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Expansion of medical cannabis access in Israel
Israel, a country known for its pioneering role in medical cannabis research, is set to make significant changes to its medical cannabis policy. Despite being the top importer of medical cannabis products, domestic patients have reported difficulties in acquiring their medicine due to restrictive laws. However, a recently approved reform measure is poised to change this scenario.
Israel's medical cannabis policy
Israel has a rich history in medical cannabis research, with Raphael Mechoulam, a speaker at the International Cannabis Business Conference, being the first person to isolate tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Despite this, the country's medical cannabis policy has been less progressive, with patients reporting difficulties in accessing their medicine. This is surprising considering Israel's knowledge and ability to harness the potential of the cannabis plant.
Changes on the horizon
According to a report by YNetNews, the Knesset’s Health Committee has decided to significantly expand access to medical cannabis. This decision is part of a reform led by the Health Ministry. Under the new framework, patients with a wide range of diseases and medical conditions will no longer be required to obtain a license to receive medical cannabis. This is a welcome change for patients who have been struggling to access their medicine.
Implications of the reform
While the reduction in hurdles for obtaining medical cannabis is a positive development, it does not solve all the problems. Patients are still dependent on the supply they can access. As more patients enter the medical cannabis sector due to the change, there will need to be an increase in domestic supply to meet the demand.
The need for further reform
While these changes are a step in the right direction, they do not go far enough. To truly ensure that every patient has safe access to medical cannabis, it needs to be legalized for adult use, in addition to medical use. Patients should also be given the right to cultivate their own medicine or join a noncommercial cannabis club. As Israel continues to navigate the complexities of cannabis legalization, the world watches with interest.
