Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Clinic

The FASD evaluation is done in two separate clinic visits:

1. a physician visit
2. a psychologist visit

At the medical appointment, a specially trained physician (Judith Eckerle MD) will review your child’s history and do a physical examination, and an occupational or physical therapist who will do a developmental assessment. At the psychologist visit, your child will have cognitive and developmental testing (Christopher Boys PhD).

***PLEASE NOTE, WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO COMPLETE YOUR EVALUATION at the time of appointment if we have not received the required documentation prior to the first visit. The required documents include growth information, past medical records, and pre-pubertal photos of your child not smiling, especially if your child is in or past puberty.

Who Can Get An Appointment

Any child suspected of fetal alcohol exposure. The FASD Clinic is offered jointly by the University of Minnesota’s International Adoption and Pediatric Neuropsychology clinics. Your child does NOT need to be adopted to get an evaluation.

How To Schedule

Pediatric Scheduling Center: 612.365.6777

Ask for a clinic visit with Judith Eckerle, MD. At the same time, ask the Pediatric Scheduling Center to send you the “FASD Packet” from Dr. Boys. Dr. Boys will review your responses to the FASD packet and call you directly to schedule the psychologist visit.

Why Get An Evaluation

At the International Adoption Clinic we believe that early diagnosis of FASD and early intervention with supportive services is crucial for helping children and families find the tools to succeed and live happy lives. Early evaluation and diagnosis can help you get resources and services your child may need.

What is FASD?

Fetal alcohol exposure is the single most common cause of developmental disabilities in children. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a term that refers to a collection of effects on a child whose birth mother consumed alcohol while she was pregnant. A child can be affected by pre-birth exposure to alcohol in a number of ways: difficulty with learning, behavioral challenges, changes in physical features, poor growth, and mental health issues. These effects have implications for a child’s entire lifetime. MOFAS is an excellent additional resource.

Program Contact

Beth Andrews, RN, MS
Ph: 612.626.7498
Email: andre636@umn.edu