AAMC Submits Comments to DEA on Proposed Telemedicine Prescribing Registrations 

The AAMC submitted March 17 comments to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in response to proposals to create a special registration system to allow physicians to prescribe controlled substances to patients through telemedicine visits without having a prior in-person medical evaluation [refer to Washington Highlights, Jan. 17].  

In its letter, the AAMC urged the DEA to work collaboratively with policymakers and provider stakeholders to break down barriers to medically necessary care while limiting drug diversion. In general, the association recommended that the DEA revise its proposed policies to ensure patient access to clinically appropriate medications through virtual care and support the continuity of care. The AAMC encouraged the DEA to build off the experience from the existing COVID-19 public health emergency flexibilities and waivers that enabled providers to safely prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine encounters.