Has Israel's month-old cannabis reform failed?
Story by AVICHAY CHAIM - Jerusalem Post
In early April, the Health Ministry announced the beginning of a new era for Israel’s cannabis reform, with the message being, “Enough with bureaucracy.”
At the heart of the plan was the move from licenses to prescriptions. Instead of having to renew licenses and wait for the decision by the Medical Cannabis Unit, cannabis prescriptions would be given to patients to be used in the nearest pharmacy, just like a prescription drug.
The intentions were good, but according to Walla's examination and many testimonies of cannabis patients, the actual reality is less idyllic.
In March, about 135,000 cannabis consumers were registered in Israel. In addition, according to the monthly Medical Cannabis Unit report, as of March, there were 16,767 people consuming cannabis under the PTSD (post-trauma) label and 74,374 with chronic pain. This shows a decrease of almost 6,000 patients who lost or did not have their license reconfirmed prior to the introduction of the reform in April 2024.
Officials in the field blame the bureaucracy and the lack of certified doctors. Others blame the private and illegal "booming" "Telegrass" market and its counterparts. Although they are much more expensive and despite the inherent dangers of using cannabis through social media, they are apparently accessible and fast. Some also talk about the many payments for the purpose of receiving the cannabis, when according to the majority opinion, the coming months will be critical for the continuation of the reform and its examination.
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The Medical Cannabis in Israel
Early Adoption: Israel has been a pioneer in medical cannabis research and regulation. It legalized the use of medical cannabis back in the early 1990s.
Regulation: Israel has a highly regulated medical cannabis program overseen by the Ministry of Health. Patients can access medical cannabis for various conditions, including chronic pain, cancer, and PTSD, with a doctor's prescription.
Research and Innovation: Israel is known for its cutting-edge research in cannabis-related fields, including cannabis-based medications and therapies. Several Israeli companies are actively engaged in cannabis research.
Israel Cannabis Market - Cannabis Market Review
Export: Israel has been exploring opportunities for cannabis exports, including medical cannabis products. In 2019, it became one of the few countries to allow medical cannabis exports, potentially opening up significant economic opportunities.
Startup Ecosystem: Israel has a thriving cannabis startup ecosystem, with numerous companies involved in various aspects of the industry, from cultivation and processing to technology and research.
Investment: The Israeli cannabis market has attracted international investment, and there has been significant interest from investors looking to capitalize on the country's expertise in cannabis research and development.
Global Impact: Israel's contributions to cannabis research and innovation have had a global impact, influencing the development of medical cannabis programs in other countries.
What Is The Israeli Medical Cannabis Program:
The Israeli Medical Cannabis Program is a government-regulated system that allows the medical use of cannabis by eligible patients in Israel. Here's an overview of the program:
Eligibility: Patients in Israel can qualify for the medical cannabis program if they have certain medical conditions that may benefit from cannabis treatment. These conditions can include chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, cancer, epilepsy, and more.
Medical Supervision: Patients prescribed medical cannabis are closely monitored by healthcare professionals who oversee their treatment and adjust dosage as needed.
Licensed Producers: Cannabis used for medical purposes in Israel is produced and distributed by licensed producers under strict government regulations. These producers cultivate specific strains and products tailored to medical needs.
Research and Innovation: Israel is known for its pioneering research in the field of medical cannabis. The country has been at the forefront of cannabis research, leading to advancements in cannabis-based medicines and treatment protocols.
Patient Access: Patients in the program can access medical cannabis through authorized dispensaries, ensuring a safe and regulated supply.
As for export regulations, Israel has historically been one of the few countries that have allowed the export of medical cannabis. However, these regulations have evolved over time:
Export Approval: In 2019, Israel approved the export of medical cannabis to countries where it is legal. This move was seen as a significant step in the global cannabis industry.
Strict Regulations: Israel has stringent regulations in place to ensure the quality and safety of exported cannabis products. Licensed producers must comply with these regulations to export their products.
Global Market Impact: Israel's expertise in medical cannabis research and cultivation has positioned it as a potential major player in the global cannabis export market.
Economic Opportunities: The export of medical cannabis presents economic opportunities for Israel, including potential revenue generation and collaborations with other countries in the cannabis industry.
However, it's essential to note that export regulations for medical cannabis can change over time due to evolving laws and international agreements. Therefore, individuals or companies interested in this field should stay updated on the latest regulations and compliance requirements.