400 – 500k left in the funding presently and Gill Fox posed the question to the meeting of whether to commence the service now or to wait until April 2010. It was agreed that the services would be commissioned in April 2010. There would be an exception for patients who were 39 and would have the chance to go through one cycle before they were 40 or patients who had exceptional medical/clinical need.

There was a statement going to be published in the Sunday Telegraph from David Cockayne regarding NHSNYY funding 1 IVF cycle from April 2010 to patients who met the criteria.