FAQ

What can I expect during my care at the center?

Before your first appointment, one of our clinical care coordinators will call you to discuss your case and review what appointments to expect. The clinical care coordinator will make sure all appointments are arranged in a timely fashion. Each of our patients is unique and treated individually, and the schedule of doctors you see will be tailored specifically to your needs. The doctors will discuss your care options with you and answer any questions that you may have regarding your diagnosis and management.

How does the Center for Prenatal Pediatrics differ from other obstetric centers?

The Center for Prenatal Pediatrics is dedicated to helping pregnant women and their families after a significant birth defect or genetic condition has been detected. Specialists from both obstetrics and pediatrics work together as a team to determine the best way to care for you and your unborn baby, both during and after your pregnancy.

Whenever possible, we create an integrated appointment plan, so that you can meet with the multiple subspecialists involved in your case. Some patients come here for a second opinion and go back to their obstetrician. Other patients transfer their care to Columbia as their delivery date approaches to make sure their baby immediately receives the necessary specialized pediatric care after birth.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to be a patient at the Center for Prenatal Pediatrics?

Unless it is required by your insurance provider, you do not need a referral from your doctor. We do require a copy of your medical records from your obstetrician.

Will I see the same doctor for every appointment?

As a patient at the center, you will have a primary perinatologist (an obstetrician that specializes in high-risk pregnancies) that you will see for regular appointments. You may request a particular doctor as your primary perinatologist, but you will likely be seen by other doctors for ultrasounds or other services. The doctors work as a group practice and meet weekly to discuss your care plan. We will do our best to honor your request for a specific physician for services based on their availability. To learn more about our doctors, visit the Our Team page.

If I have multiple appointments with different specialists, will all of my appointments be on the same day and in the same location?

We will make every effort to schedule as many of your appointments as possible for the same day to minimize your travel to the center. All of your appointments will be on the Columbia University Irving Medical Center/NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital campus in the Washington Heights area of New York City. Most services are provided at the center, which is located in the NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital.

You will receive specific information and directions if your appointment is in a location other than the center.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

For your first appointment, please bring your health insurance card (if applicable), valid photo ID, and any outstanding medical records that have not already been received by the Center. We also highly recommend that you bring a spouse, partner, family member, or friend for support.

Can I bring family members to appointments?

You may bring up to two additional family members or friends, including your spouse or partner. Children under 12 are not permitted at the center.

Are translators available?

Yes. Please let us know when scheduling your appointment if you would like to request a translator. Translators may be present face-to-face or via telephone.

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

We request at least 24-hour notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment.

Will my obstetrician receive a copy of my medical records?

We will be happy to send a copy of your medical records, along with your ultrasound images, to your obstetrician after receiving your signed medical release form.

Can multiple ultrasounds during pregnancy harm the fetus?/Is it harmful to get an MRI during pregnancy?

Ultrasounds performed either abdominally or transvaginally are safe during pregnancy. Additionally, MRI during pregnancy is believed to be safe with no adverse risks on unborn babies. You can read more on our Prenatal Imaging and Diagnosis page.

What is the legal time restriction/limit for termination?

We know that the decision to terminate due to complications can be a difficult and sensitive issue. Please speak with one of our clinical care coordinators at 877-843-2229.

Which insurance plans do you accept?

We accept most insurance plans, but please contact your insurance provider prior to making your first appointment. You can also contact a clinical care coordinator for more information and to discuss coverage at 877-843-2229.

If you have limited or no health insurance, please contact a clinical care coordinator at 877-843-2229 to learn about your financial options. Our staff will carefully explain all costs and fees associated with your care plan and work with you on options for assistance.

I am interested in receiving care at the Center for Prenatal Pediatrics, but I do not live in the area. Is it still possible for me to become a patient?

Yes, we have many patients who select the center for prenatal pediatric care but live out of town or internationally. We will work with your local obstetrician to facilitate any tests or services that can be performed near your home to minimize your travel to the center for optimal co-managed care.