Texas State Representative Dustin R. Burrows (HD-83) filed House Bill 593 [this week], legislation aimed at providing Texans critically needed access to mental health medications prescribed by specially trained licensed psychologists.
Currently, over 80% of mental health medications are prescribed by primary care physicians or ER doctors, resulting in long wait times and higher costs for the patient. Delays continue when medications need to be adjusted, changed or discontinued.
“This bill will allow psychologists specially trained in psychopharmacology to prescribe mental health medications, and will make it easier for those suffering with mental health disorders to access effective care in a timely manner. Prescribing psychologists are waiting to help, but until the law allows it, the citizens of Texas do not have this option. This bill will allow the consumers of Texas – particularly those in rural areas with limited access to care — to have another choice for mental health prescriptions; a provider with more mental health education than any other current prescriber” said Burrows.
For the full text of the bill, click here.
(Press release from office of State Representative Dustin R. Burrows)