The bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code concerning the practice of psychology, particularly focusing on the qualifications and regulations for psychologists, including the formation of a board of psychologist examiners. It introduces definitions for "collaborative agreement" and "collaborative prescriber," which clarify the relationship between licensed psychologists and other medical professionals regarding prescribing practices. Additionally, the bill requires fingerprint-based criminal history background checks for applicants seeking licensure, thereby strengthening the vetting process for new professionals entering the field. It also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between psychologists and medical providers in prescribing medications, ensuring compliance with relevant laws.

Moreover, the bill makes significant changes to the prescriptive authority of psychologists, stipulating that no psychologist may prescribe for pediatric or geriatric patients without fulfilling specific requirements. It replaces the term "supervising physician" with "collaborative prescriber" and introduces new provisions for provisional certification, mandating that psychologists possess a doctorate and a master's degree in clinical psychopharmacology. The bill also repeals certain sections related to unauthorized medical practice and prescriptive rules, while establishing that the new regulations will take effect on July 1, 2025. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance the qualifications and oversight of psychologists who prescribe medications, ensuring they are adequately trained and experienced.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 54-2302, 54-2304, 54-2305, 54-2307, 54-2312, 54-2312A, 54-2313, 54-2316, 54-2317, 54-2318, 54-2320