Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) is also known as the process by which infertile couples, or couples in which one or both have chromosomal anomalies or mutations, can deliver a child with a smaller risk of the child inheriting one of these deficiencies. Developed in 1990, this procedure has recently experienced a growth in popularity and a higher rate of success than ever before when done in conjunction with multiple IVF treatments.
This procedure can be used to have a child safely, while lessening the chance of a genetic mutation. Some couples use it to select the sex of their baby. Before selecting this procedure, be sure to get it approved by either your primary medical doctor or your fertility specialist or clinic to ensure that you are a good candidate (and will be able to make a payment plan in order to pay for this procedure).
Cost of PGD
Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis is considered as one of the most complex procedures in the infertility field, and therefore can also easily become one of the priciest.
As of mid 2010, the prices ranged anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 for each individual treatment and diagnosis in the United States. This does not include the cost of IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization), which is almost always used in conjunction with PGD and can cost up to $3,500 per cycle.
You may want to be aware that the older the maternal woman receiving the diagnosis is, the more each procedure may cost. Some women over the age of 38 who want to have this diagnosis performed can expect a multi-cycle process and diagnosis to cost up to $18,000.
Financing of PGD
Financing can usually be set up through the clinic or doctor you are receiving the procedure from, even if it is not covered under insurance. Payment plans are available in almost all cases and many offer low fixed or variable interest rates.
Prepayment is an option in many cases as well, which can significantly reduce the amount you have to pay upon your visit and save you money on interest in the long run. The payments usually last for anywhere from 2 to 5 years with interest being added monthly. Cash payments are also accepted, and patients can usually receive the best discount from paying in cash.
Loans are often available as well, and you can get approved in about 24 hours. You may also want to look online for a medical financing option that will fit your needs.
Insurance
In most cases, insurance does not cover Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis. However, some insurance companies do provide some type of infertility coverage. Check with your insurance provider to determine if you are covered for this specific procedure. Some companies that do have specific infertility coverage are listed below.
- Aetna
- Blue Cross/Blue Shield
- First Health
- Cigna Health Care
- Humana
- Unicare Health Plans(Rush-Prudential)
It is also important to note that some states require insurance companies to provide some sort of coverage for this type of procedure or at least for the diagnosis. Check the state laws where you live to see if you are covered.
