This is yet another poll in favor of medical cannabis that Americans have seen this year. Published in the journal *Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research* last April, this new survey reveals that two-thirds of American doctors support medical cannabis. Moreover, according to the testimonials collected, more than one-quarter of these doctors have already advised their patients to use cannabis to relieve their symptoms and help them cope with their illness.
In this survey, more than 1,500 healthcare professionals shared their viewson CBD for therapeutic use. Analysis of this data allowed for an assessment of American doctors’ knowledge of current legislation in their states, as well as the use of and practices surrounding medical cannabis. Here are the results of this survey, which are surprising, to say the least!
Training on medical cannabis would be a plus for American doctors
The investigation report leaves no doubt about this: a doctor who is convinced of the benefits and effectiveness of medical cannabis will be more likely to recommend it to his or her patients than a doctor who is still hesitant.
What is most surprising about the results of this survey is American doctors’ lack of knowledge regarding their state’s specific regulations, as well as their misconceptions about medical cannabis. In fact, the survey reveals that in 60% of cases, doctors’ knowledge is not based on any scientific sources. Many doctors are unaware of both the current regulations and the pending bill aimed at accelerating research in this field. Still others say they are convinced of the benefits of medical cannabis solely because their state has authorized its prescription and use in certain cases.
The survey organizers have begun to discuss the possibility of creating a training program for healthcare professionals. This program would serve as a common foundation for all practitioners, ensuring they have access to—and fully understand—all the established scientific concepts related to medical cannabis, and that they know how to use and prescribe it.
All things considered, the results of this survey aren't so bad, since a large majority of doctors are well-informed on the subject.
Politicians Remain Reluctant Despite Doctors' Support for Medical Cannabis
Paul Armentano, Deputy Director of the NORML Foundation, sees this new study as further support for medical cannabis that should be presented to U.S. policymakers. These policymakers still seem hesitant about legalizing medical cannabis, despite numerous positive patient testimonials, solid evidence from recent scientific studies, and support from doctors for medical cannabis. However, many U.S. states have already chosen to authorize the use of medical marijuana under certain conditions, and the THC limit in hemp has even been raised to 1% in the state of Minnesota.
Public opinion in the U.S. also aligns with the findings of this survey, as 91% of Americans support the legalization of cannabis.
And in Texas, using hemp as an alternative to medication has become commonplace. In fact, more than 60% of patients reportedly turn to hemp flowers. It’s worth noting that this state has authorized the compassionate use of cannabis since 2015, but the overly restrictive eligibility requirements prevent all patients who need it from accessing it. This compassionate use law is likely the reason behind this trend of moving away from conventional medications.
