Merck sets new bar for employee fertility benefits

Pharma News: In a proactive effort to address the emotional and financial challenges associated with infertility, Merck Healthcare has announced the expansion of its global Fertility Benefit program to Australia.

While this announcement coincides with initiatives undertaken by pharmaceutical counterparts, including Organon and Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Merck is setting a new bar for fertility benefits by offering eligible employees the opportunity to claim up to a maximum of AUD $24,000 (inc. GST) for incurred costs. This is a lifetime allowance, so it is possible to make several claims over time while employed with the company.

Josie Downey, Managing Director of Merck Healthcare Australia, emphasised the importance of supporting aspiring parents in the workplace.

“Continuing our support for employees and their partners on their journey to parenthood, whether they are on that journey alone or in a relationship, is so important,” said Ms Downey.

With statistics revealing that 1 in 6 individuals globally face infertility, Merck recognises the deeply personal nature of the decision to start a family.

“As a long-standing leader in fertility, we understand the financial and emotional toll this journey can have on individuals and families,” she added. “That’s why I am so pleased that our Fertility Benefit is launching in Australia, providing support to our employees who want to realise their dream of parenthood.”

The Fertility Benefit program extends to all Merck employees, regardless of marital status, and is inclusive of their partners. Services covered under the program include fertility tests, in vitro fertilisation treatments, and hormonal treatments.

Merck’s commitment to the fertility field spans decades, with recent endeavours such as the launch of Fertility Counts in Australia and New Zealand. This initiative aims to provide evidence-based resources to policymakers and healthcare professionals, addressing falling fertility rates and increasing support for families.

Rebecca Lee, Managing Director of Merck Life Science in Australia, echoed the sentiment, emphasising the importance of overcoming barriers to starting a family.

“This is about doing everything we can to help our employees overcome barriers to having a family, whether they are traveling the journey alone or with a partner,” said Ms Lee.

Acknowledging the financial pressures faced by employees, Ms Lee highlighted the need for workplace support.

“We know that employees are feeling the pressure of rising cost of living, and that working parents and people on fertility journeys, irrespective of their marital status or gender, need support in the workplace,” she added.

The introduction of the Fertility Benefit program aligns with Merck’s commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion and prioritising employee wellbeing. It complements existing benefits and leave provisions, including paid parental leave, personal and carers leave, compassionate leave, charity leave, and family and domestic violence leave.

Moreover, Merck offers a global BeHealthy employee wellbeing program and study and exam leave, further supporting employees in health management and career development.

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