Child Protection - 616.391.1242

The Center for Child Protection (CCP) is a state leader in protecting and advocating for abused and neglected children. It is run by the only pediatrician in the state of Michigan who deals with child abuse on a full-time basis. As a result, the CCP is setting the standard of care for the treatment of children in Michigan.

We work closely with the department of Child Protective Services (CPS) case workers and with law enforcement and medical personnel in all 83 Michigan counties. The CCP not only identifies and treats cases of abuse, but is also committed to community outreach, educating other physicians, law enforcement personnel, foster care workers, day care workers, teachers and community educators how to handle abuse and crisis situations.

We can assist the referring physician by aiding in patient assessment and coordinating any necessary communication with Child Protection Services. We will be able to address a health care provider's questions or concerns about suspected child abuse or evidence of child abuse and neglect.

To speak with a physician at the Center for Child Protection, please call 616.391.1242.

To make a referral, you can either:

• Fax completed referral forms to 616.391.3206 (our scheduler will then contact you).
• Call us at 616.391.1242. We can complete the form with you over the phone and then fax it to you for your signature.

Patients with these types of conditions should be considered for referral:

• Children at suspected risk of, or for whom there is evidence of, child abuse or neglect
• Children who have experienced abuse and need referrals to resources and/or coordination of services among providers and agencies

To Report Abuse

 Note that as a professional required by law to report possible child abuse and neglect, you can make a report at the following:

In Kent County, call 616.248.9600 (available 24/7).

In other Michigan counties, call 800.942.4357.

If you believe an emergency situation exists, please call 911 immediately.