The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) issued a final rule Jan. 31 updating regulations for Opioid Treatment Programs (OTP) and standards for treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD). These rules make permanent some of the COVID-19 flexibilities and reflect updated treatment guidelines.
These updated rules apply to OTP programs, but do not apply more broadly to virtual prescribing of controlled substances.
Modifications outlined in the final rule include:
- Buprenorphine prescriptions to be prescribed through telehealth without an initial in-person evaluation.
- Buprenorphine prescriptions can be prescribed through audio-only telehealth.
- Allows prescribers in OTP more flexibility in take-home doses of methadone.
- Seven doses for people who have been in treatment for two weeks.
- 14 doses for people who have been in treatment for 15 days or more.
- 28 doses for people who have been in treatment for at least a month.
- Removes the requirement that minors must have two failed withdraw attempts before receiving methadone or buprenorphine.
This rule goes into effect April 2, 2024, with a compliance date of April 2, 2026.
Members with questions may contact Michelle Norcross at the MHA Keystone Center PSO.