IVF's potential contribution to increasing fertility rates in Europe — 27 June 2007

Results of a RAND Europe study initially released at a conference of the European Society for Human Reproduction & Embryology (ESHRE) in Prague 2006 and more recently in Lyon 2007, demonstrate that Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), such as IVF, could help European governments combat the problem of ageing populations if incorporated into population policies. The research is the first step to systematically examine the potential impact of biomedical developments such as fertility treatment on population ageing. The results of this analysis will be of interest to those who are concerned with policy options to reverse low fertility and mitigate the effects of population ageing.

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Grant given for continued Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) study — 03 January 2007

Governments worldwide are searching for ways to cope with ageing populations. This trend threatens the affordability of public pensions and health care systems, and sparks concern over future economic sustainability in general.

RAND Europe released the results of its preliminary study in June 2006, which examined the potential contribution of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), such as IVF, to reverse declining birth rates in some European countries. The study (DB-507-FER) found that the impact of facilitated access to ART on birth rates is in a similar order of magnitude as other policy measures such as increasing child benefit. An unrestricted grant from Ferring Pharmaceuticals made this research possible.

Ferring has recently asked RAND Europe to build on previous findings to investigate the demographic, economic, and wider social and health effects of an ART policy. In particular the study will widen its geographic scope; deepen understanding of the economic implications of changes in fertility; and develop models to understand couples' behaviour related to the decision to undergo reproductive treatment. Results are expected in fall 2007. Contact Stijn Hoorens (stijn_hoorens@rand.org) for more information.

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Evaluation of the London Patient Choice Project — 01 July 2005

The London Patient Choice Project (LPCP) was established to offer choices to patients who were clinically eligible for treatment and had been waiting for treatment at an NHS London hospital beyond a target waiting time. This report covers the choice process and the trade-offs patients are willing to make in order to obtain earlier treatment.

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