July 26 2010
The British Infertility Counselling Association (BICA) regrets to hear that the Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority (HFEA) is to be closed and its functions transferred to other bodies.
It is our experience that the HFEA has been a strong advocate of the interests of the patient in a health sector which has been rapidly changing and has been subject to very strong private health interests. It has also been a strong supporter of the role of infertility counselling throughout its existence, and the importance of attending to the emotional needs of patients undergoing the uniquely stressful treatment which is assisted conception.
BICA is particularly concerned at how this decision might affect the interests of those who were conceived as a result of donor treatments. BICA has always strongly supported the decision to end the use of anonymous donors and there will be a vital role in the future for the body/bodies who manage access to the registers of treatment. There are also many challenging developments in the field which demand forceful and enlightened regulation using the vital insights of the professionals such as BICA represents to ensure that patients receive an ethical and effective service.
Further enquiries to:
Dr Jim Monach, member of BICA Executive
Tel: 0114 266 7395
Mobile: 0781 502 7643
Note to editors:
BICA is the only professional association for infertility counsellors and counselling in the UK. The Association was founded in 1988 for infertility counsellors with a membership drawn from a variety of professions including counsellors, psychologists, nurses, social workers. It was established to represent the interests, views and needs of members actively involved counselling people with fertility issues and of professionals in related research. It seeks to address the many practical, social, psychological and ethical issues around the treatment of assisted conception. BICA is also committed to improving the educational opportunities and training of Infertility Counsellors.