Bill
SB 5112
Washington SB 5112 creates certification pathway allowing licensed psychologists to prescribe psychiatric medications after completing specialized training, expanding mental health care provider capacity.
SB 5112 establishes a prescribing psychologist certification program in Washington state, allowing licensed psychologists who complete additional training and certification requirements to prescribe certain medications. The bill creates new regulatory pathways under the Department of Health to oversee this expanded scope of practice for qualified psychologists.
This legislation directly affects access to mental health care by potentially expanding the provider pool authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications, particularly in underserved rural areas where psychiatrist shortages are acute. It also impacts healthcare costs, professional boundaries between psychology and psychiatry, and patient safety protocols in medication management.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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