The AAMC joined over 300 organizations in letters to Congress and the Biden administration requesting action to extend telehealth prescribing capabilities. Flexibilities currently exist from the COVID-19 public health emergency that allow providers to virtually prescribe certain controlled medications. Absent any congressional or regulatory action, these flexibilities will expire on Dec. 31. The AAMC supports continuing these flexibilities as they increase patient access to needed care [refer to Washington Highlights, April 7, 2023].
The letters to House (PDF) and Senate leadership (PDF) urge lawmakers to include a two-year extension of these flexibilities in the year-end legislation package. The letter to U.S. Domestic Policy Council Director Neera Tanden (PDF) requesting that she and the Biden administration to work with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and other relevant agencies to extend these flexibilities while the DEA creates its congressionally mandated special pathway.
A final rule on the telehealth flexibilities that could limit virtual prescribing is expected soon.
- Washington Highlights