North Launches Investigation Into IVF Clinics After BBC Revelations

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Families with doubts over donor identities or DNA results are being urged to contact the north's unrecognised health authorities as part of a widening review.

An investigation into allegations concerning certain IVF clinics in the north is under way, CNA reported, after the north's self-styled "health ministry" announced it was calling on families undergoing such treatment at clinics in the area, and who have concerns or doubts about the treatment process, to submit an application to the "ministry."

According to CNA, media in the north reported that a statement from the "health ministry" said that in order to fully investigate the allegations, identify any similar cases and uncover potential victims, all families undergoing IVF treatment are being called on to contact the "ministry."

Specifically, CNA reported, this applies to those who suspect that the donor they were notified of or selected was not in fact used, those who have identified discrepancies between DNA or genetic test results and the donor information they were given, those who have doubts about the identity, characteristics or medical history of the donor during the course of treatment, and those who believe they may have suffered similar mistreatment.

CNA said applications would be handled within a framework of confidentiality and data protection principles, in order to contribute to ongoing "review and evaluation procedures."

The "health ministry" also said, according to CNA, that it regards patient safety, children's right to health, access to accurate genetic and medical information, and the conduct of IVF procedures in line with "the law" as "fundamental priorities."

Source: CNA