Patient Referrals

The Walter E. Boehm Birth Defects Center generally treats patients 0-21 years old who have been diagnosed with a neural tube defect, such as spina bifida, hydrocephalus, tethered cord, or Arnold Chiari malformation. 

Please click here to access our New Patient Referral Form.

Referrals - Ages 0-21 Years

A referral from a primary care or subspecialist physician must be sent to the Boehm Birth Defects Center before the first appointment can be made.

• Hospital and physician staff may fax referrals along with current medical records and history to: (423) 778.6191.
• Our nurse practitioner will review the information, schedule an appointment with the new client, then contact the referral source to confirm the appointment has been made.

Referrals - Over 21 Years

The Boehm Birth Defects Center may accept patients over the age of 21 years at the discretion of its physicians and/or with a referral from primary care or subspecialist physician.

• Parents/Caregivers/Guardians of clients over 21 must show written proof of Conservator, Guardianship, Durable Power of Attorney, or proof that the client is not competent of managing his or her medical care before requesting or providing information regarding the client.
• Current patients over the age of 21 years may continue in the program at the discretion of one the Center's doctors. Individuals who reach an age or status of emancipation by marriage or independent of parents may be referred to the individual physician's office or physicians of their choice.