NHS Chiefs' IVF policy branded heartless

Nov 23 2008 By Mark Aitken Political Editor

HUNDREDS of infertile couples are missing out on parenthood because two Scottish health boards are operating an IVF postcode lottery, the Sunday Mail can reveal.

Up to the age of 39 patients should get three chances of NHS treatment, according to UK guidelines introduced in 2004.

But Forth Valley and Lanarkshire health boards have decided to allow couples just two cycles to save money.

Critics have branded them "cruel and heartless".

Scottish Tory health spokeswoman Mary Scanlon said: "The postcode lottery means many who want children don't get assistance.

"It's cruel and heartless. Being denied treatment can have a devastating effect on a relationship."

Infertility affects one in seven couples in Britain but restrictions on NHS treatment means many have to go private, paying s2000 a time.

Waiting times also vary from six months to three years.

Scanlon added: "More needs to be done to assist couples who want a child."

A Sunday Mail survey found some health boards - including Fife, Lothian, Forth Valley and Western Isles - only offer IVF up to age 38.

Grampian also has a limit of 38 but will treat private patients up to 45.

Greater Glasgow and Clyde has a limit of 41. Susan Seenan, of Infertility Network Scotland, said: "We would like to see IVF being included in waiting list targets in Scotland, as in England.

"It is high time patients in Scotland received a fair and equitable service."

The Scottish Government said: "We are committed to making IVF treatment on the NHS available on a more equal basis." About 50 per cent of women become pregnant if they have three IVF cycles.

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