Cannabis patients deserve respect – not stigma
The search for legal medical access to cannabis is often frustrating, and it's understandable that this can lead to tension. However, it is unacceptable to insult and denigrate members of our community as drug addicts simply because they may not conform to current Swiss guidelines, which are not yet based on comprehensive scientific experience. As an Association , we are united in our commitment to legal medical access to cannabis. None of us chose to treat our health problems illegally. Many of us have self-medicated for years because there was no other option. These people know exactly what they are doing and don't need to be lectured.
Secure access is required
They need affordable, legal cannabis medications from pharmacies and supportive medical professionals. It will take time for certain expressions and behaviors from the past to change and for exclusively medical use to become established. However, labeling cannabis patients as "stoners" is unfair. For many, smoking was unfortunately the only option for a long time, and hopefully, that will now change. We also look forward to new medical forms of administration. With the amendment to the Narcotics Act, it is now the responsibility of medical professionals to reach out to those affected and show them a safe, medically sound path so they can finally leave behind the dangerous illegality. Some have been fighting for this for decades.
Understanding is key
The statements of "medical cannabis experts" who dismiss patients as "stoners" demonstrate a lack of understanding of the challenges we face. It is now the responsibility of medical professionals to show these individuals a safe and medically sound path forward. Every patient deserves respect and understanding, regardless of diagnosis, dosage, or method of administration. The Federal Office of Public Health estimates that approximately 100,000 cannabis patients are currently self-medicating illegally. These individuals now wish to transition from illegal to legal status and obtain their cannabis medications from a pharmacy.
The patient must be the focus
It is crucial that the healthcare system, the scientific community, and the medical cannabis industry prioritize the needs and well-being of patients. This benefits everyone! Every patient deserves equal access to cannabis-based medical treatments, regardless of location or financial situation. Patient health and well-being must be the highest priority. The stigma must disappear. Only through dedicated collaboration among all stakeholders can we ensure fair and effective care. The MEDCAN Association is committed to promoting understanding through its educational work.
