Navigating Surrogacy Agencies: Differentiating Good from Bad Screening Practices
Embarking on the journey of surrogacy can be both exciting and daunting for intended parents. If you have decided to work with an Agency, see other blogs from Surratt Law on the choice between an Independent Journey versus Agency journey, choosing the right surrogacy agency is critical, as it significantly impacts the quality of care, support, and ultimately, the success of the surrogacy journey. However, not all agencies operate with the same standards when it comes to screening potential surrogates. Understanding the difference between good and bad agency practices in surrogate screening is essential for making informed decisions.
The Pitfalls of Superficial Screening:
Some surrogacy agencies adopt a quantity-over-quality approach to surrogacy matching. They boast extensive databases filled with potential surrogates, giving the impression of abundant options for intended parents. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that many of these potential surrogates have merely filled out an online form, with minimal vetting or screening conducted by the agency.
The Importance of Thorough Screening:
On the other hand, reputable agencies prioritize thorough screening processes to ensure the well-being and compatibility of surrogates with intended parents. Rather than inundating intended parents with an overwhelming list of potential surrogates or promising the hope that a woman will make a great surrogate to later find out that a little bit of screening disqualified her, these agencies take the time to carefully evaluate and vet candidates before presenting them as options.
Key Considerations in Surrogate Screening:
Medical and Mental Health Assessment: Good agencies conduct comprehensive medical and psychological evaluations of potential surrogates to assess their physical health, mental well-being, and suitability for surrogacy. This includes reviewing medical records, conducting in-person interviews, and assessing emotional readiness for the surrogacy journey.
Background Checks: Thorough background checks are essential to verify the surrogate's personal and professional history, ensuring transparency and honesty throughout the process. This may include criminal background checks, employment verification, and references from reliable sources.
Lifestyle Screening: Surrogacy is a significant commitment for both surrogates and intended parents, and good agencies assess all partis to the journey to determine if surrogate is the right fit for them. For a surrogate, as agency may be looking at why does she want to be a surrogate, what extracurricular activities does she regularly participate in (ie sky diving versus crocheting are very different), are they on government assistance, do they have fa family support system for the journey, are they done having a family, etc.A Case Study in Effective Surrogate Screening:
One example of an agency that exemplifies good screening practices is Stronger Together Surrogacy. Their rigorous screening process prioritizes the well-being and compatibility of surrogates and intended parents. Before creating a surrogate profile for intended parents to review, Stronger Together Surrogacy conducts thorough medical, psychological, and background evaluations, ensuring that only qualified and well-prepared surrogates are presented as options. You can learn about their process at their blog titled Your Guide to the Surrogate Screening Process.
Conclusion:
When evaluating surrogacy agencies, it's essential to consider their approach to surrogate screening. While superficial screening may offer the illusion of choice, it often falls short in ensuring the quality and suitability of surrogates. In contrast, agencies that prioritize thorough screening processes demonstrate a commitment to the well-being and success of all parties involved in the surrogacy journey. By understanding the importance of effective surrogate screening and choosing agencies with robust screening practices, intended parents can navigate the surrogacy process with confidence and peace of mind.
Kimberly (Kim) Surratt is a legal luminary boasting two decades of expertise in the specialized field of surrogacy and assisted reproduction law. As the mastermind behind every surrogacy statute in the State of Nevada, Kim's influence has shaped the landscape of parenthood rights. Her legal acumen doesn't stop there; she's been instrumental in training a legion of attorneys across Nevada, California, and beyond, ensuring top-notch legal representation for those embarking on their parenthood journey.
With a vast network spanning fertility clinics, matching programs, and assisted reproduction attorneys worldwide, she's cultivated invaluable relationships that can pave the way to your dreams of parenthood. Licensed in both Nevada and California, Kim stands ready to guide you through the intricate legal intricacies, empowering you to embrace the joy of parenthood with confidence. Let Kim Surratt be your trusted ally in realizing your ultimate dream of becoming a parent.