When planning IVF with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) in Thailand, one of the first decisions is whether to choose a dedicated fertility clinic or a hospital-based fertility center. Both types of facilities offer advanced reproductive care, but they differ in setting, scope of services, and the overall patient experience. This article compares the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed choice.
At a Glance: Clinic vs Hospital
- Dedicated fertility clinic: A specialized center focused solely on reproductive medicine, often with an in-house embryology lab and genetic testing services. Examples include Deep & Harmonicare IVF Center (DHC) and Jetanin Hospital.
- Hospital-based fertility center: A fertility unit within a larger multidisciplinary hospital, offering access to other medical specialties. Examples include Bangkok Hospital Fertility Center and Bumrungrad International Hospital.
Facilities and Laboratory
Dedicated fertility clinics typically have purpose-built embryology and genetics laboratories on-site. For instance, DHC lists Embryoscope+ and Geri time-lapse incubators, IVF Witness witnessing system, IMSI, and MACS. Jetanin Hospital describes in-house embryo, genetics, and sperm laboratories with ISO 15189 and ISO 15190 standards. These labs are designed specifically for ART and may offer faster turnaround for PGT results.
Hospital-based centers, such as Bangkok Hospital Fertility Center, also have in-house embryology labs and offer PGT-A, but the lab may serve multiple departments. The advantage of a hospital setting is access to a wider range of medical specialists (e.g., urologists, endocrinologists, genetic counselors) and advanced diagnostic imaging, which can be helpful for patients with complex medical conditions.
Staff and Expertise
In a dedicated fertility clinic, the entire team—reproductive endocrinologists, embryologists, geneticists, nurses, and counselors—focuses exclusively on fertility. This can lead to highly specialized care. For example, Jetanin’s team includes molecular geneticists and embryologists working together on PGT. DHC reports a 78% average embryo-transfer success rate for 2025 (approximately 80%), though individual results vary.
Hospital-based centers often have reproductive endocrinologists and embryologists on staff, but they may also rotate through other departments. However, the hospital can provide multidisciplinary consultations without referral. For instance, Bumrungrad International Hospital lists Dr. Phattaraphum Phophong with training in reproductive medicine and prenatal genetics, and its integrated setting may benefit patients needing other specialties.
Cost Considerations
Costs can vary significantly between facility types. Dedicated clinics may offer all-inclusive packages. DHC’s June 2026 reference price for a basic single-cycle medical package is THB 490,000, with final costs varying by medication, testing, storage, procedures, and travel. Hospital-based centers may have separate billing for hospital services. Bangkok Hospital Fertility Center lists fly-in packages at THB 335,000 for stimulation through embryo transfer and THB 456,000 with PGT and freezing for two embryos (valid to 31 December 2026). MedPark IVF Fertility and Genetics Center lists an IVF/ICSI package at THB 280,000, but exclusions require confirmation.
Always request a detailed written quotation that includes medications, PGT, freezing, storage, and any additional fees.
Accreditations and Quality Standards
Both types of facilities can hold international accreditations. DHC holds JCI, ISO 9001, RTAC, CAP, and UK NEQAS credentials. Jetanin states it became the first IVF centre in Southeast Asia accredited by both JCI and RTAC, and also describes ISO 15189 and ISO 15190 laboratory standards. Hospital-based centers like Bangkok Hospital are part of a JCI-accredited hospital network. Prime Fertility Clinic describes JCI Ambulatory Care accreditation. Always verify current accreditation status directly with the facility.
Pros and Cons Summary
| Factor | Dedicated Fertility Clinic | Hospital-Based Center |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | 100% reproductive medicine | Fertility is one of many departments |
| Lab | Purpose-built ART lab, often faster PGT | Shared hospital lab, but still advanced |
| Multidisciplinary care | Limited to fertility-related specialties | Easy access to other specialists |
| Cost transparency | Often all-inclusive packages | May have separate hospital fees |
| Accreditations | JCI, RTAC, CAP, etc. | JCI hospital accreditation |
Questions to Ask Before Choosing
- Is the embryology lab on-site, and what PGT methods are used?
- Who will be my treating doctor and embryologist?
- What is included in the quoted package? Are medications, PGT, freezing, and storage extra?
- What accreditations does the facility hold?
- How are medical emergencies or complications handled?
Next Steps
- List your medical needs: Do you require other specialists (e.g., for thyroid, autoimmune, or genetic conditions)?
- Compare written quotations from at least two facilities of each type.
- Confirm the treating doctor’s experience with PGT and your specific condition.
- Verify current accreditation and lab standards.
- Consider logistics: location, travel, and accommodation.
For a detailed comparison of specific providers, see our hospitals page and hospital rankings.
Frequently asked questions
Is a dedicated fertility clinic better than a hospital for IVF with PGT?
It depends on your individual needs. Dedicated clinics often have specialized labs and staff focused solely on fertility, which may lead to faster PGT turnaround. Hospitals offer access to other medical specialties, which can be important if you have complex health conditions. Compare facilities, accreditations, and costs before deciding.
Are hospital-based fertility centers more expensive than clinics?
Not necessarily. Costs vary by facility and package. Some dedicated clinics offer all-inclusive packages, while hospitals may have separate fees for hospital services. Always request a detailed written quotation from each provider.
Do hospital-based centers have in-house PGT labs?
Some do. For example, Bangkok Hospital Fertility Center offers PGT-A with an in-house embryology lab. However, not all hospital centers have on-site genetic testing. Confirm directly with the facility.
Can I get a second opinion at a different type of facility?
Yes. Many patients consult both a dedicated clinic and a hospital-based center to compare approaches, costs, and comfort levels. It is a common and recommended step.
What accreditations should I look for?
Look for JCI, RTAC, CAP, or ISO certifications. These indicate adherence to international quality standards. Always verify current accreditation status directly with the facility.
Continue your research
Medical information notice: This article is educational and does not replace individual assessment, diagnosis, genetic counselling or treatment advice from a licensed clinician. Provider services, availability, fees and policies should be verified directly before booking.
