Can a Physician Assistant perform mental health evaluations and treatments in Texas?

In Texas, a Physician Assistant (PA) can indeed perform mental health evaluations and treatments if these tasks are explicitly included in their Delegation Agreement. This agreement is a critical legal document that outlines the scope of practice for PAs, allowing them to engage in specific types of medical care, including mental health services, as determined by their supervising physician.

The capacity of a PA to manage mental health cases, including evaluations and treatments, hinges on the collaborative relationship they have with their supervising physician, as well as their training. If their education and skills align with those required for mental health assessments and interventions, and if those services are detailed in the Delegation Agreement, then a PA is authorized to provide such care.

This approach helps ensure that PAs operate within their expertise and the provisions set by their supervising physician, promoting appropriate and safe patient care in mental health contexts. This flexibility is essential to meet the diverse healthcare needs of patients in Texas.