External resources
- AmeriFace (ameriface.org): Provides information and emotional support to individuals with facial differences and their families, while increasing public understanding through awareness programs and education.
- EarCommunity (earcommunity.com): Offers a supportive community for those with microtia and other conditions affecting the ears. Provides helpful information about parent advocacy, self-advocacy, and patient advocacy.
- FACES: The National Craniofacial Association (faces-cranio.org): Provides financial support for non-medical expenses to patients traveling to a craniofacial center for treatment. Eligibility is based on financial and medical need. Resources include newsletters, information about craniofacial conditions, and networking opportunities.
- Foundation for Faces of Children (facesofchildren.org): Provides clear, accurate information and resources to children with craniofacial conditions and their families. This New England-based foundation was started by Boston Children’s Hospital plastic surgeon John B. Mulliken, MD, and a handful of parents whose children were receiving treatment at Boston Children’s.
Boston Children's Hospital resources
- Hale Family Center for Families (617-355-6279): Helps families locate the information and resources they need to better understand their child’s particular condition and take part in their care. All Boston Children’s patients, families, and health professionals are welcome to use the center’s services at no extra cost.
- Behavioral Medicine Clinic (617-355-6688): Helps children who are being treated on an outpatient basis at Boston Children’s — as well as their families — understand and cope with their feelings about:
- having a chronic condition
- facing uncomfortable procedures
- handling pain
- taking medication
- preparing for surgery
- changes in friendships and family relationships
- managing school while dealing with a medical condition
Insurance information
Understanding your insurance coverage can sometimes be a difficult process. Be sure to ask your individual insurance provider which procedures to treat microtia are and are not covered by your plan. It also will be beneficial for you to ask what referrals you might need.
If you have further questions, contact your insurance provider for assistance. Most providers list a customer service phone number on the back of the insurance card.