Emergency medical services can now register to dispense controlled substances.

The Justice Department and DEA have created a new registration process for emergency medical services agencies. This means ambulances and other emergency responders can now legally stock and administer controlled medications like strong painkillers.

For years, emergency medical services operated in a gray area regarding controlled substances. This rule change clarifies that they can register and obtain the necessary permits to carry medications like fentanyl or morphine. This should allow for more consistent and legal pain management at the point of emergency care.