DEA Issues Proposed Rule for Telemedicine Prescribing of Controlled Substances

A proposed rule was published in the Federal Register on March 1, 2023 focused on telemedicine prescribing of controlled substances when the practitioner and the patient have not had a prior in-person medical evaluation. This proposed rule applies only in limited circumstances when the prescribing practitioner wishes to prescribe controlled medications via the practice of telemedicine and has not otherwise conducted an in-person medical evaluation prior to the issuance of the prescription. With that in mind, NHPCO is working with legal counsel to determine the circumstances under which this proposed rule could apply to hospice or palliative care providers and will also provide talking points for those who want to submit a comment letter directly to the DEA. The DEA has posted two helpful resources for providers and prescribers.

Proposed Rules Summary

Proposed Rules Highlights for Medical Practitioners

To provide feedback for the NHPCO comment letter, email [email protected].