Argentina’s Ministry of Health has announced significant changes to the country’s medical cannabis program, REPROCANN, through Resolution 3132/2024. These changes aim to create a more structured environment, especially for solidarity cultivators and NGOs involved in the program.
New Guidelines for Solidarity Cultivators and NGOs
Solidarity cultivators, who grow cannabis for medical purposes on behalf of others, will now be limited to a maximum of two patients, including themselves. NGOs participating in the program must register with local authorities and explicitly include medical cannabis research and usage within their stated activities. Additionally, NGO directors must have no criminal record.
Increased Oversight for Medical Professionals
Medical practitioners seeking to participate in REPROCANN will face new requirements. Starting in 2024, all applicants must possess a prescription for cannabis use from a registered healthcare professional within Argentina’s Federal Network of Health Professionals Registries (REFEPS). These dispensing professionals must hold a master’s degree specializing in medicinal cannabis. A national advisory council will be established to assist in the implementation of these changes and ensure compliance with the new rules.
Impact on Access and Availability
These changes represent a move towards stricter oversight and a focus on professional competency. However, they also introduce limitations on access for patients. Restrictions on solidarity growers and NGOs, who often provide vital support to patients, could reduce the flexibility and availability of cannabis treatments. This raises concerns about the program’s ability to effectively meet patient needs under this more restrictive framework.
Specific Changes for Various Groups
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Self-Cultivators:
Existing regulations remain unchanged for self-cultivators, allowing them to grow up to nine plants indoors or outdoors. Transportation limits remain at 40 grams of dry flowers or six 30ml bottles of oil.*
Solidarity Cultivators:
Restrictions have been tightened significantly. They are now limited to cultivating for a maximum of two patients (including themselves) and can grow up to 18 plants. Transportation rules remain consistent with self-cultivators.*
NGOs:
Only civil associations or foundations are now eligible to participate. Simple associations and cooperatives are no longer permitted. NGOs must provide a list of patients, doctors involved, and a certificate proving their legal standing. They must also notify local authorities about their activities.*
Physicians:
Medical professionals must complete specialized education in cannabis, such as a diploma or master’s degree, before they can prescribe it. They must also register with REPROCANN’s doctor registry, REFEPS.A Shift in Approach
The government’s emphasis on oversight and professional competency in the medical cannabis program is a notable shift. While this may improve the program’s structure, the potential impact on patient access and availability remains a concern. It is crucial to monitor how these changes will affect patients and ensure that they have continued access to vital cannabis-based treatments.
