Pubdate: Sat, 12 Nov 2005
Source: National Post (Canada)
Copyright: 2005 Southam Inc.
Contact:  http://www.nationalpost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/286
Author: Nikhat Ahmed, CanWest News Service

MEDICAL MARIJUANA RULES STILL IN A HAZE

SASKATOON - The Saskatoon Health Region's smoking policy was revised 
more than a year ago, but a patient recently discovered the air isn't 
completely clear on how to deal with authorized medical marijuana 
users in city hospitals.

Peter Christensen was brought to City Hospital by ambulance from 
Vermilion, Alta., but the tests he needed didn't get done because he 
couldn't use his medical cannabis in the hospital.

Mr. Christensen says shortly after he was admitted, a male nurse and 
a security guard approached him. "He (the nurse) told me that we do 
not recognize medical marijuana here," Mr. Christensen said. "If you 
have medical marijuana with you, it will have to be locked up in security."

Health Canada began authorizing people with specific medical 
conditions in 2001. To date, there are 858 authorized medical 
marijuana users in the country.

Mr. Christensen was authorized to use marijuana in 2004 by Health 
Canada to treat a movement disorder known as Tardive Dyskinesia. He 
uses cannabis every six to eight hours.

Mr. Christensen asked to go back to Vermilion and was escorted 
outside by the security guard to use the cannabis before hitting the road.

Jean Morrison, senior vice-president of health services for the 
Saskatoon Health Region said once the health region confirms a person 
under its care is approved for medicinal marijuana, "our 
administration of that drug would be the same as the narcotics and 
controlled drug standards and policies. It would also fall under our 
smoking policy."
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