Synergy Between Licensed Rehabilitation Professionals and Clinical Exercise Physiologists: Optimizing Patient Care for Cancer Rehabilitation

Objectives: To differentiate between rehabilitation and exercise training and propose how rehabilitation professionals and exercise physiologists can collaborate to optimize cancer survivor care. Data Source: Professional organizations and peer-reviewed manuscripts. Conclusion: Both professions offer complementary skillsets that, when integrated, optimize the ability of the cancer care team to implement more effective survivorship care plans. Future models of care must incorporate efficient communications between the cancer rehabilitation program and oncology team, include various reimbursement/payment/funding options, and continuously assess program efficacy. Implications for Nursing Practice: Nurses must be cognizant of physical needs (ie, functional and conditioning status) and cancer-related comorbidities when referring cancer survivors for exercise reconditioning.