Bringing children into the world is considered a cornerstone of human existence. Infertility, along with the pain and sorrow it brings, has been given expression in various cultures since the dawn of history. To this day, the struggle to conceive affects millions of people worldwide. However, advancements in medicine and technology have managed to overcome some of these difficulties, fulfilling the deep desire of many to become parents, even in circumstances where it was previously unattainable.
In Israel, having children holds a central place for historical, religious, and social reasons. Fertility treatments in Israel are highly accessible, with the number of in-vitro fertilization procedures performed each year steadily increasing and ranking high compared to other countries worldwide.
In recent years, the topic of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments has come to the forefront of public awareness due to irregular incidents. Given this backdrop, I saw fit to conduct a systemic review of IVF treatments in Israel to provide a comprehensive national picture and identify potential challenges and failures that might lead to similar incidents in the future. Throughout this process, I have kept in mind the many women and men who seek to fulfill their dream of becoming parents, as well as the emotional and physical hardships they often endure due to years of IVF treatments, which do not always yield the desired outcomes. Equally important is ensuring the safety and quality of care.
This report focuses on the Ministry of Health's actions as the regulator of the IVF field, and addresses current policies in Israel and the existing regulatory framework. The report analyzes the strain placed by the significant increase in IVF treatments over the past decade on the existing loads in some IVF units in hospitals across the country, raising a concerning picture of misalignment on the national level between available human resources, infrastructure, and the current volume of treatments. Additionally, the report highlights weaknesses in the Ministry of Health's follow-up on previously identified deficiencies, as well as concerns about the lack of reporting of irregular incidents in this field. Furthermore, the report reflects gaps in the national IVF database and outlines the measures required to improve it.
Looking forward, the report reflects the need to strengthen supervision and regulatory mechanisms within the IVF field, as well as the necessity for a national preparedness plan given the significant increase in treatment volume in Israel over the past decade. I hope this report will improve the quality and safety of treatments in this sensitive field.
We continue to pray and hope for the success of the IDF and Israel’s defense system in this intense struggle imposed upon us by our bitterest enemies, who seek to destroy us as a nation and a state. We pray for the safe return of the hostages, the return of north and south residents to their homes, the recovery of the wounded, and the arrival of peaceful days and tranquility.
Matanyahu Englman
State Comptroller and
Ombudsman of Israel
Jerusalem, November 2024