“Above all, the national standards are intended to stimulate continuous, systematic and organizationwide improvement in an organization’s performance and the outcomes of care,” says Russell P. Massaro, M.D., executive vice president, Accreditation Operations, Joint Commission. “The State of Alabama should be proud that the Mary Starke Harper Geriatric Psychiatry Center is focusing on the most challenging goal – to continuously raise quality and safety to higher levels.”

Ms. Bender spoke of her pride of the staff. “In addition, they appreciate the educational aspect of the survey and the opportunity to interact with the team of surveyors.” She called the accreditation, “proof of a facility and department-wide commitment to provide quality care on an ongoing basis.”

Opened in February 1996, The Harper Center is a psychiatric hospital operated by the Alabama Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation (ADMH/MR) for persons 65 and older who are experiencing complications due to serious mental disability. The facility is designed and operates to provide safe, effective, efficient, and compassionate treatment with the overall goal of improving the patient’s quality of life. The Center additionally has as its mission to educate caregivers and enhance community-based care for Alabama’s elderly population. The majority of admissions to the Center are through the Probate Commitment process; however, voluntary admissions are accepted if the individual meets admission criteria.

The Center holds a Family Education/Support Class on the fourth Friday of each month from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Individuals in the community who would like to enhance their knowledge of topics related to the geriatric population are encouraged to attend. Please contact Family Education/Support Class Coordinator Lucy Jenkins at (205) 759-0901.

Office of Public Information Phone (334) 242-3417 Fax (334) 353-3894