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Don’t Reinvent the Wheel: A Tour of ASTM Standards for Cannabis – Part 1

By |2024-06-01T03:15:32+01:001 June 2024|

In the realm of consumer safety, minimum standards form a critical safety net that allows businesses and regulators alike with necessary guidelines. From our food and medicines, railroad tracks to bicycle helmets, crayons to cribs, standards are everywhere. Knowing where the lanes are and how to [...]

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The Legalisation of Prescription Cannabis in the UK: Progress and Challenges

By |2024-05-31T03:05:51+01:0031 May 2024|

Introduction Thanks to the bravery of young Billy Caldwell on November 1st, 2018, the United Kingdom took a significant step in healthcare by legalising the prescription of cannabis-based medications by Specialist Clinicians registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). This decision was intended to provide patients suffering from various conditions with access to a new […]

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Almost 3% of teenagers use CBD products, finds study

By |2024-05-31T03:03:24+01:0031 May 2024|

A new study offers some of the first insights into the prevalence of CBD use among adolescents. Since cannabidiol (CBD), the non-intoxicating component of cannabis, was legalised in the United States by the 2018 Farm Bill, products containing the compound have flooded the consumer health sector. [...]

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Slovenia to hold referendum on cannabis laws

By |2024-05-30T03:06:07+01:0030 May 2024|

Next month, Slovenian citizens will vote on two referendum measures aimed at changing national cannabis policies. The referendum questions, approved by the Slovenian National Assembly in April, represent potential steps towards comprehensive cannabis reform.  Although neither measure is legally binding, their approval could significantly influence future [...]

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Malta’s legal “grey area” sees consumers criminalised over CBD flower

By |2024-05-29T03:00:42+01:0029 May 2024|

As the first EU country to legalise adult-use cannabis, Malta is looked on as a frontrunner of European reform, but consumers are still being prosecuted for importing CBD flower due to a legal “grey area”. In February 2022, a Maltese doctor was arrested for drug trafficking. [...]

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The Ethics of Cannabis Campaigning: When Advocacy Turns into Exploitation

By |2024-05-24T03:09:29+01:0024 May 2024|

Introduction The use of cannabis for medicinal purposes has gained significant traction over recent years. Advocates argue its potential benefits for various conditions, particularly for children suffering from severe epilepsy. However, when a cannabis campaigner becomes proficient at creating the illusion of campaigning for sick children but charges exorbitant prices for cannabis medicine, ethical questions […]

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Why Cannabis Campaigners Should Stay in Their Separate Lanes

By |2024-05-24T03:09:14+01:0024 May 2024|

Cannabis legalization is a multifaceted issue encompassing various aspects such as prescription cannabis, recreational cannabis, home cultivation, and decriminalization. Each of these areas has unique concerns and advocates, making it crucial for campaigners to stay in their separate lanes. By focusing on their specific objectives, campaigners can more effectively address the needs and priorities of […]

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Ensuring Safety in Prescription Cannabis Use

By |2024-05-24T03:09:05+01:0024 May 2024|

Introduction The safety of prescription cannabis should always be our primary concern. With the growing interest in cannabis for recreational use, it is crucial to prioritize and safeguard the health and well-being of those who use cannabis for medicinal purposes. This blog explores the importance of prescription cannabis safety, the potential risks of hastening the […]

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VT’s 1st Delta-9 Beverages Are Here to Socialize

By |2024-05-24T03:06:24+01:0024 May 2024|

Upstate Elevator Supply Co., a Vermont based manufacturer of cannabis-infused products, has expanded its product line with beverages and gummies infused with fast-acting, hemp-derived Delta-9 THC created with nano-emulsified hemp extract. The new Delta-9 beverages are sold in 12-ounce cans with either 1 or 5 milligrams [...]

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One in five UK police officers don’t know medical cannabis is legal

By |2024-05-23T03:03:59+01:0023 May 2024|

The results of a newly-published survey show that more than one in five police officers in the UK think medical cannabis is still illegal— and most have received ‘inadequate’ training.  Despite medical cannabis being legalised on prescription in the UK in November 2018, the survey highlights [...]

