The collective efforts of SGF physicians Drs. Gilbert Mottla, Stephanie Beall, and nurse Loretta Trumble along with RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the Alliance for Fertility Preservation, and Cervivor helped make fertility preservation for people with cancer now an affordable reality.
Changing Policy for Cancer Patients
Due to their collective efforts to change policy, on May 15, 2018, Maryland Governor Hogan signed the bill that will require insurers under the Maryland mandate to cover the expense of fertility preservation, sperm and egg freezing specifically, for people prior to medical treatments, such as chemotherapy for cancer, that likely would permanently damage their reproductive ability. Maryland was the first state in the nation to enact infertility insurance legislation and is now the third state that also covers fertility preservation for people with cancer prior to cancer treatment.
“I am incredibly proud to be part of this collaborative effort to change policy that directly benefits not just Shady Grove Fertility patients but all patients. The desire to have a family is almost innate for most, and for those whose heads are still reeling with the emotion and confusion that often comes following a cancer diagnosis, to have to grapple with whether or not to also afford the cost of fertility preservation treatment, seems exceptionally challenging and unfair. Patients can now preserve their fertility without having to worry about the financial burden so they can one day have the family they always dreamed of,” says Dr. Beall. “We’re proud that Gov. Hogan did the right thing and made this much needed option possible,” adds Beall.
“The passing of this bill will enable half of the patients who haven’t been able to receive treatment to date to receive treatment, and that gives people the potential to have families that otherwise wouldn’t,” says Dr. Mottla who was recently featured on Great Day Washington discussing his involvement in helping to pass the Maryland fertility preservation bill.
Fertility Preservation for People with Cancer
We have a specially trained team devoted specifically to people with cancer. We work directly with a patient’s oncology team to ensure they expedite fertility preservation so that cancer treatment is not delayed. Known as the SGF Oncofertility Team, this team helps guide each patient through every step of the treatment process. Due to the time sensitivity that comes with a cancer diagnosis, patients can expect an expedited treatment plan and to see a physician for consultation almost immediately.
To learn more about preserving your fertility or to schedule an appointment, please call our New Patient Center at 1-877-971-7755 or complete this brief online form.
