Comprehensive care of the ambulatory child with cerebral palsy (GMFCS I and II): A Canadian perspective

In Canada, cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common physical disability, affecting approximately 2 to 3 per 1,000 individuals. Paediatricians are sure to encounter and care for children with CP and their families. The role of the general paediatrician in caring for a child with CP is crucial, from diagnosis to providing a ‘medical home’, and from ensuring care coordination to delivering anticipatory guidance and preventive health and wellness care. The CP Health and Wellness Record that accompanies this practice point can assist both practitioners and children’s families by exploring key areas of health, function, participation, and wellness. This record may be used alongside other evidence-based health promotion guides, such as the Rourke Baby Record and the Greig Health Record, to prompt clinicians caring for ambulatory children with CP (Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] levels I and II) on specific health issues and domains.