Health & Wellness
Where Most Physicians Turn for Cannabis Education
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A recent survey has revealed that 71% of physicians affiliated with the Society of Cannabis Clinicians learned about medical cannabis from conferences. Only 1 participant out of 37 participants reported having learned about medical cannabis in medical school. This survey1 confirms that cannabis education is not available in mainstream medical schools at either undergraduate or graduate levels, an issue that the cannabis community has highlighted on countless occasions. However, a majority of the physicians reported being content with the amount of cannabis information that is available to support physicians prescribing medical cannabis.
Key Findings of the Survey
The survey aimed to investigate the knowledge level and source of knowledge of Prescribing Physicians in California, as well as other states. Because California was the first state to legalize cannabis, the researchers assumed that physicians in this state would be more knowledgeable about cannabis. Surprisingly, this didn’t emerge as accurate from the survey.
The survey forms were sent out electronically to members of the society. Only physicians were eligible for the study, and participation was purely voluntary with no incentives offered. A total of 133 members were eligible for the survey, and 45 participated. Here are a few key findings that were highlighted by the study:
- 71% of the participating physicians obtained most of their cannabis knowledge from conferences
- Over 50% of physicians reported being satisfied with the available medical cannabis information
- Over 75% had sufficient understanding of cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system
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| Finding | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Learned from conferences | 71% |
| Satisfied with available information | 50%+ |
| Sufficient knowledge of cannabinoids/ECS | 75%+ |
The researchers were surprised to find that physicians’ level of knowledge of medical cannabis did not vary between states. Physicians in California were not more knowledgeable than physicians from other states, even though California has the oldest medical cannabis program. It was concluded that more effort needs to be put into ensuring that physicians’ knowledge of medical cannabis is enhanced. To achieve this, it may be necessary to review medical school curricula to include the endocannabinoid system and cannabinoid-based medicine.
Final Thoughts
The survey underscores a clear gap in formal cannabis education within medical training programs. While many physicians are supplementing their knowledge through conferences and self-directed learning, the findings highlight the need for integrating cannabis and endocannabinoid system education into medical school curricula. Doing so would ensure that future healthcare providers are better equipped to guide patients in safe and effective cannabis use.
References:
1. Takakuwa KM, Mistretta A, Pazdernik VK, Sulak D. Education, Knowledge, and Practice Characteristics of Cannabis Physicians: A Survey of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2021 Feb 12;6(1):58-65. doi: 10.1089/can.2019.0025. PMID: 33614953; PMCID: PMC7891199.
