Feb 17, 2022 | Advocacy
From Dr. Rick Barnett:
We are awaiting the report from our Office of Professional Regulation. In the Fall of 2021, they conducted the first ever Sunrise Review process, which included public hearings/comments, and testimony from opponents and proponents.
While the VT Board of Psychological Examiners voted to NOT support the bill as currently written, they indicated that a bill that includes more robust training may win their support in the future. When the report comes from the Office of Professional Regulation we will share it, along with our next steps. We anticipate an ongoing process to continue to generate support during this legislative session (which began last week).
Thank you to all who contributed their participation in the public hearings, comments and testimonies. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.
Feb 17, 2022 | Advocacy
PSYPACT (H.391): Our advocates in Montpelier are in communication with the lead sponsor for PSYPACT, Rep. Tanya Vyhovsky (P - Chitt), although the bill was not taken up this year. Our advocates report there is a good chance of progress next session because mental health in general is getting more and more attention as COVID-19 leaves mental health practices/agencies overwhelmed. People are likely to travel more and more so practicing across state lines is important. Finally, NASW is working on their own interstate compact and this favors all interstate compact efforts.
Prescribing Privileges for Psychologists with Advance Training (H.392): Our advocates have been meeting regularly to pursue RxP through a “sunrise review,” which involves a comprehensive assessment of the legislation, considering whether it is in the public’s best interest without threat to the public health, safety, and welfare. We believe the bill will be taken up for testimony in 2022, possibly with a favorable recommendation from the Office of Professional Regulation. We will need assistance from VPA Board and our members to reach out to key legislative leaders during the summer and fall to create a groundswell of support in advance of January 2022.
Feb 17, 2022 | Advocacy
We urge Vermont health care providers and all Vermonters to reach out to Senators Sanders and Leahy, and Representative Welch to encourage them to protect access to care through telehealth for Medicare patients. You can click on this link (from APA) to enter your identifying information and send a pre-written letter (which you can modify or replace).
There is a large and growing body of research demonstrating that telehealth provides access to care for people with limited incomes and/or in rural areas. Nonetheless, Congress (Medicare) and private insurance companies are actively discussing discontinuation of reimbursement for telehealth. Given the expanded and popular use of telehealth visits, it is difficult to see how Congress can justify restricting or eliminating the use of telehealth for Medicare patients.
