H.237 is a bill that amends existing Vermont law to allow licensed, doctoral-level psychologists to prescribe medication under specific conditions. The bill introduces new definitions, including "prescribing psychologist," which refers to a psychologist who has completed specialized training and passed an examination to obtain prescriptive authority. It also establishes the role of a "collaborating practitioner," defined as a physician with a specialty in psychiatry, who will work with prescribing psychologists. The bill outlines the requirements for obtaining a prescribing specialty, including completion of a postdoctoral training program in psychopharmacology, clinical rotations in various medical settings, and passing a national certifying exam.

Additionally, the bill specifies the powers and duties of the Board of Psychological Examiners, including the regulation of prescribing psychologists and the establishment of collaborative agreements between prescribing psychologists and collaborating practitioners. It also sets forth criteria for prescribing medication, emphasizing that prescriptive authority is limited to mental health conditions and excludes certain populations, such as individuals under 18 or over 80 years of age, and pregnant women. The bill is set to take effect in stages, with certain provisions starting on July 1, 2025, and others on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 26-3001, 26-3009a
As Passed By the House -- Official: 26-3001, 26-3009a
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 26-3001, 26-3009a