Heart problems affect approximately 1 in 100 babies born in the U.S. Often, the problem is detected during pregnancy. If your obstetrical team has a concern with your baby’s heart, we’re here for you.
Our fetal cardiology team is dedicated to supporting your baby’s heart health before they're born. We specialize in diagnosing and managing congenital heart conditions that occur in the earliest stages of fetal development. Working closely with specialists throughout the BayCare Kids network, we care for you and your baby during pregnancy, delivery and beyond.
The Patel Children’s Heart Institute at BayCare St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital is a leading center for pediatric cardiology in the region. We provide complete care for all types of congenital heart conditions, including those that are rare and complex.
Our services span every stage of life, from before birth through adulthood. As your child nears adulthood, we ensure a smooth transition to our Adult Congenital Heart Program. Every day, we help create healthier, brighter futures for our patients and their families.
Your obstetrician may refer you to our BayCare Kids fetal cardiology team for many reasons:
Fetal echocardiography is an ultrasound imaging test used to view your baby’s heart. Our sonographers have specialized training in fetal heart imaging. They use the latest technology to take 3-D pictures and 4-D video images of the heart, valves and blood vessels.
If the results show a congenital heart problem, we provide comprehensive, compassionate guidance and care. Our fetal cardiologists will review the study with you and discuss what to expect moving forward. A nurse navigator is available to answer questions, provide support and connect you with resources.
We bring together a multidisciplinary team to work with you to plan care for you and your baby. This coordinated approach ensures you and your medical team are prepared for your child’s birth and their care after delivery.
To recommend the right treatment for your baby, our fetal cardiologists collaborate with other specialists, including:
Nurse navigators and social workers are available to support your family and make care less stressful:
If you're traveling for care or you just want to stay close by, we can help you find lodging at the Ronald McDonald House or another location. The Ronald McDonald house is located on our campus and is fully equipped for short and long stays.
Our fetal cardiology team is led by board-certified, subspecialty-trained cardiologists who have deep expertise in how babies’ hearts develop. They're supported by a highly skilled group of advanced practice providers, nurses and technologists—each with training in fetal cardiology. Every team member works diligently to provide seamless care for you and your baby.
Dr. Blaine John, Director of Fetal and Pediatric Cardiology at BayCare St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, talks about what you can expect when you bring your child to BayCare.
For more information about our pediatric heart services, or to make an appointment with one of our specialists, call the Kids Heart Hotline at (813) 644-6679 or fill out the form to connect with a nurse navigator.
