Australia’s Cancer Care Gap: Why Rehab Lags and What’s Needed to Close It
Just one in 65 Australian cancer survivors accesses specialized rehabilitation each year, despite mounting evidence showing exercise is as vital to recovery as treatment itself. This startling statistic, highlighted by new research from La Trobe University, reveals a critical gap in cancer care – one that’s poised to widen as Australia’s survivor population swells to over half a million.
The Growing Demand for Oncology Rehabilitation
The number of dedicated cancer rehabilitation programs in Australia has more than doubled in the last decade, jumping from 31 in 2015 to 76 in 2024. This increase reflects a growing awareness, driven by oncologists and increasingly vocal patient advocates, of the profound benefits rehabilitation offers. A national survey of 173 hospitals and cancer centers revealed that nearly half (48%) of organizations are seeing more cancer survivors utilizing general rehabilitation services, prompting the establishment of specialized oncology programs.
Beyond Treatment: The Power of Exercise in Cancer Recovery
For years, the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) has recommended exercise as best practice in cancer care. But the benefits extend far beyond simply maintaining physical fitness. Oncology rehabilitation programs, typically running three times a week for 11 weeks, focus on a holistic approach – incorporating exercise, nutritional guidance, fatigue management strategies, and personalized self-management plans. This isn’t just about feeling better; it’s about living better. Research increasingly demonstrates that exercise during and after cancer treatment can reduce hospital admissions and shorten hospital stays, easing the burden on an already strained healthcare system.
Telehealth: Bridging the Geographical Divide
Access remains the biggest hurdle. For many Australians, particularly those in rural and regional areas, traveling to cancer treatment and follow-up care is a significant challenge. Fortunately, telehealth is emerging as a powerful solution. Nearly half (45%) of oncology rehabilitation programs now offer video conferencing, and 53% provide support via phone. This expansion of remote services is dramatically improving access for patients who would otherwise be excluded from vital rehabilitation support.
Funding and Referral Pathways: The Critical Bottlenecks
Despite the clear benefits and growing demand, sustainability remains a major concern. Almost 44% of respondents to the La Trobe University survey cited a lack of funding as a key challenge. This funding shortfall impacts staffing, program development, and ultimately, the number of patients who can be served. Furthermore, referral pathways for oncology rehabilitation lag significantly behind those for cardiac or pulmonary rehabilitation – there are five times more services available for heart and lung conditions than for cancer. This disparity highlights a systemic undervaluation of rehabilitation as an integral component of comprehensive cancer care.
The Future of Cancer Rehabilitation: A Proactive, Integrated Approach
Cancer is increasingly viewed as a chronic disease, requiring ongoing management and support. The future of cancer care must embrace this reality, shifting from a reactive, treatment-focused model to a proactive, integrated approach that prioritizes long-term wellbeing. This means investing in robust oncology rehabilitation programs, streamlining referral pathways, and ensuring equitable access for all survivors, regardless of location or socioeconomic status. We need to move beyond viewing rehabilitation as an “optional extra” and recognize it as a core, essential element of the cancer journey.
Looking ahead, expect to see greater integration of technology, including wearable sensors and personalized digital health platforms, to monitor patient progress and tailor rehabilitation programs. Artificial intelligence could also play a role in analyzing patient data to predict rehabilitation needs and optimize treatment plans. However, technology alone isn’t enough. A skilled and dedicated workforce of allied health professionals – physical therapists, occupational therapists, and exercise physiologists – will be crucial to delivering effective, patient-centered care.
What steps can be taken now? Increased advocacy from patient groups, coupled with data-driven demonstrations of the cost-effectiveness of oncology rehabilitation, are essential to securing sustainable funding. Furthermore, educating healthcare professionals about the benefits of rehabilitation and establishing clear referral guidelines will ensure more survivors receive the support they deserve. The time to close the cancer care gap is now.
Explore more insights on cancer support and rehabilitation services on the Cancer Australia website.
