Medicinal Cannabis Tasmania | FAQs

Rules and regulations around medicinal cannabis in Australia do vary from state to state and are regularly subject to changes and updates. Please find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the use of medicinal cannabis in Tasmania.

Is medicinal cannabis legal in Tasmania?

Medicinal cannabis is legal in Tasmania (TAS), when used in medical and research contexts. The Australian Government legalised medicinal cannabis nationwide through federal legislation in 2016. Patients and suppliers may access medicinal cannabis products according to state and federal regulations. Specific licences and approvals are necessary for activities related to the cultivation, import, production and manufacturing of these products. In Tasmania, medical practitioners have the option of prescribing medicinal cannabis through Tasmania’s Controlled Access Scheme (CAS).

Do you need a prescription for medicinal cannabis in TAS?

Yes. A patient needs to have a prescription to acquire medicinal cannabis in Tasmania. A medical practitioner may prescribe it to a patient if they think it would be clinically appropriate, and they have obtained the required Commonwealth approval, and State authorisation. A medical practitioner must explain the potential risks and benefits to their patient, as well as outline the available evidence for its usage.

Who can prescribe medicinal cannabis in TAS?

Medical doctors are able to prescribe medicinal cannabis products in Tasmania. Due to medicinal cannabis products holding “unapproved therapeutic good” status, doctors may need Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approval to prescribe these products.

Doctors using the Special Access Scheme (SAS) pathway must get approval for each individual patient’s prescription. There is a national streamlined online application process, with a 48-hour authorisation timeframe. Medical professionals who are authorised prescribers may prescribe medicinal cannabis to patients under their care for specific authorised medical conditions. They do not require approval for individual patient prescriptions.

Who can supply medicinal cannabis in Tasmania?

Any pharmacy in Tasmania may legally dispense medicinal cannabis provided that the patient has a valid prescription. The prescription has to meet the requirements of the Poisons Act 1971 and Poisons Regulations 2018. Usually, the medical professional who prescribed the medicinal cannabis will also provide a copy of the TGA approval for the prescription to the patient. The pharmacy should also verify the prescriber’s credentials and the prescription itself. For some medicinal cannabis medicines containing THC to be legally dispensed, your prescriber must be present and practising in Tasmania when issuing the prescription.

Who is eligible to qualify for medicinal cannabis in Tasmania?

In Tasmania, there is no list of eligible conditions suitable for treatment with medicinal cannabis. Whether or not a patient is eligible is determined by the registered medical practitioner. The practitioner will assess a patient on a case-by-case basis based on a patient’s individual circumstances.

If they decide medicinal cannabis is clinically appropriate for the patient and have obtained all required approvals, they can prescribe medicinal cannabis, as long as they are present and practicing in Tasmania when issuing the prescription.

How much does a medical prescription cost?

The cost of medicinal cannabis will vary depending on the product that has been prescribed, as well as the dosage and regimen. Registered medical professionals in Tasmania are able to prescribe both registered and unregistered medicinal cannabis goods. With limited exceptions, most medicinal cannabis is not on Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), so the Tasmanian Government is unable to regulate pricing. Some health insurers have begun to include medicinal cannabis treatment in their coverage options, but this varies depending on the insurer.

How much medicinal cannabis can a patient possess in TAS?

The amount of medicinal cannabis you can possess in Tasmania is defined in your prescription. Your prescription allocates a specific product and dosage to you. This product must remain in its original packaging and retain its pharmacy labelling.

Can you drive while undergoing medicinal cannabis treatment in TAS?

As medicinal cannabis can cause impairment, it is advised that patients do not drive once they have ingested medicinal cannabis. Tasmania, however, is the only state where driving with THC in your system is not considered illegal, provided you have a valid prescription for medicinal cannabis.

‍Cannabidiol (CBD) is another common substance in medicinal cannabis products. CBD is legally allowed to be in your system while you drive. However, CBD-dominant products may contain traces of THC.CBD-isolate products have the lowest chance of containing THC. These may be suitable for patients who need to drive regularly. Consult your doctor and read your label for clarification.

Can a patient be fired for using medicinal cannabis in Tasmania?

Companies have their own drug policies that outline which substances are banned. THC is a commonly-banned substance that is present in many medicinal cannabis products. A medicinal cannabis treatment may cause a positive drug test.

A patient should discuss drug policies with their workplace before commencing medicinal cannabis treatment. Their prescriber should be able to provide a medical certificate, stating the prescription and whether the employee is fit to perform their duties (this will be particularly relevant for patients with roles that include driving or operating machinery).

Can you travel domestically to Tasmania with medicinal cannabis?

You may travel domestically to TAS with prescription medicinal cannabis. The medicinal cannabis products must retain both their original packaging and original pharmacy labelling. You must always have your prescription with you when travelling. Travellers from abroad should refer to the TGA or the ODC for specific information about bringing medicinal cannabis into the country from overseas.

Does health insurance cover medicinal cannabis in Tasmania?

Some private health insurers may cover the cost of medicinal cannabis in Tasmania. Medicinal cannabis products are ineligible for public health cover like Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). However, private health insurers may cover medicinal cannabis costs under optional extras. Make sure to clarify the policies of your chosen insurance provider.

FAQS: MEDICINAL CANNABIS IN TAS