Spain's health minister assures that Spain is moving towards rapid legalization of medical cannabis

Spanish Health Minister José Manuel Miñones announced that he would present a report by the end of May to regulate the use of medical cannabis in Spain’s National Health System (SNS). The news came after some lawmakers complained about the delay by the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (Aemps) in its analysis, whose term was set to expire in 2022.

Mr. Miñones also apologized for the delay during his first appearance before the House Health Committee. Congress had ruled that in support of the regulation of medical cannabis in June 2022, and the relevant subcommittee had given the Aemps six months to issue recommendations.

The minister explained, however, that additional time was needed to ensure patient safety while the report was being reviewed. «This is not a matter of bad faith on the part of this ministry, but rather an excess of zeal,» he said, according to Medical Editorial Department.

What is Spain's plan for regulating medical cannabis?

Once the regulations are in place, it will be possible to dispense cannabis-based medications, which will be available at pharmacies by prescription. According to the minister, the pharmaceutical industry is already working on a strategic plan regarding this issue, and he assured that it will be necessary to move forward hand in hand with the other countries of the European Union.

The Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union will draw up a list of strategic and priority medicines that will enable greater self-sufficiency across Europe.

What direction will the Miñones administration take?

The minister also pledged to expedite the approval of certain pending regulations in the sector—ranging from the Equity Act, universality and cohesion to the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Act, which are already under review. His administration will focus on improving the quality of health care and ensuring faster and more efficient access to treatments and medical services.

It will also focus on mental health, childhood obesity, healthy lifestyles, and the digitization of the National Health Service. As for medical cannabis, the report that will launch the industry is still expected before the beginning of June.