HHSFinal Rule

Expansion of Buprenorphine Treatment via Telemedicine Encounter

HealthcareTechnology

Summary

This regulation makes it easier for people struggling with opioid addiction to receive buprenorphine treatment through video visits with doctors instead of requiring in-person appointments. This expansion allows more people in rural or underserved areas to access medication-assisted treatment for addiction from their homes.

Key Points

  • 1Doctors can now prescribe buprenorphine (a medication that reduces opioid cravings) through telemedicine visits without the patient being physically present
  • 2Patients no longer need to travel to clinics for initial appointments or ongoing treatment, making care more accessible for people in remote areas or those with transportation challenges
  • 3The regulation reduces barriers to addiction treatment by allowing follow-up visits and prescription refills to happen via video, phone, or online platforms
  • 4Healthcare providers can expand their addiction treatment services without needing additional physical clinic space
  • 5This change aims to increase access to medication-assisted treatment during the ongoing opioid epidemic, particularly for underserved communities

Key Dates

Published

January 17, 2025

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.

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