How do i pick a cleftt lip/palate or craniofacial team for my child?

Ask Pediatrician: 1st, ask your pediatrician for a referral. 2nd, consult the cleft palate foundation (<http://www.Cleftline.Org/parents>). 3rd, visit a team meeting. A "healthy" team will have infants, children and even some adults as patients. The team should have sufficient patients to be competent: it should meet at least once a month or more often. 4th, ask for referrals to some families treated by that team.

Ask neonatal team: Many newborns with cleft lip or palate would be evaluated first by neonatologists if available. They or the nicu staff can not only give a referral to a surgical team but also provide valuable information on caring for the baby when it goes home. Also read dr. Marsh's answer.

Specialists: Some oral surgery groups specialize in cleft lip palate treatment. You need to find a good group. They would know how to assemble a team.