New CUH 'pathway' to aid children showing early signs of cerebral palsy

A new referral pathway could see babies in Cork showing early signs of cerebral palsy receive a specialist assessment and appropriate therapy sooner.

The new GP resource, launched by the Irish Cerebral Palsy Programme and the Infant Research Centre at University College Cork, aims to reduce time between a parent or GP noticing a developmental concern and a baby receiving specialist care.

The referral pathway would mean appropriate therapy can begin while diagnostic investigations continue, helping children develop skills during an important period of brain development.

The resource, called the Prompt pathway, was introduced to GPs at an educational event at Cork University Hospital (CUH) last week.

Around half of babies who develop cerebral palsy have no obvious risk factors at birth and may not be included in established specialist follow-up programmes.

Parents may first notice differences in their baby’s movement or development in the months that follow.

The Prompt pathway gives GPs illustrated guidance on signs that warrant further investigation, such as a baby consistently favouring one hand unusually early or showing differences in movement between the two sides of their body.

Professor Deirdre Murray, chair of early brain injury and cerebral palsy at UCC, said the pathway provides "a clearer route from that first concern to specialist assessment and support".

“Research is changing how we identify and support babies with cerebral palsy," said Ms Murray.

“Earlier recognition gives us the opportunity to begin targeted therapy during an important period of development, helping children practise and build skills through play and everyday activities."

Research highlighted by Ms Murray shows that early, targeted therapy can improve movement and functional skills in children with cerebral palsy.

Activities are tailored to each child’s needs, with parents supported to build practice into everyday routines.

Babies referred through the CUH pathway will be assessed by a trained paediatrician and physiotherapist, with further investigations arranged where needed.

GPs are also encouraged to refer babies to their local primary care physiotherapy service so assessment and support can progress together.

The new pathway is being introduced initially in the south west, including Cork, with planned expansion to all health regions across Ireland by the end of 2027.