Physical Therapists Are Key to Hip Surveillance for Children with Cerebral Palsy: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Knowledge Translation to Support Program Implementation

Abstract

Aims Physical and occupational therapists play a key role in the implementation of hip surveillance for children with cerebral palsy (CP) in British Columbia, Canada. We aimed to develop and assess a knowledge translation strategy to support the implementation of a provincial hip surveillance program. Methods Pediatric therapists were invited to participate in an anonymous survey assessing hip surveillance knowledge and learning needs. Based on these results, educational materials were developed. Two years later, one year following the launch of the hip surveillance program, the survey was repeated to assess learning, knowledge use, and barriers to enrollment. Results The initial survey was completed by 102 therapists; 74 therapists completed the second survey. Multifaceted educational strategies, including web-based learning, in-person education, email notifications, and print materials that targeted knowledge gaps were developed. Upon re-evaluation, knowledge increased on all questions. At follow-up, 45 therapists had enrolled a child, indicating knowledge use. Barriers to enrollment included lack of a CP diagnosis, parents or physicians not agreeing to enrollment, time requirements, and lack of space to complete the clinical exam. Conclusions Targeted knowledge translation strategies were successful in meeting the educational requirements of a large group of therapists in a vast geographic area.