Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Extends Telehealth Prescribing Flexibilities Through 12/31/26
The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) announced (via an unpublished rule; due to publish on 12/31) that the pandemic-era rule allowing the prescription of controlled substances to patients without in-person visits will remain in place for another year. The DEA has promised to work on a permanent tele-prescribing rule that balances access, control, and provider burden. Previous comments from the DEA have acknowledged the unique needs of patients living with serious illness and palliative care specialists, and CAPC and the National Alliance of Hospice and Palliative Care will continue to share this unique perspective as a long-term solution is crafted.