Down Syndrome Clinic Information

My child or family member already has a doctor. How can a visit to the Down syndrome clinic be helpful?

The Healthcare Guidelines for People with Down syndrome has increased many physicians' knowledge and skill in providing care for patients with Down syndrome. However, some doctors still need our support. We are specialists in Down syndrome, and our services focus on the care, information and support that is common and necessary for people with Down syndrome. We see children and adults.

Families often visit the clinic because:

1. They have a specific issue or concern(s) about their child's or family member's health and well-being. These concerns may relate to a chronic issue that is unresolved or a new problem or change that has surfaced.

2. They want to make sure they're on track with health care. For many families, this is the first time their family member has been examined by a specialist with expertise in caring for people with Down syndrome.

3. The patient with Down syndrome or the family is entering a developmental or transitional stage that may require extra support, information or guidance. For example, new parents may be transitioning from birth to 3 services to an early childhood program, or a child may be entering school for the first time, going through puberty or moving from home into the community.

Our patients still benefit from having a primary care doctor to provide follow-up services such as well-child checks, physicals or care for your child if he or she is sick.

How can I prepare for a clinic visit?

Before your first visit, we will send you a packet of information that includes:

• A clinic brochure.
• A letter with your appointment time(s) and location(s).
• A Down syndrome Health History Form.
• Medical release forms.

Please fill out the forms and send them back to us prior to your appointment.

What happens during a clinic visit?

All new patients visiting the clinic will meet with our specialist and receive a full physical examination including:

• A hearing test.
• Lab work.
• X-rays.

We also spend time talking with your family to understand your concerns for the patient such as nutrition, feeding, speech or physical or occupational therapy issues. Genetic counseling also is available.

What happens after my clinic visit?

After your appointment, a report with recommendations, and a copy of the Healthcare Guidelines for People with Down syndrome will be sent to you and your doctor. If tests were done, such as lab or X-rays, we will call you with the results and discuss any necessary follow-up care. You also may be referred to other specialists.

Scheduling appointments
Patients and families may refer themselves to the clinic, or you may be referred by your primary care physician or another other health care specialist.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (414) 266-6259, or e-mail the clinic coordinator.