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The Hidden Cost: How High Prescription Cannabis Prices Are Tearing Families Apart

By |2024-05-21T03:09:02+01:0021 May 2024|

The medicinal use of cannabis has been hailed as a breakthrough in treating various chronic illnesses, offering relief to patients who have not found success with traditional medications. However, the high cost of prescription cannabis is causing significant financial strain on many families, leading to heart-wrenching decisions and disrupted lives. The Promise of Prescription Cannabis […]

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My Journey with MS and the Healing Power of Prescription Cannabis

By |2024-05-21T03:08:48+01:0021 May 2024|

Introduction I am Clark French. My journey with multiple sclerosis (MS) began in 2010, and it has been a transformative experience in many ways. In 2011, I founded a group called Action 4 MS, which later rebranded as the United Patients Alliance (UPA) in 2014. Over the years, I have experienced a significant reduction in […]

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Daily dose of THC could increase survival time in palliative care patients

By |2024-05-17T03:09:13+01:0017 May 2024|

A daily dose of THC was associated with increased survival time in palliative care cancer patients, according to the results of a recent study. Researchers investigating the effects of THC in advanced cancer patients say it could be associated with not only increased survival time, but [...]

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Ex-GW Pharma bosses lead development of new CBD-based epilepsy drug

By |2024-05-16T03:01:01+01:0016 May 2024|

Avata Biosciences is developing solid dose cannabinoid medicines for epilepsy and other neurological disorders, with a number of former GW Pharmaceutical bosses on board.  The clinical stage biopharma company, formerly known as Sapient Therapeutics, announced its new name, meaning ‘to unlock’, in a press release on [...]

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Top 10 Global Cannabis Strains: Discover the World’s Most Sought-After Cultivars

By |2024-05-15T03:21:28+01:0015 May 2024|

Sponsored  The international Cannabis scene dazzles aficionados with its variety of UK cannabis strains. Connoisseurs remain on a quest, aiming to discover cannabis strains that offer a transcendent experience. These strains are not just a manifestation of superior horticultural achievements. They also symbolise the peak of [...]

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Navigating the Cannabis Industry: Risk Management for Profitability

By |2024-05-14T03:00:26+01:0014 May 2024|

The cannabis industry is growing and changing at an unprecedented pace, creating immense profit potential and putting a spotlight on the array of risks for those in the arena. Understanding the current and emerging trends across the industry is essential for companies looking to maximize profitability [...]

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UK researchers find medical cannabis improves quality of life in MS and osteoarthritis

By |2024-05-11T03:02:07+01:0011 May 2024|

The latest UK research points to the potential benefits of medical cannabis in the long-term conditions osteoarthritis and multiple sclerosis (MS). New findings using data collected through the UK Medical Cannabis Patient Registry support the use of medical cannabis in the treatment of osteoarthritis, as well [...]

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‘Unusually high’ consumption rates of medical cannabis in the UK compared to rest of Europe

By |2024-05-10T03:04:20+01:0010 May 2024|

The UK is the primary driver of new growth in Europe’s medical cannabis market, with sales of medical cannabis greater than expected due to ‘unusually high’ consumption volumes on a per-patient basis. By the end of 2024, for example, 62,960 patients are forecasted to be using [...]

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UK CBD update: FSA issues first positive safety assessments in Novel Food process

By |2024-05-09T03:02:23+01:009 May 2024|

The UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued the first two ‘positive safety assessments’ for CBD (cannabidiol) products as part of its years-long novel foods authorisation process. Chanelle McCoy’s subsidiary, Pureis, became the first company in the UK to receive a positive risk assessment for a synthetic CBD [...]

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More research refutes long-held ‘lazy stoner’ stereotype

By |2024-05-01T03:13:31+01:001 May 2024|

It’s time to ditch the long-held ‘lazy stoner’ stereotype, according to new research, which shows cannabis consumers are not as unmotivated as it suggests.  The study, published by the journal Social Psychological and Personality Science, surveyed chronic cannabis users to see what effect getting high has [...]

