Strong media presence – growing interest
Over the past six months, MEDCAN has enjoyed unprecedented public visibility. As early as December 2024, a comprehensive report appeared in the Sunday newspaper, not only detailing our work but also highlighting the significant number of chronically ill individuals seeking alternative therapies.
Since then, our inbox has been constantly buzzing. We receive numerous inquiries daily. We now answer messages in four languages: German, French, Italian, and English. People from all over Switzerland are looking for information on the medical use of cannabis, but often don't know where to start – and unfortunately, they far too rarely find support from their doctors. That's why we've taken on this task of providing information.
Medical professionals also seek advice
However, it's not just patients who contact us. We're increasingly receiving inquiries from medical professionals: general practitioners, pharmacists, and pain specialists who want information about the legal situation, dosages, and sources. The uncertainty is significant – and demonstrates how urgently better education and training in this area are needed.
MEDCAN'S voice is heard
Our ongoing public awareness campaign is having an effect. The Swiss media are also increasingly addressing the topic – and giving MEDCAN a platform to share our perspective. In April 2025, the SRF science magazine a large portion of its podcast to the subject. Our member Dominic shared his story there: despite medical support, he still has to fight for his health insurance to cover the costs – a fate shared by many.
Just a few days later, the magazine Schweizer Familie published a comprehensive article about two of our members, Sandra and Franziska, who openly and impressively described how they had integrated cannabis into their everyday lives and how this had improved their quality of life.
Media relations change perspectives
This media work is of central importance. Only by speaking openly and honestly about the topic – in newspapers, on television, in podcasts, and on social media – can we change public perception in the long term. The stigma that has built up around cannabis as a supposedly "evil drug" over decades cannot be dismantled overnight. But it can be dismantled – step by step, story by story.
The personal accounts of cannabis patients are particularly valuable. They give the medicinal plant a face. They show that this is not about Recreational Consumption , but about quality of life, pain relief, and hope. They help to finally bring cannabis out of the shadows of illegality and prejudice – to where it belongs: at the heart of modern, enlightened medicine.
Knowledge is power – and should be accessible
Our experience is invaluable – not only for those affected and medical professionals, but also for the growing cannabis industry in Switzerland. Therefore, we no longer provide information free of charge if it is intended for commercial use. Those who benefit from our expertise should also contribute to ensuring that our volunteer work can continue. Please support us so that we can remain a strong voice for all those affected and for the urgently needed change in Switzerland. Your support is crucial to ensuring that our work can continue.
Conclusion
The Medical Cannabis Association Switzerland is more visible, in greater demand, and more relevant than ever. Our media presence shows that the topic has arrived in society – but we are still far from our goal. As long as patients cannot find adequate help, as long as doctors are uncertain, and as long as the stigma surrounding cannabis persists, we will continue our work.
