Age at Referral of Children for Initial Diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy and Rehabilitation: Current Practices

Abstract

Primary care providers generated a minority of referrals, of concern given their role in developmental surveillance. Remarkably high variability suggests knowledge of cerebral palsy attributes varies widely among service providers. Half of children with cerebral palsy do not have a complicated birth history; subsequently, referrals for diagnosis and management are often delayed. New strategies are needed to optimize prompt referral by primary care providers.