In 2017, Polish lawmakers decided to legalise the use of medical cannabis. The programme, like many others globally, started slowly. Various hurdles, such as a lack of prescribing guidelines, limited product supply, and hesitancy among doctors to prescribe medical cannabis, contributed to the slow start. However, recent data indicates a dramatic shift in the landscape.
Rapid Growth in Prescriptions and Dispensed Volume
In 2019, Poland issued 2,909 prescriptions for medical cannabis. By 2023, this number had skyrocketed to 27,687, marking a staggering 9,420% increase. This remarkable rise is reflected in the overall volume of medical cannabis dispensed: from just 33.2 kilograms in 2019 to an astonishing 4.6 tonnes in 2023, a 13,942% increase.
What Changed?
Several factors have contributed to this impressive growth. Over the years, the initial hesitancy among doctors to prescribe medical cannabis has significantly diminished. With time and experience, healthcare professionals have become more familiar with the benefits of this new medicine, leading to increased confidence in prescribing it to patients.
The availability of a wider range of products has also played a crucial role. As the variety of medical cannabis products expanded, doctors found it easier to match the right product to their patient's specific needs.
Access and Convenience
One of the most significant improvements in Poland's medical cannabis programme is its accessibility. Patients can seek medical cannabis through their General Practitioner (GP) or specialist doctors. This is a notable difference compared to many other EU countries where only specialists or consultants are authorised to prescribe medical cannabis.
Since 2020, an online system has further simplified access to prescriptions. Patients fill out an online form, which a medical surgeon then verifies. Following a brief online consultation with a doctor, patients receive a four-digit code, which can be used to purchase specific medicines at pharmacies across Poland. This streamlined process has made it easier for patients to obtain their needed medication.
The Rise of Hemp Doctors
The emergence of specialist clinics, such as Klinika Konopna (Hemp Doctors), has also been pivotal. These clinics have made significant efforts to educate themselves on medical cannabis and are generally more willing to prescribe it for a wide range of conditions. Patients often prefer these clinics for their accessibility and speed, with some being able to see a doctor and obtain a prescription within an hour.
Ongoing Barriers
Despite the impressive progress, there are still barriers to overcome. In smaller towns and villages, many pharmacies do not stock medical cannabis, creating a geographical challenge for some patients. Ensuring that medical cannabis is available in all regions is crucial for equitable access.
Poland's journey with medical cannabis has seen remarkable progress since its legalisation in 2017. The significant increase in prescriptions and the volume of cannabis dispensed reflect growing acceptance and trust in its therapeutic benefits. While challenges remain, particularly in ensuring widespread access, the advancements made so far provide a promising outlook for the future of medical cannabis in Poland. Continued efforts to educate healthcare professionals and expand product availability will be key in maintaining this positive trajectory and ensuring that all patients who can benefit from medical cannabis have the opportunity to do so.
Kommentare