House Joint Resolution 551, sponsored by Hakeem, recognizes and commends the Bleyzer Program at Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute (MBMHI) in Chattanooga, Tennessee. MBMHI is a key psychiatric hospital serving fifty-two counties in East Tennessee and has recently received the first annual IIPR Award from The Rutgers Institute for Inpatient Psychiatric Rehabilitation for its innovative approach to psychiatric rehabilitation. Established in 2020, the Bleyzer Program focuses on assisting patients who have been in inpatient care for extended periods, helping them develop coping skills, independent living skills, and confidence to facilitate their reintegration into the community.
The resolution highlights the program's success, noting that thirty-six patients have graduated with only three returning for medication adjustments, indicating effective support and care. The Bleyzer Program employs a "community living" approach, allowing patients to engage in daily activities such as meal planning and shopping, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community involvement. The resolution expresses gratitude for the dedication of the program's staff and emphasizes the vital role the Bleyzer Program plays in enhancing the well-being of citizens in East Tennessee, wishing it continued success in the future.