Bridging the gap in pediatric cancer rehabilitation care: a multi-perspective survey study
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By
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Filip Jevič
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Anna Vašinová
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Aleš Rak
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Andrea Kašparová
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Marie Ohnisková
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Adelaida Dizonová
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Kristýna Pospíšilová
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July 7, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Addressing Challenges in Pediatric Oncology Rehabilitation: Insights from a Multi-Stakeholder Survey
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Pediatric Oncology Rehabilitation |
| Key Mechanisms | Rehabilitation needs assessment and stakeholder perspectives |
| Target Population | Pediatric oncology patients aged 0–19 years |
| Care Setting | Pediatric oncology care in Central Europe |
Key Highlights
- 63.7% of parents reported their child required rehabilitation during active treatment.
- 53.3% of children ultimately received rehabilitation, indicating a 10.4% unmet need.
- 29.5% of children required therapy for more than six months during treatment.
- 80% of physiotherapists rated their graduation-level knowledge as insufficient.
- 66% of physiotherapists expressed interest in joining a specialized competence network.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Rehabilitation should begin as early as possible after diagnosis or surgery.
Management
- Rehabilitation plans must be tailored to individual diagnosis and treatment protocols.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Ongoing assessment of rehabilitation needs throughout treatment and survivorship.
Risks
- Chronic health conditions and functional deficits in up to 90% of childhood cancer survivors.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Children with cancer undergoing treatment and survivorship.
Targeted rehabilitation improves cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and physical performance.
Clinical Best Practices
- Address structural barriers to rehabilitation access in pediatric oncology.
- Implement educational programs for rehabilitation professionals.
- Establish standardized community-based care pathways.
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