DEA, HHS Extend Telemedicine Flexibilities for Remote Prescribing of Controlled Substances
In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) have announced a temporary extension of telemedicine flexibilities for the remote prescribing of controlled substances. This move aims to provide patients with access to vital healthcare services while adhering to social distancing measures.
The use of telemedicine has significantly increased during the pandemic, as many patients have been unable to physically visit their healthcare providers. The DEA and HHS acknowledge the importance of telemedicine in providing safe and effective care to patients, especially those in rural areas or with limited access to healthcare facilities.
Under the Controlled Substances Act, healthcare providers are required to conduct an in-person medical evaluation before prescribing controlled substances. However, due to the current situation, the DEA and HHS have extended the waiver of this requirement until the end of the public health emergency declared by the HHS. This means that healthcare providers can continue to prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine without conducting an in-person visit.
This extension of telemedicine flexibilities is a crucial step in ensuring that patients continue to have access to necessary medications, such as opioids for chronic pain, while minimizing the risk of exposure to the virus. It also allows healthcare providers to continue providing essential services without compromising the safety of their patients.
Moreover, the DEA and HHS have also extended the waiver of the Ryan Haight Act, which requires a special registration for healthcare providers to prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine. This waiver has been extended until October 24, 2020, or the end of the public health emergency, whichever comes first. This extension will allow healthcare providers to continue utilizing telemedicine without the added burden of obtaining a separate registration.
The DEA has also issued guidance for DEA-registered practitioners who are authorized to prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine. The guidance emphasizes the importance of a valid patient-provider relationship, which includes a medical evaluation, before prescribing controlled substances. It also highlights the need for proper documentation and adherence to state and federal regulations.
This temporary extension of telemedicine flexibilities is a positive step in ensuring that patients continue to receive necessary medications while minimizing the risk of exposure to COVID-19. It also highlights the commitment of the DEA and HHS to support healthcare providers in delivering quality care during this challenging time.
The extension of telemedicine flexibilities has received widespread support from healthcare organizations and providers. The American Medical Association (AMA) has applauded this move, stating that it will help ensure continued access to important medications for patients who need them the most.
Furthermore, the AMA has also called for a permanent change to the Controlled Substances Act, which would allow the use of telemedicine for the prescribing of controlled substances even after the end of the public health emergency. This would greatly benefit patients, especially those in remote or underserved areas, who may face difficulties in accessing in-person healthcare services.
The DEA and HHS have shown great responsiveness in extending telemedicine flexibilities to support the healthcare system during this crisis. This move not only ensures the safety of patients but also helps in reducing the burden on hospitals and healthcare facilities, which are already overwhelmed due to the pandemic.
In conclusion, the temporary extension of telemedicine flexibilities for the remote prescribing of controlled substances by the DEA and HHS is a positive step in providing safe and effective healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic. This move not only benefits patients but also supports healthcare providers in delivering quality care without compromising their safety. It is now up to the authorities to consider making this change permanent and ensuring that telemedicine remains a viable option for patients even after the pandemic is over.
