1. Choose telehealth or in person
Telehealth is usually the quickest option and works from anywhere in Australia. In-person care suits people who want a physical examination or prefer an ongoing relationship with a local practice. Search the directory and filter by appointment type.
2. Get your history together
- A list of current medications and supplements, including doses.
- Your diagnosis and the treatments you have already tried, and how they went.
- Any recent letters, test results or a health summary from your GP.
3. The consultation
The doctor asks about your symptoms, history and goals, and checks for things that make medicinal cannabis unsuitable, such as certain heart conditions, pregnancy or a history of psychosis. If they think it is appropriate, they explain options, expected effects and side effects.
4. Approval and your prescription
Most medicinal cannabis products are not on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods, so doctors prescribe them through the TGA's Special Access Scheme or as an Authorised Prescriber. Your doctor handles this. Once approved, your script goes to a pharmacy that can dispense or post it to you.
5. Follow-ups
Expect a review within a few weeks to check how you are going, adjust the dose and watch for side effects. Many practices run follow-ups by telehealth.
Questions
Do I need a referral to see a medical cannabis doctor?
Usually not. Most clinics and telehealth services in this directory take bookings directly. Some will ask for a summary of your medical history or a letter from your regular GP, so have that handy. If you would like a Medicare rebate for a specialist, you will generally need a GP referral.
Can my regular GP prescribe medicinal cannabis?
Yes, any registered medical practitioner in Australia can apply to prescribe through the TGA, but some GPs choose not to. If your GP is not comfortable prescribing, a doctor or clinic in this directory who already prescribes regularly can assess you.
Telehealth or in person: which should I choose?
Telehealth is fastest and works anywhere in Australia, which helps in regional areas or if getting out is hard. An in-person appointment suits people who want a physical examination, prefer face-to-face care, or need a doctor who can coordinate with local specialists. Use the filters to pick either.
How much does an appointment cost?
Fees vary by practice and most medicinal cannabis consults are privately billed. Medicinal cannabis products are generally not subsidised under the PBS. Ask the practice about consultation fees, follow-up costs and medication pricing before you book.
Will a doctor definitely prescribe medicinal cannabis?
No. The doctor assesses your health history, current medications and goals, and decides whether medicinal cannabis is clinically appropriate. Go in ready for an honest conversation about what has and has not worked for you.
Can I drive if I am prescribed medicinal cannabis?
Driving laws differ by state, and most make it an offence to drive with any THC in your system, even with a prescription. Ask your doctor what your medicine contains and what that means for driving where you live.
Is AltMed a clinic?
No. AltMed is an independent directory and education resource. We do not provide medical advice, book appointments or prescribe. Contact practices directly.
