Communications

(Dec. 1, 2023) – DEA Extends Telemedicine Flexibilities
The Drug Enforcement Administration and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently extended controlled substance telemedicine prescribing flexibilities through Dec. 31, 2024. This is the second temporary extension after issuing temporary rules in March 2023.

CDC Issues Health Advisory on Recalled Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches
Multiple states have reported to the United States Food and Drug Administration potential cases of high blood lead levels in children consuming recalled cinnamon-containing applesauce products. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a health advisory for clinicians and health departments to consider the possibility of illness because of lead exposure and report cases to their local health authorities.

As of Nov. 7, there are 22 cases nationwide of children ages 1 to 3 with BLLs ranging from 4 to 29 micrograms per deciliter. Signs and symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, change in activity level and anemia.

MLN Connects Provider eNews Available
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services issued the following updates to MLN Connects Provider eNews:

• Quality Payment Program: Preview Your Performance Information by Dec. 12
• HIV: Screening is Knowledge

Before You Go ...

• The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is hosting a webinar, Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock: Management Bundle (Composite Measure) Severe Sepsis Present Data Element Version 5.14a Questions and Answers, at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5, for hospitals participating in the IQR program.
• The Health Resources & Services Administration Region 7 is offering a free Grants 101 Workshop on Thursday, Dec. 7, in Quincy, Ill. Topics will include the federal grant application process, finding funding opportunities, strategies for a successful application and resources to support grant writing efforts. Online registration is available.