The UK Medical Cannabis Prescription Process

Medical cannabis has been legal in the UK since 1 November 2018, when specialist doctors were allowed to prescribe it for medicinal use. Today, tens of thousands of patients access treatment through private clinics, though many still face barriers.

What does the process look like for patients interested in being evaluated for alternative treatments like medical cannabis?

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How Medicinal Cannabis is Prescribed in the UK

There's a general process UK specialists follow when evaluating a patent for cannabis. 

If you're about to be evaluated by a specialist, be prepared to complete the following steps:

1. Get Your Care Record Summary: Start by asking your GP for a summary of your medical history. This helps your specialist understand your condition and past treatments.
2. Get a Referral to a Specialist: Your GP can refer you to a specialist, or you can self-refer to a private clinic.
3. Attend a Consultation: During your appointment, the specialist will review your medical history and discuss whether medical cannabis could be a suitable option or another avenue of treatment is more appropriate.

If approved, your specialist will issue a prescription to a Specialist Pharmacy who will contact you to fulfill it. Your prescription will be sent to your selected pharmacy, and your medication will be delivered to your home.

How to Maintain Medical Cannabis Access

After getting your medical cannabis prescription, you’ll need regular follow-ups with your specialist. At first, these are usually every 4-6 weeks, then every 6 months once your treatment is stable. These appointments let your doctor check your health and adjust your treatment if needed.

Steps to Renew a Medical Cannabis Prescription in the UK

Your medical cannabis prescription needs to be renewed regularly. To keep it active, you’ll need regular follow-ups with your specialist. They’ll check how you’re doing at these appointments and adjust your treatment if needed. Missing appointments could mean your prescription isn’t renewed, so make sure to stay on schedule.

Who Qualifies for Medical Cannabis in the UK?

Patients must be 18 years of age or older to see a specialist in the UK. 

While there are no specific restrictions based on job or gun ownership (like there are in the US), some professions may have their own policies about cannabis use.

Ultimately, whether a patient qualifies depends on medical condition and whether the specialist believes cannabis could help. 

What Are the Qualifying Conditions to Access Medical Cannabis in the UK?

The UK doesn’t have a fixed list of conditions for medical cannabis. Instead, specialists check if other treatments haven’t worked and if cannabis could help. While the NHS rarely prescribes medicinal cannabis (mainly for severe epilepsy, MS, or chemotherapy side effects), private clinics are more open and may consider other conditions.

How to Find a Certified UK Medical Cannabis Patient Care Specialist for an Initial Appointment

Getting evaluated for medical cannabis in the UK can feel overwhelming. Only specialist doctors are allowed to prescribe it. Clinics like Wellford Clinics can help. They match patients with experts who can evaluate their condition and help determine whether medical cannabis can help. If it’s a good fit, they’ll send the prescription to a pharmacy. In many cases, the medication can be delivered directly to the patient's home.

Wellford Clinics makes this process simple. Patients can book an appointment online and speak to their specialist from home.

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Getting a Medical Cannabis Evaluation Online

With NuggMD and Wellford Clinics, patients can speak to a qualified medical cannabis specialist from home. Here’s how it works:

1. Book an Appointment: Schedule a consultation with a specialist. It’s quick, easy, and completely online.
2. Talk to the Specialist: During the virtual appointment, the specialist will ask about the patient's medical history to determine whether a medicinal cannabis prescription could help or the patient should try other options first.
3. Get the Prescription: If approved, the prescription will be sent to a pharmacy and the medication will be delivered to the patient's home.

What to Expect When Talking to a Medical Cannabis Specialist

During a patient consultation, the specialist will ask about medical history, current medications, herbs and vitamins, and other treatments tried. They will also discuss any alternative treatments they believe may be more appropriate. To make the most of the appointment, patients should jot down any questions or concerns beforehand.

What Types of Cannabis Products Are Available in the UK?

In the UK, medical cannabis physicians can prescribe a range of products, including dried flower (for vaporisation only), oils, capsules, and topical creams. The cannabis prescription will specify the type and dosage.

What If the Dose Is Too High?

If you're prescribed cannabis and the dose feels too strong, don’t panic. It’s common for people just starting to feel overwhelmed because everyone metabolises cannabis differently. Some patients feel very little at 50mg of THC while others may feel overwhelmed at 10mg. 

If your dosage needs adjustment, give your specialist a call and let them know how you’re feeling. They’ll help you figure out the right amount. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to help manage the effects of cannabis, like drinking water, eating healthy snacks, sipping coffee, and taking a small amount of CBD.

Have More Questions About How the Medical Cannabis Prescription Process Works in the UK?

Explore the UK’s cannabis laws and regulations, take the first steps to get a medical cannabis prescription in the UK, or browse our additional resources for UK patients.

• Qualifying Conditions for a Medical Card in the UK
• Benefits of a Medical Card in the UK

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The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.