Letters to the Editor: Aug. 20, 2016 “Medical-marijuana use to grow”

August 25, 2016

Press Republican

Aug 20, 2016

TO THE EDITOR: When New York passed the Compassionate Care Act, paving the way for medical marijuana, our legislature set the standard for quality and dosing in the U.S.

This is a great benefit for patients who find medical marijuana to be an effective treatment option.

 New York’s program is unique, and while it means that expansion may require more time than some other states, the ongoing comprehensive education process will lead to greater confidence in our products, their efficacy and safety, and, ultimately, wider adoption.

As patients and doctors learn more about the benefits of this natural medicine, the program will grow and our positive economic and clinical impact will become more pronounced.

We support the systematic regulatory approach New York has taken and believe this disciplined progress will allow the program to grow safely without the risk of introducing unintended consequences.

Because this is a new program, it is only natural to see cautious, measured interest. What the statistics in your editorial did not reflect is the level of interest and the flood of inquiries we see every day from patients, doctors and those interested in working with Columbia Care. This attention is a powerful leading indicator that there is a bright future for the Compassionate Care Act.

While the economic impact of the program is a critical factor for all stakeholders, we must remember that today, patients and their families are receiving relief —isn’t that the most important barometer for success?

We look forward to other New Yorkers joining us in this move toward a natural, safe alternative.

Columbia Care is grateful for the support of the Plattsburgh and Clinton County communities.

Serving New Yorkers is a great honor, and we will always strive to provide the best service and cannabinoid-based medical products available in the U.S.

NICHOLAS VITA

CEO

Columbia Care