DEA Issues Third Extension of Temporary Telemedicine Flexibilities

November 17, 2024

On November 15, 2024, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) extended until
December 31, 2025, the temporary telemedicine provisions allowing healthcare providers to
prescribe controlled substances without an initial in-person visit. This new expiration date
replaces the previously scheduled expiration at the end of 2024.

These provisions were first introduced during the COVID-19 public health emergency to
maintain access to essential healthcare services. They have since played a key role in
expanding access to care, and in 2023, the DEA’s proposed permanent telemedicine rules drew
over 38,000 public comments. The DEA chose not to reopen the public comment period,
instead opting to use the extension to review the already received comments and finalize a set
of telemedicine regulations.

Learn more here.