State-of-the-art preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) equipment has been installed at the Monash IVF laboratory located in Bendigo Day Surgery, which will allow highly trained embryo biopsy scientists to perform testing on site.

Bendigo gynaecologist and fertility specialist Dr Anju Agarwal said Monash IVF was committed to providing easier access to IVF services to regional patients.

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"PGT is a sophisticated scientific technique that allows IVF patients to make an informed choice about their embryos before transfer by allowing them to select a chromosomally healthy embryo or those unaffected by a specific genetic disorder," she said.

"PGT can reduce the risk of miscarriage and may increase the chances of having a healthy baby."

Dr Agarwal said having PGT equipment in Bendigo meant Monash IVF patients from Central Victoria and other regional areas would not have to travel to Melbourne to access genetic testing of embryos.

"PGT has also recently become more affordable for patients carrying known genetic disorders after the Federal Government added the procedure to the Medicare Benefits Scheme on November 1.

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"This was done as part of a package to improve long-term health outcomes for those planning a pregnancy and their babies."

PGT primarily benefits patients over the age of 38, those who have had repeated implantation failure or miscarriage or who are known carriers of a genetic disorder or chromosome rearrangement.

Monash IVF has been offering PGT at its Clayton laboratory since 1994 and is one of the most experienced preimplantation genetic testing laboratories in the country.

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