Humanization in palliative care through art: A Social Return on Investment (SROI) analysis of ProArt

Elena García (), Javier Lera (), David Cantarero-Prieto (), Carla Blázquez-Fernández (), Ana Expósito () and Ana Rodríguez Valcarce ()

Revista Galega de Economía, 2026, vol. 35, issue 2, 1-23

Abstract: ProArt is a co-designed humanization programme that uses artistic activities and environmental transformation to enhance the experience of patients and families in a palliative care unit. This study evaluates its social impact through a Social Return on Investment (SROI) approach including patients, relatives, professionals and volunteers. The programme generated measurable improvements in emotional well-being, communication, personal relationships and the overall care environment, as reported by all stakeholder groups. The total social value created amounted to €1,076,855.42 compared with an investment of €129,405.78, yielding an SROI of €8.32 for each €1 invested. A comprehensive sensitivity analysis varying proxy values and attribution parameters confirmed the robustness of the findings, with SROI ratios ranging from €6.51 to €10.64. These results indicate that art-based humanization strategies can deliver substantial social value in palliative care and may represent an effective approach to improving the quality of end-of-life care.

Keywords: SROI; Humanization; Palliative care; Social value; Arts in health (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: C93 I10 I31 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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