Digital Fertility-consent is here – say goodbye to paper forms

Before any treatment can take place, patients are required by law to give their informed written consent if they wish to use or store their sperm, eggs or embryos (eg for IVF, ICSI treatment). Read more about our new approach to gaining consent by developing our digital platforms.

 What is Fertility-consent?

 Obtaining a patient and partners permission before introducing fertility is not a new practice, but the days of filling in countless forms is no longer necessary.

When a patient starts their care journey with us, it is imperative that that they – (and their partner) are fully informed with the required knowledge to make decisions and know of the choices available to them. 

Our new interactive and engaging Fertility-Consent platform enables patients to digitally signify that they have gained appropriate information, understand timelines and are agreeable to the care plan being presented to them.

This digital solution will replace the traditional paper-based consent forms for most people, and assures us that our patients have a full understanding of what lies ahead.

Fertility consent is very easy to use - providing a library of materials with supporting videos to watch via the Hewitt Centre patient portal that will outline what you can expect of each fertility treatment, presenting legally required HFEA forms in a clear and engaging way.

How will I receive the documents?

When we book your first appointment with the centre, we will send you an appointment letter and email you a link to sign up to our Hewitt Centre patient portal. The fertility consent module is housed within the portal, and the relevant videos and information will be shared with you,  ensuring a patient centred care approach.

It is imperative that you watch, read, and complete the Fertility-consent so you are prepared. The system will alert us that you have completed your documents, and these will be discussed and reviewed with you when you attend to see our clinicians.

Why is it a better patient experience?

Fertility Consent is designed to help patients navigate the medical and legal issues involved with fertility treatment in an easy and convenient way, whilst providing us with a robust informed consent process.

The new platform ensures patients receive the correct medical treatment information, along with the supporting legal and clinic consent forms – with a full audit trail of the consent process from start to finish. Fertility Consent comprises a number of modules, accessible via our patient portal with language and accessibility support. This allows patients to conveniently complete their informed consent materials away from the clinic on their computers, tablets and smartphones.

What if I have questions?

Please email hfcqualityteam@lwh.nhs.uk