Spain to Regulate Medical Cannabis Use in National Health System by June

Spain's Health Minister, José Manuel Miñones, has announced that a comprehensive report to regulate medical cannabis use within the Spanish National Health System (SNS) will be presented by the end of May. This announcement comes amid complaints from parliamentarians regarding the delays in the analysis by the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (Aemps), which was initially due in 2022

Minister Miñones apologized for the delays during his first appearance before the lower house's health committee. The Spanish Congress had initially voted in favor of regulating medical cannabis in June 2022, giving Aemps six months to issue recommendations. However, Miñones explained that the delay was necessary to ensure patient safety, citing an 'excess of caution' rather than any ill intent

Once the regulatory framework is established, pharmacies will be able to dispense cannabis-based medications with a prescription. Miñones highlighted that the pharmaceutical industry is already preparing a strategic plan to align with this development, emphasizing the need for cooperation with other European Union countries to enhance autonomy across Europe

The Spanish presidency of the EU Council will prioritize listing strategic and essential medications to boost European autonomy. The minister also committed to advancing pending regulations in healthcare, including laws on healthcare equity, universality, and cohesion, as well as legislation on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), aiming to improve healthcare quality and access

Furthermore, Miñones plans to focus on mental health, childhood obesity, healthy lifestyle habits, and the digitalization of the SNS. The eagerly awaited report on medical cannabis, which is expected to catalyze the industry, is anticipated before June, marking a significant step in Spain's healthcare evolution