Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI)

Congress, in 1986, found that individuals with mental illness were and continue to be vulnerable to abuse, neglect, serious injury and lack of treatment, discharge planning and health care. State systems for monitoring compliance with respect to the rights of individuals labeled mentally ill varied widely and are frequently inadequate. Through the federal Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness Act (PAIMI), Disability Rights Ohio serves adults, children and youth in public or private psychiatric hospitals or units.

The federal mandate requires the establishment of an advisory council. The Disability Rights Ohio PAIMI Advisory Council advises Disability Rights Ohio on priorities and issues important to people receiving mental health services in Ohio, and promotes recovery through increased access to client rights and advocacy services. Read more about the PAIMI Advisory Council.