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Cross-border reproductive care is becoming an increasingly common choice for people worldwide. At Tambre we welcome patients from all over the globe, and we’ve seen a notable rise in those travelling from the United States. So, why is Spain such a popular destination for U.S.-based fertility patients? Let’s explore some the reasons behind this:
Information from the United States regarding the numbers of patients who travel for assisted reproduction is difficult to obtain as patients will generally book with clinic providers directly and do not have to record their visits with any state or national body. The latest estimates however suggest that between 20,000 and 25,000 patients travel from the U.S. each year in search of assisted reproductive treatments.
Read the story of Jennifer Frahm, our patient from Salt Lake City.
According to leading cross border care specialist, the International Fertility Company, Spain is the most popular destination for those seeking cross border care in the world. They highlight a number of reasons for this which include:
- 40% of all the international fertility patients who travel within Europe opt for Spain
- Spain performs the highest number of fertility procedures in Europe, some 120,000 per year
- Liberal Spanish law offers a diverse range of treatments for single women, gay (women) couples, and heterosexual couples
- Spanish fertility success rates are amongst the highest in the world
- Since 2003 it is estimated that the number of international patients accessing IVF treatments in Spain has risen over 30 times
Why travel from the U.S.?
There are over 500 licensed fertility clinics in the United States and over 1,500 board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologists. The latest figures suggest that clinics perform 415,000 assisted reproductive treatment cycles each year which result in almost 100,000 live births. Despite the many options and excellent success rates, U.S. patients cite several compelling reasons for choosing Spain for their fertility journey.
Many patients benefit from the differences in legislation, treatments costs, and the access to specific procedures. Additionally, patients also consider the overall experience, including the ease of travel, accommodation, and cultural experiences as an added value. Here are some of the specific reasons that our American patients share with us:
Legislation
In the United States rules and regulations covering assisted reproduction can also vary from state to state, and patients often travel within the country to access treatments unavailable in their home state. Spain provides comprehensive and wide range laws relating to assisted reproduction which covers single women, same sex (women) couples and heterosexual couples. Treatment providers offer transparent services based on these laws which offer guarantees and reassurance to patients from the United States.
Insurance and benefits Coverage
Unlike Spain, the United States does not have a universal health system, and insurance coverage for assisted reproductive treatments varies widely. In some states, insurance plans provide partial or full coverage for infertility treatments, while in others, none. Similarly, some employers offer employees a range of fertility benefits as part of wider employment benefit schemes. The amount of support available depends upon the employer. Limited access to funded treatment combined with the high cost of fertility treatments in the United States means that Spain is a good option for patients.
Embryo Use and Disposal Policies
In the U.S. there are differences in law between States regarding the use and disposal of unused embryos. Some have specific guidelines regarding use whilst others leave the decision to patients and/or treatment providers. There are also differences between States in terms of research involving embryos, at Tambre we welcome patients who have want to ensure that their embryos are used to potentially benefit future patients as a result of research as well as those who want to have more control over the way their embryos are used.
Gamete/embryo Donation
Regulations concerning gamete and embryo donation also vary between States in the U.S. Patients are subject to differences in regulations relating to donor anonymity, compensation, and consent requirements. Some patients travel therefore in search of reassurance and Spain provides a legal framework which addresses issues relating to donation in assisted reproduction treatments.
World-Class Experience and Expertise
Spain is a global leader in assisted reproductive technologies, known for its high-quality, patient-centered care and exceptional success rates. Clinics like Tambre combine cutting-edge technology with personalized attention from experienced professionals. Beyond medical care, Spain’s agreeable climate, rich history, and cultural vibrancy make it an appealing destination for patients traveling from abroad.
The Tambre Experience
At Tambre, we embody everything that makes Spain a global leader in reproductive care. With over 45 years of experience serving international patients, our multi-lingual team provides a bespoke, compassionate service tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
We recognise that fertility travel is a big consideration and involves a considerable investment in time, resources and emotion. We have grown to be one of the leading international clinics in Spain and offer patients from the United States a level of service that they are accustomed to, at a price they may be not.
If you are based in the United States and would like to hear more about how Tambre can help achieve your dreams of parenthood. Contact us today to learn more about how Tambre can assist you on your journey.
