Just before its scheduled expiration, the Drug Enforcement Agency extended telemedicine remote prescribing flexibilities for an additional year, a move welcomed by many telehealth advocates.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, flexibilities were implemented that allowed the prescribing of controlled substances via telehealth without an in-person exam to expand access to care. They were scheduled to expire at the end of 2025, but have now been extended until December 31, 2026. This is the fourth time these flexibilities have been extended.
In it Federal RegisterThe DEA stated that the extension is intended to prevent patients from abruptly losing access to care, as the expiration of the flexibilities would force a return to pre-pandemic restrictions. It will also give the DEA time to establish a final set of regulations, ensure a smooth transition for patients and providers, and provide adequate time for providers to comply.
ATA Action, the advocacy arm of the American Telemedicine Association (ATA), said the organization is grateful for the extension.
“This one-year extension is a huge relief to patients and healthcare providers, restoring certainty and preventing treatment gaps for millions of Americans… The remote controlled substance prescribing waiver, originally implemented during President Trump’s first term and extended under his leadership during his current White House term, has proven to be a lifeline for patients by expanding access to care, reducing treatment delays, and improving outcomes. This critically important waiver must be continually preserved until a policy is enacted. permanent,” Alexis Apple, deputy executive director of ATA Action and ATA vice president of federal affairs, said in a statement.
In particular, the ATA favors a special registration process that would allow a physician to register to virtually prescribe controlled substances.
“We continue to support a permanent Special Registry framework that enables responsible patient care and equips the DEA with the appropriate tools to prevent misuse,” Apple said. “We also encourage DEA to seek feedback from providers in developing safeguards to reduce diversion, improve access to essential prescriptions for mental health, substance use disorders, and other chronic conditions, and prioritize patient safety. ATA Action believes that clinical decisions should remain the judgment of qualified medical professionals, supported by regulatory frameworks that protect patients and promote responsible care.”
The Alliance for Connected Care, another telehealth advocate, also applauded the extension and called for a permanent solution.
“We applaud the DEA for acting to continue access to care for the millions of patients who rely on telehealth for essential medications. However, this should be the last time these Americans are just days away from losing access to the treatments they need. We call on the DEA to engage stakeholders and develop a permanent framework to ensure safe access to prescriptions through telehealth,” Chris Adamec, executive director of the Alliance for Connected Care, said in a statement.
Photo credit: Sorbetto, Getty Images
