Scotland reviews NHS IVF access for single women and couples

The Scottish Government has launched a national review to evaluate and potentially expand access to NHS IVF treatment. A key focus of the review is determining whether fertility services should be extended to single women and to couples who have children from previous relationships.

In addition to eligibility criteria, the review will examine the consistency of fertility preservation access, particularly for women who have undergone cancer treatment. It will also address waiting times for patients requiring donor eggs or sperm. The findings are expected to be released next summer.

Health Secretary Angela Constance stated that access to treatment should be “fair, timely and reflect the way people’s lives and families look today.” The review will also consider recent clinical guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which suggests providing up to three additional funded cycles for patients who have not achieved pregnancy after their initial three cycles. While campaigners have welcomed the move, some critics have raised concerns regarding the prioritization of funds within the NHS.