In Switzerland, doctors have started prescribing trips to museums instead of medication

The city has launched a pilot programme where local authorities pay for visits to museums for patients who may benefit.

The idea is based on a study by the World Health Organisation. It proved that art helps to improve psychological well-being, relieve stress and even improve physical health. The museums help people to move more and get out of the house, which is especially useful before operations and during recovery.

About 10,000 Swiss francs (about $11,300) have been allocated for the project. Doctors have already written about 500 of these prescriptions. If the programme is successful, it will be extended to other arts activities, such as theatre and dance.

The initiative also came about because of the COVID-19 pandemic. City officials noticed how much the closure of cultural institutions affected people's well-being.

Dr Marc-Olivier Sauvin has already prescribed museums for two patients before surgeries. He is convinced that such recommendations are more effective than simple advice to move more. "Patients perceive going to the museum much more pleasant than medication and medical procedures," the doctor noted.

Local residents liked the idea.

A wonderful idea! Every museum in the world needs such recipes," said Carla Fragier Filliger, a museum visitor.

If the idea takes root, the organisers hope that in the future similar programmes will be recognised by the national health system.