This bill amends R.S. 28:53(B)(1) to expand the scope of professionals authorized to conduct telehealth examinations for emergency certificates related to mental health. Specifically, it allows psychologists and medical psychologists to perform these examinations under certain conditions. The bill stipulates that an emergency certificate can only be executed after an actual examination of the individual in question, who must be determined to be in need of immediate care due to mental illness or substance-related disorders.

Additionally, the bill modifies the language regarding the qualifications of healthcare professionals involved in the examination process. It replaces the pronoun "their" with "his" to refer to physician assistants and other practitioners, ensuring clarity in the execution of emergency certificates. The examination can be conducted via telehealth, provided that a licensed healthcare professional is present with the patient during the video conference. This change aims to facilitate timely access to mental health care while maintaining safety and compliance with legal standards.

Statutes affected:
HB137 Original: 28:53(B)(1)
HB137 Engrossed: 28:53(B)(1)
HB137 Enrolled: 28:53(B)(1)
HB137 Act : 28:53(B)(1)