Artists and Healthcare

If you suspect that a material or a condition at work is causing you health problems, seek a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Many work-related illnesses and injuries can be treated more successfully and with fewer long-lasting effects when diagnosed early. Artists who lack medical insurance may hesitate in seeking medical care, but delaying evaluation can often lead to larger health problems that could interfere with work.

Since health professionals seldom perceive working in the arts to be hazardous, many art-related illnesses can (and do) go unrecognized. It's your duty to help your healthcare provider understand your exposure concerns. Prepare for your visit by listing your work materials and how you use them, and conditions such as awkward work postures or repetitive motions (practicing, keyboard use, vibrating tool use, dancing, etc.). Copies of product labels, MSDSs, photos or demonstrations can aid your healthcare provider in identifying or ruling out potential causes of your symptoms.

Organizations that specialize in healthcare for artists:

• The Health in the Arts Program, University of Illinois at Chicago: specializes in evaluating, treating and preventing work-related disorders in the arts. Patients can usually be seen regardless of their insurance coverage or ability to pay.
  
  Health in the Arts Program
  University of Illinois at Chicago, School of Public Health
  835 S. Wolcott, Rm E-144
  Chicago, IL 60612
  Phone: 312-996-7420
  

• The Voice Center at University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC): This program is dedicated to providing comprehensive care of the voice and treatment of voice disorders.
  
  The Voice Center
  Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
  University of Illinois at Chicago
  1855 West Taylor St.(MC 648)
  Chicago, IL 60612
  email: voice@uic.edu
  Phone: 312-996-6582