B.C. delaying launch of publicly funded IVF program by 3 months [Video]

B.C. has delayed the launch of its publicly funded in-vitro fertilization (IVF) program by three months, frustrating some patients and doctors.

The program, which will pay for one round of IVF per person, was set to open for applications on April 1, but that’s now been delayed to July 2.

Health Minister Josie Osborne said the delay is due to the complexity of developing the program, including the eligibility criteria.

“I know it’s really unfortunate that it’s been delayed by three months and I feel for people, because people are anxious and certainly we are hearing from people looking for the details of the program,” she said.

Age requirement adjusted

In-vitro fertilization is a medical procedure where an egg is fertilized by sperm outside of the body before being placed in a womb. It is often used by people facing infertility due to age or reproductive problems.

The funding will provide up to $19,000 per patient.

An eligibility requirement for the funding is …