CQC: Care Quality Commission

Established in 2009, The Care Quality Commission is an independent public body that regulates and inspects health and social care services and providers in England to ensure practices are safe and effective. The CQC oversees the practices of GP’s, hospitals, mental health services, ambulances, and dentists to ensure their levels of care and support are up to standard.

 

What does the CQC expect from medical cannabis providers?

 

The CQC has set out a fey key requirements for medical cannabis providers to ensure the safe and effective use of this treatment.

All medical cannabis providers must register with the CQC before they can legally operate in England. This includes both individuals and organisations, such as pharmacies or private medical cannabis clinics. The CQC expects medical cannabis providers to prioritise and maintain high standards of safety and quality in all aspects of their operation.

 

What other governing bodies oversee the medical cannabis industry in the UK?

 

There are many regulatory bodies that have a say when it comes to medical cannabis in the UK.

All specialists prescribing medical cannabis must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating medicines in the UK, including medical cannabis. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides clinical guidelines and advice on best practices for prescribing medical cannabis.

To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.

If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.