Will everything really be uncomplicated?
In 2015, the Federal Assembly adopted the Kessler motion "Cannabis for the Seriously Ill." Almost seven years later, it's finally happening. Medical professionals can now prescribe cannabis – without complications – as announced by the Federal Office of Public Health. State authorization is no longer required. Will this finally be good news for the estimated 100,000 patients who already rely on cannabis, according to the Federal Office of Public Health?
Probably not!
While the new law acknowledges the medical benefits, doctors' interest remains limited. They are unfamiliar with the medicinal plant. The most frequent question our Association receives is: "Where can I find a doctor who will prescribe cannabis?" Those affected now hope that the change in the law will alter their attitudes. Without medical support, access remains impossible.
Still many hurdles
And whether the prescription process will be as "uncomplicated" as promised by the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) is unclear. Often, patients must have exhausted all other treatment options, meaning they must have tried all pharmaceutical medications, before they are even allowed to try cannabis. The few cannabis extracts that are available in Swiss pharmacies are excessively expensive compared to those abroad, tend to be low-dose, and are unaffordable for many. Health insurance companies rarely cover the costs. Cannabis is an expensive medication that only the wealthy can afford. That is the status quo.
Limited selection and high prices
It is also unclear whether cannabis flowers can be prescribed in Switzerland, as is the case in Germany. However, this form of administration has been used successfully by many cannabis patients for a long time. "Medicinal cannabis" is still in its infancy in Switzerland. It is important to those affected that various cannabis strains with different ingredients and effects become available on the market, that prices are affordable, and that the methods of administration are not restricted.
The work of the Association has paid off
MEDCAN represented the interests of cannabis patients throughout the political process. This important work is highly valued. However, the Association 's professional image obscures the fact that its tireless activists are themselves ill and dedicate all their energy and time to their work. Our resources are unfortunately limited. Much more public awareness campaigning is needed. The new narcotics law is now the beginning of change and will hopefully soon grant many people legal access to medical cannabis.
The important work of raising awareness is only just beginning
Now is the time to remain vigilant. There are now opportunities to make a lot of money from cannabis patients. It is therefore all the more important that these patients are not forgotten and that their concerns are heard. MEDCAN will continue to fulfill this role in the future. Our work is only complete when every patient who wants to use cannabis medically receives it in the correct form and can afford it.
And what can I do?
To celebrate the occasion, become a member or support our Association 's work with a donation . For many chronically ill people, cannabis as medicine is a blessing. That's why we will continue to raise awareness of this issue and remain the voice of cannabis patients.
