Fertility Mapper, a platform focusing on enhancing access to fertility services, has launched the NHS Fertility Funding Calculator. This tool is designed to simplify the process of determining eligibility for NHS-funded fertility treatment in England, addressing the often-confusing variation in regional criteria.
The introduction of this calculator is timely. The fertility sector, particularly in areas like IVF and IUI treatments, is known for its complexity and inconsistency in terms of costs and eligibility, especially within the NHS framework. This inconsistency, commonly referred to as a “postcode lottery,” results in significant differences in treatment accessibility based on geographic and personal factors.
The NHS Fertility Funding Calculator by Fertility Mapper consolidates various eligibility criteria from local NHS sources into one accessible online tool. Users input basic personal and medical details, and the calculator processes this information against the policies of the relevant NHS integrated care board. It then provides a personalized assessment of their eligibility for NHS-funded treatment.
Kayleigh Hartigan, Founder and CEO of Fertility Mapper, emphasizes the calculator’s role in providing clarity and support to individuals seeking fertility treatment: “We aim to make understanding NHS-funded fertility options simpler and more straightforward. This tool is a direct response to the complexities faced by individuals in navigating the NHS system.”
The need for such a tool is underscored by findings in Fertility Mapper’s recent “True Cost of Fertility” report. The report sheds light on the growing private fertility market, now valued at $21.13bn globally, and highlights issues such as hidden costs and the daunting decision-making process faced by individuals. In contrast, the NHS Fertility Funding Calculator is a step towards increasing transparency and simplifying the process in the public healthcare sector.
The calculator is particularly relevant in the current fertility landscape, which is experiencing shifts due to demographic changes and evolving family structures. It not only assists individuals in understanding their options under the NHS but also contributes to broader discussions on the necessity for accessible and comprehensive fertility care.
