‘So, this feels very different and, you know, kindly’: A Mixed Methods Study of Arts on Prescription in Secondary Care

Background:Arts on Prescription (AoP) programmes occur within primary care and community settings. The current study extended this to examine the impact of AoP, in secondary care, on patient wellbeing, social connection, and experiences of care.Methods:A mixed methods design was used. Quantitative data were collected with 61 patients referred to AoP at a UK Hospital, where they received outpatient treatment for cancer, chronic pain, weight management, breathlessness or neuromuscular conditions. Programme-level outcomes assessed wellbeing and loneliness. The immediate wellbeing impact of art workshops was assessed by tracking mood and loneliness. Qualitative data focused on experiences of AoP and were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus groups (n = 12) and analysed using thematic analysis.Results:Wellbeing scores significantly increased across the programme, alongside reductions in loneliness. Art workshops increased relaxation, contentment, and social connection. The thematic analysis led to four themes: (1) Connection to others – feeling supported, inspired and understood; (2) Making space – providing calm, protected time, and mental respite; (3) Becoming – renewed confidence, and opening to new opportunities; and (4) Clinical implications – reframing relationships with the hospital, validating referrals, and supporting the management of health conditions.Conclusions:AoP in secondary care demonstrates potential as an effective approach, replicating effects in primary care, including improved wellbeing and social connection. However, additional merits in the context of secondary care relate to the ‘hospital-patient’ relationship, and using art to manage health conditions. Embedding AoP within hospital settings may reduce burden on secondary services by supporting psychosocial needs alongside medical care.