The German government is facing increasing political friction over proposed restrictions on medical cannabis access, with the Social Democratic Party (SPD) strongly criticizing plans spearheaded by Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU). The proposed changes, aiming to mandate in-person physician consultations for medical cannabis prescriptions and effectively prohibiting online orders, are drawing accusations of overreach and potential breaches of both professional and patient rights.
Carmen Wegge, the SPD’s spokesperson for legal policy, voiced significant concerns to “Der Spiegel”, arguing that the proposal represents an unwarranted intrusion into the autonomy of medical professionals and limits the available options for patients seeking treatment. She emphasized that such a requirement severely restricts physicians’ ability to exercise their judgment and deliver care based on individual patient needs.
Beyond domestic concerns, Wegge specifically highlighted the detrimental impact on businesses, particularly those operating within the European Union. The proposed ban on shipping medical cannabis from EU countries, she contends, is a clear violation of the principle of free trade and the free movement of goods enshrined in European law. The restriction effectively erects a barrier to entry for international suppliers and would significantly disadvantage patients who currently rely on these sources.
The SPD is advocating for a “constitutionally and Europe-law compliant solution” that prioritizes the consistent and equitable provision of medical cannabis, ensuring accessibility through digital channels. This call comes amidst growing pressure on both the CDU and SPD blocs within the Bundestag, suggesting a protracted and potentially contentious debate ahead of Minister Warken’s stated goal of enacting the legislation this year. Critics fear the proposed restrictions will exacerbate existing challenges in accessing medical cannabis and undermine the progress made in modernizing healthcare delivery. The scope of the legislation and its potential ramifications are now expected to be subject to intense parliamentary scrutiny.