Development of an Equitable, Interprofessional Medical Cannabis Education, Certification and Research Program in an NCI-Designated Cancer Center

Authors

Gregory Garber, MSW, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Jillian Van Sciver, MBA, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Denise Young, MSW, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Latrisha Bentch, BA, Pennsylvania Department of Health
Bracken Babula, MD, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
Brooke Worster, MD, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow

Files

Description

Background: Medical cannabis (MC), state-regulated cannabis programs accessible with a physician certification for a qualifying diagnosis, now exist in 47 states. Little attention has been paid to ensuring equitable access to such programs for the most vulnerable cancer patients.¹ Estimates of cannabis use in cancer patients range from 30-40%2 yet access to MC is highly dependent on a number of variables including: geography, cost, availability of certifying providers, lack of provider education and a confusing array of state programs coupled with ongoing federal illegality. The historic criminalization of cannabis and the disproportionate impact on People of Color creates another significant barrier. Most state MC programs require patients to have a variety of skills and resources to participate. These may include internet access, email addresses, a credit or debit card, funds to pay for the certifying visit and product and the ability to access a proximal dispensary.

Publication Date

3-7-2023

Keywords

medical cannabis, cancer

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Oncology

Comments

Presented at the 20th Annual American Psychosocial Oncology Society (APOS) Conference.

Recommended Citation

Garber, MSW, Gregory; Van Sciver, MBA, Jillian; Young, MSW, Denise; Bentch, BA, Latrisha; Babula, MD, Bracken; and Worster, MD, Brooke, "Development of an Equitable, Interprofessional Medical Cannabis Education, Certification and Research Program in an NCI-Designated Cancer Center" (2023). Department of Medical Oncology Posters. 14.
https://jdc.jefferson.edu/medoncposters/14