Multi-Collaborator Engagement to Identify Research Priorities for Early Intervention in Cerebral Palsy

Background/Objectives: Although clinical practice guidelines and evidence-based practices for early cerebral palsy (CP) diagnosis and treatment are well established, their implementation remains inconsistent across care settings. This study sought to identify key research priorities related to early CP diagnosis and treatment and to develop an actionable framework through multi-collaborator consensus building. Methods: The 97 adult participants included 42 who have lived experience with CP. Before the conference, participants completed a survey rating the importance of research topics. During the conference, aggregated results were presented, followed by 16 focus group discussions to refine research priorities. A follow-up survey was conducted to validate the final priorities. Results: Six actionable items were identified: improving diagnosis communication, ensuring early referrals and interdisciplinary collaboration, creating inclusive education and training, scaling evidence-based therapies and researching new interventions, developing social support systems, and advocating for policy and cultural change. A research framework was developed that outlines how these priorities can be addressed through three main strategies: education and training, research expansion, and policy advocacy. Conclusions: This study highlights the critical need for comprehensive and compassionate care for families receiving a CP diagnosis. Key priorities include early detection, coordinated multidisciplinary teams, and well-trained professionals delivering evidence-based interventions. The comprehensive framework addressing these priorities lays the foundation for future patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research.