HI SR64

Board of Psychology requested to establish a five-year pilot program allowing licensed clinical psychologists to prescribe psychotropic medications to patients at federally qualified health centers in Hawaii.

Participating psychologists must hold a valid Hawaii license, complete specialized psychopharmacology training approved by the American Psychological Association, pass the Psychopharmacological Examination for Psychologists, and be employed by a federally qualified health center.

First two years of pilot program limited to Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center with direct physician supervision; after year one, supervising physician may recruit additional physicians at other federally qualified health centers to train and supervise participating psychologists.

After two years of direct supervision, participating psychologists may practice with collaborative oversight from supervising physicians and may prescribe only to patients they treat at federally qualified health centers.

Board must submit a comprehensive report to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2025 regular session covering patient numbers, treatment outcomes, mental health access improvements, and patient satisfaction with services.