Newcastle Private to ban IVF under Calvary Health Care takeover
Calvary Health Care's takeover of Newcastle Private Hospital will end IVF treatment. It will affect more than 1000 patients each year.
Calvary Health Care is buying Newcastle Private Hospital and will ban IVF treatment under the Catholic organisation's rules. The ban also covers terminations, vasectomies, tubal ligation, gender-affirming care, and assisted dying.
Dr Denise Nesbitt has more than 40 years of experience as an obstetrician. She said the rules unfairly target women.
Newcastle Private delivers about 1600 babies each year. It is the only private maternity provider between Sydney and Queensland.
Some Newcastle Private staff worry about being forced to wear Calvary Health Care's logo on their uniform. The logo includes a cross.
The public can comment on the deal until midnight Tuesday via the NSW website haveyoursay.
- More than 1000
- IVF patients affected annually
- 1600
- Babies delivered yearly
- 40+ years, 5000+ babies delivered
- Dr Nesbitt's experience
Why it mattersPatients seeking IVF and other services will lose a major private provider. This will put pressure on the public system and limit care options for those who can afford private treatment.
AustraliaNewcastle and regional NSW women lose access to the region's only private hospital offering maternity and fertility services, forcing them to public hospitals or travelling for private care.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
