Carrot Tackles Rural America's Fertility Care Access Crisis by Integrating OB/GYN Visits

A first-of-its-kind program is making initial fertility evaluations, monitoring, and other services available through in-network OB/GYNs, addressing the needs of millions of Americans who live more than 100 miles from an IVF specialist.

There are approximately 1,500 board-certified Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) subspecialists in the United States, with around 1,250 in active practice, compared to more than 40,000 OB/GYNs. This disparity affects the 35 million people living in U.S. counties without a single fertility specialist, creating a significant healthcare challenge in accessing IVF and other family-building treatments.

Carrot Fertility, Inc. has announced that qualified board-certified OB/GYNs are now eligible providers for early-stage fertility care, including initial evaluations and diagnostic workups. This program represents the first plan-sponsored fertility benefit in the U.S. to formally cover care delivered in vetted OB/GYN offices.

The expansion is facilitated by Carrot Intelligence, an AI platform launched last month that connects various parts of a member's fertility journey. This platform allows clinical data to flow securely between OB/GYNs, REI specialists, and the Carrot care team, enabling a seamless transition for members receiving care. Patients benefit from personalized guidance on what to expect during their fertility journey and what questions to ask their healthcare providers.

Dr. Javine McLaughlin, Chief Clinical Officer at Carrot, stated, "Most people already have a relationship with their OB/GYN long before fertility is even on their radar." This recognition of OB/GYNs as eligible fertility care providers allows members to initiate their fertility journey with trusted local physicians. The program is particularly significant for members in fertility care deserts, those just starting their fertility journey, and those who prefer less invasive intervention options prior to advanced reproductive technologies like IVF.