Overview

This bill mandates increased transparency in the provision of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatments in England and Wales. IVF providers must publicly report on the number of NHS-funded and privately funded IVF cycles, details of additional treatments offered, and reasons for any shortfalls in NHS-funded cycles provided.

Description

The Fertility Treatment (Transparency) Bill requires IVF providers to annually publish detailed information regarding their IVF services. This includes:

• IVF Treatment Data: The total number of IVF cycles provided, the number funded by the NHS, the number of patients treated, and the number of NHS-funded cycles per patient, including whether each patient received the recommended number of NHS-funded cycles according to NICE guidelines.
• Treatment Add-on Data: Details about additional treatments offered, including descriptions, cost, claims of effectiveness, and the number of patients offered or receiving them.
• Shortfall Report: If patients haven't received the recommended number of NHS-funded cycles, providers must publish a report analyzing the reasons and outlining steps to improve access.
• Publication Requirements: Information must be published online and shared with relevant authorities within specific timeframes, ensuring patient anonymity. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) can issue directions on the format of these publications.
• Enforcement: Compliance is mandated as a condition of the IVF provider's license under the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't directly impact government spending. However, by increasing transparency, it aims to highlight potential shortfalls in NHS-funded IVF provision, potentially leading to future discussions and adjustments in government funding allocation for IVF treatments.

Groups Affected

• IVF Providers: Required to collect and publish extensive data, potentially increasing administrative burden and costs.
• Patients: May benefit from increased transparency and potentially improved access to NHS-funded IVF treatments if shortfalls are addressed.
• NHS Trusts and Integrated Care Boards: Responsible for assisting providers in complying with the reporting requirements and may see a clearer picture of IVF provision in their regions.
• The HFEA: Will receive data for monitoring and oversight.

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