(
2
3.
In-vitro fertilisation, which is a newer
technique, is being carried out on an experimental basis by
Members
the two universities and in one private hospital. will have seen press reports that a baby conceived by the use of IVF techniques was successfully delivered recently.
4.
In January 1986, the Medical and Health
Department set up an ad hoc committee to examine the medical aspects of IVF and to identify the related social, ethical and legal issues.
5.
The committee has recently completed its study and recommended that in addition to existing legislation regarding hospitals and medical clinics, a code of practice should be issued as a guide for both clinical practice and research on IVF by academic institutions, clinics and private hospitals. This code of practice will include provisions for periodic inspection and the submission of statistics to the Medical and Health Department. It will also set
standards on clinical practice and research, as well as on how IVF laboratories should be equipped. Consultation is
The
now being carried out on a draft code of practice which should be ready for issue within the next two months. Medical and Health Department will continue to monitor the clinical and research activities in connection with IVF.
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