The changes will allow GPs to prescribe medical cannabis and for local pharmacies to dispense them, after Premier Peter Gutwein announced Tasmania would adopt the national online application pathway and 48 hour authorisation under the Special Access Scheme.

READ MORE: Why access to medicinal cannabis is so tough for Tasmanians

CAT founder Lyn Cleaver said it was a step in the right direction but there were still issues with availability, and cost, and she hoped the government would listen to patient experiences.

"It will still be a battle for Tasmanians to be able to afford it," she said.

"We are still pushing to legalise self supply, because it shouldn't be outside of the law."

Up until July 1, Tasmanians have to be prescribed by a specialist and apply for authorisation from the Department of Health under the Controlled Access Scheme, with hospital pharmacies allowed to distribute it.

From July 1, its proposed Tasmanians will be able to apply via the SAS for an unregistered product through the stream lined process.

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As there are no products registered on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods to be distributed within Australia, patients must apply via the SAS.

An unregistered product has not been tested by the TGA to meet safety, quality and effectiveness standards.

As of February 28, the TGA had approved more than 99,000 SAS applications across the country. Compared to Tasmania's 19 under the CAS.

Australian Pharmacy Guild Tasmanian president Helen O'Byrne said the proposed changes meant improved access.

"For those with serious and long term illnesses these changes will allow patients, together with their GP's, the opportunity to explore treatment options previously denied to them," she said.

"The changes are a sensible approach to prescribing."

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