DEA Delays Implementation of Telemedicine Rules
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) issued a rule delaying implementation of two final rules related to practicing telemedicine. The first rule, "Expansion of Buprenorphine Treatment via Telemedicine Encounter,” allows DEA-registered practitioners to prescribe buprenorphine for the treatment of opioid use disorder using audio-video or audio-only technology for up to six months, as long as the prescriber meets specific conditions. The second rule, “Continuity of Care via Telemedicine for Veterans Affairs Patients," allows Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) practitioners to prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine to a VA patient they have not previously met in person, if another VA practitioner has previously evaluated that patient in person.
Both rules were originally scheduled to become final on February 18, 2025; however, the rule updated clarifies that a separate, previous rule extension from the DEA and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) already ensures these flexibilities. Therefore, the DEA explained that delaying official implementation of the rule will allow the agency additional time to review its provisions, without limiting prescribing for affected practitioners.