International Adoption
Whether you have already decided to adopt internationally or are first exploring the possibility, the Web can give you an overview of the international adoption process and U.S. international adoption requirements. Online, you'll be able to research countries that have established international adoption programs, learn about the associated costs and how to select a reputable adoption agency, learn about potential issues facing children who have spent time in orphanages, find support groups in your area, and find current adoption-related news and publications.
To complete an international adoption, United States citizens must fulfill the requirements of the ... read more »
You may not have an initial preference as to the country from which to adopt, and that's OK. Some ... read more »
All countries require the completion of an adoption home study before you adopt. The home study is ... read more »
International adoption costs can range from about $10,000 to $30,000. Remember, these are only ... read more »
You can handle adoption on your own or through an adoption agency or adoption lawyer. The decision ... read more »
One of the best resources for international adoption advice is other parents who have adopted. Join ... read more »
Special consideration should be taken by parents of adopted children to ensure that your child grows into a healthy, happy adult. Although this is not the case for all international adoptions, in certain instances health or emotional issues can develop as a result of your child's living conditions before she was adopted. Learn as much as you can about the history of your child's health and about prior living conditions so that you can be prepared for any special needs or concerns should they arise.
- Many adoption agencies and organizations provide articles on health-related topics on their Web sites.
- It's important to learn about potential health risks of adopted children so that you can address them.
The International Adoption Clinic
at the University of Minnesota shares information about health for internationally adopted children. Use the "What's Inside" menu on the left of the page to find out about pre- and post-adoption issues, the clinic's research, and more.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
highlights general information on overseas medical examinations (required by U.S. law) and recommendations for follow-up medical examinations once back in the United States. This site lists and explains the possible medical issues of internationally adopted children so that you can ensure your child is protected.
Familydoctor.org
has a section on International Adoption with summaries of the health issues adopted children often face when moving internationally. The site also walks you through getting the correct medical paperwork for a visa, as well as other concerns. After answering parents' frequently asked questions, the author offers a recommended reading list for more comprehensive information.
ComeUnity
provides a directory of adoption medical clinics in the United States and Canada. Listings are sorted alphabetically by their location. Some clinics' names are linked to their Web sites while others aren't, but all include contact information.
Orphandoctor
includes articles on diseases and health issues faced by adopted children who have come to the United States after living in a foreign country. Dr. Aronson provides her own services from a New York City practice, but also seeks to inform families about health for adopted children through her own insight and links to articles. Go to her
medical resources section to get information on topics such as region-specific health issues for China, Russia, and Ethiopia.
If you are considering international adoption you should try to keep up on what is happening with ... read more »
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