Center for Special Children

The Center for Special Children at Vernon Health provides supportive, affordable care for children with rare genetic and metabolic conditions. Many families we serve come from local Amish and Mennonite communities, where certain inherited disorders occur more frequently. Our team works closely with families to offer clear guidance, accurate diagnosis, and ongoing care that respects each community’s values.

With a strong focus on relationships, early detection, and evolving scientific advancements, we are committed to improving health outcomes for children today and in the future.

Program Overview

Our program provides specialized genetic care and support to help families understand rare inherited conditions and access the services they need.

Our Approach to Genetic Care

The Center for Special Children focuses on identifying and caring for children with rare genetic and metabolic disorders, including conditions such as Maple Syrup Urine Disease, Propionic Acidemia, and Phenylketonuria. More than 30 known inherited conditions exist in our region, and advancements in diagnosis and treatment continue to evolve.

Since opening in 2015, the program has developed strong, trusted relationships with families—particularly within the Amish and Mennonite communities—while providing scientifically advanced testing and coordinated care led by Dr. Williams and Dr. Taylor.

What Makes This Program Unique

Our work with Sitosterolemia is among the most current of any clinic offering this specialized care. As one of only six clinics in the country focused on genetic conditions in Plain communities, we collaborate closely with partner clinics and the families we serve.

The program strives to create affordable access to high-quality genetic evaluation while helping build a growing catalog of regional inherited diseases that improves diagnosis and treatment for future generations.

Newborn Screening & Genetic Testing

Some inherited conditions are found through the state newborn screening, which evaluates a baby’s blood, heart, and hearing shortly after birth. Other conditions may be identified later through targeted genetic testing when symptoms or family history suggest a specific disorder.

We work with trusted laboratory partners for accurate testing and timely results, including: • Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene
• University of Wisconsin Cytogenetics
• Das Deutsch Clinic Lab

Key Areas of Support

These highlights show the essential ways our program partners with families, community organizations, and clinical resources to improve care.

Funding Support

Much of the Center’s ability to offer affordable services comes from community generosity. Patient fees cover part of the program, but benefit auctions, private donations, grants, and support through the Vernon Health Foundation make this care accessible to families who qualify.

Educational Outreach

To strengthen care within the region, we co-host conferences for medical and educational professionals serving Amish and Mennonite families. These events focus on practical approaches to inherited diseases and include support from the University of Wisconsin and additional research organizations.

Community Partnerships

The program collaborates with local and national partners to advance understanding of inherited diseases in Amish and Mennonite communities. These partnerships help support education, research, and shared learning between clinics.

Trusted Resources

Families and providers can access additional information through reputable organizations such as Gene Reviews, OMIM, the National Organization for Rare Diseases, and other clinics specializing in genetics within Plain communities.

Here for Your Health

At Vernon Health, we’re committed to providing patient-centered, compassionate care wherever you are in your health journey. Explore our trusted providers and convenient locations to find the right support for you.