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Human Reproduction, Vol. 17, No. 1, 8-10, January 2002
© 2002 European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology

OPINION

Is your IVF programme good?

Michael M. Alper1,5, Peter R. Brinsden2, Robert Fischer3 and Matts Wikland4

1 Boston IVF, Waltham, MA, USA, 2 Bourn Hall Clinic, Cambridge, UK, 3 Fertility Center Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany and 4 Fertility Center Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden

Abstract

Few standards exist today to assess the quality of an IVF centre. Although much focus is placed upon pregnancy rates, emphasis on this outcome alone is inadequate. The purpose of this report is to examine those factors that should be considered in assessing the overall quality of an IVF centre. Current methods to assess quality are reviewed. Many governing bodies throughout the world currently focus solely on pregnancy rates, which can be misguided if factors such as multiple pregnancies, ovarian hyperstimulation, patient satisfaction, and the proper evaluation of laboratory and clinical protocols are not taken into account. Measurements of quality and methods to improve it are critical in all business models, including IVF. We propose an international standard such as the ISO 9001 for IVF centres to properly evaluate and improve the delivery of their care.

Notes

5 To whom correspondence should be addressed at: Boston IVF, 40 Second Avenue, Waltham, MA, USA.E-mail: michael.alper{at}bostonivf.com


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