In a recent article called Medical marijuana users concerned about drug supply posted on CBC News website, Yvonne Colbert writes about how some licensed producers under MMPR are getting sold out of supply in a matter of minutes. Of the 13 licensed producers, some patients feel that the number of suppliers is not enough. Tanya, a patient tells the reporter of her predicament:
Tanya smokes marijuana to give her an appetite and control chronic pain. On May 31, she ordered 180 grams from the Peace Naturals Project, one of the 13 federally-licensed medical marijuana production companies.
She didn't get anything until almost a month later on June 27 — and she only got 30 grams. The company has promised to refund the balance.
Sam, another patient says trying to get the marijuana has been a struggle.
"We're arguing and fighting with them, practically begging with them to send us medication when they had the money already," he said.
There are over 800 applicants trying to get a license to produce medical marijuana under MMPR from Health Canada, below is their response:
Health Canada told CBC News there are no supply issues.
"Health Canada closely monitors the market. Licensed producers have produced sufficient supply to meet current and anticipated demand," said Sara Lauer, a spokeswoman for Health Canada.
The patients Sam and Tanya say the delay in getting her prescription filled meant he had to buy marijuana illegally.
"I don't know where he's getting it from. He doesn't know where he's getting it from. We don't know what kind of people we're dealing with," she said.
The couple said it's easier — and cheaper — to buy illegal marijuana than it is to purchase medical marijuana. They say the current system isn't working for them and they'd like to see medical marijuana sold at pharmacies, just like other prescription drugs.
Maybe it's time Health Canada review's it's policy on issuing licenses and allows for patients to source supply from more than just one licensed producers.