International Patients

Scottish Rite for Children provides specialized care for children with orthopedic conditions from around the world.

Many families seek care here for complex conditions that may require advanced or surgical treatment.

If you are seeking care from outside the United States, there is a required review process before travel. All international patients must be formally accepted before coming to Scottish Rite for treatment.

How to Become an International Patient

The steps below explain how to request consideration for your child as an international patient and what to expect during the process.

Step 1: Submit a Request Form

Start by completing the International Services Request Form (English / Spanish). This form provides basic information about your child and their condition.

After submission, you will receive an email confirming that your request was received.

Step 2: Provide Medical Records

Your child’s medical records are required for review and must be translated into English. These records help the care team understand your child’s condition and prior treatment.

Records may include clinic notes, surgical reports, immunization records and photos of the area of concern.

Incomplete or missing records may delay the review process.

Step 3: Upload Imaging

If imaging has been completed, it must be uploaded for review. This may include X-rays, MRI scans, CT scans and imaging reports.

These images give the care team a more complete picture of your child’s condition.

Step 4: Initial Screening Call

After your child’s medical information is reviewed, a Family Services social worker will contact you to schedule an initial screening call.

This conversation may include:

  • Questions about your family’s situation
  • Available support and resources in your home country
  • Plans for travel and lodging while receiving care in the United States.

Step 5: Clinical Review and Decision

Once all materials are received, the care team will complete a full review of your child’s case. You will be notified when a decision has been made and whether care is recommended.

Step 6: Preparing for Your Visit

If your child is accepted, you will receive next steps for scheduling, travel and required preparation. This includes completing a tuberculosis (TB) test before travel, which can be done as a skin or blood test.

Depending on your citizenship, you may need to obtain a medical visa to enter the United States. Learn more about the visa application process through the U.S. State Department.

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact Us

If you have questions about becoming an international patient, you can email the International Services team at [email protected].