- Why It Matters: The National Health Security Office (NHSO) of Thailand is set to adjust its policy to allow “real-use” dispensation of medical cannabis oil for treating pediatric epilepsy, marking a significant policy shift towards patient-centered care.
- The Big Picture: This decision reflects Thailand’s ongoing efforts to integrate cannabis into medical treatment, following successful clinical trials and growing evidence of its efficacy in difficult-to-treat epilepsy cases.
- What To Watch: The regulatory change signifies a broader acceptance of medical cannabis within Thailand’s healthcare system and highlights the country’s commitment to evidence-based medical practices and improving patient outcomes.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand is on the verge of implementing a pivotal policy change in its healthcare system, allowing the dispensation of cannabis oil for pediatric epilepsy patients on a “real-use” basis. This adjustment by the National Health Security Office (NHSO) signifies a monumental shift in the country’s approach to medical cannabis, emphasizing patient needs and the effectiveness of treatment over rigid prescription limits.
Previously, the NHSO’s policy permitted the dispensation of up to six 10ml bottles of medical cannabis oil per patient each month. However, this cap is now being reconsidered to accommodate the actual needs of patients, reflecting a more flexible and compassionate healthcare practice.
The shift comes after extensive research and trials conducted between 2021 and 2023, spearheaded by DR. APHASIRI LUSAWAT, a pediatric neurologist at the Neurological Institute of the Department of Medical Services. The studies focused on the use of high-CBD cannabis extract in treating refractory epilepsy in children, yielding positive outcomes that have prompted this policy revision.
The NHSO, in collaboration with the Department of Medical Services and the Thai Pediatric Neurology Association, has been at the forefront of these efforts, showcasing Thailand’s dedication to pioneering medical treatments and integrating traditional herbal medicines into modern healthcare.
This regulatory change not only aligns with Thailand’s commitment to providing evidence-based medical treatments but also sets a precedent for the use of cannabis in pediatric care. It acknowledges the significant potential of cannabis oil in improving the quality of life for children suffering from severe forms of epilepsy, marking a hopeful future for similar cases.
As Thailand continues to explore and embrace the medical potentials of cannabis, this policy adjustment is a testament to the country’s progressive stance on healthcare, aiming to ensure that all patients, especially vulnerable children, receive the best possible care tailored to their specific needs.
Contributing Sources: Hfocus.org Article 1, Hfocus.org Article 2
