The idea of investing in artworks for their health benefits is not new. It was already being discussed during the 17th Century. But, for this article, we will of course mention the current implications of introducing art in the healthcare process. The benefits will be divided into three categories:
-The benefits for the patient's health
-The benefits for the workers of the mentioned institutions
-The economic benefits
1° The Benefits for the patient's health
The benefits for the patient's health can also be divided in two sub-categories. First of all, such studies as the one of Heather L. Stuckey and Jeremy Nobel have shown that introducing artworks in the healing process and in the treatment rooms have a direct or indirect impact on the physical health of the patient, for example, reducing blood pressure, anxiety or the reaction to certain types of drugs.
Second of all, art is also a great therapy and way of expression for people struck with cancer or other illnesses. So, it appears, after years of research and data, that art can indeed have a positive impact on the patient's mental and physical health, whether is it used as a therapy tool or as a way to distract the patient's attention and help him cope with stress and anxiety.
2° The benefits for the workers of health care institutions
Using artworks to decorate offices or a work place is nothing new either. A lot of companies use them to enlighten the mood of the offices and create a comfortable and welcoming environment for its employees. Health care workers, doctors and nurses, have stressful jobs. Having to deal with emotions, people and sometimes death, is not easy. Studies, from the same researchers, have shown that, in such as stressful environment, artworks, and a suitable decoration, can have a positive impact on the employees of a hospital for example.
3° The economic benefits
As surprising as it may seem, art can even have a positive impact financially speaking. The social security monetary problems are well known, as well as the struggles that healthcare institutions are facing. Finally, who could say that healthcare is cheap for the patient?
The point is the following: the benefits of art tend to shorten the time of stay of the patient in the hospital because he recovers quicker, due, in part, to the benefits mentioned above. A shorter recovery and treatment time means a bigger turnover rate for the hospital, therefore an economic gain. If the time spent in the hospital is shorter, so will the bill of the patients, and ultimately the impact on social security. As crazy as it sounds, the question should be raised, is art in healthcare institutions in fact a suitable investment?
To conclude this article, I would say that it is clear that we could all benefit from introducing art in our daily lives. Whether it is by purchasing artworks or taking part in artistic activities. We all need a way to blow some steam, a place to find ourselves and relax. Well, it appears, ladies and gentleman, that art might just be the right answer to a lifelong struggle.
For more information you can visit the Society for the arts in health care, please visit their website at: http://www.thesah.org