Mixed methods study of the potential therapeutic benefits from medical cannabis for patients in Florida.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate medical marijuana patients' perceptions of therapeutic benefits for self-reported medical conditions.

DESIGN

The study was a concurrent mixed methods study with adult medical marijuana patients. Survey data were collected using a web-based survey, and interviews were conducted in person or over the phone.

SETTING

The study recruited 196 medical marijuana patients to complete surveys and 13 patients to participate in qualitative interviews in Florida.

MEASURES

A validated patient survey was distributed via Florida medical marijuana social media groups to examine the therapeutic benefits of the cannabis plant for medical conditions and overall well-being. Concurrently, qualitative interviews were conducted to understand barriers and facilitators to accessing medical cannabis and explore preferences for different forms and strains, as well as any unexpected side effects.

RESULTS

Patients used medical cannabis for relief of chronic pain or depression, followed by arthritis and nausea. Survey results indicated 89 % of patients reported "great relief" for their medical condition. Over 76 % of patients reported a score of 8 or higher on a 10-point scale that their medical condition had improved, and over 68 % reported a score of 8 or higher that medical cannabis had reduced their pain. Interviews indicated medical cannabis was effective for pain relief and reducing the use of prescription medicines, but the drug was perceived as too expensive.

CONCLUSIONS

Medical marijuana patients were positive about the health benefits they received and the fact they were able to reduce or eliminate many prescription medications; however, there were concerns about the costs.