HOW MUCH DOES MEDICAL CANNABIS COST IN THE UK?
📌 INTRODUCTION
The cost of medical cannabis in the UK varies significantly depending on several factors, including the type of product prescribed, the dosage required, and the clinic’s pricing structure. Since its legalisation in 2018, access to medical cannabis has primarily been through private clinics, as NHS prescriptions remain limited to specific conditions. This blog post aims to provide a detailed overview of the costs associated with medical cannabis treatment in the UK.
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🏥 COST OF INITIAL CONSULTATIONS
💼 Private Clinic Consultations
Average Cost: Initial consultations with specialist doctors typically range from £49 to £200. For instance, clinics like Lyphe offer consultations starting at £49, while Mamedica’s onboarding fee is £150 .
What’s Included: These consultations generally cover a comprehensive medical assessment, diagnosis, and, if appropriate, a prescription for medical cannabis.
🏥 NHS Access
Availability: While NHS prescriptions are possible, they are limited and typically reserved for specific conditions such as treatment-resistant epilepsy. The number of patients receiving prescriptions through the NHS remains relatively low.
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💊 COST OF MEDICAL CANNABIS PRODUCTS
🌿 Dried Flower
Price Range: The cost of medical cannabis flower varies between £6 and £9 per gram, depending on the strain and THC/CBD content. For example, Releaf offers their medical cannabis flower at £7.99 per gram for members .
Monthly Costs: Based on an average consumption of 30 grams per month, patients can expect to pay between £180 and £270 monthly for dried flower.
🧪 Cannabis Oil
Price Range: Cannabis oil prescriptions typically cost between £80 and £200 per bottle, depending on the strength and brand .
Monthly Costs: Depending on the prescribed dosage, monthly costs for cannabis oil can range from £80 to £200.
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🧾 ADDITIONAL COSTS
📦 Prescription Fees
Releaf: For patients on the Releaf+ subscription plan, repeat prescriptions are included. For those on a pay-as-you-go basis, repeat prescriptions are priced at £19.99 .
Other Clinics: Prescription fees vary by clinic. It’s essential to inquire about these costs during the initial consultation.
🚚 Delivery Charges
Releaf: Offers free delivery for patients on the Releaf+ plan. For others, delivery charges apply .
Other Clinics: Delivery fees vary. Some clinics may include delivery in their subscription plans, while others charge separately.
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📊 AVERAGE MONTHLY COST ESTIMATES
Product Type Price Range
Dried Flower (30g) £180 – £270
Cannabis Oil £80 – £200
Prescription Fees £0 – £19.99
Delivery Charges £0 – £4.99
Total £260 – £494.99
💡 TIPS FOR MANAGING COSTS
Subscription Plans: Some clinics offer subscription plans that include consultations, prescriptions, and delivery, potentially reducing overall costs.
Insurance: Check if your private health insurance covers medical cannabis prescriptions.
Financial Assistance: Inquire about any financial assistance or payment plans offered by clinics.
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📝 CONCLUSION
The cost of medical cannabis in the UK can vary widely based on the type of product prescribed, the clinic’s pricing structure, and individual patient needs. On average, patients can expect to pay between £260 and £494.99 per month for medical cannabis treatment. It’s essential to consult with a specialist clinic to get a personalized cost estimate based on your medical needs and treatment plan.
