New legislation has been tabled to further protect people who need psychological help from unqualified doctors.The Psychological Practitioners Amendment Act 2011 aims to tighten up the code of conduct regarding the registration of medics.It aims to add “both practical experience and continuing education credits” to the list of requirements needed to be met by professionals wanting to renew their certificates of registration.This aims to enforce that local psychologists keep up with changes and developments in their field.If the new laws are passed, a restriction on practicing based on old age will also be scrapped. This means that restrictions to practice will only be based on mental and physical health, rather than age.Members of the Bermuda Psychologists Registration Council will also be allowed to be paid a fee in accordance with the Government Authorities (Fees) Act 1971.To bring psychologists in line with other professions, the ruling council has the power to check on qualifications, training and experience.Health Minister Zane DeSilva tabled the new bill in the House of Assembly on Friday.It updates the Psychological Practitioners Act 1998 and a second reading will be given at a later date.