Additional Cleft Lip/Cleft Palate Clinic Resources
Therapy Services
We’ve been approved as a Cleft Palate Team by the Commission on Approval of Teams according to the Standards for Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Teams. For more information, visit www.team-approval.org.
Our evaluations include:
- Audiologic and otologic evaluation
- Assessment of speech and oral motor function
- Social work review
- Complete physical examination
- General dental and orthodontic examinations
- Instructions in oral hygiene
- Examinations by surgical team members
Radiologic studies and nasopharyngoscopy examinations are obtained when appropriate. Genetic evaluations are also completed.After all team members have evaluated the patient, a case review staff meeting is held. We’ll then discuss the findings and suggest immediate and long-term recommendations.
Our team shares a report summarizing the results and treatment recommendations with the parents, agencies involved and other health professionals providing care. Our coordinator contacts the family to review the findings and recommendations He or she will also arrange a consultation among the patient and team members to further discuss and explain the treatment recommendations.
Our Approach to Treatment
Our expert team provides continuous care for patients from birth until treatment is complete, often at age 21. With improved diagnostic information, many clefts are identified on prenatal ultrasounds. Families are provided information during prenatal consultations about the diagnosis and treatment objectives. We’re also available to treat adults. Our team conducts periodic examinations and documents progress.
Support Services
When appropriate, our team recommends speech-language therapy, psychological counseling, surgical intervention or prosthodontic treatment. We also make referrals to other healthcare professionals including neurosurgeons, prosthodontists, orthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, otolaryngologists, plastic and reconstructive surgeons, general dentists, pedodontists and geneticists. Further developmental, medical or educational evaluations may be suggested.
Our team members are always available to answer questions and address concerns or problems common to the child or the family of the patient. Our specialists can answer questions about breastfeeding and bottle feeding, ear infections and associated hearing problems, dental problems and speech-language development.
Sources of Referral
Referrals are accepted for primary rehabilitation or secondary rehabilitation for older children and adults. Referrals can be made by the family, physician, school personnel, dentist, orthodontist, pedodontist, social worker, speech-language pathologist, audiologist, nurse and agencies such as the Division of Specialized Care for Children. Referrals and requests for information should be directed to: Jayne M. Wachtel, MA, CCC-SP, Coordinator, (217) 383-4383.
Financial Assistance
Our team’s social worker and business office personnel can assist in exploring possibilities for financial assistance. When indicated, referrals for financial and programming assistance will be made to agencies such as the Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC). Coverage for evaluations and recommended treatments may be provided by the patient's health insurance.
