Healthcare Professionals' Perceptions of the Impact of Active and Receptive Music Therapy and Its Continued Use in Hospital Settings.

AIM: To explore healthcare professionals' perceptions after experiential music therapy sessions, focusing on perceived personal benefits, potential clinical applications, and implementation in hospital settings.

DESIGN

A qualitative descriptive-exploratory study.

METHODS

Two focus groups were conducted with 22 healthcare professionals who participated in active and receptive music therapy sessions in November 2023. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

DATA SOURCES: Data were generated from two focus groups conducted at the University of Alicante, Spain.

RESULTS

Two themes were identified: perceived benefits and clinical application of music therapy; and implementation and use in hospital settings. Participants described increased emotional awareness, self-reflection, and interpersonal connection and highlighted institutional support and qualified music therapists as important for implementation.

CONCLUSION

Healthcare professionals perceived personal benefits and viewed music therapy as a complementary intervention with potential to promote emotional wellbeing and more humanised care.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: Experiential music therapy may support healthcare professionals' wellbeing and inform its integration into hospital care.

IMPACT: Direct experience shaped professionals' understanding of music therapy and its potential clinical integration. Findings may inform nursing practice, hospital managers, and implementation research.

REPORTING METHOD: The study was reported in accordance with the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ).

NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patients or members of the public were involved; study participants were healthcare professionals.