A recent study investigated How medical students perceive knowledge, beliefs and attitudes towards medical marijuana.
According to research, Doctors receive minimal training in medical school to understand the uses of medicinal cannabis and rely primarily on anecdotal evidence.
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The study was published in Cureusa journal of medical sciences, and conducted by Robin J. Jacobs, Jessica Colon y Michael N. Kane.
Background
In recent years, increased attention has been given to understanding the uses of medical cannabis for the control of symptoms of various medical conditions. However, how medical students perceive medical marijuana is unknown, including its efficacy, suitability in medicine, potential adverse effects, and value to patients.
Method
In June, the researchers conducted eight group interviews with 83 medical students through the virtual meeting platform Zoom. Interviews were guided by beliefs, perceived knowledge, role of the physician, concern regarding adverse effects, and medical cannabis in the curriculum.
Results
Four themes emerged: misconceptions regarding medical marijuana; unreliable sources of information; mixed attitudes toward legalization; and the desire for education around her in medical school.
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“Attitudes toward medical marijuana in general, including legalization, varied by the student’s state of origin in the United States and exposure to itsays the study.
conclusion
According to the authors, It is critical that medical educators, when designing undergraduate curriculum initiatives for future physicians, cultivate new insights into student perceptions and perceived knowledge regarding medicinal options and medical marijuana dosing. This “seems to be an important issue for medical students who may need to recommend it to their patients and manage coexisting therapies,” the researchers said.
Education is the key
As the researchers mentioned, there is no formal training on medical marijuana in medical school programs.
“Cannabis is discussed in courses only with respect to misuse, abuse, or risks associated with adult use. Participants commented that their knowledge of medical marijuana was poor; Y felt they would benefit from more education regarding it while they were at school,” the study concluded.
Related content: The Inclusion of Medical Cannabis in the Future of Health Care
Via To gasolinetranslated by El Planteo.
Photo by Lord Johnson via Unsplash