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Buprenorphine via Telehealth: A Complex Opportunity

By: Jamelia Hand MHS CADC CODP I


The opioid crisis has forced our healthcare industry to adapt and innovate to meet the needs of those battling substance use disorder. In a significant development, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently finalized a rule that permanently allows telemedicine for prescribing buprenorphine, a life-saving medication for opioid use disorder (OUD).


While this new rule is a major step toward increasing access to treatment, it comes with complexities that impact patients, providers, pharmacists, and counselors. Here’s a closer look at what this could mean for each group and how they can adapt to this evolving landscape.


For Patients: A Lifeline to Treatment


For patients, this rule eliminates the need for an initial in-person visit, making it easier to access buprenorphine treatment, especially in underserved or rural areas. It also allows audio-only telemedicine consultations, breaking down barriers for those without internet or video-capable devices.


Opportunities:

• Increased access to life-saving care.

• Fewer logistical challenges for patients with limited transportation or mobility.


Challenges:

• Patients must have follow-up consultations after six months, which could pose barriers for those without access to consistent care.

• Limited emphasis on integrating counseling with medication, leaving some patients without the full spectrum of support they need.


For Providers: Balancing Growth and Responsibility


This rule enables providers to expand their patient base through telemedicine, reaching individuals who might have delayed or avoided care. However, the increased flexibility comes with responsibilities, including:

• Reviewing Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) data before prescribing.

• Ensuring follow-up consultations for ongoing prescriptions.


Opportunities:

• Expanded reach to patients who previously lacked access to OUD treatment.

• Streamlined care delivery via telemedicine platforms.


Challenges:

• Increased administrative burden due to compliance requirements.

• The potential for missed red flags during audio-only consultations.


For Pharmacists: Ensuring Safe Dispensing


Pharmacists are critical in ensuring the safe and effective use of buprenorphine. With telemedicine prescriptions expected to rise, pharmacists must be prepared to verify prescriptions from remote providers, potentially across state lines.


Opportunities:

• A greater role in supporting expanded access to care.

• Opportunities to collaborate with providers on patient safety and adherence.


Challenges:

• Verification of out-of-state prescriptions may create delays or complications.

• Balancing patient needs with vigilance against diversion or misuse.


For Counselors and Therapists: A Renewed Focus on Behavioral Support


While medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is essential, recovery often requires behavioral and emotional support. Counselors and therapists play a vital role in addressing these aspects, but telemedicine’s emphasis on medication access may unintentionally deprioritize counseling.


Opportunities:

• Increased demand for integrated care approaches that combine medication and therapy.

• Expanded reach via telehealth counseling services.


Challenges:

• Ensuring patients engage with both medication and therapy for holistic recovery.

• Building strong collaborations with prescribing providers.


The Complex Opportunity


This rule represents a turning point in addiction treatment, providing expanded access to buprenorphine while introducing new challenges for all involved. To make this model work, collaboration among patients, providers, pharmacists, and counselors is crucial.


How Vantage Clinical Consulting Can Help


At Vantage Clinical Consulting, we understand the complexities of navigating regulatory changes. Our tailored solutions help organizations maximize the opportunities and address the challenges posed by the new telemedicine rule:


• For Providers: Training on compliance, PDMP usage, and best practices for patient engagement.


• For Pharmacists: Tools to streamline prescription verification and collaboration with providers.


• For Counselors: Strategies for integrating therapy into telemedicine models and enhancing patient engagement.


• For Patients: Education on the importance of follow-up care and long-term recovery planning.


By partnering with Vantage, you can ensure your organization stays ahead of the curve, improving outcomes and reducing risks.


The Bottom Line

The new telemedicine rule is more than a regulatory update, it’s a chance to transform how we approach opioid use disorder treatment. While challenges remain, this rule offers a pathway to make care more accessible, holistic, and effective. If we work together to seize this opportunity and create meaningful change, we can create more access for patients.


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