Babies showing early signs of cerebral palsy could receive specialist assessment and appropriate therapy sooner, through a new GP resource and referral pathway launched by the Irish Cerebral Palsy Programme and INFANT Research Centre, University College Cork.
Drawing on research into early identification and intervention, the initiative aims to reduce the time between a parent or GP noticing a developmental concern and a baby receiving specialist care. Crucially, appropriate therapy can begin while diagnostic investigations continue, helping children develop skills during an important period of brain development.
FAST-TRACK REFERRAL
The resource, called the PROMPT pathway, was introduced to GPs at an educational event at Cork University Hospital (CUH) on Tuesday, 13th October. The Irish Cerebral Palsy Programme operates across University College Cork, Trinity College Dublin and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
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. It connects these concerns with a clear, fast-track referral route to CUH’s specialist service for babies under one.
‘TARGETED THERAPY’
Professor Deirdre Murray, Chair in Early Brain Injury and Cerebral Palsy at UCC, said that research is ‘changing how we identify and support babies with cerebral palsy’.
“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.
“For families, the practical difference is a clearer route from that first concern to specialist assessment and support. We do not have to wait until all investigations are complete before appropriate therapy can begin,” she said.
Research highlighted by Professor 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.
NATIONWIDE EXPANSION PLANNED
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.
Not every baby referred will have cerebral palsy. Assessment can also identify other developmental difficulties requiring support. CP PROMPT is being introduced initially in the Southwest, including Cork, with planned expansion to all health regions across Ireland by the end of 2027.