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Science Behind Tropical Cannabis Aromas

By |2024-04-27T14:05:16+01:0027 April 2024|

Recently, scientists made an exciting discovery that sheds light on the chemistry behind those tantalising tropical aromas: Tropicannasulfur compounds (TCSCs).

The post Science Behind Tropical Cannabis Aromas first appeared on PatientsCann UK.

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International cannabis prescribing service launches for travellers to the UK

By |2024-04-27T03:01:30+01:0027 April 2024|

Integro Clinics is the first UK clinic to expand its services worldwide, to address the challenges for patients travelling to the UK who need access to medicinal cannabis on prescription. For patients who rely on medicinal cannabis, travelling abroad can come with a whole host of [...]

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Navigating Healthcare Challenges: My Story at a UK Prescription

By |2024-04-26T12:05:06+01:0026 April 2024|

Introduction Hello, my name is Kieran. I want to share my personal account of the difficulties I’ve faced with a clinic that provides my critical prescription for cannabis. This story is more than just a narrative; it’s a glimpse into the struggles individuals like me undergo when systems fail to operate as they should, especially […]

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My Journey with Medical Cannabis: A New Lease on Life

By |2024-04-26T12:04:56+01:0026 April 2024|

Introduction to My Health Challenges In 2011, I received life-altering diagnoses of several autoimmune diseases: Behcet’s Disease, Addison’s Disease, and Dercum’s Disease, accompanied by other complications such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). These conditions have profoundly impacted my daily life and well-being. Discovering Prescription Cannabis My experience with prescription cannabis began in 2020, and it […]

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Living with Chronic Illness: A Journey Through Pain, Understanding, and Cannabis

By |2024-04-26T12:04:51+01:0026 April 2024|

On October the 2nd this year, 2022, I received six 10 gram pots of cannabis flower, delivered to my door by a courier. This wasn’t from an Instagram account advertising loud dank or from a mate posting me a share of his home-grown crop. This was from a registered company operating in the UK. After being an […]

The post Living with Chronic Illness: A Journey Through Pain, Understanding, and Cannabis appeared first on I Am Billy.

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The Untold Truths of Medical Cannabis – The Stigma Surrounding Medical Cannabis Use

By |2024-04-26T12:04:44+01:0026 April 2024|

My Reluctant Journey to Medical Cannabis I didn’t turn to cannabis out of desire, but out of desperation. After over a decade of chronic nerve pain and countless prescriptions that only dulled my senses without relieving pain, cannabis was suggested as a last resort. Although initially illegal and frowned upon, it became my only relief […]

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Exploring the Potential of Terpenes in Cannabis for an Entourage Effect: A Call for More Research

By |2024-04-26T12:04:30+01:0026 April 2024|

The world of cannabis is vast and complex, boasting a variety of compounds that contribute to its effects and therapeutic benefits. Among these, terpenes and cannabinoids hold a particularly significant place. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis, which are believed to influence its effects and may play a critical role in […]

The post Exploring the Potential of Terpenes in Cannabis for an Entourage Effect: A Call for More Research appeared first on I Am Billy.

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Green Shadows: Unmasking the Corruption in Cannabis Lobbying in the UK

By |2024-04-26T12:04:22+01:0026 April 2024|

Introduction to the Cannabis Conundrum The UK’s cannabis industry, especially in the realm of medicinal use, has seen significant growth and attention in recent years. However, beneath the surface of this burgeoning sector lies a complex web of corruption involving cannabis lobbyists, patient organizations, and industry councils. This blog aims to expose the misleading narratives […]

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High Cost of Inconsistency of Prescription Cannabis: Navigating the Challenges

By |2024-04-26T12:04:13+01:0026 April 2024|

Introduction In recent years, the United Kingdom has taken tentative steps towards recognizing cannabis for its medicinal properties, offering a glimmer of hope to those suffering from chronic pain and other debilitating conditions. However, this hope is frequently dimmed by the stark reality of inconsistent supply, leaving patients in a precarious limbo. This blog delves […]

