The Cleft Palate Team is a group of professionals that are specialists in their fields and experienced in the care and treatment of children with clefts. These children frequently require a number of different types of services, and the team approach assures that these services are delivered in a coordinated way.  

The core team includes:

• Plastic surgeon
• Pediatrician
• Speech pathologist
• Audiologist (hearing specialist)
• Nurse
• Otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat MD)
• Social worker
• Genetics specialist
• Pediatric Dentist
• Orthodontist
• Prosthodontist
• and especially the Family

The goal of the Cleft Palate Team is coordinated, comprehensive, longitudinal care for the patient.  This includes sequencing of evaluations and treatments, in conjunction with the patient's growth and development, as well as medical and psychological needs.

The result is fewer operations, and surgical outcomes are improved.

Team care is best begun just after birth and continues until physical growth is complete (at approx. 21 years). The child is seen at regular intervals to plan and provide care needed at the appropriate stages of development. The child is seen by the team members and then the team meets to discuss and plan the appropriate interventions for the stage of the child's development. 

A team summary of recommendations is written and sent to the parent and a copy made available for the child's pediatrician.

Saint John's Cleft Palate Center members believe, as most teams do, that it is not enough just to "repair the cleft," but rather take pride in creating optimally aesthetic appearance, good dental function, good speech, and a well-adjusted person who can cope favorably with life's demands.