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NHS watchdog calls for end to 'postcode lottery' IVF

The health watchdog has called for an end to the postcode lottery of fertility treatments on the NHS in England. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence wants couples trying to conceive to have the same level of access to IVF drugs.

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IVF postcode lottery 'goes against' NHS principles

Doctors denying IVF in some parts of the country are "going against" the core principles of the NHS, one doctor has said.

Professor Gillian Leng, deputy chief executive at Nice

Infertility is a recognised medical condition that can affect people of any age and has a potentially devastating effect on people's lives.

It can cause significant distress, depression and can possibly lead to the breakdown of relationships.

Our updated guidance which published last year provides clear recommendations on the most clinically and cost effective way to treat people with fertility problems. Unfortunately, we know that not all areas are following our guidance to the letter.

This creates variations in treatment within the NHS, which...goes against the fundamental aims of the NHS.

– Professor Gillian Leng

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