New Headquarters of the Specialized Therapies Support Center (Nate) Inaugurated in Aracaju for Cannabis Patients

In April 2023, Sergipe experienced a historic moment when Law 9.178/23 was sanctioned, guaranteeing access to cannabis through the state's SUS. The first protocol launched and implemented was for the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsies, followed by the Cannabis protocol to provide support to patients with aggressive behavior in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), both in less than a year.

Since then, pro-cannabis policies continue to be expanded and improved in the state. On October 1st, another government action demonstrated its commitment to providing information and health to cannabis patients with the inauguration of the new headquarters of the Specialized Therapies Support Center (Nate), located at the José Leonel Aquino Specialized Rehabilitation Center (CER IV) in the city of Aracaju.

According to the State Department of Health, "Nate emerges to offer technical guidance for therapeutic management based on cannabis, providing comprehensive care to the health needs of patients." The center has two service rooms, one for medical consultations and another for specialized nutritional monitoring.

Governor Fábio Mitidieri celebrated the advancement of public health in the state, highlighting the importance of the initiative. "It is a very important day due to the expansion of the protocol with cannabidiol-based medications, which cover epilepsy, chronic pain, and aggressive behavior in Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is a scientific and proven reality, and as the rapporteur of the Law and governor, I am having the opportunity to implement it in the state, which has been a pioneer in supporting patients and providing specialized clinical care," he commented.

Access to Protocols

To access treatments, patients need a specialized medical referral, as well as a standardized form proving resistance to conventional treatments, such as antipsychotics. No laboratory tests are required, just a quick questionnaire to verify aggressive behavior.

With the documentation in hand, patients must go to the Nate headquarters for screening and consultation scheduling. The withdrawal of cannabidiol takes place at the Comprehensive Health Care Center (Case) after the patient is registered in the system.

With information from the State Department of Health - Sergipe