The Down Syndrome Center provides families with the tools they need to become educated and strong advocates of children and adolescents with Down syndrome. The center staff:
- Provides specialty health care to children and adolescents that is specific to conditions related to Down syndrome
- Consults with families regarding challenging developmental and behavioral concerns in children with Down syndrome
- Provides information to families about Down syndrome
- Offers support and follow-up to children recovering from an illness or surgery at the hospital
- Assists families in locating community services and resources
- Works with families with adolescents in developing transition plans that identify health care and community resources, as necessary, for adult health and well-being
Services include comprehensive medical assessments and referral of patients to specialists and adult services. The center also collaborates with the Adult Down Syndrome Center at UPMC Montefiore, the Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (US), and the National Down Syndrome Society to investigate clinical problems in individuals with Down syndrome. A variety of educational resources are available through the center’s library.
Health Care Guidelines for Families of Children with Down Syndrome by the American Academy of Pediatrics
The Down Syndrome Center of Western PA was created in 1989 by a group of parents who wanted their children to have access to experts in the care of individuals with Down syndrome. This parent organization, now the Down Syndrome Association of Pittsburgh, continues to partner with and support the work of the Down Syndrome Center of Western PA.
Research and Clinical Studies
As a nationally recognized research center, UPMC Children’s Hospital’s Down Syndrome Center participates in the latest clinical studies, which involve human volunteers and are intended to add to our medical understanding.
Referral Requirements
Referrals for patients enrolled in managed care insurance plans also may require authorization from the insurance provider and primary care physician. All necessary referral and authorization forms must be received before the patient’s visit. For accurate provider numbers or more information, please call the office number listed.
