Telemedicine waivers extended through 2026

A temporary rule released by the Department of Health and Human Services and Drug Enforcement Administration will extend waiver flexibilities for prescribing controlled substances via telemedicine. The waivers allow for the prescribing of schedule II-V controlled substances (including schedule III-V medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treatment of opioid use disorder) via audio-video telemedicine encounter without a prior in-person medical evaluation through Dec. 3. These flexibilities apply to all practitioner-patient relationships, not just those established during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The waivers were scheduled to expire on Dec. 31, 2025. By extending them, the agencies have more time to develop and implement a permanent special registration process for prescribing of controlled substances. (AHA News article, 12/30/25)