A doctor retrieves eggs from ovaries using vaginal ultrasound

According to the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, in the Centers for Disease Control’s 2018 Fertility Clinic Success Rates Report, it was found approximately 15 per cent of the “listed” practices had affiliations with private equity. Out of a total of more than 305,000 ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) IVF cycles conducted in 2018, almost 30% (or just shy of 90,000 cycles) took place at clinics associated with private equity.

Interestingly, there were no statistically significant differences in success rates observed among women aged less than 35 years. It’s worth noting that the average median household income in zip codes with private equity-affiliated practices was $83,610 while in zip codes without such affiliations, was about $10,000 less.

Contrasting private equity and not-for-profit academic practices in the field of reproductive medicine, and assessing the risks to patient care quality with investors entering the for-profit infertility market, involves considering various aspects, including pros and cons. Here’s an analysis of these points:

Private Equity in Reproductive Medicine and Infertility:

The Pros: the upside

Capital Infusion and an infusion of cash from private equity firms can provide substantial financial resources, enabling clinics to invest in cutting-edge technology, research, and facilities.

Efficiency and Growth: Private equity can streamline operations, improve management, and expand services, potentially increasing patient access and quality of care making clinics more efficient and trending growth.

Investors may drive innovation in reproductive medicine, leading to the development of new treatments and procedures thus increasing a  competitive market that could lead to better services and also pricing for patients.

The Cons: the downside

Maximizing profits (profit motive) may lead to cost-cutting measures, potentially compromising patient care and safety in this multibillion industry. Investors often seek quick returns, which may conflict with long-term patient outcomes and care as well as research goals.

High-profit motives can limit access to those who cannot afford expensive treatments, exacerbating healthcare disparities further and make infertility care even further out of reach than it already is now.

Profit-driven decisions may raise ethical concerns regarding the prioritization of financial interests over patient well-being and a risk of over extending resources due to rapid growth that fuels private equity. This can lead to mismanagement and a loss of focus on patient care.

Mitigating Risks

To mitigate these risks, regulatory oversight, ethical guidelines, and public-private partnerships can help balance the interests of investors, patients, and the medical community. Striking the right balance between profit motive and patient care remains a significant challenge in the evolving landscape of reproductive medicine.

There are a number of ways to mitigate the risks.

Research the Clinic:

Investigate the clinic’s ownership structure and financial backing. Determine if it is privately owned, part of a larger healthcare system, or backed by private equity firms. Look into the clinic’s history, reputation, and track record in treating infertility. Online reviews and patient testimonials can provide some insights. Don’t be afraid to ask these questions and then do your homework and verify the facts.

Inquire About Patient Care Prioritization:

Ask the clinic how they ensure that patient care and safety are their top priorities, regardless of financial considerations. What is the commitment to following ethical guidelines and industry standards for reproductive care.

Transparency and Informed Consent:

Request detailed information (in writing) about treatment options, costs, success rates, and potential risks associated with specific procedures. Remember that success rates for clinics are “self-reported” so do your homework to ensure the clinic provides transparent information about the involvement of private equity investors and any potential impact on patient care.

Medical Staff Qualifications:

Ask about the qualifications and experience of the medical team, including reproductive endocrinologists, embryologists, and nurses. Inquire about the clinic’s commitment to ongoing staff training and professional development.

Inquire about the clinic’s approach to addressing treatment failures and patient support during challenging times.

Safety and Quality Control:

Ask about the clinic’s quality control measures, laboratory standards, and safety protocols for handling reproductive samples and embryos. Inquire about any incidents or adverse events that have occurred in the past and how they were addressed.

Patient Support Services:

Learn about the clinic’s patient support services, including counseling, emotional support, and resources for coping with infertility. Inquire about the availability of financial counseling and support for managing treatment costs.

Cost and Insurance:

Obtain a clear breakdown of treatment costs, including consultation fees, diagnostic tests, procedures, medications, and any additional fees. Check if the clinic accepts your health insurance and inquire about their billing practices.

Alternative Treatment Options:

Discuss alternative treatment options and their potential effectiveness, including lifestyle changes, holistic approaches, and donor services.Legal and Ethical Considerations: Ask about the clinic’s adherence to legal and ethical guidelines, including informed consent, genetic testing, and the handling of donor gametes. Inquire about the clinic’s policies regarding the storage and disposal of embryos.

Second Opinions:

You should feel comfortable seeking a second opinion from another reproductive specialist to validate treatment recommendations.

Trust Your Instincts:

Pay attention to your gut feeling when interacting with clinic staff and evaluating the clinic’s environment. Trust is essential in your reproductive journey. You chosen clinic should (as they say) “be in the same boat” as you. Treatment should be a team approach and you are on the team – not in the boat while the reproductive team waves goodbye on the dock!

By asking these questions and conducting thorough research, patients can make informed decisions when choosing a reproductive care clinic specializing in infertility, whether it is privately owned or backed by private equity. Maintaining open communication with healthcare providers is also crucial to ensure that your concerns and preferences are addressed throughout your treatment.