Review article

https://doi.org/10.20471/LO.2025.53.02-03.17

Arts in oncology: integrating creative practices into hospital environments – The example of the Centre for Art and Medicine, University Hospital for Tumours (KBCSM)

Iva Kirac ; University Hospital for Tumours, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia *
Brigita Vilč orcid.org/0000-0001-7957-2447 ; Music Academy, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Anica Vrdoljak ; University Hospital for Tumours, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
Melinda Šefčić ; Institute for Gastroenterological Tumors, Zagreb, Croatia
Ivan Fijolić ; Academy of Fine Arts, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Ivanka Herman ; University Hospital for Tumours, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia

* Corresponding author.

Abstract

A growing body of evidence indicates that structured arts‑in‑health programmes can improve psychological well‑being, reduce anxiety, enhance patient experience, and support healthcare staff resilience(1–3). This review outlines key international frameworks and empirical findings on the benefits of integrating arts into oncology care and presents the Centre for Art and Medicine at the University Hospital for Tumours (KBCSM) as a sustainable, long‑term model of practice.

Keywords

arts in health; oncology; cultural interventions; art therapy; hospital environment; KBCSM

Hrčak ID:

344603

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/344603

Publication date:

17.2.2026.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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