Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Services at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh

At UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, our Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Center (FASC) is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for infants and children experiencing feeding difficulties. Located on the third floor of our main campus in Lawrenceville, our center offers a holistic approach to assessment, treatment, and ongoing support for a wide range of feeding issues that may arise due to medical, anatomical, developmental, behavioral, or psychosocial factors.

Our Services:

The FASC is staffed by an interdisciplinary team of specialists, including medical providers, speech therapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, lactation consultants, and behavioral health specialists. This team collaborates to deliver a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment plan for each child, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Initial Assessment:

- Upon arrival and registration, a nurse or medical assistant will greet you and your child.

- Basic questions will be asked, and your child’s height and weight will be measured.

- You will then be escorted to the team room for a detailed feeding evaluation, which includes a feeding history and observation of your child eating foods and consuming beverages you bring to the visit.

- The team room is equipped with a high-chair, small table, microwave, and bottle warmer to facilitate the evaluation.

Recommendations and Follow-Up:

- The team will discuss their observations and assessments with you in real-time during the evaluation.

- Final recommendations will be provided at the conclusion of the visit, documented for your reference and for any therapists your child may already be working with.

- If your child is over 12 months old, a referral for outpatient feeding therapy may be made, available with occupational and/or speech therapy at various convenient locations throughout the greater Pittsburgh region.