In vitro fertilization (IVF) can be an effective option for people struggling with infertility. But not only can IVF be emotionally and physically stressful, it can also come with a hefty price tag.
Here are some ways to make IVF a more affordable option for you to build your family.
IVF is a complex procedure with many steps, medical experts, and high-tech equipment involved. Consequently, the treatment is expensive.
The cost of a single cycle of IVF ranges from $15,000 to $20,000 and can exceed $30,000, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. People often need multiple treatments before becoming pregnant — the average number of IVF cycles needed to achieve a pregnancy is two-and-a-half.
IVF isn’t the only cost. You may need to pay for fertility medications and genetic testing. You should also factor in miscellaneous expenses like travel and missed wages from work.
In many cases, insurance doesn't cover IVF. The rules about IVF coverage vary greatly from state to state, with the majority of states (29) not requiring private insurance to cover any fertility services.
Select services are covered in 21 states, and 15 states include IVF coverage mandates, but those mandates don’t apply to self-insured plans. Medicaid coverage of fertility diagnosis or treatment is optional for states.
Pennsylvania currently doesn’t require any insurance coverage for fertility services.
The bottom line: Check with your health insurance company before you begin IVF treatment. It’s better to move forward knowing the financial repercussions, rather than find out once you’ve already begun IVF procedures.
Check with your insurance company first to determine exactly what they do and don’t cover. You can call the 800 number on the back of your insurance card to verify your benefits.
UPMC contracts with most insurance companies, and our UPMC Patient Financial Services Center team can also verify your coverage to maximize it. They'll go over all fees with you in detail before you start IVF treatment.
You should also contact your employer’s human resources department for details about your coverage.
Once you know what your insurance plan will cover, you can start making a plan for paying for IVF treatment.
You may decide to take out a loan or apply for a 0% interest credit card. Some people take out a home equity loan or start a crowdfunding drive. You may also qualify for a clinical trial or grant that could reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
UPMC offers a financing program for IVF treatments through Advanced Reproductive Care. This company specializes in providing loans to people going through fertility treatments. Using their Flex-Care option, you can request a low-interest loan for potential IVF treatment options.
They offer discounted medications and a refund for any unused cycle of IVF.
At UPMC, we're here to help with your billing questions and concerns, including payment plans, price estimates, and financial assistance.
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