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Living with Chronic Pain at 48: David Wright’s Journey from Despair to Hope

By |2024-04-26T12:04:04+01:0026 April 2024|

Chronic pain is an invisible yet incapacitating condition, transforming lives and challenging the spirit of even the strongest individuals. David Wright, a 48-year-old former support worker and 999 operator, shares his intimate journey of battling lower disc degeneration and the curvature of the spine, shedding light on the dark corners of chronic pain and how […]

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The Unseen Battle: A Journey Through Injury, Recovery, and Rediscovery

By |2024-04-26T12:03:52+01:0026 April 2024|

Jason Bryant’s life changed in an instant during what should have been a routine Christmas decoration job in London. His story is a harrowing tale of survival, a battle with the healthcare system, and a personal fight against mental and physical health challenges. Through his journey, Jason showcases the resilience of the human spirit and […]

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The Imperative of Full Transparency: Certificates of Analysis for Prescription Cannabis

By |2024-04-26T12:03:35+01:0026 April 2024|

Introduction In the rapidly evolving landscape of prescription cannabis, the necessity for transparency and stringent quality control cannot be overstated. For patients and healthcare providers alike, the assurance of safety, efficacy, and consistency in prescription cannabis products is paramount. This blog delves into the crucial role of providing a full Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for […]

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Neuroprotective properties of CBN could point to new treatments

By |2024-04-26T03:13:53+01:0026 April 2024|

New findings help explain how the lesser-known cannabinoid, CBN, protects the brain against ageing and neurodegeneration—and how it could be used to develop potential therapeutics. One in every 10 individuals above the age of 65 develops an age-related neurological disorder like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, yet treatment [...]

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Cannabis legalisation not linked to increase in youth substance use – study

By |2024-04-25T03:00:34+01:0025 April 2024|

The legalisation of cannabis in the US, and subsequent rise in sales, have not contributed to an increase in substance misuse among adolescents, a new study has found. Researchers from Boston College have used the most recent data on adolescent substance use to evaluate the effect [...]

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New initiative launched to protect UK cannabis patients’ rights

By |2024-04-24T03:18:34+01:0024 April 2024|

The national centre of expertise on drugs and drugs law, Release, has launched a new initiative to help protect the rights of medical cannabis patients in the UK.  Despite medical cannabis being legal in the UK since November 2018, patients continue to report negative experiences of [...]

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Highlights from NoCo Hemp Conference Panels: How did we get here, and where are we going?

By |2024-04-24T03:18:14+01:0024 April 2024|

At the 10th Annual NoCo Hemp Conference and Expo, held in beautiful Estes Park, Colorado this year, educational panels included a wide array of topics covering both the fiber and industrial potentials of hemp products as well as the plant’s supplemental and dietary applications. Our attention [...]

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Is Europe the ‘sleeping giant’ of global cannabis reform? Insights from ICBC Berlin

By |2024-04-20T03:02:34+01:0020 April 2024|

Following the landmark legislative change in Germany earlier this month, experts are expecting to see a ripple effect across the continent, with some predicting that Europe could overtake the US as the global leader of cannabis reform. In Berlin this week, for a historical International Cannabis [...]

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Be ready! How to Prepare for a State Cannabis Inspection

By |2024-04-16T03:08:14+01:0016 April 2024|

If you’re a licensed cannabis operator and you don’t make peace with state and local inspectors visiting your facility, clipboard or tablet in hand, you’re in for a long and likely bumpy road. All kinds of authorities will want to inspect your cannabis operation and facility. [...]

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Greek Health Minister to Speak in London About Greece’s Groundbreaking Medical Cannabis Programme

By |2024-04-12T03:04:58+01:0012 April 2024|

Greek Health Minister to speak at Cannabis Europa London on Greece’s groundbreaking new medical cannabis programme, joined by Curaleaf executive chairman, Boris Jordan, and former Wimbledon champion, Pat Cash. Cannabis Europa, the premier conference for the emerging European cannabis industry, is thrilled to announce its lineup [...]

