£2m tech platform launched to simplify access to medical cannabis

UK-based medical cannabis provider Releaf has launched a £2 million proprietary tech platform designed to transform how patients access medical cannabis treatment.

Since medical cannabis was legalised in 2018, patients have struggled to access treatment, and the market has stagnated due to difficult to use online patient platforms, inconsistent quality and availability of medication and a lack of knowledge about the transformative effects medical cannabis can have on patients’ lives.

The platform aims to simplify the journey for those looking to explore medical cannabis as a treatment option, from consultation with a specialist doctor through to delivery of medication.

Tim Kirby, chief executive at Releaf, said: “Releaf’s HealthTech platform is all about putting patients first.

“We’ve designed and built our own proprietary tech stack that removes the barriers to accessing medical cannabis by offering fast consultations, supports robust prescribing guidelines, and with unique vertical integration into the supply chain a seamless path from diagnosis to medication.

“Our aim is to make it as simple and effective as possible for people to get the help they deserve.”

Patients using the Releaf platform can book consultations in real time with specialists in medical cannabis. After seeing a doctor, the appropriate medication is prescribed, and patients receive their prescription in the post in line with Releaf’s patient charter.

Releaf says that it has integrated every stage of the supply chain into its online platform, so patients can focus on their health and wellbeing, without being held back by an intimidating user experience, uncertainty around quality and consistency of treatment plans and delays in deliveries of medication.

Meanwhile, research from UK medical cannabis clinic and telehealth provider Zerenia found that patients with acute and chronic pain using telehealth services are more likely to spend time with friends and family at Christmas.

A survey of Zerenia’s clients found that 70% of patients were “very satisfied” with telehealth consultations compared to in-person visits, highlighting its convenience and accessibility.

With winter travel and busy schedules often worsening chronic pain, 60% of patients reported that virtual care was particularly valuable for managing symptoms during the festive season.

Before accessing telehealth services, 80% of Zerenia’s patients said they had missed social occasions due to chronic pain.