A review of studies published in the journal Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids suggested that most United States medical practitioners believe that they are not prepared to discuss the therapeutic use with patients. The scoping review highlights the importance of integrating medical cannabis content into the training of medical professionals.
Researchers associated with the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine reviewed 41 studies analyzing healthcare professionals’ attitudes toward medical cannabis. The studies were published between January 2013 and February 2025 and included both electronic surveys and qualitative interviews. Most of the reviewed studies included electronic surveys, but three were based on qualitative interviews. The respondents included medical trainees, physicians, and other healthcare professionals representing diverse clinical specialties.
They found that most respondents would like to feel more confident discussing medical cannabis with patients. The respondents felt inadequately prepared to counsel their patients on the issue. According to the research team, “US physicians and medical trainees perceived significant knowledge barriers to recommending MC (medical cannabis) and counseling patients on its therapeutic use.” The review also revealed that students, residents, and fellows indicated that they had minimal preparation on the pharmacological principles of medical cannabis. The review highlights the need to train healthcare professionals on how to guide patients who are or are considering using medical cannabis.
The review highlighted some differences in perceptions among medical specialties. Most dermatologists recommend topical medical cannabis products to manage conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Most emergency medicine doctors, oncologists, and palliative care physicians believed that medical cannabis was valuable for managing chronic pain and nausea.
The research team also noted key regional differences. Physicians were more likely to view medical cannabis favorably in states with cannabis legalization. Medical professionals in the western states were more likely to discuss medical cannabis with patients than their counterparts practicing in rural areas or the South.
As more patients bring up questions of medical cannabis, healthcare professionals expressed the need for postgraduate education webinars and conference presentations. Many healthcare professionals have been advocating for more precise state clinical practice guidelines. Enhanced training will improve patient care and reduce the potential stigma associated with medical cannabis.
Sources: Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids, NORML