Music is making significant inroads in health systems and hospitals, offering non-addictive and cost-effective alternatives. It's a treatment with a long history that is now gaining recognition. Danielle Porter, a music therapy coordinator at Brooks Rehabilitation, emphasizes the ancient belief in music's healing abilities. Over the past decade, healthcare has embraced music as an alternative treatment. Everyone can relate to music, finding comfort and motivation in it. As of 2021, music therapists are working in over 36,000 healthcare facilities across the country. Cleveland-based University Hospitals published a study highlighting music therapy's integral role in care management. Seneca Block, the Lauren Rich Fine Endowed Director of Expressive Therapies at UH Connor Whole Health, emphasizes the non-pharmacologic support music therapy provides.

Unlock the Healing Potential of Music in Healthcare

Staying Alive: Tuning in to the Clinical Value of Music

Patients respond differently to music compared to their doctors or nurses. It enhances engagement and creates energy. For example, a runner uses music to push through an extra mile, a weightlifter powers through a tough routine, and a baseball player uses it to face a tough pitcher. In healthcare, it helps patients recovering from a stroke regain mobility, those with Alzheimer's engage in memory exercises, and those who have had major surgeries or amputations get back on track. MedRhythms is at the forefront of applying music to clinical treatment. Their neurotherapeutics process was initially trialed at Spaulding Rehabilitation and is now involved in multiple clinical trials. The company recently received FDA clearance for its InTandem Rehabilitation System and has a unique HCPCS code assigned. Brian Harris, the co-founder and CEO, believes the technology is advancing music therapy.

Even with the progress, reimbursement remains a significant barrier. Some state Medicaid programs support certain services, and private insurers are starting to take notice. Many programs still rely on gifts and grants. However, the NIH is supporting studies, and there are national publications highlighting the clinical relevance of these treatments. Brooks Rehabilitation works with other healthcare facilities and gets referrals, showing the effectiveness of music therapy.

Colour My World: Part of a much larger playlist

Music is just one part of a collection of innovative treatments at Sierra Tucson. Kelly Palmiero, the COO, emphasizes treating the whole person with adventure therapy, nature hikes, art therapy, equine therapy, acupuncture, massage, and more. They constantly look for new treatment options based on research and availability. The buzzword is integration, and Sierra Tucson operates under the Acadia Healthcare umbrella with a long history and a team of doctors. The center collects and shares data to determine what works. Even dancing may have a place in treatment, as shown by a study published in Neuroscience News. Preliminary evidence suggests that dance can improve psychological well-being and cognitive capacity more effectively than traditional rehabilitation.

It's important to think beyond traditional healthcare mindsets and be willing to change and evolve. These treatments have to show clinical outcomes to be effective.

Don't Dream It's Over: The path to sustainability

Reimbursement for music therapy is complex. Some state Medicaid programs support pediatric care, and private insurers are showing interest. Many programs rely on gifts and grants. The NIH is supporting studies, and national publications are posting relevant research. Avesis, a health plan in Phoenix, is starting to recognize the value of music therapy. Sean Slovenski, the former CEO, believes payers are realizing the difference these services can make. As healthcare organizations focus on social determinants of health, they will explore alternative treatments like music, dance, and art. Access to music therapists is an issue, but pioneers like Danielle Porter are paving the way.

Health systems and hospitals are gradually embracing these innovative treatments, and it's an exciting time for the field.