Qualified psychologists could prescribe mental health medicines under supervision

The pilot program allows participating clinical psychologists to prescribe certain mental health medicines under a physician’s or psychiatrist’s supervision. The program covers patients ages eighteen through sixty-five who are treated by a participating psychologist at a federally qualified health center on Kauai or Hawaii Island. A psychologist must be licensed, complete approved specialized training, pass a national psychopharmacology exam or approved equivalent, work for a qualifying center, and meet any other board requirements. Psychologists must qualify and participate in the pilot. They cannot request, receive, or sign for professional controlled-substance samples. The pilot lasts three years. The text does not state when that period begins.

The state health planning agency must report on the pilot and recommend whether to expand, make permanent, or end it. The report concerns the psychologist prescribing pilot program. The report must include findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation. The report is due no later than twenty days before the 2029 regular legislative session.