Candy is Dandy, But Liquor is Quicker

“Candy is Dandy, But Liquor is Quicker”

This quote is attributable to the American poet Ogden Nash. You may also remember it from the original 1971 movie version of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.

How can I possibly weave this headline into my newsletter? Well, what will your strategy be when someday soon your claimants/patients submit medical marijuana for approval and reimbursement?

If you think this is in jest or far fetched, think again. Medical marijuana is now legal in 18 states, the District of Columbia and new locations near you soon. Although THC (Cannabis) is an FDA-approved medication (in limited diagnoses), the marijuana plant is not.

Nevertheless, researchers are touting both the THC pill and medical marijuana plant for the treatment of chronic pain. A recent study by the New York State Psychiatric Institute concluded that both the joint and the THC pill controlled pain. The puffers reported quick relief and a feeling of being high (duh).  Unfortunately, the pain relief diminished quickly versus the longer lasting effect from the THC pills. Their conclusion: if you need quick pain relief, then it’s the joint; if you need duration, then an oral THC dose is longer lasting.

When we get our first request for medical marijuana approval, the issues we will consider are the same ones involved in the review of other odd and experimental therapies.

Is it?

• Legal
• Medically effective
• Proven
• Safe

Will it?

• Interfere with other therapies
• Have adverse effects

Are there?

• Alternatives
• Extent/Duration issues
• Diversion concerns

Medical science is ever changing. What’s your strategy for the next, expensive and unusual request? Are you prepared?

Call Us. We can do better.

William Faris, JD
Chief Executive Officer
502-495-5040
william.faris@omca.biz
www.omca.biz