What to expect at the center for bleeding disorders
At Children’s Minnesota, we believe that knowledge is power when it comes to your child’s health. Your bleeding disorder team is ready to help you and your child understand their diagnosis and help you manage it. No matter where you are in your healthcare journey, we are here to support you.
Referral to a pediatric hematologist
Typically, a child’s primary care physician (pediatrician) will refer them to a hematologist when they detect signs and symptoms of bleeding or want to explore a known family history. Patients are referred to a pediatric hematologist at Children’s Minnesota at every age, from newborn to young adult.
Your first appointment for bleeding disorders
During your initial visit, your child and you will meet with a physician or advanced practice provider who specializes in bleeding disorders, and a nurse also specialized in bleeding disorder care. They will conduct a physical exam, discuss bleeding symptoms, safety, treatment options, and family history. Your child may also have blood drawn to evaluate their body’s ability to clot. You’ll have time to ask questions and talk about your concerns. This appointment takes about one hour.
Follow up visits
Once your child has been diagnosed and a care plan is in place, you’ll meet with a hematologist at least once a year. During these visits, we’ll check lab results as needed, talk about any bleeding symptoms, and review or adjust your treatment plan.
Your child’s care team will also help you manage follow-up appointments, ongoing monitoring, and any future tests to help keep your child on track.
Preparing for different types of appointments
While your child is under our care, they may have multiple appointments with our team of bleeding disorder specialists. These visits may vary in purpose and structure.
To help you feel prepared and make the most of your time, we’ve outlined what to expect and how to plan.
Appointments with a physical therapist
The Center for Bleeding and Clotting Disorders has a dedicated physical therapist who is an important part of the care team. You may be referred by your provider to see our physical therapist if you find it difficult to get 60 min of exercise per day, have pain that makes it difficult to perform activities of daily living, or have other difficulties moving your body compared to people your age. You can also request to see our physical therapist to express your concerns.
What does your physical therapist recommend bringing to your appointment?
- Tennis shoes
- Comfortable clothing that allows you to move in multiple directions. Shorts or loose-fitting pants that can be pulled up past your knees work well.
- Water bottle
Appointments with a genetic counselor
A genetic counselor is available to help answer any questions you or your child may have about how certain bleeding disorders are inherited, as well as to discuss genetic testing options for your child and family.
During your visit, please be prepared to share any relevant medical history—especially if anyone in your family has been diagnosed with a bleeding disorder or has experienced heavy or prolonged bleeding. If any family members have undergone genetic testing, bringing a copy of their report would be very helpful.
Appointment attendance and cancelation
We understand that life can be busy and plans change. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, it’s important to contact the clinic right away so we can offer that time to another patient who needs care. For more details, visit our page on appointment attendance and no-show process.
