Experts Called for New Telehealth Buprenorphine Guidelines
Researchers urge standardized care for pregnant patients as access to remote opioid treatment options has expanded.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Substance Abuse
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Experts have identified a critical need for clinical guidelines to support telehealth-based buprenorphine treatment for pregnant and postpartum patients. With the federal government now permitting permanent audio-only access, clear standards could help bridge significant care gaps for this population.
Why it matters
Untreated opioid use disorder during pregnancy is tied to risks like fetal death and preterm labor, yet fewer than half of affected individuals currently receive medication-assisted treatment. Standardized guidelines are needed to navigate fragmented state policies and improve outcomes for those relying on Medicaid.
A viewpoint analysis published in JAMA Internal Medicine highlights that despite 49 states and Washington, DC, extending postpartum Medicaid to 12 months, no specific clinical guidelines exist for using telehealth to initiate buprenorphine during pregnancy or the postpartum period.
The players
JAMA Internal Medicine
A peer-reviewed medical journal that publishes original research and commentary on clinical care and health policy.
The details
Telehealth prescribing enables clinicians to initiate buprenorphine treatment remotely without needing an initial in-person visit. Audio-only options are particularly vital as they allow patients to receive care without needing high-speed internet or video-capable devices. This approach aims to reduce logistical hurdles like transportation, child care, and clinician shortages that frequently prevent patients from accessing addiction services.
Timeline
Emergency telehealth flexibilities for buprenorphine were first authorized in March 2020.
The federal government adopted a permanent audio-only telehealth buprenorphine policy in December 2025.
As of March 2026, 49 states and Washington, DC, expanded postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months.
A viewpoint article was published in JAMA Internal Medicine on September 21, 2026.
Health Landscape
This call for clinical guidance follows the widespread adoption of the Postpartum Medicaid Coverage expansion. It highlights an urgent need for medical practices to integrate these policy changes into daily care for patients with opioid use disorder.
If you are pregnant or postpartum and managing opioid use disorder, discuss your options for remote treatment with your obstetrician or primary care provider. Ask whether telehealth buprenorphine is appropriate for your specific health needs and how your current insurance plan covers these services.
The takeaway
The move toward permanent telehealth access provides a vital pathway for receiving medication-assisted treatment during and after pregnancy. Patients should work with their healthcare providers to evaluate how these remote care options fit into a comprehensive prenatal and postpartum health plan.
Further reading
For more on evolving standards of care, explore our Substance Abuse section.
More information
View the detailed KFF report on perinatal Medicaid treatment for additional data on coverage trends.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Psychiatrictimes.
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