Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: Fertility preservation is the cryopreservation of eggs, sperm, embryos or reproductive tissue so a person can use them in the future to have their own biological children. In some countries fertility preservation services for medical reasons are publicly funded. A scoping review to understanding what services are publicly funded, who is eligible for these services, and further service considerations, was requested by the Department of Health to inform the development of a national fertility preservation policy in Ireland.
METHODS: Grey literature and academic publications were identified for 10 countries: Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, Portugal, Sweden, England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. A descriptive analysis of information on publicly-funded services for fertility preservation was undertaken. Information examined included methods available and eligible populations, funding, organisational aspects, storage, governance, ethical considerations, and legislation.
RESULTS: Cryopreservation of sperm and eggs is publicly funded in all 10 countries, and cryopreservation of embryos is publicly funded in seven of the 10 countries. General practitioner or consultant referral is required for access to publicly-funded fertility preservation services in eight countries. People undergoing cancer treatment are offered fertility preservation in all of the selected countries. Publicly-funded cryopreservation of sperm and eggs is typically offered to adults and adolescents who are post puberty. Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue and testicular tissue is less often publicly funded, and may be offered to particular groups.
CONCLUSIONS: Public funding for fertility preservation services removes or limits the associated financial burden placed on those wishing to access these services. However, a number of factors including resource availability, the funding available and any underpinning legislation may impact how, and what, services are provided internationally.