This close relationship with faculty and attending psychiatrists creates a tailored experience for each resident and provides an opportunity to get acquainted with the lifestyle of the practicing psychiatrists in the region. The presence of residency programs in other specialties enriches the learning experience and expands the collegial network for those who elect to practice in the area after residency. One of the most important aspects of the Spokane Track is that all rotations are strictly based on their educational value. Many residency programs depend on funding from contracts with agencies and hospitals, which then obliges these programs to place residents in certain rotations regardless of the educational needs of the resident. The funding base of the Spokane Track is structured so that no such placement restraints are involved.
Educational value is the only issue in deciding on each specific rotation.
This also means that on call responsibilities are limited to those that are of significant educational benefit. Regular emergency and night call is covered by staff psychiatrists. The integration of these services is further supported by the Regional Support Network, a branch of the state s Division of Mental Health, which provides a prepaid health plan for all patients dependent on state funding for their health care. Residents can participate in the well-developed Partial Hospitalization Programs for children, adults, and the elderly. These unique and effective programs are especially relevant at a time of increasing efforts to contain costs.