Cleveland Council Urges State to Recognize Arts in Healthcare
Cleveland City Council is calling on state lawmakers to officially recognize the impact of arts-based health initiatives on the well-being of Ohio residents. Introduced by Council Member Conwell, Emergency Resolution 1161-2026 asks the Ohio legislature to adopt legislation acknowledging the essential role these programs play in improving long-term health and wellness.
What's in the file
The resolution serves as a formal request for the Ohio legislature to acknowledge the connection between the arts and health. According to 1161-2026-FOR ADOPTION-health and the arts RESO Conwell, the measure is based on several stated benefits of integrating art forms into healthcare and community settings:
- Developmental and age-specific benefits: The document notes that arts education can help students cope with feelings and adversity, while arts participation for older adults is linked to improved mood and reduced rates of cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer’s or other neurodegenerative disorders.
- Clinical and therapeutic support: The resolution asserts that creative arts therapies—such as music, art, and dance/movement therapy—can address specific physical and mental health conditions and may reduce a patient's need for hospital care and pain medication.
- Mental health and social connection: The text states that the arts serve as a resource for reducing social isolation, loneliness, stress, trauma, and symptoms of PTSD.
- Insurance and coverage: The resolution suggests that insurance companies and Medicaid providers should consider paying for arts programs that are prescribed by physicians.
If the resolution passes, the Clerk of Council is directed to send copies to all members of the Ohio legislature, the Ohio Arts Council, and the leadership of the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, Metro Hospital, and the Cleveland VA Hospital.
Who may be affected
The resolution specifically names the following organizations and entities:
- Ohio legislature and Ohio Arts Council: Targeted for legislative action and notification.
- Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, Metro Hospital, and Cleveland VA Hospital: Identified as healthcare leaders to receive copies of the resolution.
Status and timeline
- September 23, 2026: The resolution was introduced to the Council.
- Current Status: The resolution is listed as "Agenda Ready."
As an emergency measure, if it receives an affirmative vote of two-thirds of all elected members of Council, it would take effect immediately upon adoption and approval by the Mayor.
Residents can verify these details and review the full text of the resolution by visiting the Cleveland City Council Legistar website.
Source record
- File
- 1161-2026
- Type
- Emergency Resolution
- Status
- Agenda Ready
- Committee
- City Council
- Introduced
- September 22, 2026