Private equity and reproductive medicine: "Fertile breeding ground" - a physician's perspective".

Abstract

The growing influence of private equity (PE) in reproductive medicine makes it increasingly important to examine its impact from the perspectives of physicians, patients, and investors. As PE firms increasingly acquire fertility clinics and related healthcare services, they bring promises of operational efficiency, expanded access, and innovation. At the same time, these developments have come under growing scrutiny, raising critical concerns about the commercialization of care, equity of access, and the long-term impact on clinical outcomes. From the physician's viewpoint, PE involvement presents both opportunities and challenges-shaping medical autonomy, clinical decision-making, and the ability to prioritize patient-centered care. The article critically assesses these dynamics, weighing the potential benefits of investment against concerns over profit-driven models, regulatory scrutiny, and the shifting role of healthcare professionals in an increasingly corporatized landscape.