HI SB597

Creates a five-year pilot program allowing qualified clinical psychologists to prescribe psychotropic medications exclusively to patients at federally qualified health centers in Hawaii.

Requires participating psychologists to complete specialized education in psychopharmacology approved by the American Psychological Association, pass the Psychopharmacological Examination for Psychologists, and obtain federal Drug Enforcement Administration registration.

Mandates direct physician supervision for the first two years of the pilot program, with supervising physicians initially at Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, then potentially recruiting additional physicians at other federally qualified health centers.

Prohibits prescribing of narcotic drugs and prohibits receiving professional controlled substance samples; requires ongoing collaboration with physicians overseeing patients' general medical care.

Requires the board of psychology to submit a report to the legislature by twenty days before the 2016 regular session evaluating patient outcomes, access to mental health care improvements, and patient satisfaction; the pilot program repeals on June 30, 2016.