When I join Releaf, will my GP find out?
4 min read
Sam North
Welcome back to our 'New Patient' blog series, where we answer the more common questions and concerns that new patients may have.
Even though medical cannabis has been a full legal treatment option here in the UK since 1 November 2018, there is still a level of stigma surrounding it. It is anything but a surprise that some patients are worried about how their decision to pursue a medical cannabis prescription may affect their relationship with their general practitioner (GP).
In this article, we will outline the process that we take as a clinic when communicating with your GP.
Contents
How it works
When you sign up to become a Releaf medical cannabis patient, there are a couple of steps to complete.
First up, you will need to head to our medical cannabis eligibility checker. This tool allows you to quickly and easily find out if you are potentially eligible for medical cannabis treatment with Releaf and, if so, what the next steps are.
If you are deemed to be potentially eligible, you will then be prompted to set up an account with Releaf and schedule an initial consultation with one of the medical cannabis specialist doctors.
When you book this consultation, we will request access to your medical records from your GP on your behalf. At this point, your GP will become aware that you have expressed an interest in alternative treatment options.
Why does Releaf need access to my GP records?
Accessing your GP's medical records is essential as it allows our world-class clinical team to better understand your medical history and gain insight into your current condition/s. Without access to your medical records, we will be unable to provide you with the most accurate and effective treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
It is legally required that we have access to this information before being able to undertake an initial consultation and prescribe you any medical cannabis treatment options.
What happens next?
Once we receive your medical records, our team of specialists (including the doctor you have booked a consultation with) will review them. This will ensure that we have all the necessary information to provide you with the best course of action moving forward.
You will then have your initial consultation, and if you are prescribed medical cannabis, your prescribing specialist will work with you to find the most suitable medication options and dosing regimen to help with your health concerns.
Once this consultation is finished, your medical cannabis specialist will prepare a letter that will be sent to your GP.
This letter will include a summary of the information you provided during your consultation, a list of the cannabis-based medicines you have been prescribed, and any other information the specialist deems relevant.
Why does Releaf communicate with my GP?
Our mission at Releaf is to provide patients with the highest quality of care possible.
This includes maintaining open communication with your GP to ensure that they are aware of any treatment you may be receiving from us, so they can continue to provide you with the best overall care.
We understand that continuity of care is essential for patients, and we want to work collaboratively with your GP to ensure that you receive the most comprehensive and effective treatment possible.
Will my GP approve?
As with any new medical treatment option, there may be some hesitation or scepticism from your GP initially. That said, we have found that the vast majority of GPs are supportive and open-minded when presented with evidence-based information about medical cannabis treatment. While your GP can make recommendations on the treatment options you seek, they cannot dictate your choices.
The treatment options you seek are your business alone. It is your body, your health, and ultimately, your choice.
So, to answer the question "When you join Releaf, will your GP find out?"...
Yes, they will be made aware. This ensures the best possible care and treatment for you as a patient.
To learn more about UK medical cannabis and the difference it may be able to make in your life, please visit our blog and education hub or reach out to us directly at support@releaf.co.uk.
We are here to support you every step of the way.
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It is important to seek medical advice before starting any new treatments. The patient advisors at Releaf are available to provide expert advice and support. Alternatively, click here to book a consultation with one of our specialist doctors.
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Sam North, a seasoned writer with over five years' experience and expertise in medicinal cannabis, brings clarity to complex concepts, focusing on education and informed use.
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