UAB Arts in Medicine

Through a collaboration with the Alys Stephens Center and UAB Medicine, UAB Hospital was the first hospital in Alabama to have a formal Arts in Medicine program. AIM offers a holistic approach to healing that focuses on the needs of the mind, body, and spirit. By transforming the environment of care, AIM enhances the experience for patients, families, and staff. This is achieved through creative arts programs delivered in both hospital and non-hospital settings. Their team includes trained teaching artists-in-residence and board-certified music and arts therapists, who provide meaningful and therapeutic arts experiences.

Research has demonstrated that integrating the arts into the healthcare environment can benefit patients in the following ways: reduced stress levels; improved mood; distraction from medical problems; and reduced suffering. Studies demonstrate the positive impact an art activity can have during a hospital stay, creating a brief respite from examinations and medical procedures. AIM’s workshops provide that much needed diversion for patients and their families. Community-based programs, like Aging Creatively, are designed to enhance general well-being and support positive aging.

AIM started with art programs in 2 hospitals for 10 hours a week. The program now provides services for over 100 hours a week at UAB Hospital, Children’s of Alabama, at Aging Creatively facilities and other community partners including CARES, Founder’s Place, and UAB St. Vincent’s.