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Dr Franjo Grotenhermen: “Cannabis gave me a new reason to live”

By |2024-04-12T03:04:42+01:0012 April 2024|

The founder of the International Alliance for Cannabinoid Medicine (IACM), Dr Franjo Grotenhermen is one of the world’s leading experts in the field of cannabis medicine. But his own personal health battles are just as remarkable. Dr Franjo Grotenhermen is not your typical doctor.  Having worked [...]

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Recreational cannabis use may protect against cognitive decline – study

By |2024-04-11T03:00:22+01:0011 April 2024|

A new study has linked the consumption of cannabis for recreational purposes to a reduced risk of cognitive decline. Researchers at Upstate Medical University have found that compared to non-users, non-medical cannabis use, such as for recreational purposes, was significantly associated with 96% decreased odds of [...]

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Call for funds to kickstart UK medical cannabis awareness campaign

By |2024-04-10T03:07:31+01:0010 April 2024|

An online crowdfunder has been launched to kickstart a key campaign to generate awareness of prescription cannabis among the general public. The crowdfunder, being run by the Cannabis Industry Council (CIC), aims to raise £20,000 initially to undertake public relations and promotional activity around the existence [...]

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Study examines risk of CUDs among medical cannabis patients

By |2024-04-04T03:05:43+01:004 April 2024|

A new paper highlights the need for greater public health messaging around the risks of cannabis use disorders among those prescribed it for medicinal purposes.  While cannabis can have a wide range of potential therapeutic benefits, like any drug or medication it can have adverse effects [...]

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UK cannabis clinic expands to offer mental health treatments

By |2024-04-03T03:06:59+01:003 April 2024|

Online medical cannabis clinic, Treat It, has announced its expansion to include specialised psychiatric services amid the UK’s ‘mental health crisis’. The move will enable individuals with conditions such as anxiety, ADHD or PTSD to access treatment through Kanabo Group’s digital health platform, at a time [...]

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PatientsCann and Seed our Future Begin Work with Local Police

By |2024-03-29T04:12:30+00:0029 March 2024|

In August 2023 I was relaxing by the seafront in Plymouth with my sister on what should have been a pleasant day. Instead, around 10 minutes after taking my medication, two police officers arrived who refused to accept my medication was legal and proceeded to detain me for 6 hours. Following my arrest I realised just how widespread the challenges facing medical cannabis patients were and decided to join PatientsCann UK.  After my release, Devon & Cornwall Police admitted they were “ill equipped to deal with patients lawfully in possession of cannabis”. I liaised with the Diverse Community and Serious Organised Crime Branches where they have confirmed the force are implementing a number of packages, including training for frontline police officers in being able to identify genuine medicinal cannabis patients and clarification that a medical cannabis card is not required.  Despite the implementation of these packages, there are still a number of challenges that remain for medical cannabis patients, one such example is driving. Devon & Cornwall Police advised “If a positive test is obtained it is likely to lead to the arrest and detention of the driver on suspicion of being ‘unfit to drive through drink or drugs (S.5 RTA)’. Not until the individual has been through the ‘police custody experience’ would any lawfully defence such as a prescription be considered.” Devon & Cornwall Police were open for further engagement on these challenges, so I got in contact with Guy Coxall from Seed our Future. Guy is a court expert on Cannabis and the Road Traffic Act, and lead author on the Cannabis Industry Council guidance on Cannabis and Driving. He was very happy to join the discussions. I got back in touch with the force and a meeting was arranged at their Headquarters in Exeter on 4th January 2024.  At the meeting we were joined by a number of stakeholders from Devon & Cornwall Police including a Drug Expert Witness, Diverse Communities Officer, Road Traffic Officer and Drug Impairment Lead. Guy did a presentation on the Road Traffic Act and Swab Tests which generated a number of interesting discussions. In addition we touched on a number of other issues facing medical cannabis patients such as discrimination and hate crime risk, and employees of the force using their medication. We also received a number of interesting updates including the training package Devon & Cornwall Police developed being shared with 18 police forces, and processes being put in place so people in police custody can use their legally prescribed medication. Devon & Cornwall Police will share a report on their work so far. In the end we didn’t have time to discuss all points, and I think we all came away with more questions than answers! But the day set a foundation for future work with Devon & Cornwall Police, and PatientsCann UK and Seed Our Future will continue to work with the Force to address these issues. Our hope is that this work will continue to spread beyond Devon and Cornwall across the UK for the benefit of all patients.   Authored by – Sal Aziz

