IVF and Medicare qusetion

[HC5555]

Hi all

I'm a newbie too. I'm currently based overseas but will be going back to Australia for possible IVF treatment. I was told that we will need a referral letter from a doctor before starting treatment ( and for Medicare purposes). I'm planning to spend about 3 mths back home and was wondering if anyone out there could share with me the process of getting a referral letter ( for medicare purposes). Is it a straightforward procedure ? Also, I was told that there would be a 'waiting list' - where do I check about waiting lists?

Guess I'm thinking about the feasibility since I have time constraints and it may make sense for me to finance it without medicare. Any inputs will really help. thks!

[Cris76]

Hello HC5555,

Welcome to the board!

Well, not sure where you are currently residing but in Canada, we also need a referral from a doctor (usually your GP, OB/GYN or Urologist) in order to go see an RE at a fertility clinic. I am assuming you have alreayd seen a doctor about your infertility so they should be able to provide the forms you are looking for. My doctor gave us the referral after we did the basic tests required to determine that there was a problem such as bloodwork for both me and my DH (hubby) as well as an ultrasound for me and sperm analysis for him. It can take a few weeks to get all the preliminary tests done.

As for the waiting lists, in Canada, it typically takes about 2 months to get seen by an RE for the first time at a clinic. I would recommend that you call around to various fertility clinics to determine what the waiting is as they may vary depending on where you go...

Hope this has helped. Feel free to write back!!!

Cristine

[Gargy]

Hello HC5555,

If you are coming back to Australia you just need to go and speak with your GP who will write a referral for an IVF clinic. The waiting time can vary depending on the clinic.

It is a good idea to go through Medicare because once you hit the threshold you can be rebated up to 80% of your medical bills.

However, if you are only going to be in Australia for three months you are probably better off starting the program in the country you are living in at the moment, as infertility treatment can take quite a long time.

HTH

[Samara1]

HC,

I would make the appointment with the fertility clinic and specialist whilst you are still O/S.

You don't need the referral to book the appointment (you just need to bring it along to your first appt). This way you will avoid wasting weeks for an appt.

What city will you be staying in?