FAQ

The answers to your questions

 Access and logistics: Getting started at Fertilys 

  • Do you accept patients without a Quebec health insurance card or international patients?

    Yes.

    We welcome patients without a Quebec health insurance card, including international patients.

    What this means in practice:

    • You can receive care at Fertilys without a RAMQ card.
    • Our services are entirely private and therefore accessible to all. However, we are unfortunately unable to accept patients who reside in the United States.
  • Do you offer remote consultations for patients who live far away or outside of Quebec?

    Yes. We offer remote consultations via videoconference, no matter where you are. This allows you to quickly begin your journey with a Fertilys doctor, without having to travel.
    Since our clinics are 100% private, we also accept patients without RAMQ coverage, including patients from outside Quebec and international patients. Exams and treatments can then be scheduled in a coordinated manner, based on your situation and availability.

  • Can I transfer my medical records if I’ve already started treatment at another clinic?

    Yes, absolutely. You can transfer your medical records at any time, no matter where you are in your treatment journey.
    Our team will coordinate with your current clinic to retrieve your information.
    We can also transport your gametes (eggs or sperm) and embryos using our specialized transport kits.

  • What happens during the first consultation?

    We can offer you a consultation with one of our doctors with no wait time. The first appointment takes place via video conference, from the comfort of your own home. Before the appointment, you’ll fill out a medical questionnaire to make the most of your consultation.

    During the consultation, the doctor will:

    • review your medical history (and that of your partner, if applicable)
    • assess your overall situation
    • prescribe a basic checkup and targeted tests

    Based on the results, the doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

  • Are my test results from elsewhere (public or private clinics) valid?

    We use your existing test results if they are recent and were performed in Quebec. Some tests may need to be reviewed so that we can provide you with personalized care.

  • Can I consult without a doctor’s referral?

    Yes. No referral is needed.
    You can schedule an appointment directly and get started right away.

  • If I want to transfer my medical file to a clinic that is participating in the public program, will you help me (1)? What are the file copy costs (2)? Will I fall to the bottom of their waiting list (3)?

    1 —It is certain that we will help you! All you have to do is request a copy of your file by emailing [email protected], indicating to which clinic you wish to have your medical file sent. You will then have to sign a file copy consent. If you have a spouse, he or she must also sign their own consent. The file is then sent to the clinic of your choice.

    2 —Although the law allows clinics to charge patients a fee for a file copy, we have chosen not to charge any file copy fees to our patients.

    3 —Unfortunately we have no control over the criteria for prioritizing files in other clinics and do not know how this one will be scheduled on their waiting list.

  • What does the non-participation of Fertilys in the RAMQ mean?

    This means that doctors who practice at Fertilys cannot bill the fees for insured services to the Régie d’Assurance Maladie du Québec (RAMQ). It is therefore the patient who pays the costs of the services provided without being able to claim reimbursement from the RAMQ afterwards.

Locations and Accessibility

  • Is there parking available, or is your clinic easily accessible by public transportation?

    Both of our clinics are easily accessible, whether you’re coming by car or public transportation.

    • Both clinics have ample on-site parking for your convenience.
    • The Brossard clinic is directly served by the Réseau express métropolitain (REM). The station drops you off right at the building, ensuring easy, quick, and stress-free access.
  • Can I have my blood tests and follow-up ultrasounds done at any of your locations?

    Yes. You can have your blood tests and follow-up ultrasounds done at any of our locations, whichever is most convenient for you. Our team will coordinate your appointments to ensure that your treatment plan is followed and to avoid any delays.

  • Do you offer appointments with flexible scheduling (evenings or weekends)?

    Yes.

    Medical consultations are available via videoconference Monday through Friday.

    And for the rest of your care journey:

    • Exams and treatments are available 7 days a week
    • We tailor your care to your individual needs
    • Our team is here for you, even on holidays
  • Where are your clinics located, and which one is closest to me?

    We have two clinics, located in Laval and Brossard, respectively. Here are the addresses and a link to find the clinic nearest you.

Delays and speed of care

  • Is there a waiting list to start a treatment cycle at Fertilys?

    No.

    At Fertilys, there is no waiting list to start your treatment.

    As soon as your evaluation is complete, we’ll be ready to get started with you. Your menstrual cycle will guide us, and whether your Day 1 falls on a weekend or even on Christmas, our team will be there to begin. We’ll never refuse to start a cycle due to availability.

