Public confidence in medicinal cannabis and digital healthcare is strong, a new national survey suggests, with solid support for integrating cannabis-based treatments into mainstream care and overwhelming backing for telehealth.
The study – commissioned by Montu and conducted by private research firm the Online Research Unit – drew on responses from 1,000 Australians.
It found 64% backed incorporating medicinal cannabis into mainstream healthcare, while 66% believed their doctor understood how it could be used to treat specific conditions.
Leafio general manager Nicole Le Maistre said the findings reflected almost a decade of evolution since medicinal cannabis was legalised.
“Medicinal cannabis and telehealth have moved from the fringes to becoming an integral part of healthcare,” she said.
“Findings point to a population that is more confident and trusting in navigating a rapidly modernising healthcare system.”
Although telehealth has at times been criticised for its role in the industry – and is expected to feature in the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s review – the findings suggest strong public confidence in virtual models of care.
The survey showed 93.8% of respondents believed it improved access for people in rural and regional areas, while 75% said it enhanced access for Australians regardless of location.
One-third expected telehealth to become their primary way of accessing essential healthcare within five years.
Le Maistre said the findings reflected changing lifestyles in Australia.
“They want convenient options like access to doctors and nurses at times that suit them, home delivery, they’re selective about medications, and they view telehealth as a legitimate and long-term care model,” she said.