P-349 European Atlas of fertility treatment policies - education and advocacy tool

Abstract

Abstract Study question What are the fertility treatment policies regulating access to treatment in various European countries? Summary answer The fertility treatment policies are very diverse in European countries and access for patients is unequal. What is known already The data presented in the Atlas is based on ESHRE Survey on ART and IUI: legislation, regulation, funding and registries in European countries and published on ESHRE websites, but difficult to understand and compare. Study design, size, duration The Atlas selected criteria of regulation and funding of fertility treatments in 43 European countries and attributed points to them in order to assess access for patients. The assessment was done to illustrate the access to treatment for the patients in various European countries. The number of points for all the criteria defined if the country is green (good access), orange (needs improvement) or red (poor) on the map. Participants/materials, setting, methods The Atlas is prepared by Fertility Europe and Europan Parliamentary Forum for Sexual and Reproductive Rights. The data presented in the Atlas is based on ESHRE Survey on ART and IUI: legislation, regulation, funding and registries in European countries with updates from ESHRE and national patients' associations. Main results and the role of chance The Atlas presents that regulation and funding of fertility treatments in 43 European countries is very diverse and often based on non-medical principles. The selection and assessment was done to illustrate the access to treatment for the patients in various European countries. Presenting the country in traffic-colour green (good access), orange (needs improvement or red (poor) on the map makes this Atlas a great tool to educate the patients and the policymakers and advocate for changes. Limitations, reasons for caution The selection of criteria to simplify the picture reduces the accuracy of the assessment. Several criteria couldn't be included as more research is needed to assess what would be their best regulation. Wider implications of the findings The Atlas defines patients' views on good regulations and policies and can become a guide for the policymakers and for the medical specialists on following the patients' needs in fertility treatments. Trial registration number not applicable