Dr. Patrice A. Harris, a distinguished psychiatrist based in Atlanta, has made remarkable contributions to the field of medicine, particularly in the areas of public health, mental health, and child advocacy. With a career spanning multiple roles including private practice, public health administration, and patient advocacy, Dr. Harris has built a reputation as a dynamic leader committed to improving healthcare access and equity. Her remarkable journey can be further explored on her eMed profile.

In June 2011, Dr. Harris began her tenure on the American Medical Association (AMA) Board of Trustees, where she has since held significant leadership positions, including Secretary and Chair. Her election as the 174th President of the AMA in 2019 marked a historic moment, as she became the first African-American woman to hold this esteemed office.

Dr. Harris’s journey in medicine began at West Virginia University, where she earned her medical degree, followed by a residency in psychiatry and fellowships in child psychiatry and forensics at Emory University. She has passionately addressed policies affecting abused and neglected children, mental health, and the integration of healthcare services. You can learn more about her professional journey on her LinkedIn profile.

As a former director of Health Services for Fulton County, Georgia, Dr. Harris oversaw a comprehensive range of public health initiatives, behavioral health programs, and primary care services. She played a pivotal role in integrating these services to create a more cohesive healthcare delivery system.

Currently, Dr. Harris continues her practice while consulting with both public and private organizations on emerging trends in health policy and service delivery. She serves as an adjunct professor in the Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences departments at Emory University and Morehouse School of Medicine, positioning herself as a driving force in shaping the next generation of healthcare leaders.

Dr. Harris’s dedication to improving the lives of children and advocating for health equity resonates deeply within her community and across the nation. Her recent appointment to the board of directors at Acadia is a testament to her commitment to behavioral healthcare and her wealth of experience in the field, as highlighted in Acadia’s official announcement.

In summary, Dr. Patrice A. Harris stands as an exemplary figure in the medical field, whose contributions continue to pave the way for a more equitable and accessible healthcare system. Her leadership and advocacy work remain crucial in addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and advancing the mental health discourse nationally.