Health care providers will be able to prescribe controlled medication without requiring an initial in-person visit through Nov. 11.

Two proposed rules would extend many flexible provisions enacted during the COVID-19 public health emergency for prescribing controlled substances.

The Office of National Drug Control Policy outlines the Biden administration's drug policy priorities for 2021, including expanding access to evidence-based treatment and prevention services, advancing racial equity, reducing supply of illicit substances, and advancing recovery-ready workplaces.

America's Essential Hospitals encourages members to share their concerns about the Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Regulation with Congress and CMS. Meanwhile, the House returns to health care business after a one-week recess, and the Senate impeachment trial continues.

The new recommendations are based on principles that promote alternative therapies and minimum effective opioid dosage. CDC also released fact sheets and other resources.

The guidance, open for a 30-day public comment period, will give providers more clarity on the appropriate use of opioid prescriptions outside of cancer and palliative care; comments are due Jan. 13.

Obama administration proposal would add drug utilization review and restriction program to Medicare to fight opioid overuse.

Tool gives physicians, nurses, and other health care professionals access to geographic comparisons of opioid prescribing habits and use.

The rule does not apply to unused portions of drugs given to patients in a hospital, but rather unused drugs from patients’ homes. Hospitals have until Nov. 8 to comply with DEA regulations.

The association and eight other organizations expressed concern that new protocols for disposing of controlled substances will adversely affect hospitals.