The name of this Department has been officially changed to the Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals. The name change continues our fight against the stigmatization of people with developmental disabilities, mental illness, and substance use disorders and addictions. With the name change Rhode Island becomes one of a number of states that are removing the "R word" from their departments serving individuals with developmental disabilities.

The name change reflects our commitment to assuring access to quality services and supports for Rhode Islanders with developmental disabilities, mental health and substance abuse issues, and chronic long term medical and psychiatric conditions; and our mission to address and erase the stigma attached to these disabilities as well as planning for the development of new services and prevention activities.

Craig Stenning, Director