The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced three new telemedicine rules on Jan. 16 aimed at expanding access to medical treatment while introducing new safeguards against prescription drug misuse.
The first rule allows health care providers to prescribe a six-month initial supply of buprenorphine—a medication used to treat opioid use disorder—through audio-only telemedicine consultations.
Pharmacists are also required to verify the identity of patients when dispensing buprenorphine. However, patients must complete an in-person visit for any refills beyond the initial prescription.
The second rule introduces a special registration system for certain board-certified health care providers, such as psychiatrists, hospice care physicians, pediatricians, and long-term care physicians, allowing them to prescribe Schedule II-V controlled substances without prior in-person visits….