Discuss the pros and cons of legalizing marijuana. Would you ever prescribe or encourage the use of legal cannabis? Why or why not?
Another 'policy' based question, this query is looking for your opinion on a popular topic that is often controversial - the use of cannabis. Whether cannabis use is legal in your region or not, your response may vary. Overall, the panel is looking for a mature perspective and a balanced response. Show that you have reflected on the subject by providing a well researched and fair opinion.
"There are numerous studies available that show the pros and cons of legalizing marijuana. I believe there are many pros to the use of CBD, a chemical compound found in cannabis plants, including anxiety, arthritis pain, depression, inflammatory issues, and even muscle-spasticity found in Multiple Sclerosis. When it comes to the risk associated with the use of marijuana to gain a high, there is a lot of research still to be done. From what we know, chronic pot use can impact the brain, and regular inhalation can cause lung issues. I have not performed enough research to prescribe or encourage the use of legal cannabis comfortably; however, I feel knowledgable enough to feel comfortable with a patient using a topical CBD ointment for arthritic symptoms, for instance."
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Anonymous Answer
I believe patients/people have the right to make their own decisions, even in the context of marijuana. However, I believe these people should understand all of the risks and benefits of use if it were to be legalized. From a business perspective, since Colorado legalized marijuana it has seen an increase in real-estate growth and an 84% decrease in marijuana-related arrests allowing the local government to save on average 20 million in fees. However, Colorado also experienced a significant increase in related hospitalizations, underage use, and calls to poison control regarding marijuana use. Working in the ED I have interacted with several patients who use marijuana. From my experience people who inhale marijuana on a daily to weekly basis develop lung or withdrawal complications. However, through research, I have come to know of some good related to CBD use. UNC-Chapel Hill's own researchers have studied the positive effects of CBD on seizures, EEG abnormalities, and people who suffer from neurodevelopmental disorders. While there are apparent pros and cons to using marijuana/CBD, I myself have not done enough research to comfortably and confidently encourage the use of or prescribe cannabis.
Stephanie's Feedback
This is a thorough response, however, you may wish to focus on the medical aspects of legal cannabis (example: pain relief, etc) rather than the economic aspects.
Anonymous Answer
Much of what we know about the benefits of medical cannabis comes from anecdotal evidence of patients who have already used the drug to treat various maladies. I do not think this is the best way to practice medicine and would rather rely on peer-reviewed data from scientific studies. I think that marijuana has had positive impacts on the lives of many patients, and if I felt that the patient is positively impacted by this drug to a point where it outweighed the risks and side effects then I would consider prescribing the drug.
Marcie's Feedback
Your response is a good one because it's fair and balanced. When you say that you might prescribe it, connect that possibility to your aforementioned preference of relying on data from scientific studies before trusting or prescribing medicine. In other words, say that you might prescribe it but only after it's been proven effective and safe by peer-reviewed scientific studies (if this is what you believe). Right now your response is a little disjointed; consider linking the two trains of thought you've introduced here. Good job!
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