House Bill No. by Representative Egan amends R.S. 28:53(G)(7)(b)(i) to update the provisions regarding the issuance of emergency certificates in St. Tammany Parish. The bill allows a coroner or deputy coroner, who is a physician (preferably a psychiatrist), to conduct an examination and execute an emergency certificate via telehealth. This change is significant as it expands the methods by which initial examinations can be conducted, particularly in situations where in-person evaluations may not be feasible.

The amendment specifically removes the requirement that the initial examination must be conducted in person by a psychiatrist, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, or psychologist. This deletion facilitates greater flexibility in the examination process, allowing for telehealth options to be utilized, which can enhance access to mental health services in emergency situations. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the emergency certification process while ensuring that appropriate medical evaluations are still conducted.

Statutes affected:
HB118 Original: 28:53(G)(7)
HB118 Engrossed: 28:53(G)(7)
HB118 Enrolled: 28:53(G)(7)
HB118 Act 61: 28:53(G)(7)