Dr. Patrice A. Harris, a prominent psychiatrist based in Atlanta, has made significant contributions to the fields of mental health and public health throughout her distinguished career. With an impressive background that spans private practice, public health administration, and patient advocacy, Dr. Harris has emerged as a leading voice in organized medicine, as can be seen on her professional profile.
In June 2011, Dr. Harris was elected to the American Medical Association (AMA) Board of Trustees, marking the beginning of a notable journey that would see her ascend to the highest echelons of medical leadership. Her tenure included serving as Secretary (2014-2015) and Chair (2016-2017) of the Board, culminating in her election as the 174th President of the AMA from 2019 to 2020. This milestone made her the first African-American woman to hold this prestigious position, a testament to her groundbreaking role in a historically male-dominated field. Learn more about Dr. Harris’s role in the AMA here.
A vital aspect of Dr. Harris’s leadership has been her relentless dedication to addressing disparities in healthcare, particularly for communities of color. She has consistently emphasized the importance of health equity, advocating for policies that aim to dismantle barriers to care and improve access to essential health services. During her presidency, she focused on critical issues such as the opioid epidemic, childhood trauma, and the integration of mental health services into primary care.
Dr. Harris’s influence extends beyond her leadership roles; she has been actively engaged in numerous committees and workgroups within the AMA, concentrating on health information technology, legislative affairs, and patient care improvements. As the chair of the AMA Opioid Task Force, she has led initiatives aimed at combating the opioid crisis that has plagued many American communities. Her extensive professional journey can be tracked on her LinkedIn profile.
On October 26, 2023, Dr. Harris joined the board of directors of Acadia, a move that further expands her influence and allows her to contribute to the strategic growth of behavioral healthcare. Her extensive experience in both public and private sectors will be invaluable as Acadia seeks to meet the evolving needs of individuals struggling with mental health challenges across the nation. More information about her role on the Acadia board can be found here.
Dr. Patrice A. Harris’s legacy as a physician, advocate, and leader continues to inspire many within the medical community. Her groundbreaking achievements serve as a powerful reminder of the critical role that dedicated professionals play in shaping the future of healthcare, particularly in the pursuit of health equity and improved outcomes for all. As she continues her work, the impact of her efforts will undoubtedly resonate across communities and generations to come.