Understanding Medical Marijuana in Australia
Medical marijuana has been a contentious topic in Australia since its legalization in 2016. It is available to patients with chronic and debilitating medical conditions who have exhausted all other forms of treatment. Medical cannabis is still a relatively new industry in Australia, and there are numerous misconceptions about the drug and its usage.
Medical marijuana is not the same as recreational marijuana. It contains a lower concentration of the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and higher levels of cannabidiol (CBD), which has numerous health benefits. Medical marijuana is available in different forms, including oils, capsules, and dried flowers, among others.
The Cost of Medical Marijuana in Australia
Medical marijuana is not funded by the Australian Government’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and can be expensive. As a result, patients must pay for their medication out of pocket. The cost of medical marijuana varies depending on the form in which it is administered and the dosage prescribed.
An average price for a month’s supply of medical marijuana in Australia is around $300-$1000 AUD. The price is dependent on the dosage prescribed, the method of consumption, and the specific strain prescribed.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Medical Marijuana
Several factors influence the cost of medical marijuana in Australia. These include:
Supply and Demand
The cost of medical marijuana is affected by supply and demand dynamics. The demand for medical cannabis has been increasing steadily in Australia, but the supply has not kept up with the pace. The shortage of medical cannabis leads to higher prices.
Cultivation and Production
Medical marijuana is not available for sale in pharmacies like other medications. Instead, it is distributed through authorized suppliers. The production and distribution of medical marijuana require significant resources and expertise, which contribute to the high cost.
Dosage and Frequency
The cost of medical marijuana is also affected by the prescribed dosage and frequency. Higher dosages and more frequent consumption will increase the price of medical marijuana.
Accessing Medical Marijuana in Australia
Accessing medical marijuana in Australia requires a prescription from a medical practitioner. The prescription process involves several steps, including:
- Patient Consultation – Patients must consult with a medical practitioner who will determine their eligibility for medical marijuana.
- Accessing Authorized Prescribers – Medical practitioners must be authorized to prescribe medical marijuana; otherwise, the prescription will not be valid.
- Authorization – The medical practitioner will submit the prescription to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for authorization.
- Dispensing – Once authorized, the prescription can be dispensed by authorized pharmacies or suppliers.
Conclusion
Medical marijuana is a viable treatment option for people with chronic and debilitating medical conditions. However, accessing medical marijuana in Australia can be expensive. The cost of medical marijuana varies depending on several factors, including supply and demand, cultivation and production, and dosage and frequency. Regardless of the cost, the benefits of medical marijuana outweigh the expense for many patients.
