Experiences and visions for physiotherapy and occupational therapy in oncological rehabilitation: results from a transdisciplinary research workshop programme with people living with and beyond cancer and health professionals

PURPOSE: Physiotherapy and occupational therapy can improve quality of life and help to manage complex cancer and treatment-related side effects, but these rehabilitation services remain underutilised. This study aimed to co-produce knowledge for improving patient-centred services in the oncological rehabilitation continuum in Austria. METHODS: = 11). Based on the participatory paradigm and co-production principles, a range of participatory research techniques were employed co-producing, analysing, and interpreting data (in-situ thematic analysis). RESULTS: Four main themes emerged: (a) physiotherapy and occupational therapy in the oncological rehabilitation continuum; (b) relationship-building; (c) continued and interconnected services; and (d) visions for an ideal rehabilitation. The findings display a vast diversity of lived experiences and illness trajectories as well as opportunities for improving services and enabling human agency. CONCLUSIONS: Physiotherapy and occupational therapy should be better integrated in all care settings, interconnected across all rehabilitation continuum phases, person-centred and tailored to diverse experiences, needs and rehabilitation trajectories. Peer-support, information and guidance for patients must be provided early from diagnosis and continuously throughout the care pathways for promoting continuity.