decisionhealth Newsletters, Coder Pink Sheets - 2023 Issue 2 (February)
Proposed rule: Expect new telehealth and controlled substance Rx requirements
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Article Overview
This article reviews proposed SAMHSA and DEA rule changes tied to the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency. It is relevant to clinicians, telehealth organizations, and coding/compliance professionals who track medication-assisted treatment, controlled-substance prescribing, and federal regulatory updates. The piece summarizes the general scope of the proposed flexibilities and restrictions, along with the public comment timeline and related agency resources.
Why This Topic Matters
These proposed rules could alter telehealth prescribing workflows, treatment continuity, and compliance planning for controlled substances and opioid use disorder care. Organizations that manage telehealth services or substance use disorder treatment need to monitor the final federal requirements.
Article Sections
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SAMHSA plans to make two waivers permanent
This section covers proposed federal changes affecting opioid treatment program standards and telehealth-related treatment flexibilities. It discusses the broader policy context for medication-assisted treatment under SAMHSA oversight.
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DEA intends to end some waivers
This section summarizes DEA proposed rules affecting telemedicine prescribing of controlled substances. It focuses on the general categories of prescribing relationships and medication types addressed by the agency.
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Telemedicine organization expresses concern
This section presents a professional association’s reaction to the proposed DEA rules. It highlights stakeholder concerns and support for selected transition provisions.
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Resources
This section lists related federal and professional resources for readers who want to review the source material and agency announcements.
What You Will Learn
- How proposed federal rules may affect telehealth prescribing and opioid treatment program operations
- What categories of controlled-substance prescribing are being addressed by SAMHSA and DEA
- Why the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency is relevant to these proposals
- Where to find agency materials and public comment information
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Compliance staff
- Telehealth administrators
- Physicians and prescribers
- Substance use disorder treatment providers
- Revenue cycle teams
Code Ranges Discussed
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