Embracing Complexity-the Role of Cancer Rehabilitation in Restoring and Maintaining Function and Quality of Life in Cancer Survivors with Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome.

Abstract

Despite more than 6 decades of growth and transformation, the field of cancer rehabilitation has considerable room to evolve if it is to live up to its full potential. This article will discuss the importance of this evolution in the context of radiation late effects and serve as a call for the clinical and operational expansion of the field so that it can become a key component of comprehensive cancer care. The clinical and operational challenges inherent in cancer survivors with radiation late effects necessitate different thinking with respect to how rehabilitation professionals evaluate and manage patients as well as how our institutions equip these professionals to practice at the highest possible level. To achieve its promise, the field of cancer rehabilitation must evolve to embrace fully the scope, scale, and complexity of issues faced by cancer survivors with radiation late effects. Better engagement and coordination of the care team are needed to deliver this care and ensure our programs are robust, sustainable, and flexible.