Referral for NHS-funded treatment

Understanding the requirements for NHS-funded fertility treatment and how to get a referral can be overwhelming. If you're unsure whether you meet the eligibility criteria or how NHS funding works, our Patient Support can answer any questions you have.

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What is the criteria for NHS funding?

The eligibility criteria for NHS-funded treatment is set by your local authority, known as an NHS integrated care board (ICB). This means it can vary across different areas, however, most ICBs will look at:

Whether you're within a healthy BMI limit
Your age
Your smoking status
Whether you've had a previous pregnancy

NHS funding for same-sex couples pursuing either IUI or IVF will have to meet similar criteria.

Our Patient Support team can help you find and understand the eligibility criteria for NHS-funded fertility treatment in your area.

Treatment

What is the referral process for NHS-funded fertility treatment?

If you think you're eligible for NHS-funded fertility, you can follow the below steps:

1. Contact your GP

If you've been struggling to conceive for more than a year, make an appointment with your GP to talk through your concerns.

They'll go over your medical history and carry out some tests to look at your fertility health.

2. Appointment with a fertility specialist

You may be referred to an NHS fertility specialist at your local hospital where they'll carry out further investigations.

They'll first support you in achieving a pregnancy naturally, however, if this doesn't work they will recommend you for fertility treatment.

3. Choosing a fertility clinic

Your consultant will provide you with a referral letter, funding form and a list of NHS-approved fertility clinics in your area.

Once you have chosen your preferred clinic, your information and a copy of your forms will be sent directly to the clinic.

4. Your first appointment with us

Once we've received your referral from the hospital, we'll contact you to book your consultation with one of our fertility specialists.

If your NHS test results aren't up-to-date (within the last 12 months), we'll arrange for these to be carried out again so we can determine the best treatment for you.

Suppressing your natural menstrual cycle

5. Your fertility treatment

Once your treatment pathway has been decided, you'll be ready to start your treatment with us. You'll attend a nurse planning appointment where you'll learn how to administer your medication.

6. Ongoing support

You'll have access to our Patient Portal where you can keep track of your appointments. Our Patient Support team is always available for any questions you have throughout your treatment with us.