Doctors’ and pharmacists’ perspectives on the clinical use of medicinal Cannabis : a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background As the first EU country to enact laws regulating the non-medical use of cannabis and with established legislation for the cultivation and production of cannabis for medical purposes and scientific research, Malta is at the forefront of cannabis regulation and research initiatives. Despite this context, healthcare professionals’ attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge regarding medicinal cannabis remain variable. We assess these constructs and examine perceived barriers to clinical integration. Methods A cross-sectional survey was distributed to doctors and pharmacists across Malta (n=198). Data analysis included independent samples t-tests, Pearson correlation analyses, and hierarchical regression to examine demographic influences, professional comparisons, and predictors of prescription attitudes. Results Most professionals acknowledged medicinal cannabis’s therapeutic benefits but exhibited notable hesitancy in clinical practice, largely due to insufficient formal guidelines and inadequate education. No significant gender differences were observed, and only a weak correlation emerged between age and attitudes among male doctors. The strongest predictor of willingness to prescribe medicinal cannabis was doctors’ attitudes, outweighing formal education or knowledge. Conclusions Despite broad acknowledgment of potential therapeutic benefits, Maltese healthcare professionals remain cautious due to insufficient training and unclear guidelines. Enhancing evidence-based education and providing clear prescribing frameworks may significantly boost clinicians’ confidence and willingness to integrate medicinal cannabis into clinical practice.