NHS funding - or not?

[owling]

Hi

Hopefully just a quick question for someone with a bit more knowledge of these things.

We have been ttc and I have had a first blood test at GPs. I insisted on day 21 progesterone test. This showed very low progesterone but no other issues. GP said she would refer me to the specialist.

I now have a letter inviting me for an appointment which acknowledges me as a private patient and comes complete with an invoice for consultation and tests.

My partner has a child from a previous relationship, I realise this discounts us from having fertility treatment, but does it also mean that we can't get NHS-funded diagnosis of any fertility issues?

Would appreciate it if anyone has any exprience of this.

Many thanks

[Onlyaphase]

I'd call your GP and raise this as a question first of all. It might just be a mistake as I would have thought that you should be able to get an NHS diagnosis of the problem at least.

I've had private IVF at an NHS clinic, then an operation on the NHS under the same consultant. I was horrified to get an invoice from a pathologist following the op, thinking it would be followed by all sorts of other huge invoices. Turned out that the sticker on the sample was the wrong colour - blue stickers means private patients. Such a simple error can have huge consequences cost-wise.

[tel1]

no that doesn't sound right - all investigating should be covered by NHS (though they may only refer you after you have been trying for a year (lie)).... its only things like IVF itself that is hit and miss with the NHS depending on where you live and age.
I'm in my 40's ttc#3 and my GP has done the tests and put me forward for NHS scans, gyno and now on waiting list for an HSG, to see whats wrong...

it must be a mistake

[OracleInaCoracle]

hospital cock up, call the clinic and tell them that you are an NHS patient.

[Northernlurker]

Tel1 - it would be absolutely wrong for the op or for anyone to LIE about the time she's been trying. A year is quoted because in a year most women do fall pregnant. Seeking fertility investigations before that time (or 6 months for older women) only exposes the woman to unnecessary stress and intervention. It is also important to ensure that NHS resources are directed where they are needed - and that's not at women who have not yet tried for a year!

Op - I agree that this is a mistake - you should definately get an NHS consultation.

[OracleInaCoracle]

what NL said. it does annoy me when people lie to get fertility treatment