The UK government is reviewing allegations concerning My Surrogacy Journey, a British-owned surrogacy service. This follows reports that surrogates in Mexico experienced rejected insurance claims for health complications, including a hysterectomy.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is assessing whether My Surrogacy Journey should continue to be listed on gov.uk as one of four domestic surrogacy agencies. The review comes after complaints were made against its Mexican sister company.
Emails from My Surrogacy Journey's chief executive reportedly indicate that multiple surrogate women in Mexico had insurance claims rejected. These emails also suggest that 300 couples using the company's services have been moved to a new insurance provider due to an increased risk of claims being refused.
One couple reported paying tens of thousands of pounds for their surrogate's medical costs, including a hysterectomy during birth, after her insurance claim was denied. Lawyers for My Surrogacy Journey stated that existing insurance policies are in place and claims continue to be accepted and processed, adding that the company understands a small number of claims were rejected and is supporting those seeking to resolve issues with an insurer.
Phil Brickell, MP for Bolton West, raised concerns in Parliament regarding My Surrogacy Journey, calling for the government to remove the company from gov.uk pending a review by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. Health minister Diana Johnson confirmed the government is reviewing the allegations.