Dear Cannabis Community
This year at Cannatrade, I was able to participate in the panel discussion about the future of medical cannabis use in Switzerland. Together with Yvonn Scherrer, I represented the opinion of patients.
In the discussion, Adrian Gschwend, the representative from the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), spoke about a new law. This law was submitted for public consultation at the end of June. Cannabis would be classified under the Therapeutic Products Act, similar to opiates, for example. As we expected, this would subject the production and manufacturing of the medication to a relatively large number of regulations. This would certainly not make the future medications inexpensive. Furthermore, health insurers would still not be obligated to cover them. Switzerland would also adhere to international agreements, as Mr. Gschwend from the FOPH repeatedly emphasized in the discussion. This leaves no room for changes to the new law. However, a special permit would be eliminated, and doctors would be solely responsible for prescribing. This, on the other hand, is very welcome.
Despite what we believe to be its overwhelming disadvantages, such a law is urgently needed and would give patients the legitimacy they so desperately require. However, there is a significant risk that only the wealthy will be able to afford cannabis-based medications, thus creating a two-tier healthcare system. Even today, the cost of legal therapy can easily amount to several hundred Swiss francs per month. Such monthly costs are unaffordable for many sick people. This issue is also specifically highlighted by Yvonn Scherrer.
We assume that a new law will not significantly change the current situation for patients already using cannabis. However, for new patients, things would certainly be much simpler, and doctors would undoubtedly have more understanding and better options for prescribing it. It is hoped, and the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) has promised this in the discussions, that medical professionals will receive better training. Those affected urgently need medical support.
Whatever one's opinion of the proposed legislation, it's important to note that the political processes will take at least another four years to complete. That's a long time for those affected. The approval processes for future cannabis-based medications will also take time. Switzerland is still far from a solution for the people affected. However, cannabis is rapidly gaining ground worldwide. Many people are now able to use it medicinally. By the time it's legalized in Switzerland, the law will already be outdated. As someone who follows world events closely, MEDCAN can predict this scenario; no crystal ball is needed. Moreover, it's a shame if Switzerland misses out on international opportunities. This makes it all the more important that the Association continues to provide expert information about this medicinal plant.
