Cannabis patients deserve respect – not stigma
Finding legal medical access to cannabis is often frustrating, and it is understandable that this can cause tension. But it is unacceptable to insult members of our community and label them as drug addicts simply because they may not comply with current Swiss guidelines, which are not yet based on extensive scientific experience. As an Association , we work together for legal medical access to cannabis. None of us chose to treat our health problems illegally. Many of us have been self-medicating for years because there was no other option. These people know exactly what they are doing and do not need to be taught.
Secure access is necessary
You need affordable legal cannabis medicine from the pharmacy and supportive medical professionals. It will take time for certain expressions and behaviors from the past to be changed and for exclusively medical use to be established. But calling cannabis patients “potheads” because of this is unfair. Unfortunately, smoking was the only option for many for a long time, and hopefully that will now change. We are also looking forward to new forms of medical intake. With the change in the Narcotics Act, it is now the job of medical professionals to reach out to those affected and show them a safe, medical way so that they can finally leave dangerous illegality. Some have been fighting for this for decades.
Understanding is key
Statements from “medical cannabis experts” dismissing patients as “stoners” demonstrate a lack of understanding of the challenges we face. It is now the responsibility of medical professionals to show these people a safe and medically sound path. Every patient deserves respect and understanding, regardless of the diagnosis, dosage or type of application. The Federal Office of Public Health estimates that around 100,000 cannabis patients have been illegally self-medicating so far. These people now want to switch from illegal to legal and purchase their cannabis medication from the pharmacy.
The focus must be on the patient
It is critical that the healthcare system, scientific community and medical cannabis industry prioritize the needs and well-being of patients. This is to the benefit of all parties! Every patient deserves equal access to cannabis-based medical treatments, regardless of location or financial situation. The health and well-being of patients must have the highest priority. The stigma must go. Only through committed cooperation between all those involved can we ensure fair and effective care. The Association MEDCAN works to promote understanding through its educational work.
