Telemedicine Buprenorphine: Expanding Access to Opioid Use Disorder Treatment

In today's episode, we explore the evolving landscape of buprenorphine prescribing through telemedicine with Dr. Stuart Gitlow, a distinguished expert in addiction medicine. Dr. Gitlow returns to discuss the Biden administration's new ruling that enables providers to prescribe buprenorphine via telehealth, including audio-only visits, without requiring initial in-person evaluation.Building on our previous conversation about the elimination of the DATA waiver, we examine how physicians have responded to these expanded prescribing capabilities. Dr. Gitlow shares insights from his extensive experience with telemedicine during COVID-19 and addresses the implications of allowing 6-month prescriptions through virtual visits.We also discuss critical aspects of this new framework, including pharmacy verification requirements and the role of emergency departments in initiating buprenorphine treatment. Join us for this timely conversation about expanding access to addiction treatment while maintaining appropriate safeguards and quality of care.For listeners new to our series, we recommend listening to our earlier episode "History and the Elimination of the DATA Waiver" featuring Dr. Gitlow, where we explored the historical context of addiction treatment regulations.