A Pediatrician Discusses Adoption

An Interview with Dr. Michel Cohen, author of The New Basics : A-to-Z Baby & Child Care for the Modern Parent.

Interview by Allison Martin

What advice do you have to offer parents who are considering international adoption?

Be open to the possibilities. I love that a wide array of children are finding loving homes in the US and other developed countries. Of course, standards of medical and especially neonatal care vary widely. We can cure most ailments once we get the kids over here, but the prognosis is very poor for HIV-positive kids. Of course, it's not always easy to tell a kid's health from the paperwork, but certain countries present higher risk of HIV infection. You should consult the adoption intermediaries, but recognize that they don't always have completely accurate information.

On the other hand - and this is a sad comment on the U.S. - kids who come from overseas have much lower chances of suffering from fetal drug or alcohol poisoning, so in some cases you're better off adopting from overseas.

And as far as language goes, don't be concerned about adopting a slightly older child who doesn't speak any English. The brain is so adaptable at an early age that you'll be amazed by how quickly your new child catches on. I've seen kids who couldn't say "hello" in March carry on full conversations by July.

What types of information should parents seek about their child in the international adoption process?

As noted, an HIV test is important, particularly with kids from high-risk countries. Obviously you should ask for the medical records, but if you can't find a complete set, it's not a major problem; we can figure out where a kid is in the immunization schedule and pick it up from there.

What should adoptive parents look for in a pediatrician?

These days, most pediatricians have dealt with adoptions, so you probably won't need to worry about a lack of experience. Of course, the doctor should be willing to meet with you before you bring the child over. He or she should look at whatever information you bring in, make suggestions, and maybe even call the orphanage or hospital overseas, if that's something you can set up. You may be able to get a good doctor referral from the adoptive agency, but the best referrals you can get are the ones your friends make.