Bill > SB2570

This bill establishes a pathway for certain licensed doctoral-level psychologists in Tennessee to gain the authority to prescribe medications, specifically those used for behavioral health and mental disorders, by creating a new certification process. To become a "prescribing psychologist," an individual must hold a doctoral degree, complete a post-doctoral master's degree in clinical psychopharmacology with specific coursework, pass a national prescribing exam, and complete a supervised fellowship treating at least 100 patients. This new authority, referred to as "prescriptive authority," allows these psychologists to evaluate, manage, and prescribe drugs, but they are prohibited from prescribing narcotic drugs or opiates, administering electroconvulsive therapy, or prescribing for patients not under the care of a physician. The bill also outlines requirements for renewing this prescribing certification, continuing education, and mandates that the Board of Examiners in Psychology maintain records and inform the Board of Pharmacy of all psychologists authorized to prescribe. Additionally, the bill amends various existing Tennessee Code Annotated sections to include "prescribing psychologist" alongside other healthcare professionals in contexts related to controlled substances, drug dispensing, and professional licensing.

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/Default?BillNumber=SB2570&ga=114