Stigma and lack of education
The stigma surrounding the medical use of cannabis remains widespread. There are some specialized doctors who not only issue prescriptions, but also offer competent advice. However, many doctors are still inadequately informed. These specialists can be found primarily in German-speaking Switzerland. There is an urgent need for training for medical professionals throughout Switzerland.
It still requires a lot of initiative to get a prescription. Without their own interest, cannabis is not recommended as a medication by most doctors. That needs to change. Cannabis is a centuries-old medicine that has anti-inflammatory effects, relieves pain, helps relax, reduces anxiety, improves focus and can positively influence mood and mental health.
Patients who use cannabis medicinally often report that they are confronted with prejudice and are not taken seriously. This attitude makes access to effective treatment more difficult and increases the stigma that is already a major burden and even prevents some from even asking about cannabis in medicine.
Supply gaps and financial hurdles
Many of those affected today are faced with the problem that although they receive a prescription for the medical use of cannabis, they cannot obtain enough of it and are still dependent on the black market. Finding the right dosage in collaboration with a healthcare professional is a challenge. Prescriptions are often very cautious, even though those affected have been treating themselves for years and actually know what they need. However, these dosages are then considered too high without any scientific background. In addition, only a few patients have received a cost voucher for cannabis flowers from their health insurance company. It's a little easier for extracts, but these are extremely expensive in relation to the flowers. This means that getting the medication from the pharmacy is a relief, but at the same time it is a financial burden.
Multiple benefits of cannabis, especially for older people
Cannabis offers a useful alternative to pharmaceutical medications, especially for older people who often want to relieve various ailments. However, this knowledge must first reach medical professionals. To date, sick people often only find out that cannabis could help through their own initiative or exchanges with other affected people. People who have been chronically ill for a long time in particular are discovering cannabis because the side effects of pharmaceutical medications cause them too many problems. These people have usually discovered on their own that cannabis is an effective alternative.
Using cannabis often allows those affected to discontinue or reduce the dosage of other pharmaceutical medications. The combination of cannabis with pharmaceutical medications can be a particularly useful treatment option. This possibility needs to be more recognized and supported within the medical community.
The role of our Association s
Our Association plays a crucial role in drawing attention to this issue and fighting for the rights of those affected. We are committed to making access to the medical use of cannabis easier and to no longer stigmatize patients. Through training and educational work, we try to raise awareness among the medical community and improve the care situation.
However, our commitment can only be successful with the support of those affected and the public. That's why we ask you: Support us with a membership or a donation . Every contribution helps us continue our educational work and advance the fight for the rights of cannabis patients.
Together we can ensure that cannabis becomes an equal medicine and that those affected receive the therapy they need and deserve. Support our Association and help us continue this important work.
