Rise in Medical Cannabis Prescriptions Reflects Patient Need and Sector Growth
Medical Cannabis Sector Expands as CQC Encourages Continued Growth with Stronger Oversight
The UK’s medical cannabis sector is experiencing unprecedented growth. Private prescriptions for cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs) have more than doubled in the past year.
According to the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) 2024 annual update, nearly 347,000 CBPM items were prescribed in 2023–24, up from approximately 150,000 the previous year. This highlights a significant rise in both patient demand and clinical interest.
The sharp increase, driven largely by 35 CQC-registered private clinics, reflects growing confidence in plant-based therapeutics among specialist prescribers. With access through the NHS still limited, patients with chronic or treatment-resistant conditions are increasingly turning to private providers for safe and legal cannabis-based care.
Supporting Safe Expansion
The CQC’s message is one of guidance and stewardship. It calls on clinics to meet rising demand with strong governance and high clinical standards. The regulator is encouraging better communication between prescribers and GPs, consistent peer oversight, and transparent reporting processes. These are all essential to building a safe and sustainable sector.
“We’re seeing real momentum behind the use of CBPMs to meet genuine medical needs,” a CQC spokesperson said. “Our role is to support providers in maintaining patient safety while this important area of care continues to evolve.”
From Caution to Confidence
While the report notes some emerging risks, such as poor information-sharing or inconsistent prescribing practices, it presents them as typical challenges for a growing and maturing sector. In response, law enforcement partners are developing new guidance to help frontline officers distinguish between lawful medical use and potential misuse. This is a welcome step for clinicians and patient advocates.
Although CBPM prescribing within the NHS remains minimal, the independent sector is creating new opportunities for patients and driving change in the wider healthcare system. The CQC’s approach, which combines oversight with constructive support, signals a shift in tone. It reflects growing recognition that cannabis-based medicine is becoming an established part of UK healthcare.
