Thomas Ratchford Jr., MD

Thomas Ratchford Jr., MD, is a UW Health Kids pediatric gastroenterologist and an assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. He provides care for children of all ages who have gastrointestinal (GI) diseases and disorders.  

Dr. Ratchford treats the full range of digestive conditions — from abdominal (belly) pain and chronic vomiting to inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. He also provides nutrition support for children who are failing to thrive and has a special clinical interest in feeding and swallowing disorders, aerodigestive (airway) disorders and complex airway and esophageal (tube that connects throat to the stomach) issues. 

As a pediatric GI doctor, Dr. Ratchford understands how important it is to include patients and their families in each step of the decision-making process. He listens to their concerns and provides education to help them understand what’s happening with the child in order to make informed decisions about care.

In addition to his clinical and teaching roles, Dr. Ratchford conducts research focused on improving outcomes for children with nasogastric (NG) tubes. 

Outside of work, Dr. Ratchford enjoys running and exploring Madison. 

Being able to help a child feel better and be a typical kid is really nice and satisfying to see.