The bill H.237 proposes to authorize doctoral-level psychologists in Vermont to prescribe medication, thereby expanding their professional capabilities. It introduces several new definitions, including "prescribing psychologist," which refers to a licensed psychologist who has completed specialized training and received a prescribing specialty from the Board of Psychological Examiners. The bill outlines the requirements for obtaining a prescribing psychologist license, including completion of a postdoctoral training program in psychopharmacology, supervised practice, and passing a national certifying exam. Additionally, it establishes criteria for prescribing medication, which includes the necessity of a written collaborative agreement with a collaborating practitioner, who is typically a physician.

The bill also amends existing regulations regarding the powers and duties of the Board of Psychological Examiners, specifically by adding provisions to regulate prescribing psychologists and their collaborative practice agreements. It deletes previous language related to complaint and appeal procedures and replaces it with new rules governing the qualifications of collaborating practitioners and the evaluation of prescribing psychologists' competencies. The effective dates for the various sections of the bill are staggered, with some provisions taking effect on July 1, 2025, and others on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 26-3001, 26-3009a