NHS IVF access review launched in Scotland

Scotland has launched a review of NHS IVF access, including whether treatment should extend to single women and couples with children from previous relationships.

The national review will assess how fertility services can better reflect modern family structures while maintaining fair and consistent access across Scotland.

It will also examine access to fertility preservation services, particularly for women who have undergone cancer treatment, and ways to cut waiting times for patients who need donor eggs or sperm.

Scotland currently offers the most comprehensive nationwide NHS IVF provision in the UK. Eligible patients can access up to three full cycles of IVF treatment through the NHS, subject to existing eligibility criteria.

Ministers will also consider updated clinical guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.

The revised recommendations suggest patients who have not achieved a successful pregnancy after three IVF cycles could benefit from up to three additional NHS-funded treatment cycles.

The review is part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to examining how fertility services are delivered and whether they meet patients’ needs across Scotland.

Scottish health secretary Angela Constance said: “Access to NHS IVF treatment should be fair, timely and reflect the way people’s lives and families look today, and delivering this review is one of our key 100 day commitments.

“The review will look closely at the current system, including waiting times for those who need donor eggs or sperm for their treatment.

“This work builds on annual Scottish Government funding, which has supported the expansion of NHS IVF treatment over the past ten years.”

Healthcare leaders and fertility specialists will be watching closely as the review progresses, with any future changes potentially broadening access to treatment and addressing long-standing concerns around equity, consistency and waiting times.