The demographic and clinical characteristics of children with Cerebral Palsy in Manitoba

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of neurological disorders occurring in children that affect muscle control, movement, and posture. There is a range of how CP can physically affect a child, which is classified using the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS; levels 1 to 5). To date, there is not enough information to help understand how children with CP in Manitoba use the health care system. Therefore, this study aims to describe the demographics and inpatient health care use of children with CP in Manitoba. Another objective will be to compare hospitalization rates for pneumonia between children with CP who eat orally versus using a gastrostomy tube. A description of health care use will help to plan clinical services that support families throughout Manitoba. It will also provide a basis for discussion among families, clinicians, and researchers to develop and prioritize future research projects that promote quality of life and participation for children and youth with CP in Manitoba.