Owensboro Health patients have the opportunity to test their skills with a banjolere (miniature banjo) while in the hospital to reduce stress and anxiety. The program is part of OH’s Arts in Healing initiative, made possible through a partnership with the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
Lauren Calhoun, OH Claims Administrator and member of the Arts in Healing Committee, said she plans to bring art to the walls of the hospital for the foreseeable future. After speaking with Randy Lanham, director of education at her museum at Bluegrass Music, this collaboration was a perfect opportunity.
Patients can ask a nurse or bedside assistant if banjolere can be used. The Banjorere comes with an instruction manual and a video made by Lanham.
If they follow the video lessons, they can learn more and finally play the song.
The program is still new to the hospital and has been primarily in the medical-surgical department, but is expected to expand.
Calhoun said he has already seen some patients enjoying their time with an open mind while playing an instrument.
“It connects people with curiosity and just makes music to enjoy it,” Calhoun said.
Calhoun noted that the program is intended for patients who may have had a lot of downtime between testing sessions or who may be emotionally charged during difficult times.
“If you’re just waiting for results, you might be bored. You might have a little anxiety or worry,” Calhoun said. It’s not working towards it, it just shows that there is some benefit to those who are trying to heal.”
