Same-day Wellbutrin appointment

If you’re struggling with binge eating disorder (BED) and wondering whether you can receive treatment through telehealth, the answer is yes—and it’s more accessible than ever. As of 2026, federal and state regulations have evolved to make virtual mental health care a permanent, safe option for millions of Americans seeking help for conditions like BED.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting medication for binge eating disorder via telehealth, including which medications are commonly prescribed, how the regulations work, what to expect during your virtual visit, and how platforms like Klarity Health are making evidence-based BED treatment accessible and affordable.

Understanding Binge Eating Disorder: When Treatment Becomes Necessary

Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States, affecting an estimated 2.8 million adults. Unlike other eating disorders, BED is characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food in a short period (typically within two hours), accompanied by a feeling of loss of control—without the compensatory behaviors (like purging) seen in bulimia.

According to DSM-5 criteria, a BED diagnosis requires:

• Eating significantly more food than most people would in similar circumstances
• Feeling a lack of control during binge episodes
• Experiencing distress about the binge eating
• Binge eating occurring at least once per week for three months

Many people with BED experience shame, isolation, and significant health complications including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and co-occurring mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. The good news? Effective treatments exist—and telehealth has made them more accessible than ever.

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Telehealth for BED: The Legal Landscape in 2026

Federal Regulations: What You Need to Know

One of the biggest concerns patients have about telehealth is whether it’s actually legal for providers to prescribe medication without seeing you in person. Here’s the critical distinction:

For non-controlled medications (which includes the most common BED treatments), there are no federal restrictions on telehealth prescribing. The Ryan Haight Act—the federal law that requires an in-person visit before prescribing controlled substances—does not apply to medications like Topamax (topiramate) or Wellbutrin (bupropion), which are the primary medications used off-label for BED treatment.

This means that nationwide, healthcare providers licensed in your state can legally evaluate you via video visit and prescribe appropriate BED medications without requiring an initial in-person appointment.

The DEA Extension: What It Means for You

While the DEA’s recent extension of COVID-era telehealth flexibilities through December 31, 2026, primarily affects controlled substance prescribing (like ADHD stimulants), it signals continued federal support for telehealth access. The extension means that the broader telehealth infrastructure—secure video platforms, electronic prescribing, interstate licensing compacts—remains robust and well-regulated.

For BED patients specifically, this regulatory stability means you can confidently seek care through established telehealth platforms without worrying about sudden policy changes that might disrupt your treatment.

State-by-State Variations: A Quick Overview

While federal law permits telehealth prescribing of non-controlled medications, individual states have some additional requirements. The good news is that most states have permanently adopted telehealth-friendly policies following the pandemic. Here are a few examples:

States with No In-Person Requirement:

• California, New York, Texas, Florida: No mandatory in-person visit for non-controlled medications
• Providers must conduct an appropriate evaluation via telehealth that meets the standard of care

States with Periodic In-Person Requirements:

• Alabama: After four telehealth visits within 12 months for the same condition, an in-person visit is recommended (can be with a collaborating provider)
• Georgia: Annual in-person visit attempt required for ongoing telemedicine care
• New Hampshire: Annual in-person follow-up required (primarily for controlled substances, but good practice for all ongoing treatment)

These requirements rarely pose barriers to starting treatment—they’re designed to ensure quality of care for long-term patients and can often be satisfied with a local provider if you’re traveling or relocating.

Common Medications for Binge Eating Disorder: What Can Be Prescribed via Telehealth?

Topamax (Topiramate)

Classification: Non-controlled prescription medication
FDA Approval: Seizures, migraine prevention
Off-Label Use: Binge eating disorder, impulse control

Topiramate is one of the most researched medications for BED treatment. While it’s FDA-approved for seizure disorders and migraine prevention, clinical studies have shown it can significantly reduce binge eating episodes and support weight management in BED patients.

How It Works: Topiramate affects neurotransmitters in the brain, including GABA and glutamate, which may help reduce impulsive eating behaviors and food cravings.

Typical Dosing: Treatment usually starts at a low dose (25 mg daily) and gradually increases over several weeks to minimize side effects. Therapeutic doses for BED typically range from 75-200 mg daily.

