For those dealing with infertility, today’s technological advancements and treatments have made the path to parenthood much less difficult. Still, that path often includes financial difficulties when it comes to deciding on fertility treatment.
Most of us aren’t independently wealthy and fertility treatments like IVF, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), egg freezing and other special circumstances that may arise add up. Planning financially for even one cycle of IVF is often overwhelming. If that cycle fails and you opt for a second cycle, it’s that much costlier.
At Reproductive Wellness Center, we work to alleviate the financial stress our patients encounter by offering flexible financing options and an easy application process. Our plans are designed to provide financing to cover full IVF with preimplantation genetic testing, fertility preservation through egg freezing, embryo freezing, and other services offered at our clinic. Not all clinics offer in-house financing, and we are proud to offer it to our patients.
The Financial Impact of Fertility Treatment
A single cycle of IVF includes ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval and embryo transfer. According to a publication by the NIH, the average cost for IVF is around $12,400 but, depending on your diagnosis and your particular needs, the costs can significantly increase. Keep in mind this is just the average for a single, basic IVF. The cost for egg freezing, genetic testing and, if needed, third-party donor eggs or sperm, all add up pretty fast.
Sticker shock isn’t unusual for those considering IVF, and the process is emotional enough without the added financial burden. However, there are ways to work around the costs and afford treatment, and our team is here to offer some tips to help you navigate your fertility finances.
Qualify What Your Insurance Covers First
Those who work or live in a state where insurers mandate infertility coverage may want to check with their employer to find out what, if anything, is covered. Today (as of June 2023), there are 21 states that passed infertility insurance coverage laws. You can check here to find out if your state is among them.
In the case of employer provided insurance, laws only dictate the insurance company must offer the option for infertility coverage to the employer. If your employer decides against the coverage, there’s not much you can do.
There are several caveats to these mandates. Sometimes your insurer may provide for necessary doctor appointments and some tests or medications associated with your treatment. Other plans may offer coverage only for fertility preservation (egg freezing) and some may not provide anything at all. Whatever the case, as with most medical coverage, you’ll be responsible for a good portion of your treatment costs.
Realistically Examine Your Finances
Once you qualify costs for your fertility treatment and have confirmed any insurance coverage, the best thing to do is to sit down and realistically discuss your budget. Understand your income, output and look at your savings. Is there enough available to you to pay for all, or a portion, of your treatment? Be honest and realistic.
If you own your home or have a 401K you’ve generously contributed to, you might be tempted to borrow against them or even withdraw from your 401K. Remember you’ll face penalties for 401K withdrawals and borrowing against your home may not be the wisest choice. Opening a credit card might also seem like a good idea, but with high interest rates, treatment might end up costing more in the long run.
Research Your Financing Options
Financing for IVF or other treatments for infertility is always an option. But what kind? And from where? There are lending companies that have loans explicitly designed for IVF patients, but as with any type of financing, the percentage rates may be high depending on your credit standing.
There are so many ways in which Reproductive Health and Wellness stands out from the crowd. We offer world class fertility and complete wellness services and we believe in our patients. We recognize the stress and emotional toll a diagnosis of infertility takes on couples and individuals. We want to help alleviate the burden of finding financing so you can pursue your dream of family.
Flexible Financing, Easy Application Process
We offer both fixed and interest-free plans, with longer loan terms that make fertility treatment more accessible and affordable for our patients. Think of it as your personal fertility line of credit. Plus, our five-question paperless application process requires no proof of income. Our loan options include:
- One loan that’s an excellent option for patients whose plan includes full IVF with PGT, and is also a great option for those who wish to freeze their eggs.
- A second loan is available for full IVF with PGT, cryogenic preservation with PGT, or egg freezing.
- A third loan can be used for any treatment.
Don’t Let Finances Derail Your Dream
While it’s impossible to put a price tag on the joy of raising a family, it’s always wise to be financially prudent. With the financing options we offer at Reproductive Health and Wellness, you never have to give up on your dreams. We eliminate the red tape by offering options sure to work with your family-building plans. And remember; very few clinics offer in-house financing. That’s how much we believe in your dreams!
For more information on our financing options, or if you have any concerns about your fertility, contact Reproductive Health and Wellness today.
Founder and Doctor at RHWC