Factors that Affect the Provision of Assisted Reproductive Treatment in a Public Hospital of the Buenos Aires City

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Law 26862 guarantees free access to assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) without restrictions based on sexual orientation or marital status. OBJECTIVES: To understand the subjective factors that affect ART provision in the public health system of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. METHODS: Given the lack of previous studies on the topic, the project used an exploratory qualitative methodology, with semistructured interviews to professionals and employees in charge of diagnosing, facilitating and guaranteeing the conditions for provision of ARTs in a public hospital. RESULTS: Interviewees of this public hospital did not show reservations about providing artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Most of them agreed also with the implementation of a gamete and embryo donation system, although they strongly advocated for an altruistic system without payment for gametes. Finally, most interviewees supported the provision to same-sex couples and women without partners. CONCLUSIONS: There are in general positive attitudes towards the implementation of the new legislation