Physiotherapists' training in oncology rehabilitation from entry‐level to advanced education: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background and PurposePhysiotherapy is gaining a central role in oncology. However, the training and competencies needed by physiotherapists in oncology rehabilitation are still unclear. This study aims to articulate the training trajectory of physiotherapists in oncology rehabilitation from entry‐level education to advanced education degrees.MethodsQualitative focus group study following a ‘Reflexive Thematic Analysis’ for data analysis. Participants were Italian physiotherapists with expertise in Oncology Rehabilitation (either clinically or academically) and Physiotherapy Bachelor of Science (BSc) course leaders, selected through purposive sampling.ResultsTwo focus groups were conducted with 14 participants. Six themes were developed: 1. ‘Entry‐Level Education in Oncology Rehabilitation: Let's Have a Taste’, as the BSc introduces oncology rehabilitation. 2. ‘Basic Knowledge: Building up the Library’ as students acquire basic knowledge on oncology rehabilitation during their BSc; 3. ‘Learning by Experience: The Relevance of the Placement’ to answer the question “Is this the right road for me?”; 4. ‘Clinical Reasoning and Competencies in Oncology Rehabilitation Embedded in Uncertainty’ because oncology physiotherapists need to deal with the uncertainty of their patients' status; 5. ‘Advanced Education Degree Skills: from Appetiser to the Main Course’, as advanced education degree courses allow for becoming an expert in the field; 6. ‘A Call to Action for Physiotherapists: Prevention—Diagnosis—Survivorship & End of Life’, to realise their critical role in all the phases of the oncology path.ConclusionsThe BSc in Physiotherapy provides a foundation for future physiotherapists to understand oncology rehabilitation, but advanced education is necessary for expertise. The findings of this study have important implications for creating a shared physiotherapy curriculum in oncology rehabilitation.Implication for Physiotherapy PracticeThis study has significant implications for improving physiotherapy curricula in oncology rehabilitation, positively impacting the skills and competencies of practitioners in this paramount field.