FAQS Medical
Cannabis Telehealth

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Medicinal Cannabis and Telehealth

Medicinal cannabis has become a widely discussed treatment option for various health conditions in Australia, particularly in the form of oils, tinctures, and capsules. However, there are still many questions surrounding its use, the prescribing process, and how telehealth consultations can help patients access it. Below are the most frequently asked questions, with answers to help you understand how MOCA Health and medicinal cannabis work together to offer a convenient, safe, and effective treatment.

1. What is medicinal cannabis, and how does it differ from recreational cannabis?

Medicinal cannabis refers to cannabis products that are used to treat specific medical conditions under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional. These products are made from the cannabis plant and contain active ingredients like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which have therapeutic effects on conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and more.

Recreational cannabis, on the other hand, is used for personal, non-medical purposes and is illegal in most parts of Australia. Unlike medicinal cannabis, recreational cannabis does not undergo the same rigorous regulatory oversight to ensure its safety and efficacy for health conditions.

2. How does medicinal cannabis help with certain medical conditions?

Medicinal cannabis can help treat a wide range of conditions by affecting the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain, mood, sleep, and immune responses. Some common conditions treated with medicinal cannabis include:

• Chronic pain: Helps manage pain in conditions such as arthritis or nerve pain.

• Anxiety: Reduces symptoms of anxiety disorders and panic attacks.

• Insomnia: Helps improve sleep patterns and quality.

• Epilepsy: Used to manage seizures in patients with certain types of epilepsy.

• Nausea and vomiting: Often used for patients undergoing chemotherapy or other treatments that cause nausea.

The active compounds in medicinal cannabis, like THC and CBD, have been shown to provide relief for these and other conditions, improving patients' quality of life.

3. What are the side effects of medicinal cannabis?

Like any medication, medicinal cannabis can have side effects, although they tend to be mild and temporary. Some common side effects include:

• Drowsiness: Some patients may feel tired or sleepy, particularly when first starting treatment.

• Dry mouth: Known as "cottonmouth," this can be alleviated by drinking plenty of water.

• Dizziness: Especially when standing up quickly, this may occur as your body adjusts to the medication.

• Changes in appetite: Some people may experience an increase in appetite, commonly referred to as the “munchies.”

It is important to start with a low dose and gradually increase it to minimize side effects. Always discuss any adverse effects with your healthcare provider.

4. How do telehealth consultations work with MOCA Health?

Telehealth consultations allow patients to access healthcare professionals remotely through secure video or phone calls. MOCA Health offers telehealth services to make it easier for patients to consult with licensed prescribers, regardless of their location.

Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:

1. Book an appointment: Visit the MOCA Health website and schedule your telehealth consultation at a time that suits you.

2. Consult with a licensed professional: During the video or phone call, a qualified doctor will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and the potential benefits of medicinal cannabis for your condition.

3. Receive your prescription: If medicinal cannabis is deemed appropriate, the doctor will issue an electronic prescription that can be used at a licensed pharmacy.

4. Ongoing support: MOCA Health provides follow-up consultations to monitor progress and adjust treatment as necessary.

Telehealth provides a flexible, convenient option for those who cannot easily visit a clinic in person.

5. Is medicinal cannabis legal in Australia?

Yes, medicinal cannabis is legal in Australia, but it is strictly regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The TGA sets guidelines for prescribing medicinal cannabis, and patients can only access these products through a prescription from an authorized healthcare provider.

There are two main pathways for obtaining medicinal cannabis in Australia:

1. Special Access Scheme (SAS): For patients who cannot access medicinal cannabis through other channels, the SAS allows healthcare providers to apply for approval from the TGA to prescribe cannabis for specific medical conditions.

2. Authorized Prescriber Scheme: Healthcare providers who are specifically approved by the TGA to prescribe medicinal cannabis can issue prescriptions directly.
   
   

MOCA Health works within these legal frameworks to ensure that all prescriptions are compliant with Australian law.

6. How do I get a prescription for medicinal cannabis?

The process of getting a prescription for medicinal cannabis with MOCA Health typically involves the following steps:

1. Consult with a licensed medical professional: Book a telehealth consultation through MOCA Health to discuss your condition and the possibility of medicinal cannabis as a treatment.

2. Assess your eligibility: During the consultation, the doctor will assess your medical history, symptoms, and suitability for medicinal cannabis treatment.

3. Obtain a prescription: If medicinal cannabis is appropriate, the doctor will issue a prescription, which can be filled at a licensed pharmacy.

4. Follow-up consultations: Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as necessary.

7. What is the Special Access Scheme (SAS)?

The Special Access Scheme (SAS) is a pathway for patients who need medicinal cannabis but are unable to access it through other means. Under the SAS, doctors can apply to the TGA for approval to prescribe cannabis for individual patients.

MOCA Health’s team of healthcare professionals is experienced in navigating the SAS process, ensuring that patients receive the medicines they need in a timely and efficient manner.

8. Is telehealth a secure and private way to consult with a doctor?

Yes, MOCA Health ensures that all telehealth consultations are conducted through secure, encrypted platforms to protect your privacy and confidentiality. All personal information and medical details discussed during consultations are kept confidential in accordance with Australian privacy laws.

9. Can medicinal cannabis be prescribed for any condition?

Medicinal cannabis can only be prescribed for conditions where there is sufficient evidence supporting its therapeutic benefits. It is commonly used to treat chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy, nausea, and other conditions that do not respond well to conventional treatments.

However, each case is assessed on an individual basis, and medicinal cannabis may not be suitable for every patient or condition. Your healthcare provider will determine whether it is the right treatment for you.

10. What are the costs of medicinal cannabis?

MOCA Health offers affordable pricing options to reduce barriers to medical cannabis access, ensuring patients receive high-quality, legally prescribed cannabis treatments without financial strain, promoting broader healthcare access.The cost of medicinal cannabis can vary depending on the type of product, dosage, and treatment plan. MOCA Health provides clear and transparent pricing information during your consultation, and the prescribed products are available through licensed pharmacies. Some patients may also be eligible for insurance coverage, depending on their individual circumstances.

11. How do I know if medicinal cannabis is right for me?

Medicinal cannabis may be a suitable option if you suffer from a condition that has not responded well to traditional treatments or if you are seeking an alternative treatment for conditions such as chronic pain or anxiety. During your telehealth consultation, the licensed healthcare provider will help determine if medicinal cannabis is appropriate for your specific situation.

Conclusion

Medicinal cannabis offers an alternative and effective treatment for a variety of medical conditions. Through MOCA Health’s telehealth services, patients can access expert care from the comfort of their homes. Whether you’re seeking relief for chronic pain, anxiety, or other conditions, medicinal cannabis may provide the solution you need. If you have any further questions, our team is here to assist you on your journey to better health.