NJ ADHD Medication Update: In-Person Visit Requirements

Important Update for New Jersey Patients Prescribed Certain Controlled Medications

New Jersey has updated how certain controlled medications can be prescribed by telemedicine.

As of February 16, 2026, the COVID-era waivers that allowed remote prescribing of some controlled medications without an in-person visit expired. Under New Jersey law, a prescriber must now complete an initial in-person examination before prescribing a controlled substance (such as Stimulant Medications for ADHD) through telemedicine, and an in-person follow-up visit at least every three months is required for as long as that medication continues.

There is one notable exception. New Jersey law allows a waiver of the in-person requirement for a minor under age 18 who is prescribed these medications, as long as the visit is done with interactive, real-time two-way audio and video and the parent or guardian provides written consent to waive the in-person requirement.

This is not a blanket rule for every psychiatric medication, but it is an important change for patients who receive controlled substances through telehealth.

What does this mean in practice? Telehealth can still remain an important part of treatment, but patients receiving these medications (such as Stimulants for ADHD) in New Jersey should expect to see their doctor in person every 3 months. This requirement applies regardless of any continued federal telehealth flexibilities.

If you are receiving care by telehealth only, please check with your prescriber if this applies to your care. If it does, please plan to see your provider in person before May 15, 2026. If your prescriber does not offer in-person visits, please obtain referrals to see a provider in person before this time frame.

To ensure your care remains seamless, please book your next appointment at Mindspace Psychiatry before May 15. If you are unsure if this new law applies to your specific treatment plan, please get in touch with Mindspace Psychiatry - https://www.mindspacepsychiatry.com/contact