Dr. Patrice A. Harris’s Mission to Transform Mental Health Care for Underrepresented Communities

Dr. Patrice A. Harris, an esteemed psychiatrist from Atlanta, has garnered significant recognition for her multifaceted contributions to the field of healthcare. Elected as the 174th President of the American Medical Association (AMA) in 2019, Dr. Harris made history as the first African-American woman to hold this prestigious position. Information about Dr. Harris’ illustrious career and contributions can be found on her profile on eMed.

Her presidency was characterized by a strong commitment to addressing pressing healthcare issues, including mental health awareness, health equity, and the integration of behavioral health and primary care services. More about her stance on these key healthcare issues can be found in her leadership viewpoints on the AMA’s website.

With an academic foundation that includes a medical degree from West Virginia University, a psychiatry residency, and fellowships in child psychiatry and forensics at Emory University, Dr. Harris established herself as a thought leader in children’s mental health. Her professional achievements and contributions are further highlighted on her LinkedIn profile.

During her tenure at the AMA, Dr. Harris focused on three strategic objectives: improving patient care by eliminating barriers in the healthcare system, reimagining medical education to meet future challenges, and addressing the chronic disease crisis in the United States. Her leadership of the AMA Opioid Task Force, initiated in 2014, highlights her dedication to combating the opioid epidemic.

Recently, Dr. Harris joined the board of directors at Acadia, where her extensive experience in behavioral healthcare is expected to support the organization’s strategic growth. The official announcement of her joining Acadia can be read here.

As Dr. Patrice A. Harris continues to break barriers and inspire future leaders in medicine, her career serves as a testament to the impactful role of healthcare professionals in advocating for vulnerable populations and pushing for systemic change in the healthcare landscape. With a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, Dr. Harris remains a vital voice in the ongoing conversation about the future of healthcare in America.

Read: https://www-webflow.emed.com/team-member/patrice-harris