Lack of communication about medical marijuana use between doctors and their patients

Abstract

Introduction: Medical marijuana is now permitted in most states, but it is not clear whether primary care physicians (PCPs) are aware of or recommend its use in their patients. Methods: We distributed paired surveys to PCPs and their patients to assess the frequency of patient marijuana use and communication with PCPs about use. Results: Of 242 patients surveyed, 22% reported marijuana use in the past 6 months, and 61% of these identified as medical marijuana users. PCPs did not complete state forms to recommend medical marijuana for any of the surveyed medical marijuana users. PCPs were aware of marijuana use in their patients only 53% of the time. PCPs identified conditions they believed could be adversely affected by marijuana use in 31% of users. Conclusion: There is poor communication between patients and PCPs about medical marijuana use, which is being sanctioned by physicians other than patients’ PCPs. We suggest more frequent assessment of and discussion about marijuana use in patients, particularly in states that have approved medical marijuana.