BackgroundPalliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients with incurable and progressive illnesses; therefore, in these situations physiotherapy can play an important role.AimThis study was carried out to examine the integration and utilization of physiotherapy in palliative and hospice care services in Germany.MethodsA cross-sectional survey including all palliative care units, specialized outpatient palliative care teams and hospices in Germany (n = 680) in 2013 was carried out.ResultsThe response rate was 43.5?% (n = 296). Physiotherapy is predominantly applied in palliative care units (79?%) but rarely in hospices (38?%) and outpatient palliative care teams (30?%). A structured physiotherapeutic assessment is rarely carried out even on palliative care units (26?%). Positive effects of physiotherapy are especially described for symptoms, such as edema, pain, constipation and dyspnea.ConclusionDespite its significant potential to relieve symptoms, physiotherapy is not systematically integrated into palliative care practice in Germany. |
