Bill > HB1000

This bill expands the scope of practice for psychologists in Pennsylvania by creating a new category of "prescribing psychologist" who can prescribe psychotropic medications under specific conditions. To qualify for a prescription certificate, psychologists must complete a master's degree in clinical psychopharmacology, undergo extensive supervised clinical training (including an 80-hour practicum and 400 hours treating at least 100 patients), pass a national certification exam, and maintain professional liability insurance. The bill increases the State Board of Psychology from 9 to 11 members and requires prescribing psychologists to maintain a collaborative relationship with the patient's primary care provider, ensuring comprehensive and coordinated medical care. Prescribing psychologists are limited in their prescriptive authority, cannot prescribe narcotics (with minor exceptions), and must adhere to strict guidelines regarding patient care, record-keeping, and professional standards. The bill also establishes new reporting requirements, penalties for unlicensed practice, and allows for prescription services via telemedicine, ultimately expanding mental health treatment options while maintaining rigorous professional standards and patient safety protocols.

Labor and Employment

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1000