Assisted Reproductive Services Cover
For when you need a little help getting pregnant.

If your family planning isn't quite going to plan, Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) may offer the support you need. And whether you’re exploring assisted reproductive services for your first child or your fifth, we've got your back. Keep reading to learn more about your options for IVF private health insurance and how HIF can assist.

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What is Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)?

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is the application of laboratory or clinical technology to gametes (human egg or sperm) and/or embryos for the purposes of reproduction. In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is one of the most common types of ART.

The main surgical procedure in an IVF cycle is the egg collection (also referred to as egg pick-up, oocyte pick-up and OPU), and sometimes egg harvesting. After a patient's eggs have been collected, hormone medicines will be prescribed to help prepare the lining of the womb. Meanwhile, the fertilised eggs will grow in a lab for up to six days before the best one or two embryos are transferred into the patient's womb.

From there, it can generally take between 4-6 weeks to complete one cycle of IVF, followed by a couple of weeks wait while the eggs mature. The eggs can then be retrieved and fertilised.

If you're considering assisted reproductive technology, it's important to understand how IVF health insurance can help with potential costs. Gold Tier Hospital Cover includes benefits that can help eligible members access support treatments like IVF, including accommodation, theatre fees, and specialist charges when admitted to an HIF-contracted hospital¹as an inpatient service. Exploring your IVF private health insurance options early can make the journey to parenthood more manageable.

If you'd like to receive a medical benefit estimate prior to undergoing ART, simply send us the associated Medicare item numbers (available from your specialist) and we'll be happy to help.

What are the waiting periods for ART/IVF?

If you're considering ART or IVF treatment, it's important to be aware of the applicable waiting periods. The waiting period for members who haven’t previously held Hospital cover that includes ART and maternity services is:

12 months (pre-existing condition)
2 months (not a pre-existing condition)

Understanding these timeframes is essential when planning for IVF with private health insurance, as eligibility and timing can impact your treatment journey.

Frequently Asked Questions?

Does private health insurance cover IVF?

Yes, private health insurance can cover IVF, but only for the in-hospital parts of treatment. HIF’s eligible hospital policies include assisted reproductive technology benefits such as theatre and hospital costs when you’re admitted for IVF. Out-of-hospital IVF expenses like consultations, tests, and medications aren’t covered.

What is the difference between ART and IVF?

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) is an umbrella term that covers a wide range of fertility treatments and procedures designed to help people conceive. ART includes several different methods, such as IVF, ICSI, ovulation induction that involves hospital admission, and other related services.

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is one specific type of ART. It involves combining an egg and sperm outside the body before transferring the embryo back into the uterus.

In short:

ART = the broader category of fertility treatments.

IVF = one of the treatments within ART.

This aligns with how HIF groups and covers services under the Assisted Reproductive Services clinical category.

Do I need a certain level of cover to access ART?

Yes. To access assisted reproductive technology (ART) services such as IVF or ICSI through HIF, you must hold a Hospital Cover that includes Assisted Reproductive Services. ART is not included on all levels of cover, so you’ll need to be on a Gold Tier Hospital product that lists Assisted Reproductive Services as an included clinical category.

If your current cover does not include this category, you would need to upgrade your Hospital Cover and serve any relevant waiting periods before claiming ART-related hospital services.

What should I check before starting IVF or fertility treatment?

Confirm your waiting period, check your excess, review your Hospital Cover inclusions, and ask your specialist whether any part of your treatment requires hospital admission.

Want more info?

If you would like to check your eligibility for ART procedures or to find out more about IVF health insurance options and discuss some options, please don't hesitate to get in touch.