DEA to host ‘listening sessions’ on online prescription limits.
The Drug Enforcement Agency to Hold “Public Listening Sessions” on Proposed Rule
The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has faced backlash from telemedicine companies over its proposed rule to restrict online prescription of controlled substances. In response, the DEA has announced that it will hold “public listening sessions” to gather input on the rule.
In May, the DEA delayed the implementation of the rule, which aimed to roll back the telehealth prescription flexibility granted during the coronavirus pandemic. The rule would make it more difficult for doctors to prescribe medications like Adderall and opioids over the internet.
Concerns and Comments
The impetus for the rule was a concern that online prescribing companies are overprescribing and unable to conduct a thorough assessment of patients who have never visited a doctor in person. The DEA received a record-breaking 38,000 comments on the proposed rule, leading to the delay.
Now, the agency is inviting some of the commenters, including telemedicine companies, advocates, patients, and others, to an in-person forum at their Arlington, Virginia, headquarters.
Support from Mindbloom
Mindbloom, a psychedelics telemedicine company that provides ketamine online for mental health therapy, is pleased with the DEA’s decision to seek input. Michael Petegorsky, the general counsel for Mindbloom, stated, “Telemedicine has become a lifeline for Americans – especially people struggling with their mental health, many of whom can’t access in-person care due to lack of providers, cost, time, and stigma. If we’re going to end the mental health crisis, it’s vital that we preserve this pathway to care.”
Mindbloom was one of the companies that provided comments on the DEA rule.
“Special Registration” for Online Prescriptions
Last week, the DEA announced that it is “open to considering” a “special registration” for online prescriptions of certain controlled substances. This approach is believed to strike a balance between ensuring patients have access to appropriate care while minimizing the risks of diversion and misuse.
Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) has been a vocal supporter of the “special registration” process and the expansion of telehealth services.
In response to the DEA’s announcement, Warner stated, “Telehealth was a lifesaver for patients during the peak of the pandemic and has since opened the door to uncomplicated and reliable access to a doctor for patients who need it.” He also highlighted how telehealth has helped individuals with opioid addictions access drugs like buprenorphine, which is prescribed to combat the disorder.
The “public listening sessions” are scheduled for September 12 and 13.
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