Medical Care and Intervention Therapies
During the first five years of life, the following Medical and Allied health professionals should be included in your care team.
Further information with regards to medical specialists not described below that may be involved in care during this period can be found in the Resources section of our website.
Developmental Paediatrician
After your child is born and the hospital has made a diagnosis, they are likely to refer you to a specialist paediatrician at the Royal Children’s Hospital or Monash Medical Centre (usually whichever is more conveniently located to you).
Read MoreGeneral Practitioner (GP)
It’s important to find a GP who understands or is willing to learn about Prader-Willi Syndrome and understand the medical issues associated with the condition.
Read MoreEndocrinologist
Individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome require an endocrinologist to be part of their care team throughout their lifespan, from infancy to adulthood.
Read MoreSleep Specialist
Sleep disorders are common in people with Prader-Willi Syndrome, and before starting Growth Hormone Treatment (GH), your child will be required to have a sleep study performed. This will test for sleep apnoea’s which may need to be treated before commencing with GH treatment.
Read MoreDietician
It is crucial to implement a healthy diet early. It is also vital to ensure that adequate nutrition is provided for healthy brain development and growth. A dietician will assist with this.
Read MorePhysiotherapist
Even before your child is mobile, a Physiotherapist can assist with muscle development and strengthening. Therefore it is recommended that a physiotherapist begins working with your child from as early as infancy.
Read MoreOccupational Therapist
Occupational therapy should begin as early in life as possible, ideally in infancy, to develop muscles and improve fine and gross motor skills.
Read MoreSpeech therapist
Individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome present with speech and language deficits and will benefit from speech and language therapy beginning as early in life as possible.
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