Many patients report that their doctors do not take them seriously when they ask for a cannabis prescription. Some practices systematically refuse to prescribe or falsely claim that only specialists are authorized to do so. This rejection and lack of support make access to effective therapy significantly more difficult.
Stigma and lack of education
A key problem is the ongoing stigmatization of the medical use of cannabis. Prejudices and ignorance mean that many patients do not dare to communicate their needs openly for fear of not being taken seriously. This attitude blocks access to effective treatment and hinders the integration of cannabis as a therapeutic agent into everyday medical practice. Another obstacle is the inadequate training and education of medical professionals. Although there are already specialized doctors who offer competent advice and prescriptions for cannabis, they are very few and can be found primarily in German-speaking Switzerland. Comprehensive training is urgently needed to spread knowledge about the medical use of cannabis and improve care.
Financial hurdles and supply gaps
In addition to the stigma and the lack of information, there are also financial hurdles. The cost of cannabis flowers is rarely covered by health insurance, and although extracts are somewhat easier to finance, they are very expensive compared to flowers. This represents a significant financial burden for those affected and makes it difficult to obtain the medication from the pharmacy. The correct dosage of cannabis also remains a challenge. Many patients who have treated themselves for years know exactly what dosage they need. However, this experience is often ignored and dismissed as unscientific, leading to inadequate care despite existing prescriptions.
Support from the Medical Cannabis Association Switzerland
Our Association is committed to solving these problems and increasing access to the medical use of cannabis. We offer support to patients and are happy to share our many years of experience with medical professionals. An open letter that patients can print or email to their doctors aims to raise awareness that cannabis can now be prescribed medically and that you should receive support with such a request.
Conclusion
The medical use of cannabis has the potential to help many sick people. They expect medical professionals to familiarize themselves with the new options for prescribing cannabis and to be open to this form of therapy in order to ensure the best possible treatment for those affected.
Let us work together to ensure that cannabis is recognized as an equal medicine and that the best possible therapy is made available to sick people.
Here you can download the letter for your doctor in 4 languages :
