Exploring the Knowledge and Attitudes of Medical Doctors in South Africa towards Medical Cannabis: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Abstract Background The attitudes and perceptions of medical practitioners towards medical cannabis is important to understand. A qualitative study was conducted to examine the attitudes and knowledge of medical doctors in South Africa towards medical cannabis. Methods Twenty medical doctors were recruited for online semi-structured interviews, which were guided by predefined themes including knowledge, legislation, willingness to prescribe, and potential risks. The data collected was analyzed using thematic analysis. Results There is a general discomfort with the current level of knowledge about medical cannabis among participants, with many expressing a lack of personal knowledge and concern about the quality and accuracy of public information. There is also confusion and uncertainty about the legislation surrounding medical cannabis, with some participants stating that it is unclear or vague, and others reporting that their institutions have negative or exclusionary positions on the use of cannabis in medical treatment. Additionally, participants cited a lack of protocols and access to pharmaceutical grade cannabis as primary impediments to prescribing medical cannabis, and expressed concerns about the potential long-term side effects of abuse and the lack of head-to-head clinical trials with varying cannabinoid subtypes. Conclusion The study suggests a need for more education and training on medical cannabis, as well as clearer guidelines and protocols to facilitate its safe and effective use in medical treatment.