As the new chair of the AAP’s Council on Children with Disabilities, Dr. Garey Noritz has the cerebral palsy community in mind.

A long-time supporter of the CP Research Network, Dr. Garey Noritz understands how vital the American Academy of Pediatrics’ commitment to helping children with disabilities is for the cerebral palsy community.

Now, in his new role as chair of the organization’s Council on Children with Disabilities (COCWD), he is determined to ensure that all children with disabilities – and their broader community needs – are kept at the forefront of the AAP’s work.  

He tells the CP Research Network: “The health of children can only be improved by improving conditions for children and families in all areas of their lives as we advocate for safe environments, effective schools, and most of all, just policies at the federal and state level.”

As an internist and pediatrician specializing in neurodevelopmental disabilities at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, Noritz is a member of the CP Research Network’s Executive Committee and understands how COCWD provides vital support to our community.

The council is presently revising a clinical report, “Providing a medical home for children and youth with cerebral palsy,” from 2011 to ensure that it contains the most up-to-date information and guidance for pediatricians treating children with cerebral palsy. 

For many years, COCWD has played an essential role in improving care for those with cerebral palsy. This includes providing clinical reports to pediatricians on all aspects of the care of children with disabilities, from screening and diagnosing young children to transition to the adult health system.   

“There is a lot of political clout with the AAP, so it is important to make sure children with cerebral palsy are represented and advocated for,” he adds.

Excited to begin his new role, Noritz credits the council as one of the most active and influential AAP groups and is excited to continue its legacy.

As we come to the end of a year that brought countless health and racial inequities to the surface, Noritz is determined to ensure that no child is left behind and lists inclusivity, research, advocacy, and education as priorities. 

Encouragingly, as he begins this important work, he expresses a wish to continue to have open communication with CPRN members to understand the community’s continuing needs.  

Congratulations, Dr. Noritz. We’re excited to work with you in your expanded capacities!