Montgomery – Department of Mental Health & Mental Retardation Commissioner Kathy Sawyer and Associate Commissioner for Mental Illness Kimberly Ingram announced today that the DMH/MR plans to celebrate National Patient Recognition Week during February 3-9, 2002. The purpose of the national health observance is to encourage healthcare professionals to reconfirm and demonstrate their renewed commitment to patient care, well being, and satisfaction.

“The DMH/MR employs thousands of hardworking employees who work tirelessly every day to ensure that the patients in our mental illness facilities receive the highest standard of care,” Sawyer said. “We believe in recognizing their professionalism and dedication to the patients in their care. Our employees are one of our greatest assets.”

“Our patients are a diverse group with many talents, interests and abilities, which our employees are encouraged to nurture,” said Ingram. “Over the years, the DMH/MR has provided quality inpatient treatment and care to talented artists, creative writers, parents and children, and individuals from nearly every imaginable socioeconomic and demographic class. We have maintained a tradition of excellence that is possible only because of the strong work ethic of our employees.”