Conference to introduce physicians to writers’ workshops

More information Click here to see a flyer with more about the seminar, including registration information. Also, click here to see a blog about the Seven Doctors Project.

The arts and humanities have significant value for physicians, said Byers Shaw Jr., M.D., professor in the department of surgery.

A two-time participant in the Seven Doctors Project — which pairs health care professionals with writers in a writing workshop environment — Dr. Shaw said it gets particularly interesting when physicians undertake arts and humanities activities together.

In the Seven Doctors Project workshops — Dr. Shaw said he and other physicians were able to explore — through writing — common professional issues, emotions and experiences in a way that left many participants refreshed.

“We were able to discuss issues that you don’t normally talk about when you’re concerned with medication levels and procedures,” Dr. Shaw said. “We have been able to confront common frustrations and feelings that many of us experience and these discussions have proven to be quite therapeutic.”

Dr. Shaw has invited hundreds of physicians from around the world to take part in a two-day, continuing medical education seminar on June 5-6 in Omaha. Seminar participants will get a taste of what Dr. Shaw and other Seven Doctors Project participants have experienced.

The Seven Doctors Project was started in early 2008 by Omaha-area poet Steve Langan. Three groups of physicians have participated in the project and several more already have lined up for a fourth session.

“Obviously there are many physicians who find this experience valuable,” Langan said. “I’ve heard several comments from participants saying this project has had a rejuvenating effect on their lives as well as their careers.

“Obviously there are many physicians who find this experience valuable. I’ve heard several comments from participants saying this project has had a rejuvenating effect on their lives as well as their careers.” Steve Langan

“And many of the doctors have produced excellent writing that has gone on to be published, so it’s been exciting in that regard, too.”

The seminar — which is coordinated through UNMC Continuing Education — will be held on at the University of Nebraska at Omaha Thompson Alumni Center and will expose attendees to and engage them in the workshop process.

Several writers and physicians from the Seven Doctors Project will participate in the seminar as will Margaret Lemay-Lewis, founding director of the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine Writing Program.

The first day of the conference will introduce participants to the workshop process and on the second day, attendees will participate themselves.

“Writing and other artistic endeavors can serve as needed outlet for physicians,” Dr. Shaw said. “Such activities can help combat fatigue and burnout, which are dangerous hazards in our profession.”