Department of General Medicine

Complex T21

  • The T21 Assessment clinic at the Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) provides health assessments, family education and linkage to ongoing care for children with Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome).  We are not designed to replace your community paediatrician and do not provide ongoing care.

    Our team includes:

    • A paediatrician experienced in the care of children with Trisomy 21
    • A clinic nurse

    Assessments are held over two appointments of 45-60 minutes duration on different days, and telehealth appointments are available.

    A family support worker from Down Syndrome Victoria (DSV) is available for consultations after the medical appointment (optional). Down Syndrome Victoria can provide support, information, and resources for families. More information about DSV is available here

    During appointments our team aims to:

    •  Address family concerns about their child’s health.
    •  Review a child’s medical history and health screening.
    •  Organise any necessary tests, with procedure support if needed.
    • Provide referrals to specialists.
    • Provide education about health issues common in children with Trisomy 21.
    • Discuss options for ongoing medical care.
    • Provide a medical summary to the family, referring doctor, and ongoing paediatrician.

     

    Not every child with Trisomy 21 needs to be seen at the T21 Assessment clinic. Examples of children that might benefit from review include:

    • Newborns who are not yet linked with an ongoing paediatrician.
    • Children who are newly arrived in Victoria and not linked with local services.
    • Families who would like a second opinion about their child’s health or developmental concerns.

    Location and time

    Specialty Clinic A2 (ground floor) first Friday of every month.

    Referral and appointments

    • Please send a GP referral via fax to 03 9345 5034.
    • Please clearly state the referral is for the T21 Assessment Clinic and include all relevant medical details.
    • RCH Referral form is available online:
    • For enquiries about appointments, please call (03) 9345 6180

    What to bring to appointments

    • Green book
    • Blood test results, hospital discharge summaries, specialist letters, audiology reports etc.