DEA Aims to Limit Telemedicine Access

The DEA has proposed new rules to update the Ryan Haight Act, which could negatively affect telemedicine prescribing of non-narcotic medications in Schedules III, IV, and V. Testosterone is considered a Schedule III medication.

These rules would require in-person evaluations (physical exams), stricter record-keeping, increased coordination between physicians, and more frequent smaller refills. If approved, the update would go into effect after the current DEA waiver of the in-person exam requirement expires on May 11, 2023.

This could create unnecessary burdens for both patients and doctors, leading to limited access to treatment and increased risk of harm to patients.

Defy Medical: The DEA Aims to Limit Telemedicine Access


Submit a Comment by March 31

The new rules have not officially taken effect, and there’s still time to petition the DEA to reconsider. Patients and providers can leave a public comment addressing how these changes would substantially impact care.

The DEA has, in the past, reversed proposed rules after receiving feedback from doctors and patients.

Publicly posted comments play a major role in shaping how rules are adopted. Because the DEA considers all comments before the rule is adopted, now is your opportunity to influence change.



We’ve provided this example comment to help you get started. We recommend personalizing this message to your situation so that comments show the range of patients affected.

You can submit a public comment to the DEA now through March 31.

“I am a patient currently benefiting from telemedicine care. This treatment has made a dramatic effect in improving my quality of life and vitality. The proposed updated DEA rules on the Ryan Haight Act will create a new burden for me of travel time to see my doctor and to manage my more limited and frequent medication refills. This time requirement will decrease the time I am required to perform my job and family duties. I am happy with my current care and see no benefit in imposing these new rules on taxpayers like me.”