Dr. Timothy Freeman Center for Developmental Disabilities expands

CINCINNATI — University of Cincinnati Health is celebrating this week as the new Dr. Timothy Freeman Center for Developmental Disabilities expands and opens at its new location this week. 

UC Health said the center is now located at 2830 Victory Parkway and has expanded its footprint to welcome more patients and deliver interdisciplinary care.

“Hundreds of adults with development disabilities in our region still lack inclusive, coordinated care, and waitlists for vital services can stretch for years,” said Cory Shaw, president and CEO of UC Health. “With the expansion of the Freeman Center, we are closing that gap. This space is our commitment to removing barriers to transform health and improve the lives of our community.”

The details throughout the new Freeman Center came from input from patients, caregivers, self-advocates and community partners. This led to the creation of a physically accessible, sensory-friendly space that is tailored to adults with developmental and genetic disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and spina bifida.

“We’re proud to offer the region’s only fellowship in developmental disabilities by investing in education and fellowship, we are training the next generation of clinicians to advance care for adults with developmental disabilities,” said Gregory C. Postel, MD, executive vice president for Health Affairs at UC and dean of the College of Medicine. “This is a long-term commitment to equity and excellence in health care.”

UC offers a one-year Developmental Medicine Fellowship through its Department of Family and Community Medicine to train physicians in the specialized care of adults with developmental disabilities. Fellows provide primary care, work with an interdisciplinary team and take part in the LEND program at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital with opportunities for teaching and research.

Dr. Lauren Wang, the center’s medical director, said there are more than 1,200 patients cared for at the center. Funding comes through $6 million in combined state and federal support alongside donors, who have committed more than $2.3 million over the past five years. UC said other funding has come from local and national foundations, like the Ronald and Florence Koetters Family Foundation and the National Down Syndrome Society.

“Our goal is to serve as a welcoming access point to the broader health system—where adults with developmental disabilities are not only seen, but deeply understood,” said Wang. “This expanded space allows us to deliver whole-person care in a setting that feels safe, familiar and empowering.”

For more information on the center, click here.