We are so sorry to hear about the situation affecting patients at Ovom Care Portugal following the closure of the clinic.
We know that this news will have left many patients deeply distressed. For anyone in the middle of treatment, with embryos, eggs or sperm stored at the clinic, or who has paid significant amounts of money for treatment that may not now go ahead, this situation can cause enormous uncertainty, anxiety and distress.
The emotional impact of fertility treatment is already significant. To suddenly face uncertainty around ongoing treatment, your embryos, eggs or sperm, medical records and significant financial investment can be overwhelming.
One former co-founder of Ovom said in response to the closure:
“Patient protection should be a requirement rather than an aspiration.”
People undergoing fertility treatment place enormous trust in the clinics caring for them and, in many cases, have embryos, eggs or sperm stored for future treatment. Strong safeguards and clear processes are essential to protect patients should the unexpected happen.
AVA Clinic in Lisbon has agreed to receive the transfer of stored embryos, eggs and sperm, together with patient records and treatments underway, through the process being managed by the Insolvency Administrator and supervised by the relevant Portuguese authorities.
AVA Clinic has also agreed to support patients who are currently mid-treatment, including continuing treatments underway at a reduced price. Other providers have also stepped forward to offer support and pathways for patients affected by the closure.
This unfortunately will not remove the enormous distress and uncertainty many patients are experiencing,
Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this incredibly difficult and distressing situation.
If you need to reach out for support:
info@thefertilityalliance.org.uk