Scenario 4: Acknowledge, Support Access Concerns, Efforts

In this 3min video, actual patients talk about how they feel seen by their fertility teams. Like many we surveyed, some may just be starting their fertility journeys and now have substantial logistical challenges when it comes to care. They feel frustrated that they are trying to conceive but are blocked by lack of access.

As Christine, age 29, who has been trying to conceive for three and a half years, told us in the Real Talk survey:

“They gave us hope. After our initial consultation…that was the first time we felt hope in a long time. They were also very personalized and not by a check off list…. Right now, lack of insurance coverage has held us back, but soon we will be in a better spot financially to go back and start over with the clinic we are so comfortable with and grateful for.”

Using the 4 “E”s Protocol, how can we reframe how we see the “lack of access” patient? Yes, finances and insurance issues are a real concern. What can you do to steer them in the right direction?

Think: Can your clinic offer coupons or direct patients to pharmaceutical financial assistance programs such as FertilitySavings.com?

Is there a financing plan your clinic recommends? Resources such as Resolve, Fertility Within Reach, and pregnantish can help patients find information and articles on how to advocate with insurance representatives or human resource departments at their employers.