The Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Follow-Up Program is a Heart Center and Division of Neurobehavioral Health multidisciplinary clinic for children with congenital heart disease.
Research shows a link between congenital heart disease and neurodevelopmental issues that is first apparent in very young children. To address these long-term issues and possible impact of early heart surgery, the Akron Children’s Hospital Heart Center and Division of Neurobehavioral Health created the Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Follow-Up Program to ensure these children get the early intervention services they need. Close developmental follow-up is very important during the first 3 years of life and should continue well into school age. Getting an early start helps to address issues and lay the foundation for future learning and success.
Director, Heart Center Mahoning Valley; Associate Director, Pediatric Arrhythmia Center; Co-Director, Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Clinic; Pediatric Cardiologist
Director, Division of Neurobehavioral Health; Neuropsychology Clinical Training Program; Pediatric Neuropsychologist
Children referred to our program receive a complete evaluation of their abilities and an individual care plan to best meet their needs. This evaluation is performed by our neuropsychologists. It can last for several hours and tests for developmental impact in these areas:
Following the evaluation, our neurobehavioral specialists will meet with you to discuss results and treatment recommendations as well as provide you with a written summary. We also send a report of your child’s visits and the care provided to your child’s pediatrician. If additional resources are needed to help your child, our team will provide appropriate referrals.
We recommend that babies and toddlers be evaluated every 6 months through age 3 years, then once a year thereafter until at least age 6 years. If an appointment is not made before you leave the hospital following your child’s heart surgery, you may be referred to our program by your pediatric cardiologist, your child’s pediatrician or your family doctor
Cognitive functioning, heart, murmur, heart-valve, valve, heart rhythm, arrhythmia,