More Queensland patients will have access to medicinal cannabis under new legislation proposed by Palaszczuk Government.
The government today released for public consultation the Public Health (Medicinal Cannabis) Bill 2016, which creates a formal process for doctors to prescribe medicinal cannabis for their patient’s treatment.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the Bill was a key step in enabling access to medicinal cannabis.
“This Bill will create the most progressive laws in the country. We are setting up a robust framework to ensure medicinal cannabis products can be prescribed and dispensed to patients in Queensland,” she said.
“An expert advisory committee will be formed to guide medical practitioners assisting parents in obtaining Commonwealth approval of medicinal cannabis products.”
The Bill would allow doctors to apply for access to medicinal cannabis and provided a clear process to gain approval from the Queensland Government. The supply of these products will still require approval from the Commonwealth Therapeutic Goods Administration.
Mr Dick said at the centre of the proposed changes were people.
“There are patients out there right now who may benefit from some relief that can be delivered through medicinal cannabis,” he said.
“It’s important we acknowledge that medicinal cannabis is a drug, and should be regulated properly.
“We understand this is substantial reform which is why we are putting out the Bill for community consultation today.”
To have your say, visit the Queensland Health website www.health.qld.gov.au
