The Importance of Rehab in Treating Cancer and Palliative Care Patients

Abstract Purpose of review This article aims to describe the role rehabilitation clinicians can play in the care of patients with cancer who also receive palliative care services. We identify the role rehabilitation clinicians can plan in function, pain and symptom management, and in caregiver support to provide comprehensive, whole-person care. Recent findings Achieving adequate pain and symptom management is done best through a collaborative, multidisciplinary model with clinicians in all disciplines. Addressing pain, anxiety, depression, loss of function, and caregiver distress through a rehabilitation and palliative care lens can and must be part of whole-person care. Summary Providing support to patients with cancer, and their caregivers, is a collaborative process and must be tailored to the individual and family being treated. Research shows that people want to maintain independence and be symptom-free for as long as possible. Rehabilitation services alongside palliative care can help meet this goal.