Initiative to fast-track cerebral palsy care for babies

A new GP referral pathway aiming to give babies with early signs of cerebral palsy a faster route to care has been launched in Cork.

The initiative aims to reduce the time between a parent or GP noticing a developmental concern and a baby receiving specialist care, allowing therapy to begin while diagnostic investigations continue.

Known as the PROMPT pathway, the resource was introduced to GPs by the Irish Cerebral Palsy Programme and INFANT Research Centre UCC, at an educational event at CUH last week.

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

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.

Prof Deirdre Murray, Chair in Early Brain Injury and Cerebral Palsy at UCC, said the research is already 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,” said Ms Murray.

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.

As not every baby referred will have cerebral palsy, assessment can also identify other developmental difficulties requiring support.

Cork GP, Dr Vivian Foley, said PROMPT will help to reduce uncertainty and help babies access the right support as early as possible.

“It means acting on early signs, rather than waiting for difficulties to become more pronounced,” said Dr Foley.