Mar 9, 2022 | Advocacy
From Dr. Rick Barnett:
Hello Div55ers and VPA Members,
Here is a brief update on Vermont’s RxP effort, with a longer description coming next week (after I meet with the lobbyist).
I spoke with the Office of Professional Regulation today who spear-headed a “Sunrise Review” Process. The report that was to be submitted to the House Government Operations Committee in January has not yet been completed. The word is that it will be a favorable recommendation with several caveats, and it will be kicked to the next Biennium (this will be Vermont’s 4th Biennium, it is on a 2 year legislative cycle) with an RxP bill.
So, the work will continue into next year. In the meantime, more discussion and addendums have been written that will focus on the regulatory oversight process (for example, proposing a subcommittee of prescribers be created to serve as needed on Board of Psychological Examiners), beefed up clinical training requirements (a hybrid of Illinois and Idaho and not modeling NM or LA), and getting realistic expectations on the long-term uptake of this new workforce (citing those currently enrolled in the various RxP training programs across the country). This likely means a new bill (but not necessarily).
This is not bad news at all! We are in this for the long haul. We stand on the shoulders of giants who have gone before us with vision, persistence, and conviction. Much gratitude to all of you who guide and inspire us along the way!
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.
Feb 17, 2022 | Advocacy
S.117, a bill that would expand access to healthcare for Vermonters by requiring that insurance plans and the Medicaid program provide coverage for telephone healthcare services, passed both the House and Senate and now awaits approval from the governor. This proposal would provide Vermonters, particularly those without transportation or those who don’t live near their provider, with greater healthcare access during the pandemic and beyond.
