Barriers to follow-up care of survivors in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Survivors of pediatric cancer face an increased risk of morbidity, mortality, and diminished quality of life associated with their previous cancer therapy. Because these risks are often modifiable, periodic lifetime medical follow-up is recommended for all survivors. This article assesses the current status of follow-up care in the United States and the United Kingdom. Potential barriers in both cultures and health care environments are described. A better understanding of these barriers has led to the development and testing of interventions intended to optimize the health care of survivors.