The bill establishes a new section, 490.0065, in the Florida Statutes, which outlines the certification process for psychologists to obtain prescriptive authority. It defines key terms such as "prescribing psychologist" and "controlled substance," and mandates that the Board of Psychology certify psychologists who meet specific educational and training criteria. The board is tasked with developing procedures for certification, including application requirements, continuing education for renewal, and maintaining records of prescribing psychologists. Additionally, the bill specifies practices for prescribing psychologists, including collaboration with primary care physicians and maintaining professional liability insurance.
Furthermore, the bill creates an interim panel to recommend rules governing prescriptive authority for psychologists, which must be established by October 1, 2025. This panel will include various healthcare professionals and is responsible for developing a formulary for prescribing psychologists, outlining which drugs can be prescribed and establishing guidelines for treating patients under 18. The panel's recommendations are due by February 1, 2026, and the provisions related to the panel will expire on May 1, 2026. The bill aims to enhance the scope of practice for psychologists while ensuring public safety through regulated prescriptive authority.