Applying Prechtl's Assessment of General Movements for Preterm Infants Through Telemedicine

The investigators hypothesize that using telemedicine to conduct the GMA will improve early identification of risk for cerebral palsy and facilitate earlier referral and access to neurodevelopmental intervention. Preterm birth results from complex interactions of biological and socioeconomic risk factors, all of which continue to influence neurodevelopmental trajectories beyond the prenatal and neonatal period. Unfortunately many of the socioeconomic factors that contribute to increased risk of prematurity are also associated with decreased likelihood to attend appointments at high risk infant follow-up (HRIF) clinics. Early intervention has been shown to be most beneficial to infants with highest social risk. Additionally, mothers living in more rural communities tend to have higher social risk. They are often younger, more likely to be a single parent, and have lower income. Helping make follow-up more accessible and convenient for families through telemedicine and at an earlier age using the GMA has the potential to improve early identification, minimize loss to follow-up and ensure prompt referral to optimize outcomes for the most vulnerable babies in this already high-risk population.

Inclusion criteria

• All preterm infants who meet the High-Risk Infant Follow Up (HRIF) Criteria (less than 32 weeks gestational age or birth weight less than 1500 grams) who are cared for at UC Davis Medical Center

Exclusion criteria

• Families who are non-English speakers requiring a translator
• Families who are unable to access data-capable wireless service to participate in telemedicine visits through Zoom.