
The economic – evaluation examined the costs of delivering AoP programmes across the pilot sites as well as the estimated cost for future implementation. The Baltic model was piloted in seven sites, each implementing Aop programmes based on the generic concept but adapted to local contexts . Therefore,- the actual costs of implementation were expected to vary.
Pilot-phase costs across sites ranged widely, from approximately €8,400 to €57,800 per cycle, with costs per completed participant ranging from €684 to €5,349. These variations reflect differences in national pricing structures and programme design, including staffing levels, transportation needs, participant numbers and organisational set-up. Most sites expect lower future costs as referral pathways become more efficient and start-up expenses do not recur. Costs were reported by project partners through a standardized reporting tool.
Although we could not estimate cost-effectiveness (as there was no comparator such as usual care or a control group), the cost assessment offers valuable information for planning and decision-making. It provides realistic cost expectations for future delivery, supports budgeting and commissioning decisions, and gives insight into how programme design choices may influence overall costs. This makes the findings a useful resource for municipalities and organisations considering implementing or scaling Arts on Prescription.
Findings from the economic evaluation are presented here