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PatientsCann UK Appointed UK Representative to IACM Patients Council

By |2024-03-29T04:10:13+00:0029 March 2024|

Empowering Patients Worldwide We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone for PatientsCann UK – our appointment as the UK representative to the International Alliance for Cannabinoid Medicines (IACM) Patients Council. This prestigious position marks a new chapter in our commitment to advocating for patient rights and fostering collaboration on a global scale. About IACM Patients Council The IACM Patients Council is a dynamic coalition of patient organisations from around the world. Its primary objective is to provide a unified voice for patients in the rapidly evolving landscape of medicinal cannabis. By working collectively, these organisations aim to safeguard the rights and interests of patients and ensure their perspectives are integral to the ongoing developments in medicinal cannabis. Our Role as the UK Representative As the UK representative to the IACM Patients Council, PatientsCann is honoured to take on the responsibility of championing the concerns, aspirations, and needs of patients in the United Kingdom. This role aligns seamlessly with our core mission of promoting a patient-centric approach to medical cannabis advocacy. Key Focus Areas Global Collaboration: We look forward to actively engaging with patient organisations worldwide. By fostering international collaboration, we can share insights, best practices, and advocate for the common goal of improving patient access and rights. Information Exchange: Our role involves facilitating the exchange of information between patients, organisations, and key stakeholders. By doing so, we aim to contribute to the creation of a well-informed and empowered patient community. Advocacy and Education: Through our representation, we will advocate for policies that prioritise patient well-being. Education will be a focal point, ensuring that patients are equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their healthcare. PatientsCann’s Commitment Our journey with the IACM Patients Council is not just about representation; it’s about effecting positive change. PatientsCann is committed to leveraging this opportunity to enhance the dialogue surrounding medicinal cannabis, challenge stigmas, and drive initiatives that benefit patients globally. We express our gratitude to our supporters, volunteers, and the entire medical cannabis community. Your encouragement has been instrumental in reaching this milestone. Together, let’s continue advancing patient-centric approaches to medical cannabis and shaping a more compassionate and informed world. Empowering Patients, Transforming Lives.

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PatientsCann UK Joins Forces with the NCVO: Elevating Medical Cannabis Advocacy

By |2024-03-29T04:04:01+00:0029 March 2024|

We are thrilled to share some exciting news! PatientsCann UK is a proud member of the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO). This is a significant step forward in our journey of advocating for patient rights and fostering positive change in the medical cannabis landscape. Understanding the NCVO: The NCVO is a leading voice for the voluntary sector in the UK. Established in 1919, NCVO champions the work of charities, community groups, and voluntary organisations, providing them with a platform to collectively address challenges and amplify their impact. This membership places PatientsCann in a vibrant network of over 15,000 member organisations, ranging from small community groups to well-established charities. The Value of NCVO Membership for PatientsCann: Networking and Collaboration: Joining NCVO opens doors to a diverse community of organisations working towards social change. This network provides opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and building alliances within and beyond the medical cannabis sector. Advocacy Amplification: NCVO is a powerful advocate for the voluntary sector, influencing policies and decisions at the national level. By aligning with NCVO, PatientsCann gains a stronger voice in shaping policies that directly impact medical cannabis patients and the industry. Capacity Building: NCVO offers a wealth of resources, training, and support to enhance the effectiveness and impact of voluntary organisations. This invaluable support will empower PatientsCann to further its mission of educating, advocating, and supporting the medical cannabis community. Policy Engagement: As an NCVO member, PatientsCann gains access to valuable insights on policy developments and changes affecting the voluntary sector. This knowledge is crucial for steering our advocacy efforts in a rapidly evolving medical cannabis landscape. Implications for the Medical Cannabis Community: Our membership with NCVO is not just a milestone for PatientsCann; it’s a win for the entire medical cannabis community. It elevates the visibility of medical cannabis advocacy within broader discussions on healthcare, patient rights, and social well-being. Looking Ahead: As we embark on this exciting journey with the NCVO, we are filled with gratitude for the continued support of our community. Together, we will continue to strive for a future where medical cannabis patients are informed, empowered, and treated with the dignity they deserve. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being an essential part of the PatientsCann community.

