Medical cannabis is gaining status as a therapeutic recommendation for many conditions: nerve pain, epileptic seizures, anxiety, nausea, and others. Is your physician up on the latest research? Do they recommend medical cannabis for certain conditions? Because of a lingering stigma against marijuana use, some people are uneasy broaching the topic with their doctor.
If you’re struggling, remember that it helps to be informed. Here are a few tips you can use to help you begin discussing your options.
Don’t Worry About Being Judged
Although more and more states are creating medical cannabis legislation, the federal government still considers marijuana a schedule 1 drug. That leads some patients to worry about feeling judged by their physician. While a few doctors might have reservations or moral dilemmas about cannabis therapy, they are trained not to be judgmental.
Still Uncomfortable? Approach the Subject Indirectly
Do research. Arm yourself with facts about how cannabis can be helpful in alleviating your condition. Print out an article or research paper for backup. If you are still uncomfortable about discussing your desire to try medical cannabis, some experts recommend an indirect tactic: Mention a fictional friend or relative who is using medical cannabis and ask if it could work for you, too.
Remember Not All Physicians Are Experts
With some states only recently passing laws to allow for medical cannabis, many medical professionals don’t have training on products, optimal doses, or treatments. You can ask your doctor if they have attended any education programs or workshops related to cannabis to find out their level of knowledge. Make sure you understand the options available to you and work with a professional who is up to date on their cannabis knowledge.
Seek a Second Opinion
Assuming you live in a state where medical cannabis is legal, let’s say that for whatever reason, your primary care physician or internist does not want to recommend medical cannabis as a treatment option. Perhaps they don’t know enough about the product to feel confident in writing a recommendation. Remember that you always have options. You can ask your doctor for a referral to another clinician, or you can find medical cannabis practitioners online through resources such as the Medicinal Marijuana Association.
As with any treatment, consult with your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of any of your options. Determine what makes sense for your own personal health through informed decisions. For more information contact our Laytonsville medical marijuana office and schedule an appointment with us today.
