As the end of 2024 approaches, lawmakers and physicians are increasingly anxious about whether the COVID-era telemedicine flexibility rules will be extended for a third time.
These measures, which have made it easier for doctors to prescribe controlled substances without in-person visits, are set to expire at the close of the year. Federal regulators, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), have hinted that stricter rules could be on the horizon, sparking concern from medical professionals and advocates alike, reported The Hill.
Since 2020, the Department of Health and Human Services and the DEA have allowed physicians to prescribe Schedule II to V controlled substances via telemedicine without requiring in-person evaluations.
This has significantly expanded access to care, especially for patients dealing with mental health and substance use disorders. With these flexibilities expiring, a bipartisan group of lawmakers is pushing for an extension.
The DEA has submitted a rule for review, but leaked details suggest it may introduce major restrictions, such as requiring half of all prescriptions to be given in person and nearly eliminating telemedicine prescriptions for certain drugs like Adderall.
Telehealth supporters are advocating for a “clean” extension of the current rules without new limitations.
Kyle Zebley, executive director of ATA Action, expressed optimism for a temporary extension, but concerns linger about the DEA’s long-term intentions. He noted that any new regulations would require significant implementation and review time, making a rushed decision problematic.
Lawmakers share this concern, particularly as the proposed changes could disrupt access to life-saving treatments for thousands of patients.
Doctors, such as Holly Yang of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, argue that returning to pre-pandemic standards would harm vulnerable patients.
Yang highlighted how telemedicine has made care more accessible for patients with limited mobility or who live in rural areas. While she acknowledged the importance of in-person visits, she emphasized that telehealth provides faster access to care, a crucial benefit for those dealing with chronic conditions or end-of-life care.
One of the DEA’s proposed solutions is a special registration process for telemedicine providers, which Congress directed the agency to develop 16 years ago.
However, reports suggest that the DEA’s version of this process may exclude key drugs and providers, raising further alarm. Lawmakers have criticized the delay in setting up this system, pointing out that implementing new regulations so close to the deadline could jeopardize care for patients reliant on telemedicine.
With time running out, the DEA is under pressure to extend telemedicine flexibilities and ensure patients do not lose access to critical medications. Lawmakers are pushing for a temporary solution while a more comprehensive rule is developed. As the public waits for an official decision, the future of telehealth hangs in the balance.
This article was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence.