Santa Catarina: $1 million amendment strengthens supply of cannabidiol in SUS

Two non-binding amendments presented by deputy Padre Pedro Baldissera (PT) were included in the Multiannual Plan (PPA), which foresees public investments in Santa Catarina for the next four years. The highlight is the allocation of $1 million for state pharmaceutical assistance, aiming at the free supply of cannabidiol in the Unified Health System (SUS).

The central objective of the measure, according to the parliamentarian, is to organize the entire flow of evaluation, prescription, acquisition, and dispensing of medications. The initiative aims to reduce access inequalities and the number of lawsuits.

Goals and protocols for cannabidiol in SUS

The amendment proposes the implementation of a robust state protocol. The goal is to ensure the care of at least 80% of eligible patients for cannabidiol treatment in SUS by the end of 2029.

The focus is on organizing the supply according to clinical protocols of the State Department of Health. According to the deputy, by structuring pharmaceutical assistance for cannabidiol in SUS, Santa Catarina could:

- Reduce access inequalities, as currently only families with resources or legal support can obtain the medication;

- Decrease litigation, which generates unpredictable expenses for the government and delays in the start of treatment;

- Ensure safe prescription and monitoring, through state clinical protocols;

- Speed up the start of treatment, avoiding the worsening of clinical conditions that could be controlled early.

“The organization of the flow and the predictability of care are essential to ensure the right to health. We are talking about patients who cannot wait,” highlights Padre Pedro.

Barriers in the regulation of cannabidiol in SUS

Despite the proposed advance with the funding for cannabidiol in SUS, the current regulatory decree in Santa Catarina still hinders access to the medication. The norm imposes bureaucratic barriers, requiring procedures that end up delaying or making the supply unfeasible.

These difficulties persist even for patients with medical prescriptions and robust reports. According to Padre Pedro, families report that the process is slow, fragmented, and often ends in a state denial. This pushes the patient back into the judicial system, a cycle that the amendment itself seeks to end.

Investments in Palliative Care

In addition to the resources for cannabidiol in SUS, a second amendment of $1 million was allocated to strengthen the State Network of Palliative Care. The goal is to structure, expand, and qualify the care line in all health regions.

The resources included in the PPA will be invested in expanding regional coverage and qualifying multiprofessional teams. The intention is to promote integration between primary, specialized, and home care, offering comprehensive support to the patient and family.

The stipulated goal is to make palliative care teams available in 100% of health regions by 2029. This strategy is essential for pain management and improving quality of life, as well as avoiding unnecessary hospitalizations.

With information from Alesc Agency.