Texas House Bill HR1703

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Introduced: 4/30/09
• Refer: 4/30/09
• Enrolled: 5/11/09
• Passed: 5/11/09

Caption

Congratulating Dr. Jim McDermott of Tarrant County on his receipt of the 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award for Staff Leadership from the National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare.

Impact

The resolution highlights Dr. McDermott's vision for a community-focused system of care, which has resulted in numerous expansions and improvements in the mental health services offered in Tarrant County. His contributions have established MHMRTC as an innovative institution that is often used as a pilot site for statewide initiatives, showcasing the positive impact that strong leadership in healthcare can have on community services. The recognition aligns with broader state goals of enhancing behavioral health care and adapting services to meet local needs.

Summary

HR1703 is a resolution congratulating Dr. Jim McDermott of Tarrant County on receiving the 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award for Staff Leadership from the National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare. This resolution acknowledges Dr. McDermott's significant contributions to the field of behavioral health care over his more than twenty-year career, particularly his role as the chief executive officer of Mental Health Mental Retardation of Tarrant County (MHMRTC). Under his leadership, MHMRTC expanded its services, increasing funding from $24 million to $90 million and allowing the facility to serve over 20,000 patients annually across various programs, including outpatient mental health and detox services.

Contention

While HR1703 serves primarily as a formal recognition of Dr. McDermott's contributions, the discussion surrounding mental health services and community care can sometimes be contentious. Debates may arise concerning funding levels, the adequacy of resources dedicated to mental health care, and contrasting approaches to service delivery within the community health framework. However, the resolution itself chiefly aims to foster appreciation for dedicated service and to reinforce the importance of leadership within this sector.