Site Director:  Barbara Haskins 540-332-8634 Barbara.Haskins@dbhds.virginia.gov

Clerkship Director:   Karen Cale, 540-332-8634, Karen.Cale@dbhds.virginia.gov or
                                   Judy Young Judy.Young@dbhds.virginia.gov

Psychiatry students assigned to Western State Hospital (WSH) will need to use their own transportation to and from Staunton. Students are to report to the lobby of the Pettis Building (#103) at WSH at 8:30am on the first day of rotation. Questions regarding the Western State Hospital rotation should be directed to Dr. Schofield or Karen Cale.

Directions to Western State Hospital in Staunton:

Take I-64 Western

Take Exit 87 onto I-81 North

Almost immediately take Exit 222 to Route 250 West (keep right). Turn right at stoplight onto WSH grounds. Keep to the left. You will have to stop @ the Gatehouse to check-in before proceeding. The Pettis Building is the 4^th building on the left after entering WSH. Travel time is approximately 40 minutes.

Useful Information/Regulations:

In the event of inclement weather , such as snow or icy roads, students should make their own assessment if it is safe enough to drive to the hospital.  If in doubt, you are welcome to call the Clerkship Coordinator.  If Western State Hospital is following an inclement weather policy, it is understood that students are not expected to make it to the hospital. 

Security/Safety

Western State Hospital is on State property.  There are several strict laws, which apply to you while you are here.  Alcohol and firearms are never permitted on the grounds, not even in a locked car.  When driving on grounds, remember that the speed limit is 15 miles per hour and is strictly enforced.  Students who will be parking on grounds should see security and obtain a parking sticker .  Cars must be pulled in to park and must be parked in designated spots in order to avoid ticketing.  Students should be aware of the fire plan on the ward.  In the event of a fire or a fire drill, the doors in the building will close automatically and students should follow the directions of ward staff.  It is important to the faculty and to Western State Hospital staff to always maintain a safe environment for patients and staff.  Especially with new admissions, always speak with them in the dayroom and be cautious to stay within sight of psychiatric aides. Remember that in all hospitals there exist the potential for assaultive behavior in medical, surgical, and psychiatric patients. If you feel unsafe, move slowly and exit the situation.  When on call do not agree to see a new admission until the Attending is present with you.  Students should not see patients (especially patients of the opposite sex) alone in their rooms or behind closed doors.  It is best to either be in an open area or in an area with a window that can be observed by other staff.