· In March 2023, two government agencies, the DEA and HHS, proposed new rules for how this should work after the pandemic. They want to keep some flexibility but also add more restrictions.
· A record 38,369 people commented on these new rules. Because of this, the DEA decided to keep the relaxed rules for a little longer, until November 11, 2023, so they could look at all the comments.
· This temporary rule lets doctors keep prescribing controlled medicines, like opioids, stimulants, and sedatives, through telemedicine. This is important for patients who have long-term pain, ADHD, and anxiety disorders, and others.
· The DEA hopes this temporary rule will make it easier for patients and doctors who have gotten used to getting and giving prescriptions through telemedicine.
· Providers who practice telemedicine should be ready for stricter rules, which are expected to be based on the proposals from March 2023. These will come in after the temporary rules and a one-year period where things can be adjusted.
