Recently, I was asked why I am so committed to being an educator.

As a physician from Colombia and an advocate for cannabinoid-based medicine, I have been privileged to witness the benefits of medical cannabis in patient care. A simple yet profound belief has guided my professional journey: education is the cornerstone of introducing new therapies to medical professionals.

Through my work, I strive to empower healthcare professionals with knowledge, challenge misconceptions, and improve patients’ lives. Medical cannabis is a treatment, not a cure, but it offers benefits to alleviate suffering.

When I first began exploring the therapeutic applications of cannabis, I was struck by how little most healthcare professionals knew about this field. Despite the mounting scientific evidence, medical cannabis remained on the periphery of mainstream healthcare.

I often say, “Cannabis education for medical professionals is lacking,” because I have seen firsthand the consequences of this gap: patients left without options, doctors uncertain about prescribing, and stigma clouding clinical judgment. This realization became the driving force behind my commitment to education.

To address this deficit, I have focused on creating rigorous academic programs. As Academic Director of the University Diploma in Cannabinoid Medicine, developed with the University of the Armed Forces of Ecuador, I have had the honor of working alongside pioneers like Ethan Russo, MD, @Dr. Bonnie Goldstein, Jahan Marcu, Ph.D, Dr. Ilya Reznik, M.D., Hance Clarke, Anne Katrin Schlag, Dr. Dustin Sulak, Jordan Tishler MD, and many other luminaries.

Our curriculum is grounded in science, covering the endocannabinoid system and the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids. My goal is always to provide healthcare professionals with the tools they need to make informed, compassionate decisions for their patients.

As a past professor for the University of Panama’s Faculty of Medicine, I have led efforts to integrate cannabinoid medicine by offering classes to future doctors.

Education and advocacy are inseparable in my work. In Colombia and Panama, I was deeply involved in the process to legalize medical cannabis, under the care of licensed medical professionals.

This was a milestone for patient access that required scientific evidence, persistence, dialogue, and a commitment to public health. When healthcare professionals are well-informed, I believe they can become powerful advocates for their patients at every level, including policy.

Stigma remains one of the most significant barriers to medical cannabis. I have met patients who delayed seeking help out of fear, and doctors who hesitated to prescribe due to outdated beliefs. My approach is always to lead with evidence and empathy. I share research, clinical experiences, and patient stories to break down these barriers. It is essential that we, as a medical community, address not only the science but also the social and emotional dimensions of care.

My work has taken me to over twenty countries, where I have learned from and taught colleagues worldwide. Through collaborations with organizations like the Society of Cannabis Clinicians and the Association of Cannabinoid Specialists, I have seen how sharing knowledge accelerates progress. Medicine is a global language, and we can set new standards for patient care together.

Every patient I meet reinforces my commitment to this field. Through cannabinoid-based therapies, I have seen individuals regain hope and quality of life. Their stories inspire me to push for better education, access, and compassionate care. My work is not just about science—it is about people, families, and communities.

The field of medical cannabis is evolving rapidly, and there is still much to be done. We need more research, more education, and more open-mindedness. I am optimistic that, together, we can continue to break down barriers and ensure that every patient who can benefit from cannabinoid medicine has the opportunity to do so.

My journey as a physician, educator, and advocate has taught me that knowledge, compassion, and collaboration are the keys to progress. By building strong educational foundations, influencing policy, and addressing stigma, I hope to pave the way for a healthcare system that embraces the full potential of cannabinoid-based medicine. I remain deeply committed to this mission and to the patients whose lives we touch every day.

@Medicannips IPS Colombia: https://lnkd.in/guCTjCMM