Experts at 5th India IVF Summit and Awards Chart Course for Accessible and Ethical Fertility Care
New Delhi, July 29, 2024: Experts at the 5th India IVF Summit and Awards, organized by the Integrated Health and Wellbeing (IHW) Council and Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction (ISAR), explored the current dynamics of the IVF sector. Held on World IVF Day, the summit concluded with insightful discussions and solutions on innovation, affordability, and accessibility of fertility treatments. Featuring contributions from experts in the medical fraternity, law, and finance, the summit focused on making treatments more economical and ethical to create an equitable ecosystem in the IVF segment of healthcare. It also highlighted that while the current framework for the IVF sector has made strides, the need for enhanced policy support to ensure accessibility of IVF treatments to all is vital.
The summit featured IVF veterans such as Dr. Abha Majumdar (Director of the IVF Department, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital), Dr. KD Nayar (Chief Consultant of Infertility, Akanksha IVF), and industry leader Dr. BK Rana (CEO of Quality and Accreditation Institute), who deliberated on the critical aspects of infertility treatment in India.
Mrs. Sujaya Krishnan, Former Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt of India, remarked that following a code of practice and providing accurate information to help couples access the best treatment is crucial. She emphasized that using technologies while adhering to human values and ethics is the best way forward.
Dr. Ameet Patki, President, ISAR (Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction), stated, “In the last 47 years, fertility specialists have toiled day and night to ensure that couples get the joy of having a baby. Today we celebrate the world IVF Day to acknowledge such organisations, individuals who have excelled in their work. It is very important that we identify those organisations and individuals who are increasing awareness of infertility and offering infertility treatments and options in every corner of India”
Highlighting the importance of affordability in fertility treatments, Mr. Kamal Narayan, CEO, IHW Council, asserted that “As we look ahead, it is essential to continue prioritizing ethical practices and patient-centric approaches. With the collaborative efforts of the government, healthcare providers, and financial institutions, we can make significant strides towards making IVF treatments more affordable and accessible to all. Together, we can create a supportive and inclusive healthcare ecosystem that addresses the needs of every individual seeking fertility care.”
Mr. Sakthi Prasad Menon, Executive Vice President, FIBE, stated, “We’re committed to making the IVF process seamless and stress-free for individuals and couples. One way we’re achieving this is by providing financial support and guidance, helping to alleviate the emotional and economic burdens often associated with fertility treatment. By addressing the financial aspect, we’re empowering people to focus on their journey to parenthood with confidence and hope.”
Key themes discussed in the sessions included recent innovations and breakthroughs in IVF, a patient-centric approach to fertility treatments, and collaboration in IVF coverage, impact, and future directions.
The event culminated in an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions to the field of IVF. Dr. Mirudhubashini Govindarajan was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award in Reproductive Medicine for her over 42 years of exemplary service in fertility care and women’s health.
Supported by Bharat Serums & Vaccines Pvt. Ltd., Fibe India, and Samarth Lifesciences, the summit was a success, bringing together participants from various industries under one roof to address critical issues and pave the way for improved accessibility and acceptance of fertility treatments across India.