Atlanta psychiatrist, Dr. Patrice A. Harris, MD, MA was elected 174th President of the American Medical Association (AMA) at its June meeting. She is the first African-American female to serve as president of the AMA, which represents medical doctors across the nation, in its 145-year history.
“I hope to be tangible evidence for young girls and boys from communities of color that you can aspire e a physician,” Dr. Harris was quoted saying. During her tenure she will focus on medical education, addressing chronic disease and ensuring access to health care.
She currently leads the AMA’s efforts to end the opioid epidemic and has chaired their opioid task force since its inception in 2014. She will continue this work across every state to eliminate barriers to treatment, provide patients with access to affordable, non-opioid care, and fight the stigma faced by those with substance use disorders.
Dr. Harris identifies a passion for improving the lives of children, and service to others as themes that govern her professional life.
She currently leads the AMA’s efforts to end the opioid epidemic and has chaired their opioid task force since its inception in 2014. She will continue this work across every state to eliminate barriers to treatment, provide patients with access to affordable, non-opioid care, and fight the stigma faced by those with substance use disorders.
Dr. Harris identifies a passion for improving the lives of children, and service to others as themes that govern her professional life.