Advocates praise DEA's fourth expansion of remote prescribing flexibility
Just before the scheduled expiration of the deadline, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration extended telemedicine remote prescribing flexibility for another year, a move welcomed by many telemedicine advocates.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, flexibilities were adopted to allow controlled medicines to be prescribed via telemedicine without the need for an in-person examination to expand access to care. They were originally due to expire at the end of 2025, but have now been extended to December 31, 2026. This is the fourth time these flexibilities have been extended.
The DEA said in the Federal Register that the extension is intended to prevent patients from suddenly losing access to care because expiration of the flexibilities would force a return to pre-pandemic restrictions. It will also provide DEA time to develop a final set of regulations that 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 was grateful for the extension.
“This one-year extension is a significant relief for patients and health care providers, restoring certainty and avoiding treatment gaps for millions of Americans. … First implemented during President Trump’s first term and extended under his leadership during his current White House tenure, the Remote Prescribing Controlled Substance Waiver has proven to be a lifeline for patients, expanding access to care, reducing treatment delays, and improving outcomes. This vital waiver must remain in place until a permanent policy is enacted.” ATA Action Deputy Executive Director and ATA Vice President of Federal Affairs Alexis Apple said in a statement.
In particular, ATA supports a special registration process that allows clinicians to register to prescribe controlled substances virtually.
“We will continue to support a permanent special enrollment framework to enable responsible patient care and equip DEA with the appropriate tools to prevent abuse,” Apple said. “We also encourage DEA to seek provider feedback as they develop 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 continue to be made by qualified medical professionals and supported by a regulatory framework that protects patients and promotes responsible care.”
The Connected Care Alliance, another telemedicine advocate, also applauded the extension and called for a permanent solution.
Chris Adamec, executive director of the Connected Health Alliance, said in a statement: “We applaud the DEA for taking action to continue providing care to the millions of patients who rely on telemedicine for essential medications. However, this should be the last time these Americans come to the hospital within days of losing the care they need. We call on the DEA to work with stakeholders to develop a permanent framework to ensure safe access to prescriptions through telemedicine.”
Photo credit: Sorbetto, Getty Images
