People living across the Fylde coast have been invited to have their say on proposed changes to assisted conception services offered across the county.
The draft policy comes as part of work by the NHS across Lancashire to standardise policies to ensure a consistent and fair approach; update current policies in accordance with National Guidelines and best clinical practice; and to make sure it is using its limited resources to maximum effect.
Along with the other six Lancashire clinical commissioning groups (CCGs), NHS Blackpool and NHS Fylde and Wyre CCGs are now asking the public to let them know what they think of the proposals.
As part of the proposed changes, the revised policy proposes that CCGs in Lancashire would fund one cycle of IVF treatment for women under the age of 42. At present women under 40 across the Fylde coast could receive two cycles of treatment if they meet certain requirements. In Blackpool those aged between 40 and 42 can access one cycle while in Fylde and Wyre this age group has no access.
[/column][column]Full details of the changes can be found within the policy. People are invited to read the revised draft policy on assisted conception and to complete a survey. Public events will take place and details of these will be published as soon as possible.
Dr Tony Naughton, a Thornton GP who is also clinical chief officer for NHS Fylde and Wyre CCG, said: “We need to ensure this is done in an open, fair and transparent way while also taking into account the limited resources we have.
“A key role for the CCGs is to develop clinical policies that help us make decisions about the use of those limited resources.
“I would encourage any resident with an interest in these policies to visit the CCG websites and have their say. I also encourage residents to attend the public events when they are finalised.”
People living in Fylde and Wyre can complete the survey by visiting http://www.fyldeandwyreccg.nhs.uk/your-health/say-clinical-policy-reviews/
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