CANNAHEALTH Cannabis 101: Patient & Caregiver | Page 4

GRATITUDE

From the Editor

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Dear Family and Friends,

Welcome to the last issue of the year! Our next issue won’t release until January 31st, 2019. Therefore, we thought what better way to end our publication season, and show our appreciation and support than to create an issue focused solely on patient and caregiver education. In this issue, we explore knowledge, safe access and advocacy in a way that enlightens prospective and current patients and caregivers.

As medicinal cannabis increases in popularity and by public demand, new questions arise while old questions persist. These include but are not limited to: qualifying conditions, chemical concentration, clinical research, dosage, best route of consumption, ongoing management, dose modification, strains, where to go, who to trust, product labeling, and more. In an area of medicine where there are many shades of grey, unfortunately to many of these questions there is no direct answer. And educating yourself these days is like a Google search; hit or miss. Therefore, we suggest those interested to start with a local organization like a NORML chapter or cannabis support group. These communities have a wealth of resources and a willingness to help.

Step 2. Deciphering quality from questionable information. Patience, time and investigation skills will allow proper research of the author, credentials, experience within the field, and experience with your clinical condition to determine the person's scope of knowledge. A similar process when reading an online article. This is further discussed by Dr. Patel in this issue. Some may even invest in online or live courses to better verse themselves with the terminology and basic care principles.

When seeking a medical provider and/or medical cannabis consultant, the aforementioned traits apply; in addition to someone whose treatment plan aligns with your preferred outcome. For best outcomes, seek someone that has adopted an integrated, comprehensive approach to

care. We are only as strong as our weakest part so

let’s properly feed the mind, body and soul.

Wishing you Peace, Health and Prosperity,

Brittany Whiters RN, MSN

Co-Founder & CEO

Step 3. Product Integrity. Product labeling and testing is vital when consuming medical cannabis. Third party product testing is best (please refer to our first issue HERE)! Afterall, every company will vouch for the quality of their own product. But remember, knowledge is your best defense!