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DEA, HHS extend telemedicine waivers for prescribing controlled medications

Male doctor engaging with male patient over computer (telemedicine).
Photo: Brooks Kraft LLC/Corbis via Getty Images

Under the temporary rule, patients who rely on telemedicine can continue accessing care without fear of falling off the so-called “telemedicine cliff.”

The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) for the fourth extension of a waiver for prescribing controlled substances via telemedicine for patients without a prior in-person visit.

The temporary rule ensures that people who rely