Staff Reports
Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering a shortcut to expand health care access by allowing psychologists to prescribe medication. While this practice is already allowed in a few states and at the federal level, critics have voiced concerns about a lack of proper training. However, proponents argue that this change would make desperately needed healthcare more accessible to Pennsylvanians.
Pennsylvania considers letting psychologists prescribe medicine for patients https://t.co/VhO13kiooC
— Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (@PittsburghPG) August 8, 2023
House Bill 1000, the proposed legislation, aims to grant psychologists prescription authority for psychotropic medications after they meet the educational and training requirements set by the state Board of Psychology. This would give psychologists similar privileges as primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, New Mexico, Louisiana, and Colorado already allow psychologists to prescribe medication, and they have reportedly seen positive outcomes, such as reduced mental health death rates and no increase in problematic safety issues or overprescribing.
Critics argue that imposing extra limitations on psychologists could hinder the potential benefits of this expansion. Some states have required psychologists to undergo unnecessary clinical training in other specializations, which has been viewed as an attempt to reduce competition. However, Rep. John Lawrence, a Republican, expressed concerns about previous attempts to expand healthcare access in Pennsylvania, citing difficulties in quickly licensing nurses and a stalled nurse licensing compact at the federal level.
The Pennsylvania Psychiatric Society has voiced opposition to the bill, citing concerns about training and the broad understanding of whole-health care. Mary Anne Albaugh, a representative from the society, emphasized the different training pathways for medical professionals compared to psychologists. Currently, patients who cannot meet with a psychiatrist often end up in local hospitals, overwhelming emergency rooms with mental health cases.
In the context of Pennsylvania’s healthcare challenges, allowing psychologists to prescribe medication could offer a potential solution. While concerns about training and competition are valid, the current system is not meeting the needs of patients seeking mental health treatment. If implemented properly, this expansion could increase access to care for individuals who are in desperate need and waiting weeks for treatment. However, it is crucial to strike the right balance between ensuring proper training and not creating unnecessary barriers to competition.
