Costco Is Now Offering IVF Treatment to Members Through New Health Partnership

Costco has announced a new partnership with health platform Sesame and fertility network IVI RMA North America to offer IVF treatment to its members, with the retailer saying members can save up to 80 percent on IVF medication through its pharmacy programs.

IVF, or in vitro fertilization, is a process where eggs and sperm are combined outside the body to create embryos that can later be transferred into a person's uterus. A single cycle can cost between $15,000 and $20,000, according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and some patients need more than one round of treatment.

Through the partnership, Costco members can get immediate access to fertility care, including evaluations and referrals. Dr. Pardis Hosseinzadeh, a physician in gynecology and obstetrics at Johns Hopkins Medicine, called the move a step in the right direction. "I think the concept is very promising, and it's definitely a big step towards improving access to IVF," she said.

However, medical experts stress that fertility treatments are not one-size-fits-all. Dr. Hosseinzadeh cautioned that while IVF is "an incredibly effective tool," it is also "invasive and resource-intensive, and it's not without risk," adding that patients should make sure they are "receiving the right treatment at the right time with proper guidance." She recommends checking with your medical provider before pursuing any fertility treatment.