The bill establishes a new section, 490.0065, in the Florida Statutes to create a certification process for psychologists to obtain prescriptive authority. It defines key terms such as "prescribing psychologist" and outlines the responsibilities of the Board of Psychology, which includes certifying psychologists who meet specific educational and training criteria, developing procedures for certification, and maintaining records of prescribing psychologists. The bill mandates that psychologists seeking certification must have a current license, complete a doctoral program in psychology, pass a recognized examination, and fulfill certain clinical experience requirements. Additionally, it sets forth rules for certification renewal, requiring 20 hours of continuing education every two years.
The bill also details the practices and limitations for prescribing psychologists, including the requirement to maintain patient prescription records and consult with primary care physicians before prescribing medications. It prohibits certain actions, such as delegating prescription authority and prescribing to patients without a primary care physician. Furthermore, it establishes an interim panel to recommend rules governing prescriptive authority and develop a formulary for prescribing psychologists, which will expire on May 1, 2026. The bill also includes provisions for maintaining professional liability insurance and exempts certain licensed medical professionals from the certification requirements.