NEWS – In a pioneering initiative, Karnataka’s first government-run in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) centre will be set up at Karnataka Medical College & Research Institute (KMC-RI), Hubballi.

HIGHLIGHTS

Aimed at addressing increasing infertility rates and reducing the financial burden of private fertility treatments

Features of the Proposed IVF Centre

Affordable Treatment Options

• IVF procedures will be provided free of cost for Below Poverty Line (BPL) patients.
• Above Poverty Line (APL) cardholders will receive a 30% rebate on treatment costs.
• Compared to private clinics charging Rs. 1.5-3 lakh, this initiative ensures affordability.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Funding

• The clinic will be established and operated through CSR funds.
• Partner companies are also providing specialised training for staff to ensure quality care.

Factors Driving the Initiative

Rising Infertility Rates

• Increasing infertility rates, now over 10%, caused by:
  • Delayed pregnancies.
  • Changing lifestyles.
  • Chemical contaminants in food.

Need for Accessible Fertility Care

• Fertility treatments are expensive and unaffordable for many.
• Poorer sections often lack access to advanced reproductive technologies.

Key Developments at KMC-RI Hubballi

Clinic Infrastructure and Preparation

• Tenders for civil works and equipment have been awarded.
• The clinic will operate under the obstetrics and gynaecology department.

Request for Free Medicines

• KMC-RI has requested the state government to provide free medicines required during IVF.
• Medicines are currently not covered under the Ayushman Bharat Arogya Karnataka scheme.

Specialist Staff and Facilities

• Existing reproductive endocrinologists will be part of the team.
• Requirement for an embryologist has been identified.

Daily outpatient department (OPD) cases for infertility: 10-15 patients, of which 15% need IVF treatments