A new medical cannabis GP corporate owned by a major manufacturer of cannabis drugs says it has no conflict of interest in prescribing them to patients.

National Cannabinoid Clinics opened its first practice in Sydney last month with a mission “to advance science to help improve lives”, according to its website.

The clinic accepts self-referred patients who are “suffering from chronic conditions and have tried conventional therapies”, as well as referrals from doctors who want assistance helping their own patients access medical cannabis, it says.

It bulk-bills patients for most consultations, including regular follow-up appointments, but charges a $200 administrative fee for cannabis prescriptions. Patients then cover the cost of the drugs themselves as they are not covered by the PBS.