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Use of Prescription Cannabis at Work

By |2024-03-29T04:01:30+00:0029 March 2024|

The Sanskara Platform (now PatientsCann UK) and Seed Our Future Co-Author Report with Cannabis Industry Council Urging Employers to Support Prescription Cannabis Patients 07/11/2023 – The Sanskara Platform, in collaboration with Seed Our Future, is pleased to announce the release of an important report addressing the rights of prescription cannabis patients in the workplace. This ground-breaking report, titled ‘The Use of Prescription Cannabis at Work,’ has been authored by Mohammad I Wasway, Founder of The Sanskara Platform, and Guy Coxall, Founder of Seed Our Future. It forms a crucial part of the Standards Working Group within the Cannabis Industry Council (CIC). The report, highlighted by the CIC, reveals a pressing issue affecting prescription cannabis patients and their rights in the workplace. It suggests that current employer practices may put them at risk of breaching the Equality Act. The Act mandates that employers must make reasonable adjustments to accommodate individuals with disabilities, which includes many prescription cannabis patients who often suffer from chronic pain and disabilities. The CIC’s report underscores the necessity for employers to treat prescription cannabis patients just like any other medical patients, aligning with their legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Report co-authors, Mohammad Wasway and Guy Coxall, expressed their concerns, stating, “We have heard from many concerned and vulnerable patients who have been harassed and mistreated by their employers simply for taking their prescription medication. We urge businesses to support their employees and implement sensible and proportionate solutions that will improve employee wellbeing and productivity.” Elisabetta Faenza, Chair of the CIC Standards Working Group, emphasised the Council’s commitment to upholding workplace rights for prescription cannabis patients, asserting, “The Cannabis Industry Council will be working with employers and unions to uphold workplace rights for prescription cannabis patients, based on law, medicine, and basic compassion. Many businesses say they are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity, yet often underdeliver. Now is the time for employers to step up and support ill and disabled employees.” The report not only sheds light on the medical context surrounding prescription cannabis but also suggests ways to manage its usage by employees. It includes user-friendly flowcharts and illustrative case studies to help employers navigate this complex issue. Since 2018, specialist doctors have had the authority to prescribe cannabis medicines to their patients, who are then legally permitted to possess and consume this medication. Employers who fail to uphold the workplace rights of patients, including both employees and job applicants, face the risk of being taken to an employment tribunal. This report is a significant step towards ensuring that prescription cannabis patients receive fair treatment and protection under the law. It calls upon employers to support their employees’ medical needs and uphold the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace. Read the report here

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Empowering GPs to ‘Protect our Patients’: Join the Campaign!

