Dear cannabis community
This year at Cannatrade I was able to take part in the panel discussion about the future of the medical use of cannabis in Switzerland. Together with Yvonn Scherrer, I represented the patients' opinions.
In the discussion, the BAG representative, Adrian Gschwend, speaks about a new law. This was sent out for consultation at the end of June. Cannabis would be classified as opiates in the Medicines Act. As we expected, this would mean that the production and manufacture of the medication would be subject to a relatively large number of requirements. That would certainly not make the cost of future drugs cheap. The health insurance companies would still not be obliged to pay these. Switzerland would also adhere to international treaties, as was emphasized several times in the discussion by Mr. Gschwend from the BAG. This leaves no scope for changes to the new law. However, a special authorization would no longer be required and doctors would be solely responsible for the prescription. This, however, is very welcome.
Despite what we believe to be the overwhelming disadvantages, such a law is urgently needed and would give patients the legitimacy they so desperately need. However, there is a great risk that only the “rich” will be able to afford cannabis medication, thereby creating a two-tier healthcare system. Today, the costs of legal therapy can quickly amount to several hundred francs per month. Such monthly costs are not affordable for many sick people. This problem is also particularly emphasized by Yvonn Scherrer.
We assume that a new law will not change the current situation much for patients who are already using cannabis. However, things would certainly be easier for new interested parties and the medical profession would certainly have more understanding and better options for prescribing. It is to be hoped, and this is what the BAG promises in the discussion, that medical professionals will be better trained. Those affected urgently need medical support.
Whatever one thinks of the proposed law, it should be noted that it will take at least another four years until the political processes are completed. That's a long time for those affected. The approval processes for future cannabis medications will also take time. Switzerland is still a long way from finding a solution for the people affected. However, cannabis is rapidly gaining ground worldwide. Many people are now able to use it medically. By the time it is allowed in Switzerland, the law will be out of date again. As an interested follower of world events, MEDCAN can predict this scenario; you don't need a crystal ball to do that. It is also a shame if Switzerland misses the international connection. It is all the more important that the Association continues to provide competent information about the medicinal plant.
