Advancing practice in arts in health: Artist workforce development and certification

Through extensive collaboration involving NOAH members and field professionals, this work presents a comprehensive framework for advancing arts, cultural, and creative practices integrated into healthcare, public health, and community life to enhance health, well-being, and social connection. The paper introduces the Arts in Health Practitioner-Certified (AIHP-C) role and establishes foundational documents including a new Scope of Practice and Core Professional Competencies specifically designed for Arts in Health practitioners. These documents provide clear guidance on professional roles, responsibilities, limitations, knowledge, and essential skills required for effective practice across healthcare, public health, and community settings. Central to this framework is the commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and equity in professional development opportunities. The paper addresses ongoing dialogue with teaching artists and creative arts therapists to clarify role differentiation across the continuum of arts, cultural, and creative practices. Through an iterative process, the authors have developed materials that advance the legitimization and recognition of artists' work while ensuring relevance to diverse sectors working to enhance health, well-being, and social connection. This paper serves as both a call to action and practical guidance for implementing artist workforce development, providing accessible and equitable pathways for professional advancement that support the continued growth and professionalization of the field of Arts in Health.