Medical Cannabis in Australia
Regulatory Framework for Medical Cannabis Prescribing in Australia
Introduction
Medical cannabis has become an established treatment pathway in Australia for patients whose symptoms have not responded to conventional therapies. Since legalisation in 2016, access has steadily expanded — but the process remains highly regulated under the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
DocTel Medicanna provides a secure telehealth pathway where eligible patients can consult an Australian-registered doctor who is authorised to prescribe medical cannabis when clinically appropriate.
This guide explains how medical cannabis works, who may be eligible, what doctors assess, and what patients should expect — with strict adherence to Australian regulatory requirements.
What Is Medical Cannabis?
Medical cannabis refers to pharmaceutical-grade cannabis products prescribed by an Australian health practitioner. These products may contain:
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)
CBD (cannabidiol)
A combination of both
Products are regulated as Schedule 8 (controlled) or Schedule 4 (prescription-only) medicines depending on their formulation.
These are not recreational products and cannot be accessed without a valid prescription.
How Doctors Determine Eligibility (TGA-Compliant)
A doctor can only prescribe medical cannabis if it is clinically appropriate after assessing:
Your symptoms
Medical history
Previous treatments
Risks and contraindications
Whether conventional therapies have been trialled and not effective or tolerated
Australian law does not support “walk-in approvals” or automatic eligibility.
Each case must be assessed individually.
Common clinical areas where patients may be assessed include:
(Note: These are common consultation reasons — not treatment recommendations or guarantees.)
Chronic pain unresponsive to conventional therapies
Anxiety symptoms not controlled by standard interventions
Insomnia not relieved by usual treatments
PTSD-related symptoms
Neurological conditions
Palliative care and symptom support
The doctor must document that standard treatments have been considered first.
How the Telehealth Process Works at DocTel Medicanna
1. Book a secure telehealth appointment
You select a time and provide a short medical history so the doctor can prepare.
2. Doctor assessment
A qualified Australian doctor reviews:
Current symptoms
Past treatments
Medication history
Eligibility criteria
Any risks or red flags
3. Clinical decision
The doctor may determine that:
Medical cannabis is appropriate, or
Another treatment is more suitable, or
Further investigation is needed
There is no guarantee that medical cannabis will be prescribed.
4. Prescription and pharmacy
If the doctor prescribes, you will receive:
A valid electronic prescription
Dispensing options via a licensed Australian pharmacy
Information about product type, dosing guidance, and follow-up requirements
Understanding Product Types
CBD-only products (Schedule 4)
Do not produce intoxicating effects
Commonly used for symptoms such as anxiety or sleep difficulties (case-dependent)
THC-containing products (Schedule 8)
Strictly controlled
May cause impairment
Patients must not drive while affected
Balanced THC/CBD products
A combination used when clinically justified.
Your doctor chooses the category based on clinical need and risk profile.
Possible Side Effects and Safety Considerations
AHPRA-safe summary — no exaggeration, no clinical claims.
Commonly reported effects may include:
Drowsiness or fatigue
Dry mouth
Changes in concentration
Gastrointestinal discomfort
Dizziness
THC-containing products may impair driving and machinery operation.
Patients must comply with all state transport laws.
Costs and What to Expect
Medical cannabis is not subsidised by the PBS, meaning costs vary.
Typical expenses may include:
Doctor consultation
Medication cost (depends on product type and dosage)
Follow-up reviews
At DocTel, we aim to keep consultations affordable while maintaining strict compliance and professional standards.
Is Medical Cannabis Legal in Australia?
Yes — when prescribed by:
An Australian-registered doctor
Following TGA pathways such as the Special Access Scheme (SAS-B) or Authorised Prescriber (AP) program
All DocTel Medicanna prescribers operate within the required TGA frameworks.
Driving and Workplace Safety
This is non-negotiable:
THC can impair driving.
It is illegal to drive with THC in your system in many Australian states, regardless of impairment.
Some workplaces may have strict drug and alcohol policies.
Patients must follow all legal and workplace requirements.
Follow-Up and Ongoing Review
Medical cannabis treatment requires:
Regular clinical reviews
Monitoring of effects and side effects
Adjustments to dosage or formulation when medically appropriate
At DocTel, follow-up consultations are structured to maintain safety and compliance.
Why Telehealth for Medical Cannabis?
Telehealth provides:
Convenient access for patients unable to attend in person
Faster assessment timelines
Secure, encrypted consultations
Access to qualified prescribers regardless of location within Australia
Telehealth prescribing is fully legal in Australia when done by an authorised and compliant practitioner.
When Medical Cannabis Is Not Appropriate
Doctors will not prescribe if:
Symptoms can be managed with safer or more appropriate options
The patient has certain medical contraindications
There is a risk of misuse
Regulatory criteria are not met
The condition is untreated or unstable
The patient is seeking recreational use
DocTel strictly follows TGA and AHPRA guidance — there are no shortcuts.
How to Start With DocTel Medicanna
Book an appointment
Complete a short medical questionnaire
Meet your doctor via secure telehealth
Discuss your symptoms and previous treatment
Receive a prescription if clinically appropriate
Pharmacy dispensing and follow-up as needed
Your Health, Your Way — With DocTel
Discover a new era of healthcare with DocTel. Our platform is designed to provide you with personalized, convenient, and compassionate care. Take the first step towards a healthier you by booking a consultation today.