    You are and always will be our priority. Our schedules are built around your menstrual cycles.

  • How long does it take from diagnosis to the actual start of treatment (IVF or IUI)?

    At Fertilys, there is no waiting list to get started.

    Once your initial consultation is complete and your tests have been done, you can generally begin:

    • IUI: as early as the next cycle (≈ 2 to 4 weeks)
    • IVF: within a few weeks (≈ 3 to 6 weeks)

    Our goal: to proceed at your own pace, keeping in mind that your biological clock is still ticking.

  • What is the average wait time for a first appointment?

    At Fertilys, there is no waiting list.
    You can usually get your first appointment in just a few days. Because every month counts, we offer you quick access to a doctor so you can get started right away.

  • What are the current waiting times at Fertilys ?

    We are proud to share that our waiting times are minimal, fast and efficient.

    Your initial consultation appointment can occur as quickly as within a month following the request.  Appointments subsequent to your consultation are available quickly and without waiting.

Why Choose Fertilys' Expertise

  • Do you provide psychological and personal support throughout the entire process?

    We provide compassionate support every step of the way. Our team closely accompanies you at every stage with a personalized, caring approach that respects your unique circumstances.

    Our team of psychologists is available for individual or couples counseling to provide emotional support, equip you with the tools you need, and help you navigate the various stages of your journey with confidence.

  • What sets Fertilys’ laboratory and its cutting-edge technologies apart?

    The Fertilys laboratory stands out for its integration of cutting-edge technologies and an approach focused on precision and performance. We use state-of-the-art equipment and optimized protocols to ensure the best possible conditions for embryonic development.
    Our laboratory also draws on recognized scientific expertise and a culture of continuous innovation, particularly through the integration of artificial intelligence and participation in advanced research projects. All of this is aimed at a single goal: maximizing your chances of success in a safe, rigorous environment that meets the highest international standards.

Costs and Financing of Fertility Treatments

  • I had a credit at Fertilys due to a previous refund. Does this remain and can I use it on services after January 22, 2022.

    Yes indeed. Non-participation in the RAMQ has no impact on the credits granted to patients.

  • Can Fertilys services be partly covered by the tax credit for the treatment of infertility?

    Yes indeed. If you are eligible, a large part of Fertilys’ services can be partially reimbursed by Revenu Québec when you file your income tax thanks to the tax credit for infertility treatment.

    Here is the link from Revenu Québec which presents the characteristics of the tax credit and which allows you to claim it: “ Tax credit for the treatment of infertility ”.

    You could also benefit from the tax credit for medical expenses: “Tax credit for medical expenses“

    Some group insurance plans also reimburse costs incurred as part of fertility treatment.

Myths vs. Reality

  • Will IVF automatically result in twins or triplets?

    Myth. That may have been more common 20 years ago, but today, our priority is a safe and healthy pregnancy for both mother and baby. Thanks to advanced technology, we now prioritize single embryo transfer (SET), which dramatically reduces the risk of multiple pregnancies while maintaining excellent success rates.

  • Is private fertility care only for the very wealthy?

    Myth. In Quebec, fertility treatments at private clinics are largely supported by a refundable tax credit that can cover up to 80% of eligible expenses, depending on your household income. When you factor in shorter wait times and faster access to specialists, private care becomes a realistic and accessible option for many couples.

  • Does IVF guarantee a pregnancy regardless of age?

    Myth. Science has made tremendous progress, but it cannot stop the biological clock. Egg quality naturally declines over time. IVF can significantly improve your chances of pregnancy, but success still depends on many factors, including age. The earlier fertility care begins, the better the prognosis tends to be.

  • Is infertility mainly a women’s issue?

    Myth. Infertility is equally shared between partners. Statistically, male factors account for about 40% of infertility cases, female factors for another 40%, while the remaining 20% are either combined or unexplained. That’s why, at Fertilys, we evaluate both partners from the very first consultation.

  • Is it true that stress is causing my infertility?

    Myth. People often say, “Just stop thinking about it and it will happen.” That’s false and unfairly guilt-inducing. Infertility is a medical condition that can be hormonal, tubal, or male-related. While stress can affect your quality of life, it is not the biological cause preventing conception. At Fertilys, we treat the underlying physical causes while also supporting you in managing the anxiety that can come with the journey.