The provincial government has increased the one-time subsidy for those seeking fertility treatment.

The funding is being increased from $20,000 to $29,000.

Local obstetrician and associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Memorial University, Dr. Sean Murphy says anything to help reduce barriers to those seeking fertility treatment is welcomed.

“Anything we can do to remove obstacles to accessing good quality fertility care is important.” Said Murphy.

Murphy says the funding will help improve access while the province continues to work toward establishing the availability of IVF (in-vitro fertilization) locally.

Dr. Deena Murphy with MUN’s Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, calls the funding increase a “good step forward.”

“I mean, the ultimate goal for us” she said, “would be to offer the treatment here in Newfoundland. Travelling for IVF treatment is still quite stressful, being away from your support system.”