Arts in Medicine

UAB Arts in Medicine

UAB Arts in Medicine (AIM) strives to transform the care environment and enhance well-being and healing through creative arts experiences for patients, families, and staff. Integrating the arts into the healthcare setting has been shown to benefit patients and caregivers by:

• Reducing stress levels
• Easing the perception of pain
• Improving mood
• Providing a distraction from medical concerns
• Encouraging self-expression
• Building self-confidence

Who We Are

Launched in 2013, AIM is a partnership between UAB Medicine and the UAB Alys Stephens Center. It supports UAB’s commitment to patient-centered care and has grown to serve a wide range of UAB Medicine units on a rotating schedule.

Our team includes artists in residence and creative arts therapists who provide creative and therapeutic outlets that foster connection and healing.

What We Offer

Patients and their families may experience AIM through bedside visits or group workshops, which may include:

• Storytelling
• Visual art
• Hand-sewing and embroidery
• Relaxation and meditation
• Dance and movement 
• Expressive writing and poetry
• Yoga therapy
• Art therapy
• Delivering customized art kits, coloring pages, art supplies, and brain games to patient rooms

How to connect with AIM

Patients receiving inpatient treatment (or their family members) may request an Arts in Medicine referral from a member of their care team or by contacting AIM directly. AIM can provide an activity with an artist in residence or simply deliver requested art supplies.

AIM programs are available to patients and family members of all ages and ability levels. Once a request has been made, an artist will be in contact within 48 hours (Monday through Friday).

To request AIM services or learn more, please call 205-934-8275 or email artsinmedicine@uabmc.edu.

Arts in Medicine Resources