The DEA telemedicine deadline: what 31 December 2026 means for at-home ketamine

What the current DEA telemedicine extension says, what may change for at-home ketamine, and what to ask a licensed provider before the deadline.

What the extension allows

DEA and HHS issued a Fourth Temporary Extension of the COVID-19 telemedicine flexibilities for prescribing controlled medications through 31 December 2026. DEA announced the extension on 31 December 2025.

Under 21 CFR 1307.41, during 12 May 2023 through 31 December 2026, a DEA-registered practitioner may prescribe Schedule II to V controlled substances via telemedicine without a prior in-person evaluation if the conditions are met. These include a legitimate medical purpose, an interactive telecommunications system, appropriate registration, and consistency with part 1306. The section remains in effect until the end of 31 December 2026.

Ketamine is a Schedule III controlled substance. The temporary flexibility does not mean everyone can receive a prescription. A licensed practitioner must make that decision under the applicable requirements.

What may happen next

As of late October 2026, no further extension had been announced. DEA’s special registration rule for telemedicine was reported to be under review. The Reginfo review record is linked below. A rule under review is not a final replacement for the current flexibility.

If the flexibilities lapse without a replacement, at-home programs may need an in-person evaluation first. In-person licensed providers are not affected in the same way by a flexibility for remote prescribing without a prior in-person evaluation.

Things could change. Check DEA announcements and ask your provider about current requirements before making plans or paying for a program.

Questions to ask before the deadline

Ask whether your program uses the temporary flexibility, whether an in-person evaluation may be needed, and how the provider would handle scheduling, fees, or changes to your program after 31 December 2026.

Keta helps adults 18+ in the New York area find licensed in-person providers. Keta is a care coordination service of Phi Digital LLC, not a clinic or medical provider. Keta never prescribes or diagnoses.

This is general information, not legal or medical advice.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

Does this deadline mean at-home ketamine will stop?

That is not certain. If the flexibilities lapse without a replacement, at-home programs may need an in-person evaluation first. Check DEA and your licensed provider for current requirements.

Can Keta prescribe ketamine?

No. Keta helps adults 18+ navigate access to licensed in-person providers in the New York area. Keta does not prescribe, diagnose, or provide medical care.

Start with your questions

Take the candidate quiz to share your preferences and start care coordination. The quiz is not a medical evaluation or a promise of a prescription or appointment.

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Keta is a care coordination service of Phi Digital LLC for adults 18+, not a clinic or medical provider. Keta never prescribes or diagnoses. This is general information, not medical advice.