Child Advocacy Consult Service

For children evaluated at Children's Wisconsin when there is a concern for child maltreatment, our Child Advocacy Consult Service team, comprised of physicians, nurse practitioners, and social workers, provides hospital-based consultations.

These consultations may be requested when there are concerns about:

  • Physical abuse
  • Medical child abuse (factitious illness by proxy)
  • Neglect
  • Sexual abuse/assault
  • Commercial sexual exploitation of children (sex trafficking)

Consultations to the Child Advocacy team may consist of a range of responses appropriate to the concerns, such as phone advice, review of records or images, or a comprehensive in-person evaluation. Our multidisciplinary team provides diagnostic assessments and treatment recommendations. When appropriate, we offer assistance and guidance to children and caregivers in understanding the medical and social issues that have prompted their involvement in an investigation of suspected child maltreatment.

The Child Advocacy team provides support to the Children's Wisconsin Emergency Department and clinics as well as to other medical providers. Contact us during regular business hours at (414) 266-2090.

After hours you may use the Children's Physician Referral or the Children's Connect intranet call schedule. A Child Advocacy provider is available 24/7 for telephone consultations.

How to report child abuse

Anyone who suspects a child is being maltreated may make a report. Find the Wisconsin child protective services information.

Consultations for medical providers

Child Advocacy providers are available 24/7 for telephone consultations with medical providers. Call the physician referral line:

(414) 266-2460 or toll-free: (800) 266-0366