DEA Delays Final Buprenorphine and VA Rules

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) delayed until Dec. 31 the effective dates for two prior rules: the Expansion of Buprenorphine Treatment via Telemedicine Encounter and Continuity of Care via Telemedicine for Veterans Affairs Patients. These rules provide a limited exception to special registration requirements for the prescription of controlled substances via telemedicine without an in-person visit for an initial six-month prescription of buprenorphine and treatment of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) patients by VA practitioners, respectively [refer to Washington Highlights, Jan. 17 (Buprenorphine); Jan. 17 (Controlled Substances)].