Top Stories: ATA opposes DEA changes to telehealth prescriptions; AHA favors further study of telehealth

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It's been a big week for telehealth. What's new in the world of virtual care? We'll go over the latest in this week's Top Stories, including the AHA's support of bipartisan telehealth legislation, and results of a telemedicine-focused Rock Health study.

For more news and features from Jeff Lagasse visit Healthcare Finance News.

In this episode:

• ATA opposes DEA proposed rule on post-PHE online Rx
• American Hospital Association voices support for telehealth expansion bill
• Survey: 80% of consumers have used telemedicine

Talking points:

• The DEA says it is expanding patient access to critical therapies beyond the scheduled end of the COVID-19 public health emergency – except for the remote prescription of controlled substances.
• The top drug agency proposed tighter limits for online prescriptions of some medications, such as Adderall to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), opioids and some non-narcotic drugs such as Ambien, Valium, Xanax and ketamine, in a partial reversal of pandemic telehealth flexibilities.
• The AHA backs the Knowing the Efficiency and Efficacy of Permanent Telehealth Options Act, or KEEP Act, which mandates that HHS, MedPAC and MACPAC each conduct a report and issue recommendations on telehealth.
• Some 80% of all respondents in a new Rock Health survey have used telemedicine within their lifetime, and it's now the preferred channel for receiving prescriptions and care for minor illnesses.

Twitter: @JELagasse
Email the writer: Jeff.Lagasse@himssmedia.com