Friday, January 2, 2009

Major Turn of Events: the bill is dead

The bill that was to repeal mandated coverage of IVF in my state has been killed. The Politician will "take measures to ensure that it is not considered by any legislative committee."

I had a very thoughtful conversation with The Politician. For many reasons, including "learning more about IVF and insurance rates" from us and other sources, he is dropping it.

Not only am I proud as a peacock for my state, but I think this is a profound gesture for the rest of the United States. There are credible studies that show when IVF is NOT mandated in states, multiple births are higher.

( The reason is twofold: insurance WILL often cover IUI and ovarian stimulation drugs. Doctors have less control over fertilization in this scenario than they do with IVF. Also Couples that have to pay out of pocket for IVF are often willing to risk transferring more embryos because of enormous loans they most often have to take). >> PLEASE correct me if I am not on the mark with this ....

Higher order multiple births lead to time in Neo Natal Intensive Care units. Medical Costs for NICU are far greater that they are for IVF.

I extend to you heartfelt thanks IF community and The Politician. I am exceedingly grateful.

10 comments:

Emily said...

Congratulations! That's fabulous news! I'm glad he had a change of heart and opinion.

Anonymous said...

Terrific. Way to go! I am quite comfortable saying this would not have happened without your leadership in educating him. Thank you.

ashley said...

You are awesome. I truly believe that you standing up for the rest of the infertile couples in your state truly had an impact on this latest turn of events. Way to go! I'm sure many, many people are thanking you right now.

Emily said...

Wooo-hoooooooo! Congratulations to you and big thanks to the politician for being open minded enough to hear you out!

HUGE victory!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations to you (and us) and kudos to The Politician for being willing to re-consider his position. I do believe that one of the tragedies of ART is the situations that result in high-order multiples and, thus, threaten both infant and maternal health, so it's great to see steps to reduce those risks (such as insurance for IVF).

Anonymous said...

Congratulations, that's great news! We appreciate your hard work on our behalf and I just hope that other states such as Ohio eventually see the importance of mandates like this one.

Mo said...

Virginia

Wow!!! That's fantastic! Congrats : ) good work.

Mo

Baby Smiling In Back Seat said...

Wow! Amazing work effecting social change, all in a few days!

Ellie's Mom said...

Congrats! I'm so excited that Dan Greenberg had a change of heart. Well done, and it feels good that your voice matters doesn't it?

Ellie's Mom said...
This comment has been removed by the author.