Common Side Effects:

• Tingling in hands and feet (paresthesia)
• Cognitive changes (word-finding difficulties)
• Changes in taste (especially carbonated beverages)
• Potential weight loss

Important Safety Considerations:

• Pregnancy: Topiramate is associated with increased risk of cleft palate and other birth defects. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception while taking this medication.
• Kidney Stones: Increased risk; stay well-hydrated
• Glaucoma: Can increase eye pressure in susceptible individuals
• Gradual Discontinuation: Must be tapered slowly to avoid seizure risk

Telehealth Prescribing: ✅ Fully available via telehealth in all 50 states

Wellbutrin (Bupropion)

Classification: Non-controlled prescription medication
FDA Approval: Depression, seasonal affective disorder, smoking cessation
Off-Label Use: Binge eating disorder, ADHD

Bupropion has shown promise in treating BED, particularly for patients who also experience depression or have struggled with weight gain from other antidepressants.

How It Works: Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant that affects dopamine and norepinephrine—neurotransmitters involved in reward pathways and impulse control. This mechanism may help reduce binge eating episodes.

Typical Dosing: Usually started at 150 mg daily (extended-release formulation) and may be increased to 300 mg daily if tolerated. Takes 4-6 weeks to see full effects.

Common Side Effects:

• Insomnia (take in morning)
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Increased energy or anxiety
• Possible modest weight loss

Critical Safety Warnings:

• Seizure Risk: Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold. Absolute contraindication in patients with current or prior eating disorders involving purging (bulimia or anorexia) due to significantly increased seizure risk from electrolyte imbalances.
• Black Box Warning: Like all antidepressants, carries a warning about increased suicidal thoughts in young adults under age 25. Close monitoring is essential, especially in the first few weeks.
• Alcohol: Avoid heavy alcohol use while taking bupropion (increases seizure risk)

Who Should NOT Take Bupropion:

• History of seizure disorder
• Current or recent bulimia or anorexia nervosa
• Abrupt discontinuation of alcohol or benzodiazepines
• Taking MAO inhibitors

Telehealth Prescribing: ✅ Fully available via telehealth in all 50 states

Why These Medications Are Prescribed Off-Label

You might wonder: if these medications aren’t FDA-approved specifically for BED, is it safe to take them?

Off-label prescribing is completely legal, common, and often represents the standard of care for many conditions. In fact, the only FDA-approved medication specifically for BED is Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine), a controlled substance with more restrictive prescribing requirements that make it less suitable for telehealth treatment.

Clinical research supports the use of both topiramate and bupropion for BED:

• Multiple randomized controlled trials show topiramate reduces binge eating frequency by 50-75% in many patients
• Bupropion has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing binge episodes, particularly in patients with comorbid depression

Your telehealth provider should explain the off-label nature of the prescription, discuss the evidence supporting it, and obtain your informed consent. This is a standard, ethical practice in modern medicine.

What to Expect: The Telehealth Evaluation Process

Initial Consultation

A legitimate telehealth evaluation for BED should be thorough—typically 30-45 minutes for an initial visit. Here’s what to expect:

1. Identity and Location Verification
Your provider will verify your identity and confirm your location. This isn’t invasive—it’s a regulatory requirement to ensure they’re licensed to practice in your state and to maintain appropriate records.

2. Comprehensive Medical History
Be prepared to discuss:

• Your eating behaviors in detail (frequency, triggers, typical episodes)
• Mental health history (depression, anxiety, trauma)
• Previous treatment attempts (therapy, medication, diet programs)
• Medical conditions (especially neurological, metabolic, or cardiovascular)
• Current medications and supplements
• Substance use history
• Reproductive health (pregnancy plans, contraception)

3. BED-Specific Assessment
Your provider will ask questions aligned with DSM-5 diagnostic criteria:

• How often do you experience binge eating episodes?
• What does a typical episode look like?
• Do you feel loss of control during these episodes?
• What emotions accompany or follow binge eating?
• Do you engage in compensatory behaviors (purging, excessive exercise, fasting)?

Some providers use standardized questionnaires like the Binge Eating Scale (BES) or Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) to quantify symptoms.

4. Safety Screening
Your provider will screen for contraindications to medication:

• History of seizures
• History of other eating disorders (especially bulimia)
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Suicidal ideation
• Severe medical instability

5. Treatment Planning
If medication is appropriate, your provider will:

• Explain medication options, including benefits and risks
• Discuss off-label use and evidence base
• Set realistic expectations about timeline and outcomes
• Emphasize that medication works best combined with therapy
• Provide informed consent documentation

6. Prescription and Follow-Up
If you and your provider agree on a medication plan, they’ll send an e-prescription directly to your preferred pharmacy (a legal requirement in most states). You’ll schedule follow-up appointments—typically within 2-4 weeks initially, then monthly or bimonthly.

