The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have announced a fourth temporary extension of telemedicine flexibilities for prescribing controlled medications. This extension will run from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. The measure is intended to prevent disruptions in care as permanent regulations are developed.
These telemedicine flexibilities were initially introduced during the COVID-19 public health emergency. They allow patients to receive prescriptions for controlled substances without an in-person medical visit. Without this latest extension, patients and healthcare providers would have faced a return to pre-pandemic restrictions, often called the “telemedicine cliff,” which could have interrupted access to essential medications.
The continued use of telehealth for prescribing controlled medications benefits several groups, including seniors, rural residents, people with disabilities, and individuals undergoing treatment for mental health conditions or substance use disorders.
“Telehealth prescribing flexibilities have become a lifeline for millions of Americans,” said HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill. “Extending them ensures continuity of care while we finish the work of putting permanent, commonsense policies in place. This action protects patients, preserves access, and maintains strong controls against diversion.”
According to federal data reviewed by agencies involved in the process, telemedicine has played an increasingly important role in health care delivery. In 2024 alone, more than seven million prescriptions for controlled medications were issued via telemedicine without prior in-person visits. Previous lapses in similar policies led to significant drops in access; for example, when Medicare telehealth flexibilities expired in September 2025, there was a reported 24 percent decline in fee-for-service telemedicine visits.
The current extension allows additional time for DEA and HHS to finalize permanent rules such as the proposed Special Registration for Telemedicine. This regulation aims to set clear standards around prescribing controlled substances remotely while maintaining patient safety measures and preventing misuse.
Existing legal requirements remain unchanged under this extension: prescriptions must still be written by licensed practitioners for legitimate medical purposes and comply with both federal and state laws.
Officials state that this fourth extension demonstrates a commitment by the Administration to prioritize patient-centered care and public health while ensuring regulatory clarity during the transition period.
