Healing Through Art: How Medical Students Are Transforming Pediatric Care at Rutgers
Sometimes, the most powerful medicine isn’t found in a pill or procedure, but in a crayon, a song, or a carefully folded piece of origami. This philosophy is at the heart of Healing Hues & Harmony, a student-led initiative at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS) that brings creative arts enrichment to pediatric patients at University Hospital in Newark, N.J.
The Genesis of Healing Hues & Harmony
Launched in August 2025 by third-year medical students Sneha Gandhi and Shivani Srivastava, Healing Hues & Harmony addresses a critical need: the emotional and psychological well-being of children facing hospitalization. Gandhi and Srivastava recognized that while medical teams focused on physical health, opportunities for play, creativity, and human connection were often lacking, particularly for children experiencing long-term stays or language barriers Rutgers News.
With funding from the Pozen Program at Rutgers NJMS, which supports student-led community service, the program provides age-appropriate art and music activities directly at patients’ bedsides, facilitated by trained medical student volunteers Rutgers News.
The Importance of Creative Expression in Pediatric Care
Hospitalization can strip children of their sense of control, routine, and identity. Art and music offer a powerful means of restoring these elements. “When a child chooses a color, folds origami or sings along to a familiar song, they are creating something of their own,” explains Gandhi Rutgers News.
These creative outlets as well transcend language barriers, fostering connection with patients and families even when verbal communication is tricky. Art and music are integral to overall wellness, complementing traditional medical treatments and procedures Rutgers News.
Impact on Patients, Families, and Future Physicians
Since its launch, Healing Hues & Harmony has demonstrably impacted patients and their families. Children who were initially withdrawn or distressed often become engaged once an activity begins. Parents have shared that witnessing their child calm down or smile provides significant relief. In some cases, art or music has helped children relax during challenging treatments Rutgers News.
The initiative also benefits the medical students involved. Volunteers gain valuable experience connecting with patients on a deeper level, learning the power of non-medical interventions, and reinforcing the importance of seeing patients as individuals, not just diagnoses Rutgers News. Srivastava notes that the program allows students to “connect with patients beyond traditional clinical roles” Rutgers News.
One poignant example involved a young patient who calmed down during a nebulizer treatment after engaging with coloring materials, providing a moment of respite for her parents. Another instance saw an 8-year-old, initially reluctant to speak, commence to open up after drawing her favorite television characters and displaying her artwork Rutgers News.
Looking Ahead
Gandhi and Srivastava envision Healing Hues & Harmony becoming a sustainable component of pediatric care at University Hospital, complementing existing support systems. Their broader hope is that the program will reinforce the understanding that healing encompasses both medical and emotional dimensions, supporting children and families while cultivating compassionate future physicians Rutgers News.
Sneha Gandhi is a medical student at New Jersey Medical School LinkedIn.