A. If the terms of any group or blanket accident and health insurance policy cover services within the lawful scope of practice of a licensed psychologist or licensed and certified clinical social worker then:

1. Such services may be performed by any person licensed to do so in this state as provided in subsection B of this section.

2. Selection of such a psychologist or social worker may be made by the insured at his option and, provided other conditions of the policy are met, reimbursement shall not be denied when service is rendered by a person so licensed.

3. The provisions of this section shall apply to the policies and contracts of insurance issued thereunder which are delivered, amended, ratified, or issued for delivery in Oklahoma, after October 1, 1982.

4. Any provision, exclusion, or limitation of a policy that denies an insured the privilege of selecting such a psychologist or social worker shall, to the extent of the denial, be void, but such void provision shall not affect the validity of the other provisions of the policy.

B. For purposes of this section:

1. "Licensed psychologist" means a person licensed and complying with the Psychologists Licensing Act, Sections 1351 through 1375 of Title 59 of the Oklahoma Statutes; and

2. "Licensed and certified social worker" means a person licensed and complying with the Social Workers' Licensing Act, Sections 1250.1 (3) and 1261.1 (B) of Title 59 of the Oklahoma Statutes.

Amended by Laws 1982, c. 61, § 3, operative Oct. 1, 1982.