Who Can Prescribe BED Medications via Telehealth?

Understanding provider credentials can help you feel confident in your care.

Medical Doctors (MD) and Doctors of Osteopathy (DO)

All states: Full prescribing authority for all medications, controlled and non-controlled. MDs and DOs can independently evaluate and prescribe BED medications via telehealth if licensed in your state.

Nurse Practitioners (NP)

34+ states (plus DC): Full Practice Authority—NPs can independently evaluate, diagnose, and prescribe medications including Topamax and Wellbutrin without physician oversight. These states include:

• California, New York, Washington, Oregon
• Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine
• New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada
• Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa
• Alaska, Hawaii, and many others

Remaining states: Collaborative/Supervisory Practice—NPs can prescribe BED medications but must have a formal collaborative agreement with a physician. This is common in states like:

• Texas, Florida, Georgia, Alabama
• North Carolina, South Carolina
• Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee

Important Note: Even in collaborative states, NPs are fully qualified to prescribe non-controlled medications like those used for BED. The collaborative agreement is a regulatory requirement that happens behind the scenes—it doesn’t limit the quality of your care.

Physician Assistants (PA)

All states: PAs practice under physician supervision but can prescribe medications in all states. Like NPs in collaborative states, the supervision requirement is regulatory, not clinical—experienced PAs are fully competent to manage BED treatment.

Recent Scope of Practice Expansions (2023-2025)

Several states have recently granted or are considering full practice authority for NPs:

• Wisconsin: APRN Modernization Act passed August 2025
• Michigan: Full practice authority implemented 2025
• Louisiana and Kansas: Joined full practice states in 2023-2024

These changes reflect growing recognition of NPs’ expertise and the need to expand mental health access, particularly in underserved areas.

Red Flags: How to Spot Unsafe Telehealth Practices

The telehealth boom has brought increased access but also raised concerns about quality. Here’s how to identify legitimate services:

✅ Signs of a Quality Telehealth Provider:

• Thorough evaluation: Initial visit is 30+ minutes with detailed history-taking
• Licensed providers: Clear information about provider credentials and state licenses
• Informed consent: Explains off-label use, discusses alternatives including therapy
• Regular follow-up: Schedules ongoing appointments to monitor progress and side effects
• Clear communication: Provides multiple ways to contact your provider between visits
• Treatment options: Discusses both medication and non-medication approaches
• Pharmacy integration: Sends prescriptions to legitimate pharmacies (not direct-shipping medications)
• Medical records: Provides access to your clinical records and visit notes

🚩 Red Flags to Avoid:

• Prescription guarantee before evaluation: Promising medication before you’ve been assessed
• Minimal questioning: ‘Evaluation’ consists of just a few yes/no questions
• Pressure tactics: Pushing you to start medication immediately without discussion
• Controlled substance prescribing: Offering Schedule II stimulants (like Adderall) via telehealth for BED without appropriate safeguards (this is typically not standard practice)
• No follow-up required: Getting a prescription with no scheduled follow-up appointments
• Direct medication sales: Selling you pills directly rather than using a pharmacy
• Unlicensed providers: Can’t verify provider credentials or state licenses

Remember: Legitimate telehealth providers follow the same standards of care as in-person practices. If something feels rushed or too easy, trust your instincts.

Insurance Coverage and Costs: What to Expect

Insurance Coverage for Telehealth

Good news: Most insurance plans now cover telehealth visits at the same rate as in-person visits for mental health and psychiatric services. Under the Mental Health Parity Act, insurers cannot discriminate against telehealth for mental health treatment.

Medicare: Telehealth mental health services are covered, with extensions through 2026 allowing continued flexibility for beneficiaries.

Medicaid: Coverage varies by state but has generally expanded significantly. Check your state’s Medicaid telehealth policies.

Private Insurance: Most major insurers cover telehealth for BED treatment when provided by in-network providers.

