Afe Babalola Decries Global High Cost Of IVF
Aare Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), has expressed concern over the high cost of accessing In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment worldwide, noting that it is unaffordable for many couples, particularly in Nigeria.
While lamenting the financial burden of IVF, Babalola revealed that the ABUAD Multisystem Hospital (AMSH) is determined to help childless couples overcome the challenges of infertility. He made the comments during the official commissioning of the hospital’s new Fertility Centre in Ado Ekiti on Wednesday.
Global Cost of IVF and ABUAD’s Efforts
Babalola explained that his research showed that IVF treatments in countries like the United States could cost thousands of dollars, which, when converted to Nigerian Naira, amounts to millions. He stressed that such fees are beyond the reach of most Nigerians.
“Only a few Nigerians can afford that huge cost. However, ABUAD Multisystem is not built for the rich people alone,” he said, emphasizing that the university and hospital are committed to providing quality health care to all, regardless of their financial status.
He reiterated that the mission of both ABUAD University and ABUAD Multisystem Hospital was never profit-driven, but rather to ensure people have access to high-quality education and healthcare services.
“Our priority is not money; it is to ensure that people enjoy quality healthcare,” Babalola added.
AMSH Fertility Centre: A Beacon of Hope
The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of AMSH, Dr. Kolawole Ogundipe, highlighted the global challenge of infertility, noting that it affects millions of couples worldwide, causing stress, emotional strain, and health complications. He emphasized that infertility crosses all cultures and demographics and, as a result, causes significant emotional and psychological burdens for couples.
Dr. Ogundipe noted that many couples often feel isolated and hopeless due to the stigma and emotional strain associated with infertility. However, he pointed out that with modern advancements in medical technology and the supportive environment provided by AMSH, there is now hope for couples longing to experience parenthood.
“With advancements in medical technology and a supportive environment like the AMSH Fertility Centre, there is now a renewed sense of hope for those in need,” Ogundipe said, reassuring couples that the hospital is ready to offer both medical and emotional support.
Afe-Abiye Program’s Success
Dr. Ogundipe also highlighted the success of the Afe-Abiye Program, an initiative launched by AMSH. Since its launch on October 18, 2024, the program has helped 215 pregnant women, offering services such as free antenatal registration, consultations, antenatal investigations, and delivery services. The program aims to provide affordable and accessible healthcare to pregnant women in the region, contributing to better maternal health outcomes.
Call for Compassionate Care
In his address, Babalola also commended the hospital staff for their dedication and high-quality service. He encouraged them to continue providing compassionate and patient-friendly care, stressing the importance of kindness and empathy in healthcare.
Conclusion
Afe Babalola’s speech reflects both a critique of the high costs of healthcare in many parts of the world, particularly IVF treatments, and a call to action to make fertility services more accessible to Nigerians. Through the new Fertility Centre and initiatives like the Afe-Abiye Program, AMSH aims to provide a beacon of hope for many couples facing infertility, offering both medical and emotional support to help them realize their dreams of parenthood.
