Referring a Patient to the Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment

If you are a physician or patient seeking an evaluation for a suspected fetal abnormality, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s (CHOP) Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment is here to help. We'll work with you to schedule a full evaluation at our Center to confirm the diagnosis as soon as possible, as well as address any initial questions or concerns your patient may have — from travel to lodging.

To discuss a potential referral, schedule a comprehensive prenatal evaluation or seek a second opinion, please call 1-800-IN-UTERO (1-800-468-8376). Our fetal specialists are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Our clinical coordinator will ask that prenatal records be faxed to 215-590-2447. Ultrasounds can be uploaded remotely, or a disc with the images can be sent by overnight mail. One of our fetal therapy coordinators can assist you with this process.

Referring physician/healthcare provider information

  • Name
  • Contact information (including cell phone/beeper number)

Patient information

  • Name
  • Estimated due date (EDD)
  • Suspected diagnosis
  • Date of birth
  • Address
  • Phone number(s)
  • Insurance information
  • Most recent ultrasound report 
  • Results of amniocentesis (if performed)
  • OB records (pertinent medical history and medications)

We recognize this is a very stressful time for families facing an uncertain prenatal diagnosis and prognosis. We strive to schedule all patients as expeditiously as possible. If you feel a patient needs to be seen more urgently, let us know and we will work with you.

After all information and records are obtained, one of our coordinators will contact the patient, review complete medical history and schedule your patient's visit to the Center. Prior to the visit, your patient will receive a call from Center staff to confirm her appointments for the day, provide directions and assist with any other needs. We have a variety of educational resources for both physicians and families about our services and the fetal conditions we treat.

After the visit

Our team, including our maternal-fetal medicine specialists, is available to discuss results of diagnostic tests and counseling session. They may contact you within 24 hours after your visit.

A consultation report will be faxed to you within 48 hours of your visit. If you have any concerns or questions, please call our center and one of our fetal therapy coordinators will assist you.

Insurance and financial matters

Our Center’s team is experienced in working with many insurance plans to facilitate care for families who seek our services. We also have resources available to assist families with lodging, travel and other expenses. We are always happy to discuss individual situations and needs.

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Tour our Fetal Center

Watch this video tour to learn what to expect at your first visit to the Wood Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment.

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What to Expect

From the moment of referral through delivery and postnatal care, your family can expect a supportive experience when you come to us with a diagnosis of a birth defect.


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