Cost analysis of in vitro fertilization

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Health Economics
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a common infertility treatment, but its high cost necessitates repeated cycles.
• The Israeli healthcare system is undergoing changes, prompting a debate on including infertility treatments in the national health benefits package.
• Accurate cost analysis of IVF is crucial for informed policy decisions regarding healthcare coverage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive cost analysis of IVF cycles in Israel.
• To determine the overall cost of achieving a successful pregnancy (a "take home baby") via IVF.
• To provide policymakers with essential data for decision-making on infertility treatment coverage.

Main Methods:

• Detailed breakdown of direct costs, including fixed (labor, equipment, overhead) and variable (supplies, medications, lost workdays) expenses.
• Inclusion of indirect costs, such as costs associated with premature births, high-risk pregnancies, and procedure complications.
• Economic analysis to calculate the cost per IVF cycle and the cost per successful live birth.

Main Results:

• The average cost of a single IVF cycle in Israel is $2,560, with fixed costs comprising approximately 50%.
• The total cost to achieve a "take home baby" through IVF, including all direct and indirect costs, is estimated at $19,267.
• The study highlights the significant financial investment required for successful IVF outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The cost-effectiveness of IVF treatment is a critical consideration for healthcare policy.
• Understanding the full economic impact of IVF, beyond individual cycle costs, is essential for resource allocation.
• This economic analysis provides a vital tool for Israeli policymakers evaluating infertility treatment coverage.