Development of medical cannabis supply in Switzerland
Since 2022, cannabis preparations have been available in Switzerland with a doctor's prescription. This marked an important step towards regulated medical care. Much has changed in recent years: more and more medical professionals are gaining experience with cannabis therapies, and the supply through specialized pharmacies has also developed further.
Despite these advances, access remains difficult for many patients. It is still often challenging to find a doctor willing to supervise cannabis therapy. Furthermore, only a small percentage of patients receive reimbursement from health insurance companies. According to data from the MECANNA study commissioned by the German government, currently only about 11% of patients receive partial reimbursement. For many, treatment therefore remains a significant financial burden.
At the same time, it is important to note that Switzerland still has a relatively progressive regulation compared to other European countries. People with a corresponding prescription can legally obtain cannabis flowers and cannabis extracts through pharmacies – an option that still does not exist in many other European countries.
Consultation, information and exchange
A key aspect of our work is supporting those affected and their families. In recent years, the number of inquiries has increased significantly. We now receive several emails a week from people contacting our Association – and the number continues to rise.
Many of these inquiries come from people who don't know how to obtain a prescription in Switzerland or who are having difficulty finding a medical professional to support them with cannabis therapy. Others ask about experiences with specific products, specialized pharmacies, or possibilities for health insurance coverage. The topic of medical cannabis and driving also comes up regularly.
We try to answer all these inquiries as best we can and provide initial guidance. This advice is now offered in several languages and is an important support for many people. We are often the first place they go to get useful information.
Our Telegram channel is also an important tool for exchange and information. There, those affected can directly communicate with each other and share their experiences. At the same time, we provide important information there, including:
– Lists of specialized pharmacies
– Information on prescription options
– Product and price comparisons
– Practical experience from use
For many, exchanging information with one another is an important source of support in their daily lives.
Events – «We, The Patients»
A particular focus of our work last year was on meetings and events for those affected. Under the title "We, The Patients" we organize events by patients for patients.
Last year we were able to hold three such events:
– in March in Zurich
– in May in Zurich
– in October in Bern
These events offer those affected the opportunity to meet in person, share experiences, and ask questions about the medical use of cannabis. There are personal accounts from patients as well as expert medical presentations specifically tailored to their needs. At the same time, there is ample time to connect with other attendees.
Direct exchange is valuable for many, as it allows for open discussion about experiences, challenges, and possible solutions.
All three events were well-attended, and the participants found the exchange enriching. Such encounters repeatedly demonstrate how important community and mutual support are for those affected.
Further information and impressions of these events can be found on our website and on social media.
Political work
In addition to providing direct support to those affected, MEDCAN is also politically active. A key issue remains the coverage of costs for cannabis therapies. For many people, this question determines whether treatment is even possible.
Last year, we also had the opportunity to visit National Councillor Anna Rosenwasser at the Federal Parliament Building and discuss the situation of people who use cannabis for medicinal purposes. This exchange with political representatives is very important to us in order to make the reality faced by those affected more visible.
We continue to strive to maintain dialogue with various political parties and decision-makers. For many patients, it is crucial that health insurance companies provide greater support for cannabis therapies in the future. At the same time, we are convinced that the medical use of cannabis can even contribute to reducing overall healthcare costs in the long term – for example, through less use of other medications or fewer hospital stays. This perspective could become increasingly attractive to many political parties, as healthcare costs continue to rise.
As an Association , we therefore actively bring the experiences of those affected into the political discussion and try to promote dialogue between medicine, politics and society.
Political developments regarding the regulation of Recreational Consumption
Last year, we submitted our comments on the draft of the new Cannabis Products Act, among other things. This law is intended to regulate the Recreational Consumption of cannabis. It is particularly important to us that medical use remains clearly separate from recreational use.
Another important point concerns home cultivation. If patients do not receive coverage for their therapy, there should at least be a realistic possibility of providing for themselves.
The issue of road safety and driving in connection with cannabis remains relevant. Studies are currently underway on driving under the influence of cannabis in the context of Recreational Consumption . MEDCAN emphasizes the importance of ensuring that those affected are not categorically disadvantaged by new regulations.
CannaTrade
MEDCAN was present at CannaTrade, as it is every year. There, we were able to have many conversations with those affected and interested parties. Even three years after the change in the law, many were still unaware that cannabis can be prescribed for medical purposes. Participating in a panel discussion on cannabis legalization was particularly valuable, as it allowed us to contribute the perspective of those affected.
The next CannaTrade will take place from May 29th to 31st, 2026 in Hall 622 in Zurich, celebrating its 25th anniversary. With the current draft legislation on cannabis legalization, the trade fair is also expected to receive significant international attention.
MEDCAN will be present again in 2026. In our Medical Corner, we will provide information about the medical applications of cannabis. We will also be on stage on Sunday, discussing the situation of those affected and the current process for obtaining a medical prescription for cannabis.
Thank you very much
The work of our Association would not be possible without the support of our members. Many people have been supporting MEDCAN for many years and contribute to ensuring that the voices of those affected are heard in Switzerland.
We sincerely thank everyone for their trust and support.
Franziska Quadri,
President of MEDCAN
Zurich, March 8, 2025
