Lung Cancer Patients From Oncology and Thoracic Surgery Units Show Similar Acceptance of Telemedicine Services.

OBJECTIVES

The use of telemedicine has gained importance in patient care since the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to compare the acceptance of telemedicine in lung cancer patients undergoing thoracic surgery or oncological therapy.

METHODS

Consecutive lung cancer patients, either post-surgery (n = 100) or after oncological therapy (n = 100), were prospectively surveyed between May 2024 and March 2025 at the Asklepios Lung Clinic, Gauting, Germany. A 67-item questionnaire covering perceived advantages and disadvantages of telemedicine, personal preferences, and the willingness to use telemedicine was employed.

RESULTS

Demographic and clinical characteristics were similar in the surgical and oncological groups (median age 70/66 years, 52/44% females, respectively). Both groups showed a similar attitude towards telemedicine, regardless of education, age, sex, tumour stage, or treatment. Overall, 69% of surgical and 55% of oncological patients were unaware of existing telemedicine services. The majority would accept video/phone consultations for initial assessments, incapacity certificates, and follow-up, although 40% of patients were concerned about the quality of the patient-physician relationship. Perceived advantages were reduced waiting times and infection risk. Among medical specialties, telemedicine was most accepted for General Practice (50%). Compared to a population-based cohort, patients expressed less concern about misdiagnoses and data privacy.

CONCLUSIONS

Lung cancer patients expressed specific preferences regarding telemedicine, without major differences between surgical and oncological patients. They perceived advantages in its use for follow-up, saving time, and reducing infection risk. These findings can help guide a focused and well-accepted implementation of telemedicine into clinical practice.