Trusts denying fertility treatment to smokers
There is a postcode lottery in fertility treatment, survey reveals
Also In The News
|
Seventh seed David Nalbandian has become the first high-profile casualty at Wimbledon 2008 after he was knocked out in straight sets by qualifier Frank Dancevic. |  |
Tuesday, 24, Jun 2008 10:47
A number of NHS primary care trusts (PCTs) are denying fertility treatment to women who smoke, a survey has revealed.
The poll of PCTs uncovered a number of other barriers to IVF treatment including one partner having children from previous relationships.
Four years ago the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice) decided that three cycles of IVF should be offered to couples in which the woman is aged between 25 and 39 and where there has been fertility problems for at least three years.
But the survey, carried out in autumn 2007 and published on the Department of Health's (DoH) website, shows that the majority of trusts are failing to offer three cycles of treatment, with many providing just one.
And some trusts have put their own age restrictions in place.
The DoH said the survey's results would be used as a basis for monitoring provision.
It admitted that while progress is being made in IVF provision "there remain variations in access criteria".
A DoH statement said an expert group on commissioning NHS infertility provision has been established that is looking at barriers to provision and ways to help PCTs meet the Nice guideline.