Gordon-Booth Backs Effort to Expand IVF Access

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Patients would have more opportunities to access in vitro fertilization (IVF) under a proposal supported by state Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth, D-Peoria, that would remove insurance caps that can limit necessary rounds of treatment.

“IVF is incredibly expensive and can be a long process that requires multiple tries,” Gordon-Booth said. “Patients looking to become a parent, in consultation with their doctor, deserve the opportunity to pursue multiple attempts to increase their chances of success.”

Gordon-Booth sponsored and supported Senate Bill 773 which requires health insurance policies that provide pregnancy-related benefits to cover the diagnosis and screening of infertility, as well as medically appropriate treatment without limits to rounds of treatment. Insurance would also be required to cover an annual menopause health visit. 

Presently, insurance can cap IVF to four rounds of treatment. Research has shown that multiple rounds can help lead to a successful pregnancy, with one study reporting a 65.3% success rate for women who complete six cycles.

Senate Bill 773 passed the General Assembly with bipartisan support, and will head to the governor for final approval.

For more information, please contact RepJGordon@gmail.com.