A break-down of Releaf's prescription process

Step 1 to 3: Eligibility check and medical record review

Step 1 - Answer the three questions in our medical cannabis eligibility checker

Here at Releaf, we offer a fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker. It takes less than 30 seconds to complete, and after answering just three questions, you'll instantly find out if you potentially qualify for a fully legal medical cannabis prescription in the UK.

If so, you will be prompted to the next step.

Step 2 - Create a free Releaf account

Once you have completed the eligibility checker and received confirmation that you may qualify for treatment, the next step is to create your free account for the Releaf Patient Dashboard.

The Releaf Patient Dashboard is a bespoke piece of health tech that we have built from the ground up to make sure that every Releaf patient can easily manage their consultation bookings, prescriptions, payments, and delivery updates. 

Think of the Patient Dashboard as your personal cannabis treatment dashboard, where you will find all the information you need regarding your treatment plan.

Step 3 - Consent to medical record retrieval

Before we can book you in for your initial consultation, one of the 26 + specialists that make up our world-class clinical team need to review your medical history. Simply use our incorporated NHS login tool to grants us instant, safe and secure access to your health records when creating your account, and we can get this started straight away. 

Our team of doctors and nurses need to have a full overview of your medical history to make sure that your newly prescribed treatment aligns with your medical background and current treatment needs.

Alternatively, you can ask your GP to provide you with a copy of your medical records, which you can then manually upload through the Releaf Patent Portal.

Step 4 to 6: Initial consultation, prescription, and MDT approval

Step 4 - Book and pay for your initial consultation

Once we have received and reviewed your medical records, you can log into the Patient Dashboard and book your initial consultation.

To book a consultation, log into your Patient Dashboard and select the 'Book Consultation' tab (third from the top on the left-hand cascading menu). 

Click on the day that suits you best, choose a time slot on that day, and then pay for the consultation to secure your booking. 

Should you be found to be ineligible during your initial consultation, and you have supplied all the necessary information accurately and truthfully, you will be entitled to a refund for your medical cannabis consultation through our money-back guarantee.

Step 5 - Attend your initial consultation

All Releaf consultations are held virtually, allowing you to access Releaf medical cannabis from the comfort of your own home. Each initial consultation is run by one of our highly trained specialist doctors and takes around 30 minutes. During the consultation, the specialist will assess your medical history, symptoms, and current treatment plan.

This is your opportunity to discuss your condition in detail, ask any questions, and explore whether medical cannabis may be a suitable option for you.

If the specialist finds that medical cannabis is an appropriate treatment option for your health needs, they will then discuss the different medical cannabis flower and oil options that are available to help treat your condition, and issue a provisional prescription.

This prescription is then sent to our Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) for approval.

Step 6 - Prescription review and approval by the MDT

All new private medical prescriptions in the UK require approval from an MDT, and medical cannabis is no exception.

Releaf’s MDT is made up of prescribing specialists, GPs, nurses, and patient support experts, all working together to ensure that every prescription meets the highest medical and regulatory standards. This step is essential in maintaining the safety, effectiveness, and compliance of your treatment.

During the review process, the MDT will:

• Review your prescription to confirm it has the potential ability to help with your medical history and condition
• Ensure all regulatory guidelines are met, which then helps prevent any issues with pharmacy dispensing
• Double-check potential interactions with any existing medications you may be taking

Once your prescription passes the MDT review (which usually takes less than 24 hours), your prescription will be added to your Patient Dashboard, and you will receive a notification to proceed to payment.

Step 7 and 8: Payment, dispensing, and delivery

Step 7 - Prescription payment and dispensing

Once your prescription has been approved, you will be able to log into your Patient Dashboard to complete payment.

To do so, select the ‘Prescriptions’ tab (second from the top on the cascading left-hand side menu).

Here you will find a summary of your prescription. The cost of your medication will be clearly displayed, with no hidden fees. Once you have reviewed your prescription details and are ready to proceed, click ‘Pay Now’ to complete the payment process. 

As soon as we receive payment, your prescription will be sent to our pharmacy partner, Xeal Dispensary, who will then dispense and dispatch your medication.

Step 8 - Tracked delivery to your door

Your medication will be shipped via tracked delivery, so you will always know when to expect it. Keep in mind that medical cannabis is still a controlled substance, and you will be required to sign for your medication delivery.

Releaf-branded products are typically delivered within two to four working days of the prescription being handed to our pharmacy partner. Other options that we source from international suppliers may take up to seven working days (although these also often arrive sooner).

Once you have your medicine, carefully read the instructions on how to take it. If you are unsure about anything whatsoever, please do not hesitate to reach out to our amazing Patient Support Team at support@releaf.co.uk and +44 (0) 20 3657 3346. They are here to assist you in any way possible and are always happy to answer your questions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between the prescription process for new and existing patients?

For new patients, every first-time prescription must be reviewed and approved by Releaf’s multidisciplinary team (MDT) before payment. This ensures that the prescribed treatment is suitable, meets UK medical regulations, and aligns with the patient’s medical history.

For existing patients, the flow is slightly different. 

When a repeat prescription is issued for Releaf patients, they usually don’t need to be discussed or approved at the daily MDT meeting unless the patient or clinician involved has expressed concerns, or requested adjustments or changes to said treatment plan. Instead, after the prescription has been paid for, it is sent to one of Releaf’s specialist doctors for sign off, and then straight for dispensing to simplify, and speed up the process.

How long does the Releaf prescription process take?

The process for new patients typically takes five to seven working days, from eligibility check to prescription delivery. 

Will my GP find out that I have applied for a medical cannabis prescription? 

Yes, as we need to request your medical records (or you can ask for a copy yourself) - but you do not need a GP referral. 

Accessing your GP's medical records is an important and legally required step, as it allows our world-class clinical team to better understand your medical history and gain insight into your current condition/s. 

The wrap-up

And that is it, from quickly and easily checking your UK medical cannabis eligibility to doorstep medical cannabis delivery in less than five days, all without any of the common hurdles of private healthcare.

Our vision is to provide the highest quality medical cannabis care in the UK. We have worked tirelessly to make sure every eligible UK patient has access to safe, effective, and fully regulated medical cannabis treatment options. Whether you are new to medical cannabis or looking for a smoother, more patient-friendly experience, Releaf is here to guide you every step of the way. 

To learn more, check out the rest of our New Patient blog series, including: 

• What to expect in your first six months as a UK medical cannabis patient
• Who you might meet at Releaf
• How often should I see my doctor?