Queensland Children's Hospital artwork. Photographer: Sarah Osborn
Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service (WBHHS) has launched a public survey aimed at exploring opportunities to integrate arts in health initiatives throughout the new Bundaberg Hospital.
WBHHS Chief Executive Debbie Carroll said the integration of art into healthcare settings was proven to have significant benefits, enhancing both patient and staff wellbeing.
“Healthcare is more than the physical care we provide; it’s also about creating an environment that supports the emotional, mental and spiritual wellbeing of everyone who enters a hospital,” Debbie said.
“Through this survey, we want to ensure that the voices of the people that will use the new hospital are central to shaping the artistic vision and creating an environment that truly supports our local community.
“The survey seeks feedback on the types of artwork and creative initiatives that would best support patients and staff, along with community views on the emotional significance of our beautiful region so our approach is a reflection of our shared values, our local history and our vision for the future.
“This feedback will inform the development of the new Bundaberg Hospital project’s arts in health strategy, ultimately helping to create a healing environment that is both functional and inspiring.”
Children’s Health Queensland’s Strategic Arts in Health Lead Lynne Seear said countless studies had shown that art positively contributes to consumer and staff health and wellbeing.
“Art helps to bring down the heart rate, provoke a hormonal ‘joy response’, lower stress and provide a much-needed opportunity for contemplation and distraction for staff and patients,” Lynne said.
“We recognise that clinicians will always remain the experts in diagnosis and treatment.
“Through the careful curation of artwork, though, we can further extend positive perceptions of the health service and the people who deliver care within it by creating points of visual interest and inspiration for people undergoing some of the most anxious and stressful experiences of their lives.
“We’re also well aware that the region is home to an extraordinary depth of artistic and creative talent, and we’re excited for the opportunities this legacy project will offer local artists.
“It’s a unique opportunity to showcase their creativity and craft on a large-scale project that will have a positive, meaningful and lasting impact on so many people, and support the creative economy.”
Ready to have your say?
- Who can participate? All community members, healthcare workers, and prospective patients are encouraged to share their feedback and ideas.
- How to share your thoughts? Complete the survey here.
- When is the deadline? The survey will close on 12 January 2025.
Read more about the project here: www.widebay.health.qld.gov.au/new-bundaberg-hospital.