By |2024-03-29T03:54:36+00:0029 March 2024|

https://www.protectourpatients.co.uk/ In the realm of medical cannabis, a significant disparity exists between patients’ needs and their access to appropriate treatments. While progress has been made, with the UK government allowing specialists to prescribe cannabis medicines in 2018, a critical challenge remains: general practitioners (GPs) are still unable to prescribe this potentially life-changing therapy. As a consequence, a staggering 1.8 million individuals in the UK are compelled to turn to the illicit cannabis market for medical reasons. This is further exacerbated by the financial strain faced by those on low incomes, who struggle to afford private prescriptions. It’s high time we address these issues and embark on a transformative journey to protect our patients and enhance healthcare outcomes. The ‘Protect our Patients’ campaign is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at rectifying the inequity surrounding medical cannabis prescriptions. Its core mission is to advocate for GPs to be granted the same prescribing rights as consultants, thus empowering them to effectively support their patients in need. By removing the existing barriers, we can ensure that every individual, regardless of their socioeconomic background, has access to safe and effective cannabis-based treatments. In 2018, the UK government acknowledged the therapeutic potential of cannabis medicines and legalised their prescription. However, this progressive step fell short in one crucial aspect: GPs were excluded from the regulatory framework, limiting their ability to provide comprehensive care to their patients. This oversight has resulted in a significant gap in access to medical cannabis, forcing patients to navigate the illicit market or face financial hardship to obtain private prescriptions. GPs serve as the first point of contact for patients, entrusted with their comprehensive healthcare. By granting them the authority to prescribe cannabis medicines, we open doors to a range of benefits: The time has come to bridge the gap in patient care and advocate for the empowerment of GPs to prescribe medical cannabis. Together, let’s protect our patients and ensure equitable access to life-changing treatments. Visit ProtectOurPatients.co.uk to learn more about the campaign, get involved, and be part

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Your Guide to Taking Medical Cannabis on Your Next Holiday

By |2024-03-29T03:44:04+00:0029 March 2024|

Are you planning to travel abroad with medical cannabis from the UK? It can be a daunting task to navigate the various regulations and import laws of each destination country. Fortunately, PatientsCann has compiled a comprehensive guide to help you with the process. PatientsCann is an online resource that provides guidance on medical cannabis for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. They have recently released a new table of information that outlines the regulations for importing medical cannabis into several popular British holiday destinations. The table provides a detailed breakdown of the import laws and regulations for each country, along with contact information for the relevant embassy departments. This makes it easier for patients to plan their travel and ensure they have the necessary documentation and permissions to bring their medication with them. It is important to note that each country has its own regulations, and it is essential to consult with the relevant embassy or consulate before travelling. PatientsCann’s guide can serve as a starting point, but it is not a substitute for professional legal advice. If you are planning to travel abroad from the UK with a medical cannabis prescription, make sure to check out PatientsCann’s table of information. It can be accessed via their website at https://patientscann.org.uk/travel/. Medical cannabis is a rapidly growing industry and has proven to be effective in treating various health conditions. However, different countries have varying regulations regarding the importation of medical cannabis. PatientsCann has created a table of information that outlines the necessary details and contact details/links for the importation of medical cannabis into popular British holiday destinations. Australia, Bahamas, Belgium, Bermuda, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Jamaica, Netherlands, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, and Turkey are included in the table. Among these countries, Germany, Poland, and Portugal allow for the importation of medical cannabis for personal use with certain conditions, among many others. Germany permits the importation of cannabis for personal use if prescribed by a doctor on the German list of narcotics. The patient is required to complete a form similar to the provided template and obtain confirmation from the supervising health authority of the patient’s county/area of residence. The patient can carry the cannabis for up to 30 days. In Poland, a patient may bring medicines to the country for personal use not exceeding five smallest packages. However, the patient needs to complete a document for import/export of narcotic drugs/psychotropic substances for medical needs and obtain consent from the Chief Pharmaceutical Inspectorate. In Portugal, patients can bring a higher amount of medication than required for the stay to anticipate unforeseen events. For medicines containing controlled substances, including cannabis, patients can bring only the amount required for 30 days of treatment with a medical justification/doctor’s statement. Patients are advised to contact the authority responsible for Customs and/or Civil Aviation in their country to find out the necessary documents required to transport medical cannabis. Greece allows visitors to bring products for personal health use, such as medicines, food supplements, antiseptics, cosmetics, medical devices, etc., for personal use during their stay. However, visitors are required to bring just enough of each product to cover their needs during their stay and hold a letter from their doctor stating the medication(s) they are carrying. Overall, it is essential to research and understand the regulations of the destination country regarding the importation of medical cannabis before travelling. PatientsCann’s table of information provides a valuable resource for individuals travelling to popular British holiday destinations with medical cannabis needs.   TRAVEL ABROAD  

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