Everything will really be uncomplicated
In 2015, the Federal Assembly adopted the Kessler motion “Cannabis for the seriously ill”. Almost seven years later, the time has come. Medical professionals can now prescribe cannabis on a prescription - without any complications - as announced by the Federal Office of Public Health. A permit from the state is no longer necessary. Will everything be okay for the 100,000 patients estimated by the Federal Office of Public Health who are already using cannabis?
Probably not!
Although the new law confirms the medical benefits, the interest of doctors is limited. You don't know anything about the medicinal plant. The most frequently asked question to our Association is: “Where can I find a doctor who prescribes cannabis?” Those affected now hope that the change in the law will change their attitude. Access remains impossible without medical support.
Still many hurdles
And it is not clear whether the prescription will be “uncomplicated” as announced by the BAG. The patient often has to be “completed” – that is, have tested all pharmaceutical medications – before cannabis can even be tried. The few cannabis extracts that are available in Swiss pharmacies are excessively expensive compared to other countries, have a low dosage and are unaffordable for many of those affected. The costs are rarely covered by health insurance companies. Cannabis is an expensive drug that only the rich can afford. This is the status quo.
Little selection and high prices
It is also not clear whether cannabis flowers can be prescribed as in Germany. It is precisely this form of intake that has been used successfully by many cannabis patients for a long time. “Cannabis medicine” is still in its infancy in Switzerland. It is important to those affected that different types of cannabis with different ingredients and effects come onto the market, that prices are affordable and that the forms of consumption are not restricted.
The Association 's work was worth it
MEDCAN has represented the interests of cannabis patients throughout the political process. This important work is greatly appreciated. However, the Association 's professional appearance makes it easy to forget that the tireless fighters are themselves sick and put all their energy and time into activist work. Unfortunately, our resources are limited. Much more educational work would be necessary. The new narcotics law is now the beginning of change and will hopefully soon give many people legal access to medical use.
The important educational work is just beginning
Now is the time to stay vigilant. Now you want to make a lot of money with cannabis patients. It is all the more important that these people are not forgotten and their objections are heard. MEDCAN will continue to take on this task in the future. Our work is only done when every patient who wants to use cannabis medically receives it in the right form and can also pay for it.
And what can I do?
To celebrate the day, become a member or support the work of our Association with a donation . For many chronically ill people, cannabis as a medication is a blessing. That's why we will continue to draw attention to the topic in the future and continue to be the voice of cannabis patients.
