Fetal Care and Surgery Center | For Patient Families

Most new patients arrive at FCSC when routine prenatal tests indicate a fetal concern. Your physician can refer you, or you can contact us directly. To initiate the process, fax your medical information to 617-730-0124 or email it to FCSCreferrals@childrens.harvard.edu.

Once we receive your referral information, our team processes your records and connects you with our clinical team, which includes nurses, nurse practitioners, and genetic counselors. A team member will conduct a thorough intake, obtain additional medical history, discuss your understanding of the fetal diagnosis, and address your questions.

All necessary studies and tests, such as ultrasound, MRI, or echocardiogram, are performed at our clinic. While it can be a lengthy day, families find it valuable to undergo a comprehensive evaluation in one visit. Books, tablets, or other activities can help pass the time between tests.

Plans for your day might adjust based on diagnostic imaging results. We strive to complete all necessary studies, and appointments with consultants are adjusted accordingly. If you experience delays, please speak to our front desk staff.

We educate you about normal fetal development and share our findings during your consult. Written notes are provided for your reference, ensuring you leave with comprehensive information.

Throughout the day, you will meet various team members, including doctors, nurses, a genetic counselor, and a social worker. Our collaborative approach aims to support and educate you as you navigate this experience and make decisions.

We believe in open and honest discussions about imaging findings, test results, and treatment options. We know this information can be overwhelming, and you may be anxious, angry, scared, or any range of emotions. That is why our clinical social workers are an integral part of your care team and are available for confidential counseling around fetal diagnoses, decision-making, coping with high-risk pregnancies, grief, and more.

Regardless of where you are in processing information about your pregnancy, our team is here for you.

In addition to our social workers, the following provide information is available to help plan your visit:

• directions and parking
• accommodations

We also recommend the following resources:

• American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association
• National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS)
• VOGM Support Network
• Hydrocephalus Association
• The Global Gastroschisis Foundation
• Association for the Bladder Exstrophy Community
• The CHARGE Syndrome Foundation
• Pull-thru Network: helping those born with an anorectal malformation or colon disease
• (CDH awareness): A Breath of Hope Lung Foundation Inc.
• CDH International
• Dandy-Walker Alliance
• Pierre Robin Sequence Support (Facebook)
• PKD Foundation
• 22q: The International 22q11.2 Foundation
• SOFT: Support Organization for Trisomy
• Little People of America
• The Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome Foundation
• Spina Bifida Association
• Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress
• Little Hearts Inc.
• Limbs4Kids
• Foundation for Faces of Children
• Ethan M. Lindberg Foundation
• Bridging the Gap of Ea/tef (Esophageal Atresia and Tracheoesophageal Fistula) (Facebook)