The Spina Bifida Program at the Child Development and Rehabilitation Center (CDRC) is the state-wide Title V (SCSHCN) and regional specialized clinic for persons living with Spina Bifida throughout the life span. We serve more than 474 individuals with on-going care.

The team consists of nationally recognized CDRC-based providers as well as Doernbecher subspecialist surgeons. The core team is made up of a Developmental Pediatrician/Child Neurologist, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Physical and Occupational Therapists as well as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from Pediatric Urology. Other CDRC specialists are available for consultation from several disciplines including Special Education, Psychology, Audiology and Speech Therapy. Together we address family, community, behavior, education and development issues. The team of subspecialist consultants includes Pediatric Neurosurgery, Pediatric Urology, and Pediatric Orthopedics. Our interdisciplinary team approach assures close communication and coordinated care across the disciplines.

Our specialized services include:

• Developmental Pediatrics
• Pediatric Urology
• Pediatric Neurosurgery
• Physical Therapy
• Bowel management
• Parent-to-parent support
• Care coordination and life-long continuity
• Coordination with the Primary Care Provider and other home community providers

Because Spina Bifida and Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) are relatively rare, even specialist physicians are often not familiar with the associated acute and chronic medical conditions to be diagnosed and treated in children and adults living with these conditions. Therefore, coordinated interdisciplinary services are imperative. We follow the Guidelines for Spina Bifida Health Care Services throughout the Lifespan.

The overall goals of the program are attaining and maintaining optimal health status, preventing secondary disability, maximizing potential to participate in society and fostering transition to independence.

This past year, OHSU has been recognized as a Spina Bifida Association Clinic Care Partner by the Spina Bifida Association. This partnership reinforces our prior commitment to providing comprehensive care to individuals with Spina Bifida with a future commitment to continuous improvement and advancement of care. Learn more about the Clinic Care Partner program