Getting Started in International Adoption

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Getting Started

Overview of Intercountry Adoption
Guidelines in Interpreting Videos
Things adopting families need to know about traveling abroad

The preparation for an international adoption starts about one year before the child actually arrives in the United States. Medical guidance usually begins when the parents receive the medical abstract from their adoption agency.

Medical abstract studied and evaluated

Medical abstract which may include medical diagnoses is explained in layman terms

Growth parameters are placed on a growth curve to assess height, weight, head circumference as compared to a general population of children of the same age

Developmental milestones are discussed so parents can understand the expectations for their particular child. Parents can then more comfortably make decisions regarding their prospective adoption.

Photographs are examined and evaluated for facial dsymorphism and other abnormal physical characteristics consistent with fetal alcohol syndrome

Videos when available are viewed and studied for abnormal physical characteristics and developmental / behavioral level

A phone consult with patient to summarize the findings of the medical abstract, video, and photographs

E-mail/FAX/phone contact with physicians/agencies/representatives from countries of origin may be available for clarifying medical diagnoses and past medical history