In recent years, assisted reproduction clinics have attempted to match the impact of low-cost IVF to relieve the financial burden of treatment. IVF refund packages have emerged as a ‘safe guard’ if, after several rounds of IVF, you don’t get pregnant. But are these refund programs really as good as they sound? In this blog we unpack the details of IVF refund packages and what they really offer. Answering the question, are IVF refund programs right for you?
What are IVF Refund Packages and What Do They Offer?
These programs typically offer multiple or unlimited IVF cycles within a certain timeframe for a fixed price. If treatment is unsuccessful, you can receive a refund for all or a portion of what you paid based on what program you choose. The refund percentage and terms may vary depending on factors such as age and the number of cycles covered.
Pros and Cons of IVF refund packages:
IVF refund packages claim to be a more cost-effective way of paying for fertility treatment in comparison to individual cycle prices. This means if your treatment is unsuccessful, you could use your refund to fund subsequent treatments. Although this may be appealing it's important to consider all the details involved in choosing an IVF refund package.
Criteria:
If you are interested in a refund program, you will need to be accepted based on your chosen IVF clinics criteria. This can vary depending on the clinic such as age restrictions stating patients have to be under 38 to qualify.
Emotional and Physical Toll:
IVF can be physically and emotionally draining on the body, especially when going through several cycles in a short amount of time. Many refund programs have a time limit in which to take your cycles, and this may put pressure on you to push your body to have more cycles even when you shouldn’t.
Financial Considerations:
The upfront costs of IVF refund programs can be substantial, ranging from around £7,000 - £20,000. Its important to consider that if you are successful on the first or even second cycle, the total amount you pay may be more than if you had opted for an alternative route.
Limited clinic options:
Choosing your clinic is the most important part of your journey, taking a range of factors into consideration is the most productive way of managing your choice. Not all clinics offer refund programs, so options are considerably more limited. It can be more valuable to research your clinic taking into account their success rates, prices, reviews and types of treatment offered.
Alternatives to IVF refund packages
Exploring alternative financing options such as payment plans can provide more flexibility when covering IVF costs. We’re proud to offer financing options/payment plans for all treatment at 0% for 12 months.
3 cycle packages
Some clinics, including CREATE Fertility offer their own 3 cycle packages, which offer a cost saving over 3 individual cycles. This may be a better option than a refund package as you can avoid paying a large upfront fee for your cycles, provided your chosen clinic offers financing plans.
Read more about our financing options, who they are suitable for and how they could be useful for your treatment.
How CREATE Fertility can support your IVF journey?
In conclusion, while IVF refund programs may seem like an attractive option at first glance, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision. Successful IVF can be achievable and finding a clinic that prioritizes personalised care, and support can make a significant difference in the journey towards parenthood.
For more information on IVF treatments and personalised care, consider signing up to our next free virtual information event where our founder and medical director will discuss how Mild and Natural IVF may be the best treatment option for you, and one of our CREATE Fertility consultants will lead a live Q+A session. Remember, navigating the financial challenges of IVF is possible, and there are resources available to assist you on this path. Contact a member of our team to discuss treatment options and for advice and guidance towards your next steps.
Join our next free virtual information event with live Q+A to have the opportunity to get your questions answered by a fertility consultant.