HHS and DEA Extend Telemedicine Flexibilities for Prescribing Controlled Medications through 2026
(Jan. 23, 2025) – In early January, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Drug Enforcement Administration
announced a fourth temporary extension of telemedicine flexibilities that allow patients to receive prescriptions for controlled medications without a prior in-person visit. The extension runs from Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2026. According to HHS, the extension gives DEA and HHS additional time to finalize permanent regulations, including the proposed Special Registration for Telemedicine, which would establish standards for prescribing controlled substances via telemedicine while preserving patient safety and preventing misuse. Learn more in the
Federal Register.
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Karen Braman