American Psychiatric Association to Discuss Telemedicine's Role in Prescribing Controlled Substances
New York, Thursday, 20 February 2025.
The American Psychiatric Association’s upcoming annual meeting will explore challenges and opportunities in telemedicine for prescribing controlled substances, focusing on expanding psychiatric service access.
Key Session Details and Expertise
The American Psychiatric Association’s annual meeting, scheduled for May 20, 2025, will feature Nathaniel Lacktman, chair-elect of the ATA Board of Directors, addressing critical aspects of telemedicine prescribing [1]. The session will specifically examine federal statutes and regulations governing controlled substance prescribing through telemedicine, with particular attention to the Ryan Haight Online Pharmacy Consumer Protection Act [1]. This timely discussion comes as telemedicine has experienced unprecedented growth, with global patient consultations increasing from 57 million in 2019 to over 116 million in 2024 [3].
Technological Integration and Impact
The integration of artificial intelligence and digital health technologies has become increasingly crucial in telemedicine’s evolution [3]. As the largest network of healthcare delivery systems and technology suppliers focused on telehealth advancement, the American Telemedicine Association is working to reshape healthcare delivery paradigms [2]. The session will explore how these technological advances can be leveraged while maintaining compliance with DEA regulations and establishing valid practitioner-patient relationships in virtual settings [1].
Legal Framework and Compliance
The presentation will provide detailed guidance on navigating the DEA registration process and establishing valid practice locations for virtual care delivery [1]. Participants will receive practical step-by-step guidance through real-world scenarios, specifically designed to help psychiatrists expand access to mental health care while maintaining full compliance with federal and state laws [1]. The session will conclude with an interactive ‘ask me anything’ discussion, allowing practitioners to address specific scenarios from their own practices [1].
Future Implications
This initiative reflects the broader transformation in healthcare delivery, where telemedicine has become firmly established as a key component of mental health services [3]. The American Telemedicine Association’s commitment to ensuring universal access to safe, affordable, and effective care aligns with these developments [2]. With AI in healthcare projected to reach $614 billion by 2034 [3], the integration of technology in mental health care delivery represents a crucial advancement in expanding psychiatric service accessibility.