In-vitro fertilizations will soon be covered under the province's medicare system, Quebec Health Minister Yves Bolduc announced Thursday.

The decision is the first of its kind in North America, and will come into effect by the end of spring.

"Even on the international scale, few societies are as advanced as ours in covering (IVF) services in the public sector," said Bolduc.

Medicare will cover three attempts at fertilization, as well as all related procedures.

"We'll have between 7,000 and 10,000 women per year who will use this service," said Bolduc.

The government currently offers a 50-per-cent tax credit on the IVF. Each treatment costs between $5,000 and $10,000.

The government is expected to dole out $32 million for the new program in 2010, but costs will rise to $80 million within four to five years.

The Liberal government had promised during its 2008 election campaign that it would introduce full medical coverage of in-vitro fertilization.

Improved services

The government also plans to hand out $2 million to renovate the MUHC's fertility centre at the Royal Victoria Hospital.

The improvements include renovations to the centre, the addition of new local clinics and enhanced specialized equipment.