The public health emergency (PHE) declared in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic expired on May 11, 2023. During the PHE, certain regulations were suspended which then allowed patients to be seen and to be prescribed non-controlled and controlled substances (Adderall, Xanax, Ritalin, etc.) via the Internet. Patients could be prescribed such medications after seeing a healthcare provider online. They were not required to have in-person visits during the PHE.
The updated regulations and previously suspended regulations regarding the prescribing of controlled substances via the Internet were scheduled to become effective on November 11, 2023. However, due to overwhelming public feedback the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) extended the date.
According to the latest information from the DEA, patients can continue receiving treatment online without the need for in-person doctor visits until December 31, 2024.
On May 11, 2023, the public health emergency (PHE) that had been established in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic ended. PHE contributed to certain flexibilities in the online prescribing of controlled substances (Adderall, Ritalin, Xanax, and others). Patients could conveniently get these medications prescribed through virtual consultations with healthcare providers, eliminating the need for attending walk-in clinics during their treatment.
However, with the implementation of new regulations on November 11, 2023, individuals requiring controlled substances will be obliged to see their physician in person first. Following a comprehensive evaluation, patients will receive a doctor’s referral, which will enable them to continue obtaining their prescribed medications through telehealth.
If you are already using our services and your treatment includes controlled substances, you can refill your prescriptions as usual until November 11, 2024. The same rule applies if you schedule an appointment at EZCare Clinic before November 11, 2023. You can get your treatment without in-person visits but you will be required to provide a referral letter before November 11, 2024, to continue getting prescriptions online after that date. |
If you have your first appointment on November 11, 2023, or after that date, you have to know the following:
Once you get a referral, you will be eligible to refill your prescription online for one year. Please note that after this period, a new referral will be required. |
A referral is a crucial document that allows you to get controlled substances prescribed through telemedicine. It serves as a confirmation from your physician that you are eligible to receive these medications online. A referral is obtained after an in-person evaluation is conducted by your primary care physician or local healthcare provider.
Once we receive and process your referral, we can proceed with refilling your prescription for controlled substances, ensuring you have continued access to the necessary medications.
We understand that your PCP may use another template of a referral form, and we accept those as well. A referral ensures that we have a comprehensive understanding of your medical history and can provide you with the best possible care.
If your MD has any questions or concerns regarding the referral process, please feel free to share the information from this page with them.
As per the latest update from the DEA, the proposed changes were not instituted, and the current rules have been extended until December 31, 2024. Patients can continue receiving online prescriptions without the need to see their healthcare providers in person.
The proposed new regulations may affect those who begin their online treatment after December 31, 2024. However, the DEA is reviewing what their future policy will incorporate.
Controlled substances are medications and other substances with high risk or potential for abuse and addiction. Because of that, the government controls their distribution and delivery.
Several medications for the treatment of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), depression, anxiety disorders, insomnia, and other conditions fall under the category of controlled substances.
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