Experiences, patient interactions and knowledge regarding the use of cannabis as a medicine in a cohort of New Zealand doctors in an oncology setting. Issue 1155 (20th November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Oldfield, Karen; Eathorne, Allie; Tewhaiti-Smith, Jordan; Beasley, Richard; Semprini, Alex; Braithwaite, Irene
• Is Part Of: Postgraduate medical journal. Volume 98:Issue 1155(2022)
• Page Start: 35
• Page End: 42
• Publication Date: 2020-11-20
• Subjects: Oncology -- chemotherapy -- pain management -- complementary medicine -- education & training (see medical education & training); Medicine -- Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2020-139013
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-5473

Abstract

Abstract: Purpose of Study: To explore the experiences, patient interactions and knowledge regarding the use of cannabis as a medicine in New Zealand doctors in an oncology setting. Study Design: An observational cross-sectional survey undertaken between November 2019 and January 2020 across four secondary-care hospital oncology departments within New Zealand (Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin). Participants were a convenience sample of doctors; consultants, registrars, medical officers of special status and house surgeons working in oncology departments. Of 53 individuals approached, 45 participated (85% Response Rate). The primary outcome was reporteddoctor-patient interactions. Secondary outcomes included knowledge of cannabis-based products, their efficacy, prescribing regulations and educational access. Results: Of 44 doctors, 37 (84%, 95% CI: 70 to 93) reported patient requests to prescribe cannabis-based products and 43 (98%, 95% CI: 88 to 100) reported patients using illicit cannabis for medical symptoms. Primary request reasons were pain, nausea/vomiting and cancer treatment. 33/45 (73%, 95% CI: 58 to 85) cited knowledge of at least one cannabis-based product and 27/45 (60%, 95% CI: 44 to 74) indicated at least one condition that had evidence of efficacy. 36/44 (82%, 95% CI: 67 to 92) expressed future prescribing concerns but all were willing to use a cannabis-based product developed with traditional medical provenance. Conclusion: In the oncology setting, patients are asking doctors about symptomatic and curative treatment with cannabis-based products. Doctors are not biased against the use of products showing medical provenance; however, NZ-specific clinical and regulatory guidelines are essential to support patient discussions and appropriate prescribing.