VA Doctors Talk Openly about Cannabis Medical Alternatives with Veterans. It's about damn time!
They protected. They Served.
A New Page in American History
The battle continues to rage as the war on medical marijuana continues because of the ignorance of a select few, including Jeff Sessions, Attorney General, who, venomously opposes any forward movement regarding proven health benefits of cannabis. However, on the other side of the table, with over 60 percent of Americans supporting the use of medical marijuana, elected leaders like Congressman Dana Rohrabacher, and others who have thoroughly educated on themselves on the subject, are battling right back, and winning! In the case of providing our Veterans a full spectrum of options including the simple act of allowing VA Doctors and Veterans to openly discuss therapies that include medical marijuana which may, as overwhelmingly proving to help ease the agonizing effects of PTSD and other conditions.
The Good News
For at least now, VA doctors and Veterans, are free to discuss the possibility of using medical marijuana including both THC and CBD therapies. Confidentiality between doctor and patient is being reinforced by bills protecting both Veterans HIPPA rights and protection for VA doctors who choose to help Veterans with their choice of using legal medical marijuana. This is a big step forward.
In May, VA Secretary David Shulkin said in a White House press briefing that he would consider expanding the use of medical marijuana for post-traumatic stress disorder, without changing federal law in the process.
'“We are acutely aware of the work that’s going on around the country, particularly in states that have legalized medical marijuana And, we are observing very closely work that’s being done that may be helping veterans, and we are open to any ideas and therapies that may be effective.” VA Secretary, David Shulkin
What's Next
The next step in the political process is to clear the path for VA doctors to not only be able to recommend THC/CBD but to also become qualified to write prescriptions. Right now, (and this is posed to happen soon), and state by state, doctors in states where medical marijuana is already legal, sending a patient to a dispensary, will no longer be a challenge.
A current loophole in the process is that President Trump signed into effect, no money is to be budgeted and used to investigate or prosecute VA doctors or the facility. Meaning, even if the "rules" are being broken, there is no course of action that can be taken.
In the Meantime
CBD oil made from industrial hemp is now completely legal to buy, sell, and use in all 50 states. CBD made from industrial hemp contains zero to trace amounts of THC and thus, not considered a drug or grouped with its marijuana cousin. The next battle to fight in the world of CBD is the FDA, which is supportive of classifying CBD as a scheduled drug but cannot do so until dosage consistency can be properly established.
The benefits of CBD is becoming more understood as science, clinical trials, and research continues to discover its amazing abilities and potential when properly manufactured. There are so many challenges facing our Veterans that can be treated successfully with CBD therapy. There are literally, hundreds of physical and physiological issues that CBD has been found to help with for treatment and cures. CBD may not be the whole answer, but they certainly do show great promise.
Who Else Is Helping?
Perhaps, because so many growers, processors, and retailers are doing what they do because they care, it just makes sense that these same individuals also feel strongly about giving back. There are some great examples of folks and businesses who are doing just that.
One of my favorites is War Fighter Hemp. I will definitely nominate them for the Green Angel Award! Take a look at their statement of mission. This company not only grows hemp on their certified organic farms, but they keep giving back in a huge way. They practice what they preach.
Warfighter Hemp speaks about their mission:
"Warfighter Hemp is comprised of veterans and non-veterans who believe in providing an alternative to the reality that many veterans are faced with – a cocktail of prescription painkillers and zombie dope. Our mission is to provide veterans and non-veterans with a holistic and natural alternative to those “drugs.” We are a worldwide organization with representatives and ambassadors around the globe. We give 50% of our profits give back to other charities that support veteran’s independence."
"We give 50% of our profits give back to other charities that support veteran’s independence." [War Fighter Hemp]
Inspiring
How much do you care?
Should the VA help pay for MMJ for Vets just like we do with other meds?
Wow, shere can I get some of that!
What can you do?
The most important thing you can do whether you agree or disagree with Cannabis as a whole, is to educate yourself and others around you. Be in charge of your health and wellness. Insist that your medical providers become educated.
I personally follow the current events as they unfold s regarding hemp and medical marijuana on a daily basis. I am watching as States, one after another, are recognizing the errs of previous generations. How many have suffered because of the greed of a few? Make a difference, study, and find more people who are willing to openly discuss it. The time is now.
Feel free to comment below. Pro or Con. I'm sure we can learn from each other.
