A new project called The Commonwealth Project in Massachusetts is focusing on making medical marijuana more accessible to senior citizens. The founder, Howard Kessler, mentioned that people over 65 are increasingly turning to cannabis for relief from age-related ailments. Although medical marijuana is legal in many states, it is not at the federal level, which means doctors cannot prescribe it.
Many physicians have expressed that their patients are interested in trying medical cannabis, but they cannot provide much guidance due to the legal limitations. The Compassionate Use Act allows health care providers to recommend cannabis instead of prescribing it. However, there are challenges for seniors trying to access cannabis treatment, such as the lack of doctors or pharmacists on-site in dispensaries and the variability in the quality of products.
Increased regulation is needed before expanding access to medical marijuana, according to some groups. Different formulations, dosages, and delivery systems must be considered when using cannabis for medical purposes. Kessler’s pilot project in Massachusetts aims to integrate medical cannabis into the existing health care system using a payer-provider model similar to Medicare Advantage.
Studies conducted by Kessler’s group have shown promising results in using cannabis among seniors. Participants reported positive impacts, and many found cannabis to be more cost-effective than prescription drugs, leading some to stop taking pharmaceuticals altogether. The potential savings from using medical marijuana as an alternative to traditional medications could be significant.
Research has shown that in states where marijuana is legal, doctors prescribed fewer doses of painkillers to Medicare members. If marijuana were legalized nationwide, it could lead to substantial cost savings. Medicare Advantage programs have the potential to reimburse for medical cannabis products and services, making it more accessible to seniors.
However, some groups believe that more research is necessary before fully endorsing medical marijuana for seniors. They caution that the benefits may have been overstated and that a closer examination is needed. Despite differing opinions, those involved in The Commonwealth Project are optimistic that the pilot could lead to significant changes in the health care landscape.
Overall, the integration of medical cannabis into traditional health care for seniors presents both opportunities and challenges. By addressing regulatory issues, improving access, and conducting further research, medical marijuana could become a valuable alternative for managing age-related health conditions.