Early diagnosis of cerebral palsy supports families to better understand their infant’s needs and access appropriate monitoring and early intervention pathways.
Why is early intervention so important?
Early intervention refers to specialised supports and services that are introduced early in life. This can help with an infant’s movement, cognition (learning), communication, feeding, nutrition and growth, sleeping and family wellbeing.
In early life, an infant’s brain is developing rapidly. This offers a unique opportunity to harness neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to adapt, reorganise, and build new connections.
Research shows that starting intervention as early as possible will give infants the best start in life.
The international research community agrees that early diagnosis of cerebral palsy is 98% accurate when three specific tests show that cerebral palsy is likely. Along with these tests, your baby’s medical history will also be considered
Eligibility criteria:
What can a family expect when referred?
Families referred to the clinic can expect to be seen by an expert multidisciplinary team that includes a paediatric neurologist, social worker, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, and speech pathologist.
A comprehensive assessment will be completed using a range of evidence-based tools, which may include evaluation of the infant’s neurological status, physical health, movement skills, feeding, and communication. Families will also be asked about their well-being.
Assessment results and a management plan will be discussed during the appointment, and a written report will be provided after the clinic.
Are there any costs associated with the appointment?
CPA’s Early Diagnosis Clinics are supported by generous donors, Medicare and NSW Health, with no out-of-pocket costs for families.
How to refer:
Complete below referral information form & attach a referral letter to the clinic you’re referring to. Please note all referrals will be reviewed for eligibility.
Refer to Early Diagnosis Clinic
How to refer:
Complete below referral information form & attach a referral letter to the clinic you’re referring to. Please note all referrals will be reviewed for eligibility.
We will respond as soon as possible, between Monday-Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm
Thurs 8.30am – 5.00pm (by appointment)
Thurs 8.30am – 4.30pm (by appointment)
Cerebral Palsy Early Diagnosis Clinic
5 Elwell Close, Beresfield, NSW 2322
Thurs 8.30am – 12.30pm (by appointment)
These resources are designed to help you understand early diagnosis of cerebral palsy and how intervention can help. The links below include some quick facts about cerebral palsy, and information on a new assessment that allows medical professionals to identify babies at risk of cerebral palsy from birth.
