Maine Joins SYPACT Press Release
Maine has enacted PSYPACT legislation to allow Maine psychologists to provide services to out-of-state clients. The Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT) is an agreement between participating states allowing licensed psychologists to provide services to patients/clients in other compact states via telehealth or limited in-person appointments. The compact includes these other states.
Description
Created by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB), PSYPACT is a cooperative agreement enacted into law by participating states that allows telepsychological communications (tele-psychology) from providers to patients/clients in separate states, and up to 30 days of in-person face-to-face practice; PsyPACT does not apply to permanent in-person face-to-face practice. The compact recognizes that states have a vested interest in the protection of public health and safety and that psychologists must hold a license in a compact state to provide services.
Benefits
Increases client/patient access to care, facilitates continuity of care when client/patient relocates, travels, etc., certifies that psychologists have met acceptable standards of practice, promotes cooperation between PSYPACT states in the areas of licensure and regulation, and offers a higher degree of consumer protection across state lines.
How PsyPACT Impacts Psychologists
Allows licensed psychologists to practice telepsychology and/or conduct temporary in-person, face-to-face practice across state lines without having to become licensed in additional PSYPACT states, permits psychologists to provide services to populations currently underserved or geographically isolated, and standardizes time allowances for temporary practice regulations in PSYPACT states.
PSYPACT and Licensing
MePA’s Legislative Committee developed this handy FAQ about PSYPACT and Licensing.
How PSYPACT Works
The ASPPB developed this handout to help you understand how to practice under PSYPACT.