Out-of-Pocket Costs

If you’re paying cash or using a service that doesn’t accept insurance:

Initial Evaluation: $150-$300 typicallyFollow-up Visits: $75-$150 per visitMedication Costs:

• Topiramate (generic): $10-$40/month with GoodRx or similar discount cards
• Bupropion (generic): $10-$30/month with discount programs
• Both medications have affordable generic options

Klarity Health’s Transparent Pricing Model

At Klarity Health, we believe you shouldn’t have to navigate complex pricing or surprise bills. Here’s how we make BED treatment accessible:

We Accept Insurance: Klarity works with major insurance plans, and we verify your benefits upfront so you know exactly what you’ll pay.

Cash Pay Option: For those without insurance or who prefer not to use it, we offer clear, transparent cash pricing with no hidden fees.

Provider Availability: Unlike traditional psychiatry where wait times can stretch 2-3 months, Klarity typically offers appointments within days—because when you’re struggling with BED, you shouldn’t have to wait.

No Surprise Billing: You’ll know your costs before your appointment, whether you’re using insurance or paying cash.

Quality Providers: Our network includes licensed MDs, DOs, NPs, and PAs—all trained in eating disorder treatment and committed to evidence-based care.

Beyond Medication: Comprehensive BED Treatment

While medication can be an effective tool for managing binge eating disorder, research consistently shows that combining medication with psychotherapy produces the best outcomes.

Evidence-Based Therapies for BED

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
The gold-standard treatment for BED, CBT helps you identify triggers, challenge distorted thoughts about food and body image, and develop healthier coping strategies. Studies show CBT alone can reduce binge episodes by 50% or more.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT):
Originally developed for borderline personality disorder, DBT teaches emotional regulation skills that are highly effective for people who binge eat in response to emotional distress.

Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT):
Focuses on relationship patterns and social functioning that may contribute to disordered eating. Particularly helpful if your binge eating developed in the context of difficult relationships or major life transitions.

Nutrition Counseling

Working with a registered dietitian who specializes in eating disorders can help you:

• Develop regular, balanced eating patterns
• Reduce food restrictions that can trigger binges
• Improve body image and self-compassion
• Address nutritional deficiencies

Support Groups

Many people find tremendous value in connecting with others who understand their struggles. Organizations like:

• Overeaters Anonymous (OA)
• Binge Eating Disorder Association (BEDA)
• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)

…offer support groups, both in-person and online.

Why Klarity’s Approach Works

Klarity Health recognizes that effective BED treatment requires more than just medication management. While our providers can prescribe appropriate medications via convenient telehealth visits, we also:

• Provide therapy referrals and care coordination
• Offer integrated treatment plans that address the whole person
• Support you in accessing nutritional counseling
• Monitor for co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety
• Adjust treatment based on your progress and feedback

Our model is designed around what works clinically, not what’s easiest or most profitable—because lasting recovery requires comprehensive care.

Special Considerations and Safety Information

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Topiramate: Contraindicated in pregnancy due to increased risk of birth defects, particularly cleft palate. If you’re of childbearing age, your provider will discuss reliable contraception before prescribing topiramate. If you become pregnant while taking it, contact your provider immediately—you’ll need to discontinue under medical supervision.

Bupropion: Considered relatively safer in pregnancy compared to many antidepressants, but should still be used only when benefits outweigh risks. Discuss with your provider if you’re pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Alternative Approaches: If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, your provider will likely recommend therapy-focused treatment for BED rather than medication.

Co-occurring Conditions

Many people with BED also experience:

• Depression or anxiety: Bupropion may offer dual benefits
• ADHD: Some symptoms overlap with BED; proper diagnosis is important
• Trauma history: May require trauma-focused therapy alongside medication
• Substance use concerns: Your provider will assess for alcohol or drug use that could interact with medications

Age Considerations

Young Adults (18-25):
Extra monitoring is needed due to the black box warning on antidepressants. If you’re prescribed bupropion, your provider should check in frequently, especially in the first month, to monitor for any worsening mood or suicidal thoughts.

Older Adults (65+):
May be more sensitive to medication side effects. Providers typically start with lower doses and increase more gradually.

The Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP): What You Should Know

Many patients worry about being ‘tracked’ in prescription databases. Here’s what actually happens:

For Non-Controlled Medications (Topamax, Wellbutrin):
These are not typically tracked in state Prescription Monitoring Programs. PMPs are designed to monitor controlled substances (opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants) to prevent misuse and ‘doctor shopping.’

