Article archive / April 1, 2015
Originally published: . Volume 6, No. 4. Source pages: 12.
In March the state Psychology Board posted their minutes for the January 2015 meeting, where they discussed proposed legislation for 2015. “Legislative Oversight Committee: Ms. Parker updated the Board regarding the proposed legislation for the 2015 Legislative Session. She reported that a draft document should be available at the next meeting for approval.” However, the minutes did not list what legislative bills the board would put forth.
Also at the January meeting the board discussed the budget, including a proposed contract for Deborah Harkins, Esquire, as a Legislative Consultant for the 2015 Legislative session. “Dr. Culross moved to deny the contract because the cost was too high for the current year’s budget. The motion was discussed. The motion passed unanimously.”
Also discussed was a new proposal from the Behavior Analyst Board to enter into a new Memorandum of Understanding beginning February 1 and extending to July 2015. “… which would require each board to pay a 50/50 percentage of the operational expenses (e.g., rent) and pay salaries at a 70/30 split.” The board members approved the new arrangement.
The board members decided to join the Federal Association of Regulatory Boards [FARB] in addition to the current ASPPB (Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards) membership.
The board members approved Ms. Parker and Dr. Comaty to participate in the in Behavior Health Integration Advisory Group beginning in January. The Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH) group “will discuss issues and areas of concern for the Medicaid transition of behavioral health services from Magellan to the Bayou Health Plan,” according to the minutes.
The board discussed the issues regarding medical psychologists and use of the psychologist title. “Dr. Zimmermann discussed with the board the use of the title “licensed psychologist” by individuals no longer licensed with the LSBEP. He noted that the proper title for MPs (medical psychologists) licensed only with the LSBME is ‘licensed medical psychologist.’ The Board discussed the issue. Dr. Zimmermann moved for Ms. Parker to contact Dr. Mouton to discuss the issue further. The motion passed unanimously.”
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