The job of a physician is more than just a profession. It’s a mission. But it’s also one that can easily become the center of a person’s identity and has the potential to lead to burnout.

The added stresses from unnecessary administrative burdens can cause emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. A recent Medscape study cited “too many bureaucratic tasks, spending too many hours at work, feeling like just a cog in a wheel and increased computerization of practice” as the top causes of physician burnout.

Many experts believe that physicians maintaining interests and hobbies outside the clinical setting is one of the most effective ways to combat this issue. Kentucky Medical Association’s (KMA) 2018 Annual Meeting will feature Paducah physician and author Shawn Jones, MD, FACS, whose book, Finding Heart in Art: A Surgeon’s Renaissance Approach To Healing Modern Medical Burnout, uses Renaissance paintings as a framework to explain how medical professionals can manage fatigue.

In addition, KMA is planning to recognize and celebrate the interests of physicians outside their exam rooms with its Beyond the White Coat gallery, to be held during the 2018 KMA Annual Meeting. Beyond the White Coat will share the talents and hobbies of KMA physicians. Anything that brings balance and enjoyment to a physician’s notoriously busy life is eligible for submission.

As a physician, what do you do when you’re not in your white coat? Do you enjoy photography? Do you play an instrument? Do you consider yourself a writer, artist, athlete or chef? Beyond the White Coat seeks to showcase the unique talents of the medical community.

KMA is accepting submissions for Beyond the White Coat through July 1. For more information or to be included, members are asked to contact Miranda Mosley, KMA Education Director, at .