[Group therapy following lung transplantation -- first experiences with a theme-centered "life management group"]

Lung transplantation is a drastic life event that usually takes place in the preterminal phase of a lung disease. Although a lung transplantation increases the quality of life considerably, patients still face a range of physical and psychosocial strains. This article presents experiences made with a "Life Management Group" for lung transplantation patients. The aim of the eight group meetings was to encourage the sharing of experiences between patients and to support them in their active and competent realizations of desires and plans. Physical health, self-identity of lung transplant recipients, growing problems financing medical treatment and the forming of doctor-patient-relationships were the important issues. Patients were able to reach a higher level of self efficiency; they could use active coping strategies and develop their social networks. Positive experiences were made with the implementation of group therapy for lung transplantation patients. Lung transplant recipients have to deal with specific problems of identity. On the other hand, there are growing health-economic questions also from the patient's point of view.