Challenges Faced by Therapists Providing Services for Infants with or at Risk for Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify the challenges physical therapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) have in providing early intervention (EI) for infants with or at risk for cerebral palsy. Methods: Therapists' responses to an open-ended question were collected via survey that was distributed to EI providers and analyzed using content analysis. Results: The primary self-reported barriers to PT/OT EI services had 5 themes: (1) inadequate communication and collaboration, (2) challenges in coordination with family, (3) policy limitations, (4) meeting the child's individual medical needs, and (5) unequal access to resources. Conclusion: Respondents reported that barriers are complex and exist at the individual, family, team, and societal levels. Further research is needed to explore barriers and solutions at each of these levels, from meeting a child's individual medical needs to improving interprofessional communication to increasing equitable access to resources.