Jess Brown-Fuller MP calls for a consistent standard for IVF rounds offered by NHS

Jess Brown-Fuller, MP for Chichester, has called on the government to commit to a nationally consistent standard for IVF rounds, following Sussex ICB’s decision to cut its provision from three cycles to one. 

Speaking to the Health Secretary in the Commons on Tuesday, Jess reinforced the urgent need for a consistent position across all Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), highlighting that there is currently a postcode lottery for NHS-funded IVF treatment with some areas offering up to three cycles and others just one. 

Sussex ICB changed its fertility policy last summer due to financial constraints, meaning that newly-referred patients are only eligible for one IVF cycle instead of three. Prior to this change, Sussex ICB had been one of only four ICBs in the country offering three cycles for some time.

Jess Brown-Fuller said:

“Last summer, Sussex ICB cut its IVF provision from three cycles to one due to budget pressures. There is currently a postcode lottery for IVF, and going through fertility treatment can be harrowing for those families. 

“Given that additional cycles improve success rates, will the Secretary of State commit to a nationally consistent standard for IVF?” 

Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, responded that the government would look into regional variation in IVF provision, acknowledging that current variation is “difficult to justify”. 

Afterwards, Jess said:

“Going through fertility treatment can be an emotionally and physically demanding experience, taking a serious toll on families.  

“The current system, where IVF provision is determined by postcode, is deeply unfair, especially when evidence shows that additional cycles improve chances of success. 

“It was pleasing to hear that the government will be looking into this issue further.” 

Jess raising her question with the Health Secretary in Parliament