Why Is It Difficult for Patients to Access Legal Medical Cannabis in the UK?

Buzzline

Since 2018, medical cannabis has been permitted in the UK. Yet, numerous patients find it challenging to obtain it through the NHS. A recent study conducted by the University of Bath shows that many individuals relying on cannabis for medicinal purposes are compelled to turn to private clinics or illicit suppliers due to severely limited legal access.  With private prescriptions reaching as high as £2,000 monthly, a significant number of patients cannot afford the treatment. Advocates like Charlotte Caldwell describe the current situation as a “wild west,” forcing vulnerable patients to navigate costly private services or dangerous illegal markets.  The study also indicates that some patients with prescriptions are opting for more potent cannabis products, which may increase their risk of addiction.  So, if medical cannabis is legalized in the UK, why is it still such a challenge to obtain?

Transcript

00:00Medical cannabis is legal in the U.K., so why are patients still buying it from dealers?

00:05In 2018, the U.K. legalized medical cannabis.

00:09But getting it through the NHS is extremely rare.

00:12A new study by the University of Bath reveals the problem.

00:16Nearly half of cannabis users say they take it for health reasons.

00:20Yet only a small number actually receive a prescription.

00:23And even fewer get it through the NHS.

00:26So what do patients do instead?

00:28Many turn to private clinics.

00:30But private prescriptions can cost up to £2,000 per month.

00:34For most people, that price is impossible.

00:37So they turn to illegal dealers.

00:39Researchers surveyed more than 4,000 cannabis users.

00:42And the results were surprising.

00:44People with prescriptions often used stronger cannabis products.

00:48Some even showed signs of addiction.

00:51Campaigner Charlotte Caldwell says the system has become a Wild West.

00:55The law changed years ago.

00:58But real access still hasn't caught up.

01:00And thousands of patients are stuck in the middle.

01:02People with prescriptions are stuck in the middle.

01:02You

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