Your Guide on the Telehealth Prescribing Law Update

The public health emergency (PHE) declared in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic expired on May 11, 2023. During the PHE, certain regulations were suspended which then allowed patients to be seen and to be prescribed  non-controlled and controlled substances (Adderall, Xanax, Ritalin, etc.) via the Internet. Patients could be prescribed such medications after seeing a healthcare provider online. They were not required to have in-person visits during the PHE.

The updated regulations and previously suspended regulations regarding the prescribing of controlled substances via the Internet were scheduled to become effective on November 11, 2023. However, due to overwhelming public feedback the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) extended the date.

According to the latest information from the DEA, patients can continue receiving treatment online without the need for in-person doctor visits until December 31, 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Were the new DEA rules effective as of November 11, 2023?
  • What changes on December 31, 2024?
  • What is a controlled substance?
Were the new DEA rules effective as of November 11, 2023?

As per the latest update from the DEA, the proposed changes were not instituted, and the current rules have been extended until December 31, 2024. Patients can continue receiving online prescriptions without the need to see their healthcare providers in person.

What changes on December 31, 2024?

The proposed new regulations may affect those who begin their online treatment after December 31, 2024. However, the DEA is reviewing what their future policy will incorporate.

What is a controlled substance?

Controlled substances are medications and other substances with high risk or potential for abuse and addiction. Because of that, the government controls their distribution and delivery.

Several medications for the treatment of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), depression, anxiety disorders, insomnia, and other conditions fall under the category of controlled substances.

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