Status Quo analysis of an exercise therapy care model in pediatric oncology during acute therapy: perspectives from patients, parents, siblings, and staff.
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BACKGROUND: In oncological pediatrics, exercise therapy is still not part of regular medical care in Germany and exercise therapy projects are currently financed by charity organizations. Nevertheless, the scientific evidence for the benefit of exercise therapy in pediatric oncology has led to the implementation of exercise therapy programs at most of the German hospitals. At the Pediatric Oncology Department of the University Hospital of Cologne the exercise therapy program was established in 2021. Between 2023 and 2025 a comprehensive survey was carried out to assess the perception of various groups such as patients, family and staff with offered program. METHODS: A monocentric survey was conducted to assess the perception of patients, parents, siblings, and staff members regarding the exercise project using non-validated questionnaires. The questionnaires addressed the exercise project during intensive medical therapy in both the outpatient and inpatient phases. The questionnaires contained both open and closed questions and were evaluated using the following categories: "Communication/Education", "Participation", "Satisfaction", "Need for Support", "Online Exercise Sessions", and "Barriers and Motives". RESULTS: The survey was completed by 33 patients, 63 parents, 14 siblings and 48 staff members. The evaluation of the survey showed that more than 50% of the patients and parents surveyed were satisfied with the existing program. Parents and staff have particularly noted the lack of exercise therapy programs for patients during their outpatient phases. DISCUSSION: Despite the generally positive evaluation, patients, parents, siblings and staff still see potential for further development of the exercise therapy program, especially for the outpatient phases. CONCLUSION: Although the physical activity program is highly regarded, its potential is limited by gaps in outpatient care and inadequate sibling integration. To improve exercise therapy further, a holistic, family-centered approach must expand beyond the inpatient setting. Overcoming skepticism toward telehealth is crucial to ensuring accessible, sustainable exercise therapy outside the hospital.Clinical Trial Registration: https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00034629/details, identifier (DRKS00034629).