This bill amends and reenacts several sections of Louisiana's Revised Statutes concerning medical psychologists, specifically R.S. 37:1360.55, 1360.56, 1360.57, and 1360.62, while also enacting new definitions under R.S. 37:1360.52. Key changes include the introduction of new qualifications for applicants seeking licensure as medical psychologists, which now require a post-doctoral master's degree in clinical psychopharmacology, successful completion of a national examination in psychopharmacology, and at least three years of clinical experience. Additionally, the bill clarifies the relationship between medical psychologists and primary care providers, emphasizing the need for collaboration in patient care and medication management.

The bill also establishes a certificate of advanced practice for medical psychologists, which requires three years of experience and treatment of a minimum number of patients using a range of psychotropic medications. It mandates that medical psychologists provide their primary care providers with treatment summaries and follow-up reports, ensuring ongoing communication regarding patient care. Notably, the bill removes the requirement for medical psychologists to maintain a separate psychology license for the purposes of their medical psychology license or advanced practice certificate, although dual licensure remains an option.

Statutes affected:
HB828 Original: 37:56(A), 37:57, 37:52(12)
HB828 Engrossed: 37:56(A), 37:57, 37:52(12)
HB828 Reengrossed: 37:56(A), 37:57, 37:52(12)
HB828 Enrolled: 37:56(A), 37:57
HB828 Act 731: 37:56(A), 37:57