Germany's medical cannabis law stalls amid telemedicine and prescription disputes

Germany's debate over medical cannabis and telemedicine has intensified as lawmakers clash over proposed regulations. SPD health spokesperson Serdar Yüksel warned that the current draft law lacks enough support to pass in its present form. Meanwhile, disagreements persist over digital prescriptions, telemedicine rules, and the potential for over-the-counter cannabis sales in pharmacies.

Medical cannabis has undergone significant regulatory changes in Germany since its legalisation in March 2017. Initially covered by statutory health insurance, it was later removed from the Narcotics Act in April 2024, eliminating the need for special prescriptions. In March 2023, the Gemeinsamer Bundesausschuss also lifted restrictions requiring specialist approval. However, rising prescription volumes and concerns over online platforms have prompted plans for stricter rules by 2026, including mandatory in-person doctor visits for first-time prescriptions.

At a recent discussion, Yüksel stressed that digital prescriptions are non-negotiable, citing European law. He also defended doctors' freedom to treat pain individually, arguing against overly rigid regulations. Yet he promised stricter oversight to ensure proper doctor-patient relationships and detailed medical histories.

CDU politician Dr. Thomas Pauls acknowledged telemedicine's future role but rejected so-called 'click-through' prescriptions, where patients obtain medication with minimal medical interaction. Both coalition partners agreed that such practices must be stopped. Pauls also expressed scepticism about proposals to sell certain cannabis products over the counter in pharmacies, insisting on a legally secure framework.

Dr. Christiane Neubaur, managing director of the Verband der Cannabis versorgenden Apotheken (VCA), suggested pilot projects to test over-the-counter sales. Yüksel, however, maintained that telemedicine is already well-established and cannot be outright banned.

The draft law now faces an uncertain future, with Yüksel admitting it lacks the votes to pass as written. Lawmakers must reconcile differing views on telemedicine, prescription safeguards, and cannabis accessibility. Any final agreement will need to balance patient access with measures to prevent misuse.