Voice, Resonance, and Swallowing Center at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh

Children with vocal disorders may feel self-conscious about their voice or struggle to express themselves.

Those with swallowing issues may not get the nutrients their growing bodies need. They may eat less than they should because they feel fear or discomfort.

As the nation's first Voice, Resonance, and Swallowing Center, we aim to resolve your child's condition as fully as possible.

Our caring team provides testing and treatments for vocal cord disorders. And we will see your child for as long as they need us.

As part of UPMC Children's Hospital, our center offers one-stop, child-friendly, and team-based care.


Contact the Voice, Resonance, and Swallowing Center

Most kids visit our center after their doctors refer them to us.

Your doctor can refer your child to us for diagnosis, a second opinion, or treatment. Or you can call us to learn more about our services and book your child's appointment.

To refer a child or make your child's appointment, call 412-692-5460.


Children's Voice and Swallowing Services

We provide thorough assessments and combine both medical and non-medical care. This ensures the most ideal outcome for your child's swallowing or vocal issues.

Along with a full medical exam, we also offer cutting-edge tests and treatments such as:

  • Vocal testing, including airflow, air pressure, and sound vibrations.
  • Imaging scans.
  • Full endoscopic swallowing tests.
  • Speech therapy.
  • Surgeries, including microsurgery and voice box reconstruction.

Why Choose the Voice, Resonance, and Swallowing Center at UPMC Children's?

  • Doctors in Pennsylvania and nearby states turn to us to diagnose and treat rare and complex voice and swallowing disorders.
  • Our care team has expert training in children's health and knows their unique needs.
  • Our advanced tests allow us to better adapt the treatment plan to your child.
  • Our groundbreaking research helps us improve care for children with voice and swallowing conditions across the U.S. The National Institutes of Health supports our research, letting us share our knowledge with current and future experts.

Insurances We Accept

As a major children's hospital, we accept most insurances.

If your health plan needs pre-approval, our staff is happy to help you in this process.

Referral Requirements

Although your health insurance may not require a specialist referral, a referral order from a provider referring your child to the Hearing Center is required.

We receive referrals from across Pennsylvania, as well as Maryland, New York, Ohio, and West Virginia. Before scheduling, verify with your insurer and referring provider whether your plan is in-network.

Prior authorization may be required from your health insurance depending on your health plan's network and the care your child needs. Please ensure all referrals and prior authorizations are secured prior to your visit. This will ensure the services we provide will be covered by your health insurance.