Representative Kristi Noem Recognized for Advocacy Work on Mental Health Issues

WASHINGTON, March 1, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Representative Kristi Noem (R-SD) was honored last night by the APA Practice Organization for her advocacy work and legislative accomplishments on mental health issues.  The Practice Organization recognized Rep. Noem with the 2016 Outstanding Leadership Award, given annually to a member of Congress who has done good work on behalf of professional psychology.

Rep. Noem has prominently championed the goals of professional psychology in the 114^th Congress. She is the lead Republican sponsor of House Bill 4277 "Medicare Mental Health Access Act," the Practice Organization's priority legislation to allow psychologists to practice in the Medicare program without unnecessary physician supervision.

"Representative Noem's leadership on this legislation moves psychology one step closer to removing Medicare's outdated physician supervision and provide Medicare patients better access to mental health services," says Katherine C. Nordal, PhD, executive director for professional practice.

Rep. Noem is serving her third term in the United States Representatives representing South Dakota.

"Strong mental health is important to healthy aging, so it's essential that we make care in this area more accessible to Medicare recipients," said Noem.  "Especially in rural areas, like South Dakota, and other underserved communities, clinical psychologists play an indispensable role in meeting the mental health needs of older Americans.  I'm hopeful this legislation will help remove barriers of access and by doing so, boost the mental health and wellbeing of seniors throughout South Dakota and across the nation."

In the House, Rep. Noem is a member of the influential Committee on Ways and Means.  She is on the House Subcommittee on Human Resources and House Subcommittee on Tax Policy.

The APA Practice Organization is an affiliate of the American Psychological Association, the largest scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States. APA's membership includes more than 122,500 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants and students.

SOURCE American Psychological Association Practice Organization