Coventry NHS transforms care for children with cerebral palsy
Joint Coventry service has reduced new cases of hip dislocations in children with cerebral palsy by 66 per cent since launching in 2016
A joint NHS programme in Coventry has helped reduce new hip dislocation cases among children with cerebral palsy by 66 per cent.
The Coventry Cerebral Palsy Integrated Pathway brings together specialists from Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust and University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust.
Doctors, physiotherapists and community paediatric specialists work together to identify problems early and coordinate treatment.
The pathway currently supports 172 children, covering around 95 per cent of children and young people with cerebral palsy in Coventry.
Since the programme began in 2016, the overall rate of hip dislocation has fallen to around one per cent.
Mary Mumvuri MBE, Chief Executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust, said: "This is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when organisations work together around the needs of children and families.
"By bringing together specialist expertise from community and hospital services, we are improving outcomes for children, supporting families and helping to prevent avoidable complications. It demonstrates the real difference integrated care can make."
Families can see several specialists during the same appointment, with treatment plans agreed together. The service aims to reduce the need for more complex treatment by identifying potential problems early.
The two NHS trusts say they will continue developing the pathway and expanding support for children and families across the region.
Professor Andy Hardy, Chief Executive Officer of UHCW NHS Trust, said: " By sharing expertise and making joint decisions, our teams are providing more coordinated care and helping children receive the right treatment at the right time.
"We are proud of what has been achieved over the last decade and look forward to continuing to develop the service together."