B.C.'s publicly funded IVF program is now open for applications
For thousands of British Columbians, the B.C. publicly funded in-vitro fertilization (IVF) program could be a game-changer on their fertility journey.
British Columbians trying to conceive through IVF can now apply for $19,000 toward a single standard IVF cycle.
This provincial funding supports treatment and medication costs, as the B.C. government officially launched its first publicly funded IVF program today.
As of Wednesday, July 2, participating fertility clinics across the province are accepting applications on behalf of eligible patients.
Funding will be provided directly to clinics, easing upfront financial burdens for hopeful parents.
“For people needing to access IVF care to start a family, the costs can make it simply out of reach,” said Health Minister Josie Osborne in a release.
“Being able to have a child shouldn’t depend on how much money you make.”
Who is eligible?
To apply, patients must:
- Be B.C. residents enrolled in the Medical Services Plan (MSP)
- Be 41 or younger at the time of application (with some exceptions for recent 42-year-olds)
- Have a household income under $250,000, with full funding available to those earning $100,000 or less
How it works
The one-time funding covers a single standard IVF cycle, including treatment and medications.
Clinics submit applications to the Ministry of Health, which reviews them on a first-come, first-served basis.
The province estimates the program will fund between 1,100 and 4,500 IVF cycles this year.
Fertility centres participating in the launch include:
Patients living outside Metro Vancouver may also be eligible for travel assistance to help cover the costs of accessing treatment.
Why it matters
According to the World Health Organization’s 2023 report, one in six people globally face infertility.
In B.C., IVF treatment can cost tens of thousands of dollars out of pocket, typically $10,000 to $12,000 for treatment, plus an additional $5,000 to $9,000 for medications, according to the British Columbia Medical Journal (BCMJ).
“This is a monumental moment,” said Dr. Niamh Tallon of Olive Fertility in a statement.
“The government’s initiative acknowledges the significant financial barriers many face. It’s a critical step toward more equitable access to fertility care.”
For more information or to begin the application process, visit the province’s IVF program webpage.
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