SE Georgia News

U.S. Representatives Buddy Carter (R-GA) and Doris Matsui (D-CA) are advocating for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) under the Biden administration to expedite the finalization of updated regulations governing telemedicine for critical prescriptions. Their advocacy is aimed at improving patient access to care while maintaining essential enforcement measures.

In a joint letter, according to a press release from Carter's office, the representatives wrote: "The pandemic has demonstrated the value of telehealth in increasing access to clinically appropriate care, and DEA now has the opportunity to continue the benefits of telehealth while ensuring operationally feasible guardrails…Health care providers, pharmacists, and patients deserve to have a formalized process focused on patient access to clinically appropriate care while allowing DEA to fulfill its enforcement obligations. We urge DEA to work diligently towards a finalized regulatory framework for the prescribing of controlled substances via telemedicine, understanding that time is of the essence…We are confident that a permanent regulatory framework for telemedicine prescribing can increase access to care."

Carter, in another letter, pointed out that the DEA's delay in establishing a Special Registration for Telemedicine as mandated by key acts since 2008 raises concerns about uncertainty in healthcare due to the lack of a regulatory framework. He urged the DEA to promptly finalize and implement these rules, emphasizing the need for a balanced regulatory structure that meets law enforcement needs while facilitating virtual care for patients and healthcare providers. He warned that if not addressed by December 31, 2024, this absence of a regulatory framework could lead to uncertainty within the healthcare community and among patients.

In yet another letter signed by Carter, he advised the DEA to define pharmacy responsibilities when dispensing controlled medications from telemedicine visits and clarify 'red flags' on prescriptions given telemedicine's nationwide reach. He underscored the importance of establishing a permanent telemedicine framework for enhanced care access and cautioned that outdated policies obstructing pharmacies could negate patient benefits. Carter highlighted that Congress is actively monitoring these developments and emphasized its readiness to take necessary actions if the specified objectives are not achieved within an appropriate timeframe.