A provincial promise to cover the costs of the first round of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) for those in the province facing barriers to parenthood is exciting news for fertility specialists.
During the release of the provincial budget Thursday, B.C.’s finance minister announced funding towards IVF services.
“Everyone who wants to have a child should have the opportunity to do so, however, many people can’t conceive without help,” Katrine Conroy said.
“They may look at in-vitro fertilization or IVF but it can be expensive. No one should be denied the opportunity to have a child because of how much money they make, who they love, or whether they have a partner,” she said.
Starting April 2025, the province will allocate $68 million to launch a new publicly funded IVF program providing treatment and medication for a single cycle.
“We are all very excited about it. This is fantastic news for the people of B.C.,” said James Graham, clinical director of Victoria’s Olive Fertility Centre.
“A lot of other provinces has already brought this in and I think it’s a great thing.”
He said this opens the door for all couples and single parents struggling to start a family because of financial barriers.
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