Monash IVF has confirmed two major embryo mix-ups at its clinics were the result of “human error”.
However, the full findings of an independent review will remain private.
“Those limitations ultimately made subsequent processes more vulnerable to human error,” Monash IVF said in a statement to the ASX.
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The fertility company revealed the Brisbane case happened after a simple mistake, while the Melbourne incident involved several errors and IT system problems during a partner embryo transfer.
The review, led by Barrister Fiona McLeod, will not be released publicly to protect patient privacy.
Monash IVF said both cases involved “non-standard treatments” not used in most IVF cycles.
“Those limitations ultimately made subsequent processes more vulnerable to human error,” Monash IVF said in a statement to the ASX.
Acting CEO Malik Jainudeen apologised to patients and promised new safeguards.
The company has already started putting the review’s recommendations in place, while also adding extra safety checks.
But critics say secrecy is not enough.
The Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand has called for a single national system of regulation, arguing the current patchwork of state rules no longer works.
The controversy has shaken investors too.
Since the Melbourne error was revealed in June, Monash IVF’s share price has dropped more than 40 per cent.
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