Background: Pediatric cancer patients at home are usually hospitalized in their original cancer treatment facility when they need inpatient care. However, an adult palliative care unit specialized for pain relief could also be used. We conducted a survey to clarify which facility is desirable for such children.

Objective: We conducted a survey of adult palliative care units to clarify the age and medical care of children with cancer and their potential acceptability.

Method: In June 2016, we performed a questionnaire survey of 28 palliative care units in Tokyo, excluding our hospital. The questionnaire included items on the experience of pediatric cancer patients, treatable age, and details of supportive care.

Result: Valid answers were obtained from 18 (64%) hospitals. Only two institutions had encountered childhood cancer patients in the past. Forms of supportive care included radiation therapy (n=8, 44%), oral anticancer drugs (n=3, 17%), erythrocyte transfusion (n=8, 50%), platelet transfusion (n=7, 44%), and intravenous hyperalimentation. However, it was difficult to use children’s devices such as pediatric central venous ports (n=2, 11%) and pediatric feeding tubes (n=2, 11%). None of the hospitals reported cooperating with home clinics for children.

Conclusions: Considering the present circumstances, if pediatric cancer patients receiving medical care at home require hospitalization for pain relief, the original cancer treatment facility would be better. Promotion of palliative care, quality improvement, and regional collaboration are essential to improve the services offered in pediatric cancer treatment facilities.