Hospice physicians can continue to prescribe opioid medications via telehealth until December 31, thanks to an extension of the COVID-era telehealth waiver issued by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). Originally set to expire at the end of 2025, this extension comes as a vital measure to maintain accessibility for patients reliant on telemedicine.
DEA Assistant Administrator Cheri Oz emphasized the importance of this extension, stating, “DEA supports telehealth access for patients who need medication, but not at the expense of public safety.” The new rules aim to provide necessary protections for patients while expanding their access to healthcare, addressing concerns about the potential diversion of medications into the illicit market.
The finalized guidelines allow healthcare providers to prescribe Schedule II-V controlled substances during telemedicine visits conducted through audio-video platforms, removing the prerequisite of an in-person evaluation. These prescriptions must still adhere to other existing regulations and state and federal laws.
In announcing the extension, the DEA highlighted several critical reasons for its decision. These include ensuring continuous care for patients who rely on telehealth services—especially those in rural areas, the elderly, and individuals with mobility challenges. The extension also aims to reduce patient backlog for in-person appointments and provides additional time to implement regulations that balance access to care with necessary safeguards against drug misuse.
The American Telemedicine Association expressed strong support for the extension, advocating for its permanence. Alexis Apple, vice president of federal affairs at the ATA, remarked on the need for a “permanent Special Registration framework” to facilitate responsible patient care while concurrently equipping the DEA with the tools to prevent misuse. Apple also underscored the importance of incorporating feedback from healthcare providers to enhance measures that reduce diversion and improve access to necessary prescriptions for various health conditions.
This extension reflects a growing recognition of the importance of telehealth services, notably during the pandemic, and highlights efforts to adapt to changing healthcare needs while prioritizing patient safety. The collaboration between the DEA and HHS signals a commitment to balancing access to essential medications and safeguarding public health.