Perceptions about oncological physiotherapy among health and social care professionals and cancer care managers: A co-design approach for implementation strategies

Purpose: This study aims to explore the knowledge and perceptions of health and social care professionals (HSCP) as well as cancer care managers and administrators (CCMA) in Spain regarding oncological physiotherapy. It seeks to identify barriers and propose strategies to enhance its integration int...

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Bibliographic Details
Authors: San Miguel Pagola, Marta, Buesa Estéllez, Almudena, Gargallo Aguarón, Pablo, Roldán Pérez, Patricia, Francín Gallego, Marina, Bellosta López, Pablo, Villa García, Lorena, Medina Rincón, Almudena
Format: article
Status:Published version
Publication Date:2025
Country:España
Institution:Varias* (Consorci de Biblioteques Universitáries de Catalunya, Centre de Serveis Científics i Acadèmics de Catalunya)
Repository:Recercat. Dipósit de la Recerca de Catalunya
OAI Identifier:oai:dnet:recercat____::a5c1e079e5e5293aa395fddbcc7332ed
Online Access:https://hdl.handle.net/2445/228742
Access Level:Open access
Keyword:Oncologia
Malalts de càncer
Avaluació de l'assistència mèdica
Oncology
Cancer patients
Medical care evaluation
Description
Summary:Purpose: This study aims to explore the knowledge and perceptions of health and social care professionals (HSCP) as well as cancer care managers and administrators (CCMA) in Spain regarding oncological physiotherapy. It seeks to identify barriers and propose strategies to enhance its integration into comprehensive cancer care.. Methods:  The World Café co-design methodology was employed to facilitate discussions among HSCP and CCMA. This approach, known for its dynamic, inclusive, and engaging nature, encouraged a wide range of perspectives and deeper insights through collaborative and adaptable conversations. The sessions were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed qualitatively using inductive thematic analysis. Results:  Nineteen participants were involved, including 11 HSCP and 8 CCMA. The analysis revealed three primary themes: "Supportive Services," "Physiotherapy Along the cancer continuum," and "What Now?". Key findings highlight the lack of awareness about the role of physiotherapy in oncology, significant barriers to its integration, and the need for more humanized healthcare. Participants emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary work, the inclusion of physiotherapy in all phases of the oncological process, and the role of case managers in coordinating care. Conclusions:  These findings underscore significant gaps in the integration of physiotherapy into oncological care, including unmet needs due to lack of information, resources, and effective communication. Future efforts should focus on increasing the visibility of physiotherapy, integrating specialized physiotherapists into oncology teams, and enhancing the emotional education of professionals to provide more humanized care.