Patients’ needs and preferences in developing Art-Based Learning in outpatient palliative cancer care: A qualitative study

PURPOSE: Art-Based Learning (ABL), an art pedagogical practice, may assist cancer patients by providing a meaningful experience through art viewing. However, little is known about what needs to be considered when developing an exhibition space for ABL in a palliative care setting. This study aimed at providing an overview of needs and preferences from a patient perspective. METHODS: Patients were included through purposive sampling based on the following criteria: WHO performance status 0 or 1, ≥ 18 years, Dutch proficiency, and ability to come to the hospital. For the online sessions, access to the internet, a device, and a microphone were required. Patients participated in an ABL session either online or in the hospital followed by a semi-structured interview. The transcribed interviews were thematically analyzed using both deductive and inductive approaches. RESULTS: Participants (n = 13) had a positive experience with ABL either online (n = 6) or in the hospital (n = 7). The results showed the multidimensionality of the patients' needs and preferences regarding the exhibition and ABL, from preferences regarding the exhibition space and needs for accessibility both online and on-site, to personalization of ABL by the facilitator. CONCLUSION: Our study showed that the hospital and online museum are appropriate and accessible environments for an exhibition for ABL. A varied selection of artworks might contribute most to a meaningful experience. Furthermore, we identified the patients' need for a person-centered approach in ABL in palliative care, in which not only the facilitator, but also health care professionals play an important role.