BriefingForIVFMJP

=Briefing for IVF, Inc.= February 15, 2006

In light of the recent event which has taken place through IVF, Inc., we have prepared a concise outline of potential issues that we believe need to be considered in preparation for the disclosure of the embryo mixup to the Remus and Foster couples, as well as potential issues that are likely to occur as a result of the situation.

Known Facts

 * Three of Remus' embryos has been placed in Ellie Foster's uterus along with several of the Fosters' own embryos.
 * The failure rate for IVF treatment in general ranges from 50% to 80%, depending upon the particular technique used and genetic/history factors of both parents.
 * There is a high probability that if any eggs successfully implant in Ellie Foster's uterus, there will be at least one from the Remuses ( see 645MixUpProbablility )
 * About 50% of early pregnancies spontaneously abort; the risk of miscarriage drops off sharply after the first trimester.

February 24, 2006 Areas of Knowledge: > Probability of events > History, precedents, similar cases > Potential outcomes

Types of actions: > (Non-)disclosure > Legal preparation > Counseling services > Improvement of policy/procedures

Types of questions: > What are the data? > What are the precedents? > What sort of counseling is available? > What did other clinics do?

Methods for research: > Professional contacts > Journals, other media > Ask previous clients > Ask trained counselors > Evaluate processes