Historically, getting pregnant at a fertility clinic was an expensive ordeal; procedures were less commonplace and the technology was less refined, making conception a costly endeavor. So we understand why couples are very concerned about the cost of getting pregnant when they come in to visit us at the Arizona Clinic for Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility.

It’s our goal to help these couples have a baby without the conception process becoming a financial burden. We’d rather have them spend their money furnishing a nursery than on tests and procedures. We always have an upfront discussion with patients about what they should expect. When a couple is contemplating a certain procedure—like sperm donation or IVF—we give them the best estimate of not only what it will cost, but how many times they should anticipate having to do the procedure before we achieve pregnancy. Having this conversation gives patients realistic expectations about the different areas and items they’ll have to pay for.

In-House Costs 

With the tests and procedures we are to perform in-house, we try to keep costs low because we don’t want to add any more stress to patients’ lives. We utilize as many insurance benefits as possible and to keep costs as minimal as possible.

Medical Evaluations

Medical evaluations—such as blood tests, ultrasounds, and x-rays—are usually covered by patients’ insurance. In instances when they’re not covered, we offer discounted rates and packages so patients don’t pay more than $40 or $50 for each one of these tests.

Procedures 

Because patients’ medical insurance typically doesn’t cover infertility benefits, we understand that the out-of-pocket costs for some procedures can be overwhelming. For those patients, we offer self-pay packages and payment plans to help mitigate the financial burden. With the discounted packages, patients know the total cost for the procedure (including office visits and tests), and can pay for everything in installations without worrying about finance charges or additional fees.

Outside Costs

With costs that are outside of our clinic—like the cost of sperm or medication—we counsel patients to help them find the best options and prices.

Medication

Medication can be one factor that increases the overall costs of fertility treatments. But most of the medication can be bought generic and purchased at a local pharmacy and our staff will inform you if any of the medicine is covered by your insurance benefits. We’re very cognizant of what the costs should be in general so we can give patients an idea of what is a reasonable amount to pay. Our patients are always giving us feedback so we can actually point other patients to the local pharmacy or mail order pharmacy that has the medication at the lowest price. When our patients walk out of the office they know where to go and have a good idea of what it’s going to cost.

Sperm / Egg Donor

If you need an egg or sperm donor, the cost of that is unfortunately controlled by the bank or registry. Different facilities might have different prices for the product or shipping. Many times, the cost of using a donor can be significantly reduced if the couple chooses to use a known donor, like a friend or family member.

The most important thing we emphasize to patients is that not everybody needs expensive infertility treatments, and in circumstances when it’s unavoidable, we work with you to alleviate the financial stress. Our goal is to help families have a baby, not be burdened with pricey procedures. For more information on what starting a family may cost you, visit the Arizona Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility online or call us at 520-326-0001.