For example, in 2020, federal regulators waived a rule requiring in-person evaluations before prescribing controlled substances via telemedicine, a change that advocates say has expanded access to critical opioid-use disorder treatments, especially for rural patients.
However, some telemedicine companies have faced scrutiny for overprescribing stimulants under this policy.
The current waiver is set to expire on Dec. 31, but in October, the DEA signaled plans for another temporary extension. This would give the new administration time to develop a permanent policy, according to the report. Kyle Zebley, senior vice president of public policy at the American Telemedicine Association and executive director of its advocacy arm, expressed support for a rule that maintains access while adding safeguards against misuse.
“This will be a piece of unfinished business that the Trump administration will inherit,” Mr. Zebley told the publication.
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