Guernsey’s first cannabis clinic opens its doors

Monday 13 September 2021

The evolving medicinal cannabis market has expanded further in Guernsey, as the island’s first dispensary prepares to open this week.

Up until this point islanders who have been prescribed medicinal cannabis have received their cannabis through the post, however Medicann will be dispensing the product directly from a local pharmacy.

The industry continues to grow, with hundreds of people being prescribed the drug now, all of them from UK clinics who have reported an increasing demand in medicinal cannabis.

Furthermore, there have been seven applications for cultivation in Guernsey after a Memorandum of Understanding was signed earlier this year between the States of Guernsey and the UK Home Office.

The introduction of Guernsey’s first clinic brings the island in line with similar jurisdictions, including our closest neighbour, Jersey, where Medicann has a foothold, with a clinic already in operation.

Pictured: Medicinal cannabis can be prescribed for a range of illnesses including: chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues, side effects brought on by chemotherapy, and mental health difficulties.

Medicann Guernsey will establish a presence within Stonelakes Pharmacy, allowing patients to have an initial consultation with a cannabis prescriber and then pick up their medication.

“We are coming to Guernsey after building such a strong foundation, through creating a team of the highest skillsets and expertise within the medical cannabis industry; including professors, scientists, consultants and doctors," said the Founder of Medicann, Gary Whipp.

“Through communication, education, and expert guidance, we offer the best solutions for patients wanting to access medicinal cannabis.”

Pictured: Medicann will be working in tandem with Stonelakes Pharmacy on the Bridge.

The clinic will refer any prescription for peer review to make sure the drug is given in relation to a relevant condition.

“Medicann’s tried and tested protocols and patient-centric ethos will hopefully be something that islanders in Guernsey will turn to and rely on for years to come,” concluded Mr Whipp.

Medicinal cannabis was legalised in 2019, but due to there being no licenced clinicians in Guernsey at the time, the only recourse was for people to import cannabis from licenced clinicians in the UK.