Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Today we see the genetics department at Children's hospital


ETA a pic of me and messy that DH took




I have no idea what they could possible say

"her autism is genetic and you have it too!"
I got a letter from the hospital which conveniently was also on their website LOL I love copy/paste :) this is boring so feel free to look at this picture of a leopard and scroll past it :)
taking a break

isnt he CUTE!





The member(s) of the team you meet with will ask questions about:
  • The pregnancy and birth history
  • Developmental history
  • Medical history, and
  • Family History
Sometimes sensitive issues, such as adoption or exposures during pregnancy, may arise when gathering information on your child. Should there be something you do not wish to discuss with your child present, it may be helpful to bring someone to the visit with you. This person can sit with your child in the waiting room while the sensitive topic is discussed.
Next, the team member(s) will review the history and perform a specialized physical exam. Tests such as X-rays or an MRI may be ordered to help make a diagnosis. Genetic tests may also be ordered based on the history and/or physical examination. These are often blood or urine tests, and the sample can be collected the same day as your appointment. Referrals to other specialists or specialty clinics within the hospital may also be made. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to discuss the results of any testing ordered and the results of other evaluations. For new patients, the first visit typically lasts about 1 hour. Return visits are usually shorter than this.
Information Received From the Appointment
The team member you meet with will discuss the findings of the evaluation with you. If genetic tests are ordered, the team member will explain in detail why the test is being ordered and the implications of the test during your visit. The results of any genetic testing will be fully discussed with you at a scheduled follow-up visit.

The goal of a genetics evaluation is to provide a diagnosis. Unfortunately, a diagnosis cannot always be made despite the extensive evaluations performed. If a diagnosis can be made, we will share with you what is known about the condition, including the following:

  • Cause
  • Pattern of inheritance
  • Prognosis
  • Recurrence risks
  • Available resources
  • Possibilities for prenatal diagnosis
  • Testing for family members
The Genetics Program may provide ongoing care for you, or we may refer you to a specialist or specialty program within the hospital. If a diagnosis cannot be made, we will give you as much information as possible so your family can make the best decisions. In these instances, we often recommend a follow-up visit at some point in the future as our knowledge of genetics and available genetic testing is always increasing and certain genetic conditions become more apparent with time.
After the Appointment
A letter documenting what was discussed at your appointment, testing ordered, and/or referrals made will be prepared after your visit. This letter will become part of your or your child's medical record at Children's Hospital. A copy will also be sent to you and the referring physician. Your evaluation and diagnosis will not be discussed or shared with family members or professionals from other institutions without your written consent.
I love the part where they say having someone with you to sit in the waiting room with the child is helpful
ain't gonna happen I be a single mother today whoo hoo!

in response to me whining about him not doing anything My hubby took a thing off the list that he knows I didn't want to do :) so he is calling the police department to set up whatever thingy they do for kids with autism I guess they keep info on record for a quicker response should she take off, and possible a tracking device for her if necessary . I hate making phone calls, but I really hate calling the police department.

ah did I ever mention that since the big dig I do not enjoy driving in Boston, I mean I really am having trouble remembering where everything is.


stress stress

off we go

1 comment:

Unknown said...

I hope the day goes well. I do so love how places just assume that you have a staff of people at your disposal that you can bring to assist you with your child. For a world that's full of single parents (or those who get to "play one on tv :) ) they sure are missing the boat on some things.