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Prescribing controlled substances via telehealth

During the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE), authorized providers can prescribe controlled substances via telehealth, without the need for an in-person medical evaluation. The Administration’s plan is to end the COVID-19 public health emergency on May 11, 2023.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has made 2 changes related to prescribing controlled substances while the COVID-19 public health emergency remains in effect.

  • A practitioner can prescribe a controlled substance to a patient using telemedicine, even if the patient isn’t at a hospital or clinic registered with the DEA
  • Qualifying practitioners can prescribe buprenorphine to new and existing patients with opioid use disorder based on a telephone evaluation

For more on the specific requirements for practitioners, see:

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