Cannabis clinic, what is its roles?

What are the roles of cannabis clinics in promoting the safe and effective use of medical cannabis?

PHOTO via Unsplash

Cannabis clinics have been getting a lot of attention from around the world ever since several countries have legalized cannabis, and a lot of development has been made in understanding its medical benefits and applications. The emergence of these clinics is a testament to the growing recognition of cannabis as a viable treatment option for a wide range of conditions. In this article, we will be going through the cannabis industry here in Thailand, the roles of cannabis clinics, and where you can get treatments.

The cannabis industry in Thailand

In the past, the Thai government banned cannabis in the 1930s under the Marijuana Act B.E. 2477 (1934). This legislation was enacted in response to international pressure to control drug trafficking and usage. The strict prohibition policies led to declining cannabis use in traditional medicine and other cultural practices.

However, in recent years, cannabis has garnered significant attention for its potential therapeutic properties, particularly in neurological disorders such as dementia. Researchers have been exploring the possible benefits of cannabis in addressing a wide range of conditions as a potential treatment option for these neurological disorders.

There has been a shift in Thailand’s approach to cannabis, with growing interest in its potential medical and economic benefits. In December 2018, Thailand became the first Southeast Asian country to legalise medical cannabis, allowing patients with certain medical conditions to access cannabis-based treatments under the supervision of healthcare professionals. The Thai government has also initiated research and development programs to explore the potential of the cannabis industry for economic growth and job creation.

Cannabis clinic in Thailand

A cannabis clinic, also known as a medical marijuana clinic, is a specialized healthcare facility that focuses on providing patients with access to medical cannabis as a form of treatment in regions where it is legally permitted. In Thailand, the government has taken steps to legalize medical cannabis, allowing patients with certain medical conditions to access this alternative treatment option.

A man at a clinic
PHOTO via Unsplash

These clinics have healthcare professionals, who are knowledgeable about the therapeutic benefits and applications of medical cannabis for various medical conditions. In Thailand, patients may qualify for medical cannabis treatment if they have specific medical conditions.

Do you need a prescription for cannabis in Thailand?

Yes, you do need either a prescription or a doctor’s certificate clearly stating the reason of use in order to be qualified for medical cannabis.

Healthcare professionals at cannabis clinicPHOTO via Unsplash

At a Thai cannabis clinic, a healthcare expert assesses the patient’s history, symptoms, and past treatments. If suitable, they recommend medical cannabis, specifying strain, dosage, and consumption method for the patient’s condition.

Besides giving medical cannabis access, Thai cannabis clinics often provide educational resources and support for patients. This includes safe use, possible side effects, and correct storage and administration information.

Role of a cannabis clinic

Cannabis clinics play a vital role in encouraging the safe and effective use of medical cannabis by serving as a trusted source of information and advice for patients. They carry out several necessary functions to ensure that patients have access to responsible and appropriate medical cannabis treatment:

Patient evaluation- Healthcare professionals at cannabis clinics carefully assess a patient’s medical history, current symptoms, and previous treatments to determine if medical cannabis is suitable for their specific condition. This thorough evaluation helps to prevent unnecessary or potentially harmful use of medical cannabis.

Personalized treatment plans– Cannabis clinics develop specific treatment plans for each patient, specifying the appropriate strain, dosage, and method of consumption. This personalized approach ensures that patients receive the most effective treatment while minimizing potential side effects and risks.

Education and counselling– Cannabis clinics provide patients with important information on the proper use of medical cannabis, including dosage guidelines, potential side effects, drug interactions, and safe storage practices. They also offer counselling and support services to address any concerns or questions patients may have about their treatment.

Monitoring and Follow-up Care– Cannabis clinics maintain ongoing relationships with patients to monitor their progress and adjust treatment plans as needed. Regular follow-up appointments help to ensure the continued safety and effectiveness of medical cannabis treatment.

Advocacy and Research– Cannabis clinics often engage in efforts to support the responsible use of medical cannabis and help to research that helps improve our understanding of its potential benefits and risks. By staying informed about the latest scientific findings, cannabis clinics can provide patients with the most current information.

Compliance with Regulations– Cannabis clinics follow local and national rules for using medical cannabis. They make sure patients have registered and meet all their legal needs. Thus, this action helps create an open and responsible medical cannabis system.

In summary, cannabis clinics offer Thai patients alternative treatments to improve their lives and manage symptoms. As Thailand develops its medical cannabis program, these clinics’ role in giving safe, responsible access becomes more important for patients’ health.

Cannabis clinics in Bangkok

Here is a list of the top five medical cannabis clinics in Bangkok:

  1. BNH Hospital
  2. Sawasdee Clinic
  3. Navaminthra (Navamin 9) Hospital
  4. Galya Rajanagarindra Institute
  5. Thai Traditional and Integrated Medicine Hospital

For more information, check out this article.

HealthThailand Cannabis Guide

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Ye Man Pyae

Ye is an English writer and Junior Journalist for The Thaiger. His areas of expertise are Food & Beverage, Cannabis, and Education. He graduated from Assumption University, Bangkok with a bachelor's degree. In his spare time, he likes to watch Anime and read books.

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