How to Get a Medicinal Cannabis Prescription

How to Get a Medicinal Cannabis Prescription with MOCA Health

If you are considering medicinal cannabis as a treatment option, the process of obtaining a prescription through MOCA Health is simple, confidential, and convenient. As a telehealth clinic, we offer remote consultations to ensure patients across Australia have access to the care they need. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to get a medicinal cannabis prescription through MOCA Health, including an overview of the Special Access Scheme (SAS) and the process involved.

Step 1: Consultation with a Registered Medical Practitioner

The first step to obtaining a medicinal cannabis prescription is to book a telehealth consultation with one of our registered medical practitioners. During this consultation, the doctor will discuss your medical history, current health condition, and treatment options. This is your opportunity to ask questions and learn more about how medicinal cannabis might be used to treat your specific condition.

Our team of healthcare professionals is experienced in assessing whether medicinal cannabis is appropriate for your needs, and they will provide personalized recommendations based on your health profile. The consultation will take place via a secure online platform, meaning you can participate from the comfort of your home.

Step 2: Eligibility Assessment

Not all patients are eligible for medicinal cannabis treatment. During the consultation, the doctor will assess your eligibility based on your condition, symptoms, and any other treatments you may have already tried. Conditions that are commonly treated with medicinal cannabis include chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and certain neurological and inflammatory disorders.

If the doctor determines that medicinal cannabis may benefit your condition, they will discuss the Special Access Scheme (SAS) and Authorised Prescriber Scheme as the options available to you for obtaining a prescription.

Step 3: Special Access Scheme (SAS) Application

In Australia, the Special Access Scheme (SAS) is a program managed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which allows doctors to prescribe medicinal cannabis to patients with specific health conditions. Through the SAS, your doctor will apply for approval from the TGA on your behalf. This is a required step before a prescription can be issued.

There are two types of SAS pathways:

• SAS Category A: For patients with serious or life-threatening conditions who have tried conventional treatments without success.

• SAS Category B: For patients who do not meet the criteria for Category A but still require medicinal cannabis to manage their condition.

Once the doctor submits your application to the TGA, approval is typically granted within a few days to a few weeks. In some cases, additional medical documentation may be requested by the TGA.

Step 4: Issuance of the Prescription

After the TGA approves the SAS application, your medicinal cannabis prescription will be issued by your doctor. This prescription will specify the type of cannabis product, the dosage, and the treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. The products prescribed will align with your condition, ensuring that you receive the most suitable formulation of cannabis-based medicine.

If you are prescribed a cannabis oil, capsule, or edible product, the doctor will also provide clear guidance on how to use the product safely, how to track your dosage, and what to expect in terms of potential side effects or benefits.

Step 5: Dispensing Your Prescription

Once your prescription is issued, you will be able to have it dispensed through an authorised pharmacy that stocks medicinal cannabis products. The pharmacy will dispense the prescribed product based on your doctor's instructions.

At MOCA Health, we work with trusted pharmacies across Australia to ensure that patients receive high-quality, regulated medicinal cannabis products. In addition, your doctor will provide instructions on how to start treatment, including any necessary adjustments to dosage over time.

Step 6: Follow-Up Appointments and Monitoring

After receiving your medicinal cannabis prescription, it’s important to schedule follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress. During these appointments, your doctor will assess how well the treatment is working, address any side effects, and make any necessary adjustments to the dosage or product formulation.

This ongoing care ensures that you receive the most effective treatment and allows you to report any changes in your symptoms or health.

Step 7: Ongoing Access and Refills

Once your prescription is approved, you will typically be able to access refills or renewals as required. MOCA Health’s telehealth service allows for easy ongoing consultations, enabling you to manage your treatment without the need for in-person visits.

If there are any changes in your medical condition, your doctor will be able to modify your treatment plan or adjust your dosage based on your individual needs.

Why Choose MOCA Health?

At MOCA Health, we provide comprehensive telehealth services for medicinal cannabis prescriptions, ensuring that patients have access to the care they need from the comfort of their homes. Our doctors are highly trained and committed to supporting you throughout your treatment journey, offering ongoing guidance and support. With a focus on patient centered care, we aim to help you achieve better health outcomes through safe and effective use of medicinal cannabis.

Our telehealth consultations are convenient, secure, and designed to meet the unique needs of each patient. If you believe that medicinal cannabis could help you manage your condition, schedule a consultation with one of our qualified medical professionals today.

Ready to Start Your Medicinal Cannabis Journey?

If you’re interested in exploring the potential benefits of medicinal cannabis, MOCA Health is here to help. Book your telehealth consultation today to get started on your path to better health with the support of our dedicated team.