How to Request a Formal Letter Confirming Your Prescription
Navigating the world of alternative medicine in Australia can feel overwhelming at times, but at Herbly, we’re here to make things simple, compliant, and supportive.
One common question patients ask is: "Can I get a letter from my doctor confirming my prescription?" The answer is yes, and in fact, there are several good reasons why you might want one.
📝 What Is a Alternative Medicine Confirmation Letter?
A alternative medicine confirmation letter is a formal document written and signed by your prescribing doctor. It confirms that:
- You are an authorised patient with a current, valid prescription for medicinal cannabis.
- Your treatment has been prescribed for a legitimate medical condition.
- The doctor is monitoring your treatment in accordance with Australian regulations.
This letter is not a prescription, but rather an official statement that you are being legally treated with cannabis-based medicine.
📌 Why Might You Need This Letter?
While alternative medicine is legal in Australia when prescribed by a doctor, the general public, and even some professionals are still catching up. That’s where a letter can help. It serves as an easy-to-understand, portable summary of your treatment status.
Here are some practical situations where a confirmation letter might be useful:
1. Interacting With Law Enforcement
If you’re stopped by police while carrying your medication (especially in oil, flower, or vaporised form), a confirmation letter helps verify that you’re not in possession of illicit cannabis. It can help prevent unnecessary delays or misunderstandings during roadside checks or property searches.
2. Travelling Domestically
When travelling within Australia, especially by air, carrying medicinal cannabis can trigger security concerns. While it's legal for patients to carry their prescribed cannabis, a confirmation letter can help explain your situation clearly to airport staff or authorities.
Note: Always carry your medication in its original labelled packaging.
3. At Work or With Employers
If you’re concerned about workplace drug testing, disclosing your treatment can be sensitive. A doctor’s letter can provide clarity when discussing your prescription with an employer, HR department, or safety officer, especially in safety-sensitive industries.
4. Accommodation or Rental Disputes
Some patients have faced questions from landlords or neighbours about the presence or smell of medicinal cannabis flower. A letter can support your rights under anti-discrimination and tenancy laws, especially when used appropriately in your private space.
5. Health Records and Insurance
Some private health insurance policies may require confirmation of ongoing treatment. The letter can be used to support claims for reimbursements where applicable or clarify your treatment history if you're switching providers.
🩺 How to Request a Confirmation Letter From Herbly
If you are a current patient at Herbly and have an active medicinal cannabis prescription, requesting a letter is simple.
Here’s how to do it:
- Email us at care@herbly.com.au
- Submit a message asking for a "Medicinal Cannabis Confirmation Letter"
- Delivery method: PDF via email (you can print this letter if needed)
- Wait 1–3 business days – our clinical team will review your records and issue the letter
Our letters are printed on official clinic letterhead and signed by your prescribing doctor. If needed, we can also include your TGA approval number or SAS/B number, depending on your authorisation pathway.
✅ What Will the Letter Include?
A typical confirmation letter includes:
- Your full name and date of birth
- Confirmation of your current prescription and prescribing doctor
- The date the prescription was issued
- A brief statement confirming lawful prescription under TGA/SAS or Authorised Prescriber pathways
- Doctor’s signature and clinic details
🚫 What the Letter Does Not Do
It’s important to understand that the confirmation letter:
- Does not allow you to drive under the influence of THC. (even if prescribed)
- Does not replace your prescription or medical records.
- Does not allow international travel with medicinal cannabis.
Summary
At Herbly, we believe patients should feel supported and confident in every step of their healing journey. Having a formal letter from your doctor can offer peace of mind and protect your rights in a variety of everyday situations.
If you’re unsure whether you need one, or if you have questions about how to use it appropriately, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
