The PAIMI Program
The Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) Program was established in 1986. Each state has a PAIMI program which receives funding from the national Center for Mental Health Services. Agencies are mandated to (1) protect and advocate for the rights of people with mental illness and (2) investigate reports of abuse and neglect in facilities that care for or treat individuals with mental illness.
Agencies provide advocacy services or conduct investigations to address issues which arise during transportation or admission to, the time of residency in, or 90 days after discharge from such facilities. The system designated to serve as the PADD program in each state and territory is also responsible for operating the PAIMI program. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS) administers the PAIMI program.