For immediate release:

100% OF IVF PATIENTS IN LANARKSHIRE SEEN ON TARGET

Last year 100% of IVF patients in Lanarkshire began treatment within 12 months of referral, beating a key Scottish Government target.

Health boards have a target to begin IVF treatment within 12 months for 90% of eligible patients. A total of 220 patients began IVF treatment throughout the NHS Lanarkshire health board in 2017.

The news has been welcomed by Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey who said that patients in Scotland receive “the fairest and most generous access to IVF in the UK”, after the Scottish Government last year confirmed that women under 40 referred for fertility treatment would be eligible for three rounds of IVF, rising from 2 cycles, increasing the chances of conceiving a baby.

During the quarter ending 31 December 2017, 81% of patients across Scotland were screened within six months.

Commenting, SNP MSP Clare Haughey said:

“It is great news that the Scottish Government’s IVF waiting times target has been well exceeded, with 100% of patients across Lanarkshire beginning treatment within a year of being referred.

“IVF treatment can be life-changing, giving those with fertility problems the opportunity to start a family.

“But it can also be a nerve-wracking wait – which is why it’s so important that treatment begins on target.

“The SNP expanded the availability of IVF treatment, giving those who need it the fairest and most generous access to IVF in the UK.”

ENDS

Notes:

Date published: 28th February 2018