ALLIANCE STATEMENT

DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (DEA) RELEASES SPECIAL REGISTRATION PROPOSAL

JANUARY 2025

The Alliance for Connected Care appreciates the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) forward movement on telemedicine prescribing of controlled substances policy.  Today, the DEA released a notice of proposed rulemaking, which would establish a special registration framework and authorize three types of special registrations for telemedicine.

We are pleased to see the DEA propose a special registration, as required by statute, to allow comprehensive medical care through telemedicine, including Schedule II medications. These treatments are important in providing mental health, end-of-life care, substance use treatment, and many other services. Telemedicine has proven to be an effective tool in bridging the gap between patients and providers, reducing barriers to care, and supporting those most in need.

However, the Alliance is very concerned to see language in the proposed rulemaking mandating what portion of patient care can be offered through telemedicine, as this is not an appropriate guardrail for a telehealth service. Similarly, restricting the geography in which telemedicine can be offered undermines the value of creating virtual access for those patients who need it most. Restricting access to telemedicine will lead to harsh consequences for many Americans relying on telehealth for mental health, substance use disorder, sleep disorders, terminal illness, and many other medical issues.

The Alliance looks forward to working with the Trump Administration and Congress to ensure continued access to comprehensive medical care through telehealth, including when a controlled substance is required. This work is necessary to fully execute on the goals of President Trump’s Executive Order on Saving Lives Through Increased Support For Mental- and Behavioral-Health Needs, which included a national call to action to increase access to telehealth.

For more on the Alliance’s work to advance access to comprehensive telehealth care, please visit https://connectwithcare.org/dea-prescribing-of-controlled-substances/