Pernambuco approves medicinal cannabis distribution policy through SUS

On Monday (04), the Legislative Assembly of the State of Pernambuco (ALEPE) unanimously approved substitute 01/2024, which creates the substitute for the State Policy for the Supply of Medicines and Products Derived from Cannabis for Medicinal Treatment.

Deputy João Paulo, one of the authors of the substitute, emphasized that the new law represents a step forward in inclusion, dignity, and commitment to the health of patients who depend on cannabis for a better quality of life. "We had an unyielding struggle, a lot of resistance for the acquisition of cannabis medicines. This house (assembly) has received patients and their families who significantly improved their quality of life with cannabis," said the parliamentarian.

João Paulo also highlighted that between 2022 and 2024, the State of Pernambuco invested over R$ 1 million in the application of court decisions related to the use of cannabis-based medicines. With the approval of the substitute, he believes this reality will change. "The proposal seeks to establish a distribution system that encompasses everyone, regardless of their financial condition, and that is in line with the Unified Health System (SUS)," he explained.

Deputy Socorro Pimentel, a pediatrician, reinforced the importance of access to medicinal cannabis, especially for patients with severe illnesses. "Science has already tested and proven the efficacy of cannabidiol in various conditions such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, cancer, and fibromyalgia. In many places around the world, CBD is already democratized and available in pharmacies. We need to ensure that all people can have access, as the current cost is very high," she said.

Deputy Dani Portela emphasized the need to move beyond the moralistic and ideological debate surrounding cannabis. "We are dealing with a plant that has considerable uses. We need to talk about distribution through SUS, but also about the historical components of criminalized traffic over the centuries due to cannabis sativa," Portela stated, highlighting the importance of harm reduction policies.

Luciano Duque, also an author of the substitute, spoke about the transformation in the lives of patients provided by cannabidiol. “Many people find in cannabidiol a solution to alleviate severe symptoms. If we do not live in the shoes of a child who has 50 seizures a day or their parents, we cannot imagine the suffering it is. We are here talking about improvements in the lives not only of patients but of family members who are caregivers. Caregivers are almost entirely women who give up their lives to dedicate themselves to another person,” said the deputy, who is the father of a young autistic person.

Duque also warned that the achievement is just the beginning of a long journey: “We still have a lot of work to ensure that the medicine reaches everyone who needs it.” Deputy Gilmar Júnior, a nursing graduate, wishes to send a message of support to healthcare professionals, stating that they can now continue caring for their patients outside of hospitals. Deputy Francismar Pontes, a physician, highlighted the importance of cannabis for autistic children. “I have seen many autistic children who need this medication and suffer from lack of access. Distribution through SUS will alleviate the suffering of many people,” concluded Pontes.