Criticism mounts over proposed cannabis certification program
Thailand's Public Health Ministry has announced a new initiative requiring cannabis users to obtain medical certificates to ensure that the plant is used for medical purposes exclusively. This regulation is part of a broader effort to regulate cannabis use since its decriminalization almost three years ago.
Daycha Siripatra, a traditional medicine practitioner, shared concerns that this policy could hinder those using cannabis as an alternative treatment. He stated that the ministry should undertake a process to gather public opinions before implementing a resolution that impacts a large number of people. He also warned that strong opposition could arise among individuals who invested heavily in the cannabis industry and those who disagree with the policy.
Panthep Puapongpan, dean of the College of Oriental Medicine at Rangsit University, echoed these sentiments, expressing concern that the process relies solely on modern medical practitioners, most of whom are reticent about prescribing cannabis. He added that overly complex regulations could drive people to seek cannabis for medical use through illicit channels. He urged the Ministry of Public Health to engage in open communication with the public and listen to those who have benefited from cannabis in treating various ailments.
Under the new policy, cannabis users must have medical certificates, with prescriptions issued by licensed medical professionals - both traditional Thai medicine practitioners and general physicians. According to Dr. Somlerk Jeungsmarn, director-general of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, the regulations should clarify that cannabis use is solely for medicinal purposes. The certificates are expected to be required for medical conditions such as seizures, headaches, pain, and insomnia, with potential restrictions on its use, such as limiting dosages to one month.
Those who exceed the prescribed amounts might face legal consequences, potentially including imprisonment. The regulations are set to be issued by the Ministry of Public Health within 40 days. The initiative signifies a shift towards more stringent cannabis regulation in Thailand, with a focus on medical purposes. However, it introduces challenges in enforcement and access for traditional medicine users.
- The new regulation for cannabis users in Thailand, requiring medical certificates, might be challenging for those using it as an alternative treatment, like Daycha Siripatra, due to potential complexities in the legislative process.
- Panthep Puapongpan, acknowledging the concerns expressed by Siripatra, suggests that the Ministry of Public Health should consider engaging with the public and traditional medicine practitioners for a more inclusive, informed decision-making process.
- Under the forthcoming regulations, medical professionals, both general and traditional Thai, will be responsible for issuing prescriptions for cannabis, which should be primary for managing medical conditions related to chronic diseases, mental health, nutrition, and general wellness.
- As the regulations evolve, it is crucial to ensure that the law addresses mental-health concerns, health-and-wellness benefits, policy-and-legislation implications, and the broader scope of general-news surrounding cannabis use in Thailand.
- Exceeding the prescribed amounts of cannabis under the new regulation could lead to legal consequences, such as imprisonment, highlighting the need for education and transparency about the limits and consequences associated with cannabis use.
