TREATS Act

The TREATS Act (S 3193) modifies federal rules to allow telehealth visits for initial evaluations when prescribing certain medications to treat substance use disorders. It directly affects patients seeking medication-assisted treatment and healthcare providers prescribing FDA-approved medications for addiction (in schedules III-V). The bill replaces the requirement for a mandatory in-person medical evaluation with an option for a telehealth evaluation using approved video or audio systems. This change applies specifically to prescriptions for addiction treatment medications, expanding access for patients in remote or underserved areas. The policy change streamlines the process without altering medication approval or coverage requirements.