Pediatric Cancer Rehabilitation: Practice Patterns and Experiences of Pediatric Physiatrists

Strategic Insights -

Pediatric cancer rehabilitation is a growing field, with pediatric physiatrists playing a crucial role in the care continuum for children and adolescents with cancer. However, the current practice patterns and experiences of these specialists are not well known. A recent study published in PM&R aimed to evaluate the status of pediatric cancer rehabilitation care by board-certified pediatric physiatrists in the United States, including their practice patterns, experience, and comfort level in cancer-related conditions.

Key Takeaways:

  • A total of 107 board-certified pediatric physiatrists completed the survey, representing 57 institutions in the United States, with the majority being academic centers (n = 95; 88.8%).
  • Ninety-seven (90.7%) reported that their practice consisted of 75% pediatric patients, and 95 (88.8%) indicated that they provided a range of cancer rehabilitation services.
  • The survey found that 90.7% of respondents reported having some form of training in pediatric cancer rehabilitation, with 80% indicating that they had received training through formal lectures or workshops.
  • The study identified a need for strengthened training opportunities as the subspecialty continues to grow.
  • The research highlighted that pediatric rehabilitation medicine physicians play an important role in the care continuum for children and adolescents with cancer.
  • The study's findings suggest that pediatric physiatrists are experienced in providing cancer rehabilitation services, with 88.8% of respondents indicating that they have a cancer rehabilitation program at their institution.

Statistics:

  • 107 board-certified pediatric physiatrists completed the survey, representing 57 institutions in the United States.
  • 95 (88.8%) of respondents were from academic centers.
  • 97 (90.7%) reported that their practice consisted of 75% pediatric patients.
  • 95 (88.8%) indicated that they provide a range of cancer rehabilitation services.
  • 80% of respondents indicated that they had received training through formal lectures or workshops.
  • 90.7% of respondents reported having some form of training in pediatric cancer rehabilitation.

Sources:

  • "Practice Patterns and Experiences of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine Physicians In Cancer Rehabilitation," PM&R, 2025.
  • NewsRx, "New Findings from University of Washington in Cancer Provides New Insights (Practice Patterns and Experiences of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine Physicians In Cancer Rehabilitation)," Cancer Weekly, June 17, 2025; p 372.