Arts in Health starts in practice. But making it a lasting part of healthcare requires decisions at policy level. Without those decisions, initiatives stay dependent on temporary funding, and the knowledge built up disappears when projects end.
What policy needs to do
Arts in Health sits at the intersection of healthcare, culture, and social welfare. But its place in policy is still emerging. What is needed is for healthcare and welfare systems to recognise the role the arts can play in making care more human. Key questions include:
- How can successful programmes continue beyond the pilot phase?
- How can the role of the arts be secured within the current transformation of healthcare?
- How can barriers to collaboration between healthcare, culture, and social welfare be removed, at both local and national levels?
- How can Arts in Health contribute to the challenges facing healthcare today?
What is already happening
In the Netherlands, ZonMw, the Fonds voor Cultuurparticipatie, and programmes like Welzijn op Recept, are working to develop Arts in Health further. The municipality of Tilburg actively supports collaboration between artists and care organisations. Provincial arts organisations are exploring how Arts in Health can contribute to health and prevention at a regional level. And at European level, the EU Commission recognises Arts in Health as part of the future of healthcare.
For policymakers and partners
Do you work on policy in healthcare, culture, or welfare? You can contribute by making connections and creating space for collaboration. Arts in Health does not need a new system. It needs a place within the system as it evolves.
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