Pickett’s Bill to Make Mental Health Services More Accessible Garners Committee Approval

March 29, 2022

HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by Rep. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford/Sullivan/Susquehanna) that would make mental health services more accessible to Pennsylvania residents through telehealth technology was unanimously approved by the House Insurance Committee today.

“My legislation would help outpatient psychiatric clinics meet the growing demand for their services and address the shortage of onsite psychiatric time we are facing in the Commonwealth by allowing for more treatment to be administered virtually,” said Pickett.

House Bill 2419 would remove the statutory requirement of 50% of onsite psychiatric time and allow for services to be provided through the use of telehealth technology. Psychiatrists and advanced practice professionals would use in-person or telehealth sessions with patients as specified in department regulations or waivers.

Pickett, who serves as majority chair of the House Insurance Committee, noted that her legislation grew out of a concern expressed by a constituent.

“I believe telemedicine provides an essential link for patients with special needs, including the young and elderly, along with minority populations. It also benefits those who live in challenging geographic areas or with transportation barriers,” Pickett added.

House Bill 2419 now goes to the full House of Representatives for consideration.

Representative Tina Pickett
110th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Andy Briggs
717-260-6474
abriggs@pahousegop.com
RepPickett.com / Facebook.com/RepPickett