MCG ADMINISTERS A DOSE OF THE HEALING ARTS

December 2, 2002

Augusta, Ga. -- Artwork and music are two components of a new program that recently debuted at MCG Health System, designed to assist both adult and pediatric patients during recovery.

"Part of the hospital's mission is to promote a healing environment," said Janet Howser, Volunteer Services Manager. "Through the Healing Arts Program, we hope to accomplish that mission through a variety of unique services."

Harpist Nell Morris will perform weekly in several locations within the adult hospital and outpatient care areas, including the infusion room of the MCG Cancer Center (where patients receive chemotherapy treatments) and in the Department of Family Medicine. Part two of the Healing Arts Program begins in January, when local artist Elizabeth Barnes begins offering art education to pediatric patients at the MCG Children's Medical Center.

A lifelong musician who plays both the piano and acoustic guitar, Morris took up the harp eight years ago and performs throughout the Augusta area. Barnes is an award-winning sculptor who works in a variety of media and volunteers in community educational programs. Both have been named artists-in-residence with the Healing Arts Program.

The program is expected to help calm patients' fears and promote the hospital's philosophy of patient-centered care. "There are no claims that music therapy can cure cancer," said Shawn Vincent, Administrative Director of Comprehensive Cancer Services. "But according to research by several medical experts, music can reduce symptoms such as pain, anxiety and nausea from chemotherapy treatments."

"Ours is not a new concept," added Howser. "It's well-known that art has a positive effect on a person's well-being. Through this program, we hope to provide a unique and healing touch to those cared for at MCG."

Anyone interested in volunteering for the Healing Arts Program may contact Janet Howser at 706-721-7608.

MCG HealthCare is the health system of the Medical College of Georgia and is comprised of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the School of Medicine and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Hospitals and Clinics, Children's Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by offering the highest level of primary and specialty health care.