Understanding the importance of therapeutic relationships in the development of self-management behaviours during cancer rehabilitation: a qualitative research protocol

Cancer survival rates are rising and the long-term needs of cancer survivors are of growing importance. Cancer rehabilitation aims to address the physical or psychosocial decline in ability to engage in daily activities. Incorporating strategies for self-management development into rehabilitation can prepare individuals for cancer survivorship and healthcare professionals will need to adjust their therapeutic interactions accordingly.This qualitative study aims to understand cancer rehabilitation participants’ beliefs regarding the importance of therapeutic relationships in developing self-management behaviours. A sample representative of a local cancer rehabilitation cohort will be asked to complete a semistructured interview to identify their perspectives on the importance of therapeutic relationships in cancer rehabilitation. Data will be entered into a Delphi questionnaire for circulation to a local cancer rehabilitation population to determine if the views expressed by the interviewees are supported by group consensus