DEA Poised to Renew Extension of Telehealth Flexibilities for Prescribing Controlled Substances

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) appears to be preparing to extend, for the fourth time, the telehealth flexibilities that allow clinicians to prescribe controlled substances without an initial in-person visit—a policy originally introduced during the COVID-19 public health emergency. According to a notice currently under review at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the rule titled “Fourth Temporary Extension of COVID-19 Telemedicine Flexibilities for Prescription of Controlled Medications” signals that these provisions will remain in place beyond their current expiration date of December 31, 2025.