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.