Your Visit |Overview
Our goal in Boston Children’s ARFID Program is to thoroughly evaluate your child and develop an action plan that is best for you and your child. Here’s what you can expect during your first visit with us.
What will an evaluation involve?
During the initial evaluation, you and your child will see by a pediatric gastroenterologist, adolescent medicine provider, or nurse practitioner, along with a dietitian and psychologist. During the evaluation your child will receive a health and nutritional assessment and a complete physical exam. If necessary we may take blood and urine samples for laboratory tests. We encourage parents and other family members involved in your child's care to be present for the initial evaluation.
How long will the initial appointment take?
Your first visit will last from two to three hours. Follow-up appointments will be shorter, lasting approximately 30 minutes to an hour. It’s important that you arrive 15 minutes before your appointment so your child can be weighed and measured prior to meeting with providers.
What do I need for my child’s first visit?
Once you have scheduled your child's first appointment, we will send you a welcome letter with information about the program and our specialized online form (called WeCope) for you to fill out. Included in this form is a three-day Food and Beverage Diary, which you should complete before the appointment. Please remember to bring your insurance card and any additional information you think will help our clinicians better understand your child's eating patterns.
What will happen after the evaluation?
As the evaluation progresses, we will share our impressions and the results of your child’s medical tests with you. We will work as a team and with you to create a treatment plan. This plan may include return visits to Boston Children's. By the end of the visit, you can expect to have an understanding of our recommended treatment plan.
How will I pay for my child's care?
If you have Medicaid or an insurance plan that includes doctor visits, you will not have to pay for care other than the usual copay. If your insurance does not cover visits, please discuss this with our staff members on your first visit. Check all bills and call Outpatient Accounting at 617-355-7114 if you have any questions.