A South Dakota legislative panel has moved forward with a proposal to join the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), aiming to facilitate telehealth mental health services across state lines.
The compact allows clients to receive care from licensed behavioral health providers in other states.
The initiative, supported by Sioux Falls Democrat Linda Duba, aims to address mental health shortages in South Dakota, where a significant portion of the population faces mental health conditions.
The PSYPACT Commission emphasizes the use of technology to regulate tele-psychology, ensuring standards of practice and addressing disciplinary issues across state lines.
The proposal received unanimous support from the House Health and Human Service Committee.