FL H0373

Creates Section 490.017, Florida Statutes, authorizing the Board of Psychology to certify licensed psychologists to prescribe, administer, and distribute psychiatric medications including controlled substances

Requires applicants to hold a doctoral degree in psychology, pass the Psychopharmacology Examination for Psychologists, and complete specialized coursework in pharmacology, neurosciences, clinical medicine, and related areas

Mandates prescribing psychologists consult with a patient's primary care physician before prescribing, altering, or terminating any drug treatment; prohibits prescribing to patients without a primary care physician

Requires 20 hours of continuing education in prescriptive authority every 2-year licensure period for certification renewal

Establishes an interim panel by October 1, 2019 (comprising a psychiatrist, pediatrician, pharmacist, and two psychologists) to develop proposed rules, with recommendations due by May 1, 2020