Foreign service officers denied fertility coverage while posted overseas, union files grievance
The Professional Association of Foreign Service Officers says members serving abroad face barriers to in vitro fertilization and other treatments not covered by the federal health plan.
Sources · local media reports
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Canadian foreign service officers serving overseas are being denied coverage for fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization, triggering a policy grievance filed by their union in July.
The Professional Association of Foreign Service Officers argues that diplomats posted abroad should not be disadvantaged compared to those living in Canada. The union points out that provinces including Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and Manitoba provide government funding for fertility treatments — but the federal Public Service Health Care Plan does not.
Pam Isfeld, PAFSO president, said around two dozen members have been affected so far, with at least one family paying roughly $25,000 out of pocket for treatment. "People who are abroad have been basically forced to, you know, if they need to do this, they've been forced to do this themselves," Isfeld said.
The grievance raises several grounds for discrimination, including discrimination based on gender, family status, and disability. The union is particularly concerned that the cost barrier will discourage young families and women officers from taking postings overseas — a demographic the foreign service needs to develop. "There's a time window," Isfeld noted of fertility treatment windows. "If this is delayed and people are not able to start families because they're overseas, that's a major loss, and that's a major disincentive."
Global Affairs Canada redirected questions to the Treasury Board, which manages the health plan. The Treasury Board did not respond to requests for comment.
By the numbers
How many foreign service officers have been affected by the fertility coverage gap?
Around two dozen members of the Professional Association of Foreign Service Officers have been affected so far, with at least one family paying roughly $25,000 out of pocket for in vitro fertilization treatment.
Which Canadian provinces provide government funding for fertility treatments?
Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and Manitoba provide government funding for fertility treatments, unlike the federal Public Service Health Care Plan.
