Help for self-help
Since last August, cannabis has been legally prescribed like an opiate. Patients now have the option of choosing cannabis as a treatment. Unfortunately, medical professionals still don't take patients seriously when they ask about it. There are few doctors with experience, and pharmacies aren't yet up to speed either. And even after overcoming all the obstacles and obtaining a prescription, the costs are often so high that the cannabis medication is unaffordable. Sadly, this is still the main obstacle preventing many people from taking the legal route.
No experience in prescribing
Patients often know far more about cannabis use than medical professionals, as they have been self-medicating for years. This can lead to awkward situations. Here, those affected need to bridge the gap. Doctors never learn anything about the medical use of cannabis during their training. Therefore, it's crucial to explain precisely what is needed and how to use it – assuming the patient is willing to listen. Doctors are particularly unsure about cannabis flowers and tend to prescribe extracts instead. This makes it all the more important for patients to know exactly which products are available and how they have been prescribed to others.
Gather information yourself
Since supply and demand will be changing regularly in the coming weeks and months, we've MEDCAN Telegram channel launched Those affected can connect and share their experiences. You can ask any questions you might have about obtaining a prescription on the channel. The medical cannabis community will then work together to answer them. And this is also the place where you can share your own experiences. This can help others. Join us and help us help each other.
100,000 sick people already use cannabis for medical purposes
Unfortunately, the Federal Office of Public Health failed to consider how to transition these patients to legal cannabis use. Responsibility for prescribing was delegated to medical professionals. Information is lacking for those affected, and it takes time for doctors to become familiar with the medical applications of cannabis. Therefore, we have no other option but to gather information collectively and support one another. Furthermore, patience is needed until time regulates the market. This development can be observed in Germany. It will likely be no different in Switzerland. This is a very frustrating realization!
