DEA Extends Prescribing Controlled Substances Via Telehealth For 6 Months

May 11, 2023

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is extending the ability for physicians to prescribe controlled substances based on telehealth visits through November 11, 2023. This method had been set to expire when the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency ended today (May 11).  

On March 1, the DEA and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), sent out notices of proposed rulemakings (NPRMs) to generate feedback on proposals to continue allowing the prescribing of controlled medications via virtual visits with patients. More than 38,000 public comments came in.  

“These medications, including those used to treat opioid use disorder, are a vital form of care for millions of Americans who have come to rely on safe and effective telemedicine appointments,” said the AMA in a statement. “Patients being treated with these medications often have challenges securing and traveling to in-person appointments.” 

Latest News

Physician/Olympian to Give Inspirational Address at Empowering Physicians Event

August 20, 2026

A physician and Olympian will give an inspirational address as part of this year's Empowering Physicians event on Friday, September 25, at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.

Minnesota Vaccination Rates Trending in Wrong Direction

August 20, 2026

Minnesota received some disturbing news this week from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as data shows that for the 2025-2026 school year, vaccination rates decreased and non-medical exemptions increased.  

Appellate Court Sides with Texas Medical Association in No Surprises Act Lawsuit

August 20, 2026

On August 11, a federal appellate court sided with the Texas Medical Association (TMA) argument that the way the No Surprises Act’s qualifying payment amount (QPA) is calculated has historically favored payers in arbitration.