Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Infertility During the Holidays
The holidays can be emotional, especially if you’ve been struggling with infertility. Here are some ways you can prioritize your well-being.
Paying for Infertility Care
Paying for infertility care that is not a covered service is a challenge many couples face. Although there have been many advancements in infertility treatment, the cost can be a concern for those without insurance coverage.
Only fifteen states mandate coverage for infertility treatment and most couples who undergo IVF incur some or all treatment costs. With a nationwide average price tag of around $12,000 for an IVF cycle, budget planning is an important part of the process.
Options for paying for infertility care
Even if your employer doesn’t offer coverage for infertility care, there are options that can make treatment more affordable.
Check with your employer. RESOLVE, the national infertility association, recommends asking your employer to consider including fertility treatment coverage to the existing plan. Even in states that don’t mandate coverage, the group says some employers have been open to making this change.
Fertility financing. Ask your fertility clinic if they offer a financing program for treatment and fertility drugs. You may also want to investigate fertility finance groups. Some offer loans with competitive rates and affordable payment plans. On their website, RESOLVE lists infertility financing programs and other information that may be helpful to those seeking financial assistance.
Pharmaceutical discount programs. It may be possible to save on ovulation medications through programs offered by pharmaceutical companies. Visit company websites or talk to your fertility doctor about available programs.
Non-profit grant programs. Some regional and national organizations offer grants to cover IVF costs for those who meet the criteria outlined by the grant program. Those who are deemed to have financial need may receive a grant to cover a portion, or even all, of their fertility treatment costs. Pay it Forward Foundation and Baby Quest Foundation are two national foundations that offer grants.
Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account. These plans are available through some employers and allow you to use pre-tax dollars to pay for infertility treatment. Depending on your state of residence, you may be able to enjoy certain tax advantages.
Creative options for financing infertility care
Some couples have turned to less conventional ways of raising funds to cover treatment expense, including:
- Family loans and assistance
- Crowdsourcing on sites like GoFundMe
- Seeking donations of autographs and other collectables to raise extra cash through auctions and raffles
Most importantly, don’t give up on your dream of parenthood because of infertility treatment costs. There are a number of options available that can help you afford the care you need.
Contact your local URA clinic in Hasbrouck Heights, Hoboken, and Wayne, NJ for more information. Your friendly URA team will be happy to discuss payment options for infertility services.
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