Dialogue Volume 10 Issue 3 2014 | Page 10

FEATURE While conclusive evidence regarding the safety and effectiveness of dried marijuana as a medical treatment is limited, many patients, physicians, and researchers have voiced support for the cautious and compassionate use of dried marijuana, particularly where other therapeutic options have been exhausted and failed to alleviate the patient’s symptoms. Furthermore, court rulings have required reasonable access to a legal source of dried marijuana for medical purposes when authorized by a physician. We urge you to read the draft online and provide your opinion as part of the consultation. 6 Things to know about the draft: The Marijuana for Medical Purposes draft policy... 1. “We ask that physicians review this draft and let us know if it will help them provide the best care possible for their patients,” said Dr. Gabel. Let us know what you think about the draft policy The draft Marijuana for Medical Purposes policy has been approved by Council for external consultation. The draft policy sets out the College’s expectations for physicians who prescribe dried marijuana under the federal Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations (MMPR). These expectations are grounded in the principles of medical professionalism set out in the Practice Guide, and take into account the best available evidence regarding the medical use of dried marijuana. We are now inviting feedback on the draft policy fro H[