How Art is Transforming Healing at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute

Research by the World Health Organization using more than 3,000 studies on the role of arts in medicine reveals that there are significant patient and caregiver health benefits when these programs are integrated into care. These findings align with research conducted by physicians at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute, who are transforming the patient experience through scientifically validated specialized art programs.

A diagnosis of cancer can feel overwhelming, says Beatriz Currier, M.D., medical director of the Institute’s Cancer Patient Support Center. Dr. Currier, who is also chief of Psychiatric Oncology at the Institute, leads initiatives that address the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of patients.  “We must take care of the whole patient, not just the disease,” she says.

As cancer patients progress through diagnosis, treatment and survival or, for some, end of life, they can experience a number of issues. These include anxiety and depression; long-term side effects, such as fatigue, pain and brain fog; a fear of recurrence; difficulty sleeping and eating; problems with coordination and balance; and physical changes that affect body image and self-esteem.  

The Center offers support services — from stress management and resiliency training to exercise, massage and music and art programs — to not only improve quality of life, but also reduce symptoms, increase patient satisfaction and impact health outcomes.

How Art is Offered at Miami Cancer Institute

The Institute’s environment is designed to soothe and inspire with art thoughtfully integrated throughout the facility’s lobbies and waiting areas. Artists interact with patients in treatment areas as well, allowing for creative expression and a human connection.

The Impact of Art on Care

 “We are constantly pushing the envelope and looking for innovative ways to impact our patients, as well as their families and even our own staff,” Dr. Currier says. As important as innovation is, however, Dr. Currier stresses that the services offered by the Cancer Patient Support Center are evidence-based.

Working with physicians at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, for example, Dr. Currier compared the impact of music therapy versus cognitive behavioral therapy in cancer survivors with anxiety. The results showed that music therapy was as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy in controlling anxiety.

In another research project led by Dr. Currier, the impact of arts on health outcomes in cancer patients was studied. The project resulted in the largest database of its kind (4,000 cancer patients) and showed that anxiety, pain and depression were significantly reduced among patients who engaged with musicians and visual artists during chemotherapy.

Arts in Medicine

Supported through the generosity of donors to Baptist Health Foundation, the Institute’s Arts in Medicine program was developed with the input of a committee of leaders that included deans from the University of Miami and Florida International University and experienced artists and curators from renowned museums. “We wanted to have the insight of burgeoning artists to help learn how immersing a patient in the arts can impact their outcome,” Dr. Currier recalls.

After reviewing 100 applications, the Institute selected eight artists — five musicians and three visual artists. The dedicated team, each with a 20-hour-a-week contract, provides consistent and high-quality artistic engagement for patients with ongoing tracking and analysis of outcomes.

Art and Design Program

The Art and Design program immerses patients and caregivers in art on the Institute’s grounds and in public spaces. As with the Arts in Medicine program, donors have played a pivotal role in bringing the program to life, with the support of an Arts Advisory Council.

The collection features four large-scale sculptures generously donated by Earl and Christy Powell, representing the work of three distinguished American artists. Three dozen vibrant quilts and textiles created by artists spanning the globe and reflecting diverse cultures and traditions, a unique gift from JPMorgan Chase, are on display throughout the first floor of the Institute.

To further enrich the facility, the Shaham Family Gallery, named in honor of the family of Jacob and Helen Shaham, donors to Baptist Health Foundation, features a rotating exhibit. The Gallery highlights work from artists with ties to South Florida, such as painter Lynne Golob Gelfman.

Music Therapy

Through the Institute’s music therapy program, two board-certified music therapists, three rotating musicians and a literary artist who is a poet laureate, work directly with patients who seek their services through the Cancer Patient Support Clinic. “Music and other art forms are more than a pleasant distraction,” Dr. Currier says. “They are fundamental components of holistic and effective cancer care.”

To learn more about this comprehensive and inspiring approach to cancer care, visit The Arts at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute.