A response from the PCT

We have contacted the PCT to comment on the delay in provision of IVF from April as promised and have had this rather ambiguous response.

We do appreciate that the provision of IVF is an emotive subject and in order to ensure that everyone across the whole of Yorkshire and Humber region has equity of access, we have been working with other NHS organisations as part of the region-wide Specialised Commissioning Group to establish a minimum standard that patients can expect wherever they live within the region.

We had hoped that the change would take effect from April 2010 but in order to ensure a consistent approach across Yorkshire and the Humber, the view is that it is likely to come into effect from July 2010.

We appreciate that this delay will be disappointing for some; however it is vital that we use this opportunity to finally establish a fair and equitable approach to the commissioning of IVF services.

If you have any further queries, please contact PALS on 0800 068 8000.

We don't really believe that any changes will come into effect in July - after all they are very good at not keeping to promises and seem happy to continue to ignore all Government and NICE guidelines on IVF provision. It is also somewhat ironic that they cite 'equity' as a reason to delay the provision after some three years of inequity with the vast majority of PCTs across the country. But, as excuses go, it is one.

Latest from the PCT

I have heard that the PCT has delayed its implementation of IVF provision as it promised it would do starting in April. More from us when we find out more from them.