Wellstar’s partnership with Social Rx (Art Pharmacy) redefines how we support people’s overall health—using arts and culture as a powerful tool to address social, emotional and behavioral health needs across our communities. This initiative is one way Wellstar puts PeopleCare into action by recognizing that health is shaped not only by care at hospitals and doctor’s offices, but also by connection, purpose and community.
“As healthcare continues to evolve, arts and health is gaining recognition as a powerful tool for advancing equity, improving well-being and supporting whole-person care. At Wellstar, we are proud to help lead this work by connecting patients to community-based experiences that foster healing, connection and long-term health,” said Dr. Glenda Francis, director of operations for the Wellstar Center for Health Equity.
Social prescribing enables health professionals to formally prescribe non-clinical community activities—like creative workshops and performances—to improve a patient's health.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, poor social relationships, social isolation and loneliness can increase the risk of heart disease by 29% and risk of stroke by 32%. People with strong perceptions of belonging to a community are 2.6 times more likely to report good or excellent health than people with a low sense of belonging.
“Our nation has an epidemic of loneliness that can contribute to people suffering from heart disease, stroke and premature death,” said Dr. Earl Stewart Jr., medical director of health equity for Wellstar. “Meaningful social engagement can help people overcome isolation and improve their behavioral health.”
The results to date show that this model is not only engaging—it produces meaningful outcomes for patients.
Driving measurable improvements in health and well-being
Recent quarterly outcomes demonstrate the meaningful difference this program is making for Wellstar patients.
Outcomes among 67 events include:
- 80% of attendees saw improved health and well-being
- 53% experienced reduced behavioral health symptoms
- 80% of those who were experiencing loneliness felt less lonely
- 88% active engagement in the social prescriptions
- 83% attendance rate at events
- Participants rated the program an average 9.7 out of 10
A patient’s story: from isolation to connection
For one Wellstar program participant, the experience became a turning point in her health journey. Initially referred through Social Rx because of anxiety and social isolation, she began attending pottery and arts-based classes in her community.
At first, participation felt unfamiliar, but over time she found herself looking forward to each session. The creative environment gave her space to decompress, express herself and connect with others in a way that felt safe and supportive.
“I learned how to relax and take better care of myself,” she shared. “I’ve really enjoyed participating—and I will continue to go back.”
Beyond the classes, her care team saw an improved mood, increased engagement and a growing sense of confidence. What began as a referral became a sustainable tool for managing her mental health and building connection.
Sustained outcomes beyond participation
The impact of the program extends beyond the experience itself:
• 100% of participants reported progress toward their health goals, with 30% fully achieving them.
• 80% reported continued improvement in blood pressure readings over time.
These results suggest the benefits of social prescribing can continue well beyond the initial experience.
Expanding access through community partnerships
The success of this program is grounded in strong partnerships with local arts and cultural organizations. Atlanta Shakespeare Company, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Zoo Atlanta, Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre, Spivey Hall and others all contribute to a growing network of community partners supporting this work.
These partners play a vital role in creating welcoming, culturally relevant experiences that communities enjoy.
Advancing health equity through social prescribing
The program has also meaningfully reached populations that have historically faced barriers to care, including Black/African American patients and women.
By reducing barriers and offering accessible, community-based experiences, Wellstar is advancing health equity and meeting patients where they are.