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Ever since the second IVF child in the world was borne in Mumbai in year 1978, India has made rapid strides in the field of infertility care. Over these 40 years the no of registered ART service providers in India has grown to over 400 (as per ICMR Registry of ART centres). Several of these centres are equipped with the latest technological infrastructure, have highly experienced clinicians and deliver success rates at par with the best centre across the world. These facts also make India one of the most favoured destinations for international patients seeking infertility treatment.
However, the international patients coming to India for treatment need to be careful while selecting the fertility clinic and treating experts. As per estimates, there are over 2,000 active ART service providers in India and most of the renters located in cities with international air connectivity try to attract patients from abroad. The patients, therefore need to exercise some caution and do their homework well before making their choices. Here is a quick guide cum checklist which can help patients make educated choices for their infertility treatment in India.
Ethical treatment
Make sure to read, understand and sign an informed consent before starting treatment
Ask for “Real time”, comprehensive & non – editable data capture, and for complete, comprehendible and timely information sharing
Ensure the centre and the treating clinicians are following the law of the land with respect to treatment options like surrogacy
Transparent pricing
Know what is included and what is excluded in the packages
Beware of “Buy one, get one free” schemes – you need the best care, nit a guarantee against failure!
Understand the surrogacy and donor programs the centre is offering, as these typically come with surprises
Credibility of the centre and treating doctors
Ask for the academic credentials and experience of the treating doctors
Check if the centre has clinical protocols based on scientific evidence in place
Check for the experience of embryology team
Clinical excellence
Check the treatment success rate for both centre and the treating doctor
Ask if there is some published data and literature for documented success
Do look out for genuine patient testimonials
Infrastructure and accreditation
Ensure the centre has good laboratory infrastructure and has advanced treatment facilities
Check if the centre has all valid licenses to offer treatment and has been accredited by the agencies like NABH/ ISAR/ FEQH
Make sure the centre is easily accessible and the locality has a community to support international guests like you
Patient centric treatment approach
In-house counselling in a comforting environment
Ensuring care and compassion during treatment
Comprehensive services at every centre
I hope this information helps patients make better decisions. Please contact Dr Parul Katiyar at ivfgurgaon@gmail.com, if you have any questions regarding infertility treatment in India.