Enhancing Practitioner Skills in Online Therapy for Cerebral Palsy

The multidisciplinary research program "MOVING ON WITH CP" aims to enhance the health care processes and delivery models for individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). As a practitioner in online therapy, integrating the findings from this program can significantly improve your skills and the outcomes for your clients.

Understanding the MOVING ON WITH CP Program

The MOVING ON WITH CP program consists of nine projects within three main themes:

• Evaluation of Existing Health Care
• Equality in Health Care and Social Insurance
• New Solutions and Processes in Health Care Provision

The research program involves professionals from various fields, including medicine, social sciences, health sciences, and engineering, collaborating with individuals with CP and their families.

Key Findings and Recommendations for Practitioners

1. Improve Health Care Processes and Delivery Models

One of the primary objectives is to improve health care processes and delivery models. Practitioners can:

• Implement preventive approaches similar to CPUP to reduce the prevalence of secondary conditions such as hip dislocations.
• Utilize technology for remote consultations and assessments, which can be particularly beneficial in regions with a shortage of specialists.

2. Address Pain Management

Pain is a common issue among individuals with CP, and it often goes unrecognized or undertreated. Practitioners should:

• Develop and implement pain prevention, reduction, and treatment programs.
• Regularly assess pain levels and its impact on the individual's quality of life and participation in daily activities.

3. Assess Cognitive Functioning

Cognitive impairments are prevalent in individuals with CP, yet they are often not assessed due to speech and motor impairments. Practitioners should:

• Incorporate cognitive assessments into regular evaluations using adapted methods such as eye-gaze pointing.
• Utilize the findings to inform educational and therapeutic interventions, as well as to support applications for social insurance and disability benefits.

4. Promote Equality in Health Care

The program emphasizes the importance of equitable health care access. Practitioners can:

• Advocate for equal access to health care services regardless of geographical location, sex, or socioeconomic status.
• Use structured and valid information to support the certificate-writing process for social insurance benefits.

Encouraging Further Research

While the MOVING ON WITH CP program provides valuable insights, continuous research is essential for ongoing improvements. Practitioners are encouraged to:

• Stay updated with the latest research findings and integrate them into practice.
• Participate in or initiate research studies to contribute to the evidence base and improve therapeutic approaches.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Improving the Health of Individuals With Cerebral Palsy: Protocol for the Multidisciplinary Research Program MOVING ON WITH CP.