Health Information

Many factors influence the health of children waiting for adoption in other countries. Children often have health conditions that are common in developing countries but can be prevented or easily treated in the United States. Children’s health also can be affected by living in institutions. The University of Minnesota’s International Adoption Clinic website provides information about the health of children adopted from other countries.

The type and quality of available medical information will vary depending on the country. Reputable agencies will give you as much information as possible about a child’s background and medical history, but they cannot guarantee the information is accurate or complete. A doctor familiar with intercountry adoption can help you understand the information you receive about the child’s health and development. The Pediatricians With a Special Interest in Adoption and Foster Care Medicine: Adoption Directory provides a State-by-State directory of pediatricians with a special interest in adoption and foster care medicine. Prospective adoptive parents who plan to make two trips to the child’s country might make a video of the child on the first trip and ask a doctor to evaluate it. If you have any questions about the child’s medical condition, ask your agency or lawyer for more information.