DAS is an EDAC Advocate Firm
At Distinctive Art Source, the evidence-based design process is intrinsic to our consultancy philosophy. The Center for Health Design has acknowledged our efforts in upholding the values and goals of evidence-based design and has certified Distinctive Art Source as an EDAC Advocate Firm. This distinction will help DAS continue our mission to promote meaningful and improved healthcare outcomes for patients, their families and healthcare staff.
Organizations that Support Evidence Based Design and Arts in Healthcare:
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- Proximity to nature can help patients lower stress resulting in a reduced need for pain medication and improved patient outcomes.
- Viewing familiar surroundings can help reduce stress and build a sense of security and comfort for patients within a healthcare facility.
- Expanding the hospital’s boundaries into the community through mutually beneficial relationships can offer patients a sense of connection to the community during a hospital stay and reduce feelings of isolation.
“Scientific research has produced limited but convincing evidence that certain types of art can have positive effects on health outcomes. However, inappropriate art (including some critically good art) can negatively affect patients – especially those who feel stressed due to illness or injury.”
– Roger Ulrich
Every Patient Population is Distinctive!
Patient Based Art Programs include artwork that is selected based on the unique needs of each patient groups (such as Cancer, Pediatric, Geriatric, Women, Heart, ICU, Rehab and Psychiatric). Patient Based Art helps to deinstitutionalize the clinical setting while illustrating a sensitivity to location and patient demographics. Patient-based artwork can also aid in wayfinding by helping to visually identify areas.
A successful healthcare art program consists of a coordinated series of visual elements placed in public and private spaces throughout the facility. The selection of these elements, as well as their size and placement, is crucial to the success of the program. For more information about the Critical Success Factors in selecting healthcare appropriate art, click here to download a free whitepaper.
Resources
For more information on Evidence-Based Design and Patient Based Art, download these free research reports:
The Business Case for Creating a Healing Environment
The Center for Health Design Behavioral & Mental Health Toolbox
Want More Information? Ask About Healthcare Art 101
Hospital Art Committees interested in creating a healthcare appropriate art program are invited to email us at info@distinctiveartsource.com to request a free Healthcare Art 101 presentation and learn about appropriate artwork for specific patient populations.