Jersey couple call for IVF funding for all

A Jersey couple are calling on the government to give everyone the chance at IVF treatment. Currently only couples with a combined household income of under £34,000 are entitled to government funding.

Micaela and Adrian Marques have been trying for three years to have a baby, only to find out recently they cannot conceive naturally, but the cost of IVF treatment is out of reach.

NICE, which publishes health guidance in the UK, recommends all women under 40 receive three cycles of IVF on the NHS. Those aged 40 to 42 should be entitled to one cycle.

In Jersey all women under 40 will have their drugs paid for by the government but they have to pick up the cost of treatment, including any travel to the UK, themselves. The couple say if they cannot get help on the island they may try to go back to Portugal where treatment is cheaper.

The Department for Health says it has been carrying out a review of its fertility services and will announce changes in the next fortnight.