After what has felt like a tough few weeks for many of us, this week, we get to celebrate some amazing news!
On November 15, 2024, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced they will extend telemedicine flexibilities through 2025. This is a huge win for patients, especially for those seeking access to Death with Dignity, as it means they can continue to receive prescriptions for medications remotely–without having to travel long distances or make unnecessary trips to doctors’ offices.
This is the second extension since the original proposed rule was introduced in 2023, and it marks another step forward in our fight to ensure terminally ill patients can access the care they need. Thanks to the power of collective action, we’ve secured another victory within the aid-in-dying movement!
How we made this happen: Your voices were heard!
This win wasn’t easy, but it was made possible by all of us coming together. When the DEA proposed limiting telemedicine access to controlled medications in 2023, many patients, caregivers, and families spoke out about how it would hurt access to life-saving and end-of-life medications. Over 10,000 comments came from those who needed these medications most–terminally ill patients and their loved ones.
We led a massive grassroots campaign to achieve this win, along with the support of the Completed Life Initiative (CLI) and the American Clinicians Academy on Medical Aid in Dying, and nearly 40,000 comments were submitted. This outpouring of support showed the DEA just how vital these flexibilities are. And, it worked! After the first extension in 2023, we’ve now secured a second extension through 2025–and it’s proof that when we fight together, we can make real change happen!
Why this matters: More access to medical aid in dying
This victory is about more than just convenience–it’s about life and death. For terminally ill patients, being able to access medication remotely isn’t a luxury, it’s a matter of dignity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the rules that allowed for remote prescriptions were a lifeline for patients–especially those in underserved areas or experiencing mobility issues.
With the second extension now secured, patients will continue to have the ability to receive medications they need, including access to Death with Dignity, in the comfort of their own homes. And, it means fewer painful trips to see a doctor, less stress, and more time to focus on what matters.
The fight isn’t over, but for now, we will celebrate this win!
While this second extension is a tremendous victory, our work is not done yet. The DEA’s decision is temporary, and they will continue to review these rules in 2025. But one thing is certain: this extension shows the power of our collective voice. When we speak out together, we can influence the decisions that impact terminally ill patients’ right to a peaceful end-of-life experience. We will continue to demand that every patient, no matter where they live, has the right to live and die with dignity and comfort.
Thank you for fighting alongside us, for making your voices heard, and for supporting this crucial cause. If you want to keep fighting for the rights of terminally ill patients, please consider making a donation today.