I have been curious about Cannabis and the possible benefits for my health and for others. Do I think that means my family doctor will be one board – not fully.
Let me state too that I will NEVER smoke cannabis. I’m asthmatic and smoking would be totally stupid choice for me. I also know that the full benefits of cannabis do not come from smoking. I’ll be looking at the oils, tinctures and vaporization methods for my use. I’m not interested in using cannabis to get high, though it’s a healthier alternative than wine and liquor.
My research into this topic began several years ago. Now we’re on the brink of being the second country in the world to legalize it nationally. Most folks don’t know that Uruguay was the first country to do it in 2013.
I personally believe that cannabis legalization in Canada will be a huge benefit to all of us. Will there be some hiccups? For sure. We’re breaking new ground.
From what I’ve read, watched and seen – it will all be a positive end. I’ve also talked to those more knowledgeable than me. The key will be that the rules will have to start out being strict. Then as time goes on and experience grows, the system will evolve to meet the needs of people.
Back to my family doctor. I recently had an appointment with him. I explained that I’ve already incorporated non-psychoactive hemp based CBD oil into my health regimen. I’m thrilled with the results and plan to continue using the oil for ongoing and preventative reasons. He was fine with that.
Then I asked him that if I made a future decision to pursue stronger cannabis based products, would he prescribe them for me? I totally respect my Doc or else I wouldn’t be his patient. He openly and honestly answered that he was not interested in that treatment model (nor did he have the training). He recommended that I go to the local medical marijuana dispensary and they would help me. He was perfectly respectful of my approach.
We chatted a bit more about the subject. He related some anecdotes that had influenced his view at this point in time. However he indicated that he is open minded enough that he could consider a change of view in the future. He’s a very cool guy and I gave him a big hug as I left.
So the good news is that I am learning how to navigate the system for my own healthcare plan. I’ve always had a team approach in that area. I have a brilliant chiropractor, a terrific nutritional consultant, an MD who specializes in a integrative medicine and my traditional family doctor. I can benefit from the knowledge of all these professionals.
For those of you who want to learn a bit more, here’s are three links that you might like to check out:
This one is Bloomberg News. It has a brief province by province overview as well as an interview with Bill Blair, private secretary to Canada’s Minister of Justice, Jody Wilson-Raybould
1. https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/here-s-where-canadians-can-buy-cannabis-on-oct-17-1.1137958
This one is from Vice News with an interesting report on Uruguay’s experience with cannabis legalization.
This is a CBC News article with information about purchasing cannabis online in Ontario.
So let’s start a conversation here about Cannabis legalization in Canada. Let us know your thoughts, concerns, perhaps even fears. What would you like in the way of education so that you can understand the possibilities and processes that will arise?
Leave your comments below. By all means share this blog with any others that you think might be interested. Looking forward to hearing from all of you.
