Acceptance, feasibility and potential for improvement of an aftercare programme to promote physical activity in oncological rehabilitation: A multi-perspective qualitative survey

Abstract

Purpose In oncological rehabilitation, physical activity therapy takes up a significant part of therapy time. With the aim of maintaining physical activity in the long term, a rehabilitation aftercare program for female breast cancer patients was implemented through the use of a rehabilitation aftercare app (ReNaApp) and evaluated with focus on acceptance, feasibility and optimization potential. Methods The qualitative research was conducted as part of a quasi-randomized longitudinal study in a mixed-methods design. The database consists of guided interviews with breast cancer rehabilitants in the intervention group and a focus group with the rehabilitation team engaged in the realization of the aftercare intervention. The rehabilitants were interviewed 3,6 and 9 months after rehabilitation and the focus group was conducted after recruitment was completed. The data material was analyzed according to Mayring’s qualitative content analysis. Results 19 interviews were conducted with seven rehabilitants (Ø 47 years). Eight employees (87.5 % female) took part in the focus group, most of whom were medical staff (N = 5). The rehabilitation employees reported successful implementation of the intervention. Adapting the practical realization to the clinic’s routines, the involvement of several professions and informing the entire rehabilitation team about the study were all considered successful factors. However, the staff also encountered hurdles, including staff shortages and the digital infrastructure. The rehabilitants rated the ReNaApp positively in terms of their satisfaction, usability and the perceived support provided by the application. In addition to the active app users, some respondents indicated that they do not use the ReNaApp because they are physically inactive or do not need support. Conclusion The feasibility of the aftercare program was confirmed by the rehab team, but the target group should be specified in order to recommend the aftercare offer according to existing needs. In addition to increasing adherence to the program, the limited time and personnel resources can be used in a targeted manner.