The Importance of Regular Check-Ins with Cannabis Clinic
Medicinal cannabis can offer real support for symptoms of many health conditions – but like any medication, it needs to be monitored, adjusted, and reviewed to work at its best.
That’s where follow-up appointments come in. At Cannabis Clinic, we don’t just prescribe and walk away. We work with you, over time, to ensure your treatment is safe, effective, and aligned with your health goals.
If you’re wondering whether follow-ups are really necessary, this post is for you. Let’s walk through why they matter – and what they’re designed to do.
1. Follow-Ups Help Fine-Tune Your Treatment
Medicinal cannabis affects everyone differently. Your symptoms, metabolism, medical history, and tolerance all play a role in how well a product works for you.
A follow-up appointment gives your doctor a chance to:
- Check in on how your treatment is going
- Adjust your dose if needed
- Explore different product options (e.g. oil vs capsule vs flower)
- Change timings or frequency of use
Even if your treatment seems to be working okay, small adjustments can often make a big difference in how you feel day to day.
2. Your Needs Might Change Over Time
You might start treatment to improve sleep – but later want support for pain or stress. Or you may develop new symptoms or respond differently to a product after a few months.
A follow-up helps your doctor reassess your treatment and adjust your plan accordingly. Think of it as your personal health checkpoint – an opportunity to ensure your care evolves with you.
3. It’s About Safety Too
Cannabis is generally well-tolerated, but like any treatment, it’s important to monitor for:
- Side effects
- Interactions with other medications
- Signs that your dose may need to be lowered or paused
Regular check-ins are especially important if you have multiple health conditions, are taking other medications, or are using THC-containing products. Your doctor is trained to look out for any red flags – and can act quickly if something needs attention.
4. It’s a Space for Support and Questions
Many patients tell us that their follow-ups feel like a check-in with someone who actually listens. It’s a space where you can:
- Ask questions about your medicine
- Discuss any changes in your health
- Talk through how you’re feeling
- Understand what’s working – and what might work better
Our team is here to support you, not just prescribe and send you off. We want you to feel informed, empowered, and safe every step of the way.
5. Updated, Affordable Follow-Up Pricing
We understand that cost can be a barrier, especially when you’re managing a long-term condition. That’s why we’ve updated our pricing to make follow-ups more affordable and accessible for all patients.
Here’s our new pricing:
|
Appointment Type |
Price |
|
Follow-Up Consultation |
$49 |
|
Rescript Follow-Up (This option is intended only for long term stable patients whose treatment and health status have remained consistent.) |
$39 |
Whether you’re due for a check-in, need a treatment update, or just have a few questions – these appointments are designed to keep you on track without adding financial pressure.
6. It’s Required for Continued Care
To ensure we’re meeting New Zealand’s legal and medical standards, regular follow-ups are required for all patients who are prescribed medicinal cannabis.
The typical timeline for follow-ups is every 3 to 6 months once you’re established – depending on your medication, medical conditions, and other factors determined by your doctor. This can be more frequent if you’re just starting out or have complex needs.
Skipping your follow-ups may mean your doctor can’t legally continue your prescription. We want to avoid that – so if you’re due, book in now and let’s keep your treatment moving smoothly.
Still Unsure if You Need a Follow-Up?
If you’re thinking:
- “My prescription seems fine – I don’t think I need a follow-up.”
- “Nothing’s changed, so I’ll just wait.”
- “I’ve been meaning to book but keep putting it off.”
This is your reminder that a follow-up isn’t just about problems – it’s about progress. Even if things are going well, it’s your opportunity to optimise your care, ask questions, and make sure your plan is still right for you.
Ready to Book?
Whether it’s been 3 months or 3 weeks since your last appointment – if you’re due for a review, now’s the perfect time to check in.
Book your follow-up consultation today and let’s make sure your treatment is still working for you.
Need help? Contact us at [email protected]
Or call 0800 223 645 (press 3 to speak with our nursing team)
Disclaimer: Medicinal cannabis and CBD oil are unapproved medicines in NZ which means that there is no conclusive evidence for their effect, apart from Sativex. Many doctors do not routinely prescribe cannabis medicines. The above article was written for general educational purposes and does not intend to suggest that medicinal cannabis can be used to treat any health condition. Please consult with your healthcare provider.