The medical outreach program's aim is to educate physicians, nurses, genetic counselors and other health care professionals on the clinical and developmental needs of people with Down syndrome while expanding their understanding of the unique contributions and capabilities of people with Down syndrome.

The Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan (DSAWM) provides information to pediatricians, obstetricians, nurses, social workers, genetic counselors, and any healthcare provider seeking information on Down syndrome. Over 20 area hospital departments provide our information to their patients who receive a prenatal diagnosis or deliver a baby with Down syndrome. In addition presentations and newsletters offer additional up-to-date information.

Resources include:

Healthcare Guidelines

The Pediatric and Adolescent & Adult Healthcare Packet provides information that physicians can place in their patient’s medical file and refer to as they attend to the medical, developmental and social needs of their patient with Down syndrome. 

Guide for New and Expectant Parents

The Guide for New and Expectant Parents, available in both English and Spanish, is available to hospital social workers, birthing centers, special care nurseries, perinatal care programs, and geneticists for distribution to expectant or new parents. Additionally, it is provided to Early On agencies in West Michigan. The Guide provides an introduction to Down syndrome for new parents. Sensitive, yet informative, this guide includes information on medical concerns in newborns, early intervention services,breast feeding concerns and an invitation to connect with the DSAWM and other new families who can provide support.

If you would like bound copies of the Guide to distribute to a parent, please contact the Association at admin@dsawm.org.

The Guide is divided into six sections. Each section can be downloaded in it's entirety.

 Guide for Parents of Teens and Young Adults

The Guide for Parents of Teens & Young Adults is available for member of the Association to assist families in helping their child with Down syndrome mature through puberty, become aware of adult health matters and make the transition from the non-school setting to a more independent lifestyle. 

If you would like bound copies of the Guide to distribute to a parent, please contact the Association at admin@dsawm.org.

The Guide has been divided into five sections plus an Appendix.  Each section can be downloaded in its entirety.