DEA Extends COVID-19 Telemedicine Prescribing Flexibilities a Third Time - The National Law Review
DEA extends COVID-19 telemedicine prescribing flexibilities for a third time, allowing continued remote prescribing of controlled substances without an in-person visit.
Aforeworn detected this change in the Telehealth Cross-State Licensing space on August 13, 2026 and published this briefing so affected operators are forewarned rather than caught off guard. It is rated Low urgency. Telehealth platforms, virtual specialty clinics, behavioral-health providers, and e-prescribers that prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine. should confirm how it applies to their specific situation before acting. There is a time constraint attached: Not specified in the excerpt.. Acting after that point can mean penalties, a lapsed licence, or lost eligibility — exactly the kind of surprise Aforeworn exists to prevent. Aforeworn monitors Telehealth Cross-State Licensing continuously and turns every detected change into a plain-English briefing like this one, so you always know first. Forewarned is forearmed.
What changed
The DEA has extended the COVID-19 telemedicine prescribing flexibilities for a third time, meaning the temporary allowances for remote prescribing of controlled substances remain in effect.
Who it affects
Telehealth platforms, virtual specialty clinics, behavioral-health providers, and e-prescribers that prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine.
What you must do
No immediate action required; continue operating under existing flexibilities. Monitor for future announcements regarding the end of the extension.
Deadline
Not specified in the excerpt.
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