Fertility patients charged for unproven add-ons, regulator says

Many UK fertility patients are being offered unnecessary add-on treatments that are unlikely to improve the pregnancy, according to a new report.

According to regulator, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), 73 per cent of the 1,500 patients surveyed reported using an add-on in their most recent treatment cycle, the majority following recommendation from their clinic.

However, only a third of patients said that they had been informed of the potential risks.

HFEA director Clare Ettinghausen said: “This is people themselves reporting on whether they took perhaps an additional supplement, like a vitamin tablet, or had a test or perhaps something like acupuncture.

“We have looked at the evidence… they are not necessarily going to increase the chance of having a baby.

“So we are worried that people are spending money unnecessarily.”

Add-ons, which include genetic testing, endometrial scratching and assisted hatching, can cost thousands of pounds.

Ettinghausen noted that patients were largely satisfied with the care they received.

However, the regulator is concerned that NHS patients face longer waiting times than those using private services.

More than half of private patients began treatment within a year, whereas only one in three NHS patients did.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “It is unacceptable fertility patients are being offered unnecessary treatments that will not help them in their goal of becoming parents.

We are working to improve access to NHS fertility services for all who need it.

“We are also currently considering advice from the HFEA about priorities for law reform covering their regulatory powers, including their potential role in digital clinics.”