Why Your Provider Might Check Anyway:
Even though it’s not legally required, some providers check the PMP as good practice to:

• Ensure you’re not on multiple similar medications from different providers
• Screen for potential drug interactions
• Get a complete picture of your medication history

Privacy Protections:
PMP data is protected health information. Access is restricted to authorized healthcare providers and certain regulatory agencies. It’s not accessible to employers, schools, or the general public.

Bottom Line:
PMP checks are a patient safety tool, not a punitive surveillance system. If your medication history is straightforward, it should never be a barrier to getting appropriate treatment.

State-Specific Guidance: Navigating Your Local Regulations

While this guide provides federal and general state information, here’s how to confirm the rules in your state:

How to Verify Your State’s Telehealth Laws:

1. State Medical Board Website: Search ‘[Your State] Medical Board telehealth’ for official guidance
2. State Pharmacy Board: May have additional rules about e-prescribing
3. Center for Connected Health Policy (CCHP): Maintains a comprehensive database of state telehealth laws at cchpca.org
4. Ask Your Provider: Legitimate telehealth services stay current on state regulations and should be able to explain any state-specific requirements

Key Questions to Ask:

• ‘Are you licensed to practice in my state?’
• ‘Do I need an in-person visit at any point for this medication?’
• ‘How does [state name] regulate telehealth prescribing?’
• ‘What are my follow-up requirements under state law?’

Klarity Health providers are knowledgeable about state-specific regulations and will inform you of any requirements specific to your location during your evaluation.

Starting Your BED Treatment Journey: Next Steps

If you’re ready to explore telehealth treatment for binge eating disorder, here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Self-Assessment

Consider whether you meet BED criteria:

• Do you have recurrent episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food?
• Do you feel out of control during these episodes?
• Does it happen at least weekly?
• Does it cause you significant distress?

If yes, professional evaluation is the next step.

Step 2: Choose a Reputable Telehealth Provider

Look for services that:

• Employ licensed, credentialed providers
• Offer comprehensive evaluations (not quick questionnaires)
• Provide transparent pricing
• Accept your insurance (if applicable)
• Schedule regular follow-ups
• Have good patient reviews and clear contact information

Klarity Health checks all these boxes and specializes in accessible, affordable mental health care—including eating disorder treatment. Our providers have expertise in BED and can typically see you within days, not months.

Step 3: Prepare for Your Initial Consultation

Before your appointment:

• Write down your binge eating history (when it started, frequency, triggers)
• List all current medications and supplements
• Note any relevant medical history (especially neurological or psychiatric)
• Prepare questions about treatment options
• Have your pharmacy information ready

Step 4: Attend Your Evaluation

During the visit:

• Be honest and thorough—your provider can only help with accurate information
• Ask questions about anything you don’t understand
• Discuss your concerns about side effects, costs, or time commitment
• Don’t feel pressured—it’s okay to take time to think about treatment options

Step 5: Begin Treatment with Support

If you start medication:

• Take it exactly as prescribed
• Keep all follow-up appointments
• Report side effects promptly
• Be patient—most medications take weeks to show full effects
• Consider starting therapy alongside medication
• Track your binge eating episodes to monitor progress

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get BED medication if I don’t have insurance?
Yes. Many telehealth providers, including Klarity Health, offer affordable cash-pay options. Generic versions of topiramate and bupropion are also inexpensive at most pharmacies (often $10-$40/month with discount cards like GoodRx).

How long do I need to take medication for BED?
Treatment duration varies. Some people benefit from 6-12 months of medication support combined with therapy, while others may need longer-term treatment. Your provider will work with you to determine the appropriate duration based on your progress.

What if the first medication doesn’t work?
Not all medications work for all people. If you don’t see improvement after an adequate trial (usually 8-12 weeks at a therapeutic dose), your provider can try a different medication or adjust your treatment plan. This is why regular follow-up is so important.

Can I take BED medication if I’m also being treated for depression or anxiety?
Often yes—in fact, bupropion treats depression and may help with BED. However, your provider needs to know about all medications you’re taking to avoid interactions. Always provide a complete medication list.

Will I have to take this medication forever?
Not necessarily. Many people successfully taper off medication after their eating behaviors have stabilized and they’ve developed strong coping skills through therapy. Discontinuation should always be done under provider supervision.

Are there any natural or over-the-counter alternatives?
While some supplements claim to help with binge eating, there’s limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. Some people find that omega-3 fatty acids, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), or certain B vitamins help with mood regulation, but these should complement—not replace—evidence-based treatment. Discuss any supplements with your provider as they can interact with prescription medications.

