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People with mental health conditions are often among the most vulnerable in society. Many may not be able to advocate for themselves due to the nature of their condition or the place where they are receiving care. Our PAIMI program steps in to make sure their safety is prioritized. PAIMI stands for Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness.
History of the PAIMI program
The PAIMI program was established by Congress in 1986 following widespread reports of dangerous mistreatment and neglect of people in psychiatric institutions.
Congress responded by legally establishing Protection and Advocacy (P&A) organizations like Disability Rights Texas to monitor these settings, investigate complaints, and advocate for change. P&As are uniquely qualified to provide advocacy services to people receiving inpatient mental health treatment for several reasons. For example, P&As are independent, accountable, and a formidable legal authority. Learn more about why P&As were the right choice to implement the PAIMI program.
Since its establishment, the PAIMI program has helped bring crucial reforms, improved conditions, and supported hundreds of thousands of individuals across the country in safeguarding their rights.
PAIMI program priorities
In Texas, our staff focuses on the following priorities as established annually by our Governing Board and PAIMI Advisory Council and in alignment with PAIMI Act regulations:
- Monitoring public and private facilities
- Conducting investigations into abuse, neglect or rights violations
- Advocating for individuals when violations are discovered
- Filing litigation to combat ongoing, systemic abuse and neglect or when our legal access authority is denied
PAIMI program outcomes
In Fiscal Year 2025, our outcomes included:
- 44,475 PAIMI-eligible individuals impacted by our work
- More than 3,400 individuals trained through PAIMI education and training events
- 632 PAIMI-eligible individuals received our advocacy services
- Death investigation in a state-run facility where P&A involvement resulted in substantial policy changes and training of staff to prevent further deaths of patients
PAIMI Advisory Council
The DRTx PAIMI Advisory Council is mandated under the PAIMI Act of 1986 and advises our agency on policies and priorities to be carried out in protecting and advocating for the rights of people with mental illness. Visit the PAIMI Advisory Council page to learn more about the council, including how to apply to serve on the council and how to provide feedback to the council.
Getting help from DRTx
If you are experiencing mental illness and are facing discrimination, you can apply to get help from DRTx.