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FAQs

Things to know about cannabis prescriptions

Here you will find frequently asked questions about medical cannabis prescriptions.
We hope we can answer your questions as well. 

How much does a doctor's visit cost?

A doctor's visit usually costs between CHF 85 and CHF 150. The costs are usually covered by your health insurance, especially if your general practitioner refers you to a specialist. However, it is advisable to check with your insurance company beforehand to ensure that the costs are covered.

How much do I have to pay for cannabis medication?

Cannabis flowers: Prices range from 10 to 20 Swiss francs per gram, with an average of 12 to 15 Swiss francs.

Cannabis oils, extracts and other products: Costs vary depending on the product type and quality and may differ from pharmacy to pharmacy. For specific pricing information, we recommend contacting your pharmacy directly.

Support: For personal exchange and testimonials from other patients, visit our Telegram channel.

Can I have my cannabis medication delivered to my home?

Yes, some pharmacies offer next-day delivery for orders placed before 4:00 PM. It is advisable to contact the respective pharmacies to find out about the exact ordering and shipping procedures.

How can I travel with my cannabis medication?

You can obtain a cannabis passport, which grants you a 30-day carry-on within the Schengen Area This is possible. Please ask your doctor or pharmacist for further details.

Will my employer be informed that I use cannabis for medicinal purposes?

No, your medical treatment and condition are confidential and protected by the right to medical privacy in Switzerland.

What quantities can be prescribed to me?

The prescribed quantity varies depending on individual needs and medical recommendations. 

Is the quality of cannabis from a pharmacy better than that from the black market?

Yes, there are numerous dangers and uncertainties associated with acquiring cannabis on the black market. In contrast, cannabis from pharmacies is produced for medical use without the use of harmful chemicals or synthetic THC. Its production adheres to the strict guidelines of GACP (Good Agricultural and Collection Practices), EU-GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice), and GDP (Good Distribution Practice) certifications. These quality standards ensure a safe and consistent medical supply of cannabis for patients.

Will the costs for my medical cannabis treatment be covered by my health insurance or other insurance company?

Whether your cannabis treatment will be covered by insurance depends on your individual policy. If similar treatments are already covered, there's a good chance the costs will be reimbursed. If not, you may have to pay for it yourself. However, it's worth fighting for coverage, as more and more patients are successfully claiming reimbursement.

Is it legal to drive under the medical influence of cannabis?

The legal regulations regarding this are still being clarified. We recommend not driving under the influence of cannabis and are in dialogue with regulatory authorities to establish fair and safe guidelines.

Am I allowed to grow cannabis myself if I have a doctor's prescription?

No, unfortunately, home cultivation by patients is prohibited. This is regulated by the Narcotics Act. The MEDCAN Association disagrees with this. In the future, we will increasingly advocate for patients whose costs for the medical use of cannabis are not covered or only partially covered, to have the right to grow their own. 

Didn't find the answer to your question?
Contact us for more information.

Disclaimer:
We are medical cannabis patients sharing our own experiences. We are not medical professionals.

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SW"MEDCAN association for people who treat chronic pain with cannabis. Does this resonate with you?"

Simón Winistörfer, Vice President MEDCAN