MCANZ hopes for renewed debate as Alternative Medical Cannabis Bill is up for debate tonight

It is expected that this evening, Dr Shane Reti's private members bill, titled” Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill (No 2)”, first introduced during 2018 will be up for its first reading. Dr Reti, now deputy leader of the opposition drafted the bill during the select committee process for the current Medical Cannabis scheme, using the opportunity to highlight the lack of detail in the Government’s bill.

The bill in question had various flaws, with site requirements ripped from the Hemp regulations, proving particularly onerous in the context of high security sites with manufacturing facilities, and an over emphasis on fit and proper persons tests in the law itself to suit the conservatism in National as a political party.

One positive aspect though was the extension of Provisional consent. This process is typically used for urgent public health needs, where the interim data is positive, but not enough for conventional approval, the classic example being the first wave of effective HIV medications, the simply didn’t wait for years of expensive studies when the initial results were proving them safe and effective. The bill inferred that the critical need be loosened, with the main point being that the interim process be extended from 2 to 5 years, allowing for local companies to gain advantages by committing to some research, which would follow on to grant some prescriber confidence in NZ, which is the key thrust of the bill.

The best aspect of the bill and addressing prescriber hesitancy, however was a system where patients can qualify irrespective of their GPs personal views. This system would entail qualifying patients getting access via pharmacies, but being granted a significant degree of patient choice in exactly what product types, strengths etc,

It is expected that his bill will be voted down tonight, due to the overwhelming majority the Govt wields in the house. However MCANZ is hopeful that this bill can stimulate debate around Medical Cannabis, as the scheme has had a rocky start, with an extension, a dearth of approved products and indications from industry that, for CBD at least, prices are likely to go up, not down.

“The Medicinal Cannabis Scheme despite being in place for nearly one year is currently not working effectively or efficiently for patients. Shane Reti’s Bill offers a more inclusive and accessible way forward for those patients who are struggling with the current scheme.”

“With his bill, pharmacists can dispense CBD and even THC containing medications as restricted medicines to patients who carry an approval card for Medical Cannabis, much like an 18+ card is used” Says MCANZ Co-chair and Registered Nurse Jacinta Newport.

"This bill offers better access than the current scheme and also addresses the issue of unwilling prescribes. Its a shame for paintents that it is unlikely to advance due to labour's majority." Says MCANZ Spokesperson and Co-chair Mark Crotty.