Campaigners have claimed supply chain disruptions, inadequate stock and poor planning left pharmacies unable to fill medicinal cannabis prescriptions over the holiday period.
Legalise Cannabis Queensland (LCQ) and the Medical Cannabis Users Association (MCUA) said patients are being left stranded as frequent product shortages disrupt access to their medication.
LCQ secretary and patient advocate Suzette Luyken added: “This isn’t just an inconvenience; it is doing harm to patients.
“Before Christmas, supply chains were closing for extended periods and those with psychiatric disabilities were badly affected. Depressions deepen over this season and the results can be devastating for those who suffer from PTSD and depression.
“Imagine if this were insulin or heart medication – it would be a national scandal.”
Luyken said the consequences for patients unable to attain their medication can be severe, forcing them to suffer debilitating symptoms, go back to “heavy duty” pharmaceuticals, or source product from the illicit market.
Campaigners are now calling for improved supply chain transparency and planning, the build up of emergency stock reserves to prevent shortages, and greater accountability from manufacturers and distributors.
“Australia has excelled in many areas of healthcare, but when it comes to medical cannabis, we are letting our patients down,” Luyken said.
“It’s time for regulators, manufacturers, and distributors to address these issues with the urgency they deserve.”
