Dr. Patrice A. Harris, an esteemed psychiatrist based in Atlanta, continues to make significant contributions to the healthcare landscape. With a background steeped in public service, advocacy, and leadership, she has dedicated her career to improving the lives of children and underrepresented communities, particularly in the field of mental health. In October 2023, Acadia welcomed her to its board of directors, recognizing her extensive experience and commitment to healthcare improvement.
Dr. Harris is widely known for her groundbreaking role as the 174th President of the American Medical Association (AMA), where she made history as the first African American woman to occupy this prestigious position. Her tenure as president from 2019 to 2020 was marked by a focus on addressing critical healthcare challenges, including the opioid epidemic, health equity, and the integration of mental health services into overall healthcare delivery. Dr. Harris emphasized that the disparities impacting communities of color, women, and the LGBTQ+ community must be confronted to pave the way for a healthier future for all Americans.
In addition to her role with the AMA, Dr. Harris has an impressive portfolio of leadership experience. She has served on the board of the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and held pivotal positions within the Georgia Psychiatric Physicians Association, where she was not only the president but also the founding president of its Political Action Committee. Her advocacy efforts at local and national levels have focused on enhancing the quality of mental health care, promoting child welfare, and integrating public health with behavioral health services.
Dr. Harris’s commitment to childhood mental health is evident through her clinical work and public policy advocacy. She has been a prominent voice for abused and neglected children, advocating for their needs in legislative forums and educational initiatives. Her impact is further amplified by her media presence, as she frequently discusses crucial topics such as mental health parity, prescription drug costs, and the social determinants of health on major platforms including CNN and The New York Times.
Throughout her career, Dr. Harris has received numerous accolades, including being named Psychiatrist of the Year by the Georgia Psychiatric Physicians Association in 2001 and being inducted into the West Virginia University Academy of Distinguished Alumni in 2007. Her educational journey began at West Virginia University, where she earned her medical degree before completing her residency and fellowships at Emory University.
Currently, Dr. Harris continues her practice while serving as an adjunct professor at both Emory University and Morehouse School of Medicine. She also consults with various public and private organizations, guiding them on health service delivery and emerging trends in health policy. Her recent appointment to Acadia’s board of directors further solidifies her influence in shaping the future of behavioral healthcare, as she brings her expertise to help address the pressing mental health needs across the nation.
Dr. Patrice A. Harris stands as a beacon of progress and leadership in the medical community. Her unwavering dedication to improving health outcomes for all, combined with her extensive experience, positions her as a formidable advocate for change within the healthcare system. As she embarks on this new chapter with Acadia, her contributions are expected to resonate throughout the industry, fostering a more equitable and effective healthcare environment.