Background:
Exercise is now recognised as a key component of evidence-based cancer care, yet many patients do not access it, particularly in private practice settings. While robust clinical trials show benefits across quality of life, treatment tolerance, and survival, there remains a gap between what is recommended and what patients actually experience. Understanding the lived experiences of patients in real-world settings is essential to designing more inclusive and effective models of care. This study seeks to understand how people with cancer experience and engage with a structured exercise medicine program delivered in a private practice setting. It explores patient motivations, perceived value, and the contextual factors that support or hinder participation.
Methods (Planned):
A qualitative study will be conducted using semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of a minimum of 20 adult patients who have completed at least 8 weeks of exercise medicine treatment at Lift Cancer Care Services in South Australia. Interviews will explore motivations, perceived benefits, challenges to engagement, and opportunities for service improvement. Data will be analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach. Data collection will occur in August 2025 - Sept 2025, with results available for presentation in November 2025.
Impact on clinical practice and Alignment with Conference Theme:
This study addresses the implementation gap between evidence-based guidelines and patient experience in real-world oncology care. It aligns with the COSA 2025 theme by highlighting the importance of patient-clinician partnership in shaping models of care that are not only clinically effective but also accessible, acceptable, and sustainable. Findings will contribute to informing future program design in cancer care sectors, supporting efforts to optimise outcomes for all.