The Changing Landscape of Infertility Coverage and the Evolving Rationale for Early REI Referral-Infertility Handouts

Infertility Handouts

Pdf Summary

Dr. Jennifer Nichols discusses the changing landscape of infertility coverage by private insurers and large employers in the United States. Currently, 21 states require private insurers to cover infertility treatments, with 14 of them also covering in vitro fertilization (IVF). However, coverage requirements, extent, and exemptions vary among states, posing challenges for certain groups and patients to access care. Resolve.org and ASRM advocate for broader coverage of infertility treatments in all states, recognizing infertility as a disease that should be covered.<br /><br />Dr. Nichols emphasizes the benefits of early referral to fertility specialists for patient workup and treatment. She stresses the importance of timely patient education on fertility preservation options like egg freezing. As fertility treatment access evolves, the implications for patient care are significant, with increasing numbers of insurers and employers providing coverage for IVF and other infertility treatments.<br /><br />The educational objectives include discussing trends in fertility care, understanding cumulative pregnancy rates over time, and exploring causes of infertility such as reproductive, medical, family, and physical factors. Both male and female workups are detailed, including tests like semen analysis, genetic screening, and evaluations of ovarian reserve. Dr. Nichols recommends early evaluation for patients to determine the best course of action, whether through IVF or other fertility treatments, and highlights the significance of timely interventions and patient education in optimizing reproductive health.

Keywords

infertility coverage

IVF

private insurers

fertility specialists

egg freezing

patient education

fertility treatments

cumulative pregnancy rates

causes of infertility

timely interventions