What happens if I binge while taking medication?
Medication reduces the frequency and severity of binge episodes, but slip-ups can happen—especially during stressful times. Don’t be discouraged. Contact your provider to discuss what happened and whether treatment adjustments are needed. Recovery isn’t linear, and setbacks are opportunities to learn.

How do I know if my telehealth provider is legitimate?
Check that your provider is licensed in your state (most state medical boards have online license verification tools). Look for clear communication about credentials, transparent pricing, thorough evaluations, and regular follow-up scheduling. If you have any concerns about Klarity Health or any provider, you have the right to verify credentials or seek a second opinion.

Conclusion: The Future of Accessible BED Treatment

Telehealth has fundamentally transformed access to eating disorder treatment. What once required months-long waitlists for specialist appointments, significant travel, and time off work can now begin within days through a video visit from your home.

The regulatory environment in 2026 supports safe, effective telehealth treatment for BED:

• Federal laws permit prescribing of non-controlled medications like topiramate and bupropion without in-person visits
• Most states have permanently adopted telehealth-friendly policies
• Provider credentials and training have matured to meet the unique demands of virtual care
• Insurance coverage has expanded to match in-person parity

Klarity Health is at the forefront of this transformation, combining clinical excellence with the convenience and affordability that makes treatment realistic for busy people. Whether you have insurance or need cash-pay options, whether you’re in a major city or a rural area, quality BED treatment is within reach.

If you’re struggling with binge eating disorder, you don’t have to face it alone—and you don’t have to wait. With the right support, medication when appropriate, and evidence-based therapy, recovery is absolutely possible.

Ready to take the first step? Klarity Health providers are available to evaluate your symptoms, discuss treatment options, and help you reclaim control over your relationship with food. With our transparent pricing, quick appointment availability, and commitment to comprehensive care, getting started is easier than you might think.

You deserve treatment that fits your life, respects your time, and honors your unique journey. That’s what telehealth—and Klarity Health—can offer.

Research Currency Statement

Verified as of: January 4, 2026

This guide reflects the latest available information on federal and state telehealth regulations, medication safety profiles, and clinical evidence for BED treatment. Key verification points include:

• DEA Rules Status: COVID-19 telehealth prescribing flexibilities remain in effect through December 31, 2026 (fourth extension). No federal in-person requirement exists for non-controlled medications—these were never subject to the Ryan Haight Act restrictions on telemedicine.

• States Verified: Researched 10+ key states (AL, CA, DE, FL, GA, NH, NY, TX, MI, WI, etc.) with latest information as of late 2025. State board sites and 2025 legislative updates were checked where available.

• Sources Newer Than 2024: 80%+ of sources are from 2025 (many late-2025) or updated to 2025. Older sources (2024) were used only when confirmed still accurate by newer references.

• Areas Flagged for Follow-Up: Alabama and South Carolina NP scope changes (legislation was discussed in 2025 but final status unclear—assume no full independence yet pending confirmation). Monitor DEA’s pending final rule on telehealth prescribing (expected by end of 2026). Verify any temporary state waivers for expiration/extension beyond 2025.

Citations

1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. ‘HHS Announces Extension of Telemedicine Prescribing Flexibilities Through December 31, 2026.’ Press Release, January 2, 2026. Available at: https://www.hhs.gov/press-room/dea-telemedicine-extension-2026.html

2. Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP. ‘Telehealth and In-Person Visits: Tracking Federal and State Updates to Pandemic-Era Telehealth Exceptions.’ Health Law Blog, August 2025. Available at: https://www.sheppardhealthlaw.com/2025/08/articles/telehealth/telehealth-and-in-person-visits-tracking-federal-and-state-updates-to-pandemic-era-telehealth-exceptions/

3. Center for Connected Health Policy. ‘State Telehealth Laws and Reimbursement Policies: Online Prescribing.’ Updated November-December 2025. Available at: https://www.cchpca.org/topic/online-prescribing/

4. Health Jobs Nationwide. ‘State-by-State Guide: Expanding Roles for PAs and NPs (Updated 2025).’ January 2025. Available at: https://blog.healthjobsnationwide.com/state-by-state-guide-expanding-roles-for-pas-and-nps-updated-2025/

5. DailyMed, National Library of Medicine. ‘Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets – FDA Label.’ Revised 2024. Available at: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=1b69c253-4740-44b0-be63-6c20834540b6&type=display

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