Germany is leading the way in medical cannabis access across Europe. Looking to their system could be an untapped source of inspiration for policymakers in the UK. Since legalizing it in 2017, German patient numbers have grown rapidly, making pharmaceutical-grade legal cannabis available to more patients. However, navigating the system can be tricky, with both opportunities and challenges along the way.
If you’re new to the topic, this guide will break down how medical cannabis works in Germany and what you need to know.
The Basics of Medical Cannabis in Germany
A Brief History: Medical cannabis has been legal in Germany since 2017, allowing patients with certain conditions to obtain prescriptions from doctors (one year before the UK followed suit!). Prescriptions are filled at pharmacies, ensuring patients receive high-quality medicinal cannabis which has passed countless tests.
Health Insurance Coverage: One of the biggest advantages of Germany’s system is the possibility of insurance reimbursement. Some patients have their cannabis treatment covered, but approval isn’t guaranteed, and reimbursement rates have declined over time. Insurers evaluate each case individually and often require proof that other treatments have failed before agreeing to cover costs.
Who Can Prescribe? Unlike in the UK where only specialist doctors can prescribe cannabis-based medicines, all German physicians including general practitioners (GPs) can prescribe medical cannabis. This makes access easier for patients. In response to the UK’s restrictive system, the Cannabis Industry Council (CIC) launched the Protect Our Patients campaign to push for GPs to be given prescribing rights in the UK.
The German Reimbursement System
To get medical cannabis reimbursed in Germany, patients with serious illnesses must first secure a prescription with a physician and then apply for insurance approval. Courts have played a key role in shaping these regulations, setting legal precedents that influence future rulings.
The landmark case which set this law into place involved a German patient who won a legal battle, forcing her health insurer to cover Dronabinol drops for a year.
The court ruled that denying coverage violated her fundamental rights, as she suffered from multiple serious conditions, including restless legs syndrome and chronic pain.
However, even with this legal backing, nearly 40% of medical cannabis reimbursement applications have been rejected. This highlights the ongoing struggle for patients seeking coverage.
Key Opportunities in German Medical Cannabis
The German community of medical cannabis patients is expanding rapidly, offering new opportunities. Here’s what makes the industry so promising:
More Patients, More Prescriptions – With growing awareness, more doctors are prescribing cannabis for conditions like chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. Patient numbers are expected to keep rising.
Boost in Domestic Production – While Germany currently relies on imports from Canada and Portugal, local cultivation is ramping up. This could stabilize supply and potentially lower prices over time.
Momentum for Legalisation – The German government is advancing cannabis reform, including adult-use legalisation via social clubs starting July 1, 2024. This could further normalise medical cannabis and reduce stigma.
The GROW Team at Mary Jane Berlin in 2024, shortly after the legalisation of social clubs! Click here to read Joséphine’s experience…
Cannabis Delisted as a Narcotic – Germany recently removed cannabis from its list of narcotics. This shift is a game-changer, reducing stigma and cutting through bureaucratic red tape. By recognising cannabis as legitimate medicine, the government has made it easier for doctors to prescribe and patients to access treatment.
Pharmaceutical Innovation – The market is evolving beyond dried flowers. Patients now have access to extracts, oils, and new formulations tailored to their needs.
Challenges Facing Patients and the Industry
Despite its progress, Germany’s medical cannabis sector still faces obstacles:
Bureaucratic Barriers – Getting a prescription isn’t always easy. Some doctors remain hesitant, and insurers require extensive paperwork before approving reimbursement.
High Costs – Without insurance, cannabis treatments can be expensive, and prices vary by product and pharmacy.
Doctor Awareness Gaps – While many German doctors are prescribing cannabis, some remain unaware of its medical benefits.
Market Pressures – With more suppliers entering the space, competition is fierce. While lower prices benefit patients, businesses must adapt to stay profitable.
What’s Next for Medical Cannabis in Germany?
Germany is at a pivotal moment in cannabis policy. With discussions around further legalisation and regulatory improvements, the system is expected to become more patient-friendly. Key changes to watch for include:
Simplified regulations to make prescriptions and access easier for doctors and patients.
Better insurance coverage to ensure affordability for more patients.
Increased domestic production to reduce reliance on imports and lower costs.
As Germany continues refining its approach, patients, doctors, and industry professionals must stay informed. A more accessible system could make medical cannabis an even more valuable treatment option.
For the latest updates, follow GROW Deutschland on all platforms!
Our GROW Germany Team spreading the word about medical cannabis prescriptions to Doctors!
Vanessa Mühlhäuser
Head of Business Development and Medical Operations, GROW® Germany
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