Germany's telemedicine and cannabis law stalls amid fierce political backlash

Germany's draft law on telemedicine and medical cannabis is facing strong opposition in its current form. SPD health expert Serdar Yüksel warned that the proposal lacks the support needed to pass in parliament. Meanwhile, debates continue over how to balance digital prescriptions, patient safety, and the future of cannabis regulations.

The discussion comes as Germany's medical cannabis framework evolves. Since 2017, when medical cannabis was legalised, digital prescriptions (e-Rezepte) have expanded rapidly. By December 2023, over 10 million e-prescriptions had been processed, with private patients included from September 2023. Cannabis prescriptions are now part of this system, though technical challenges arose in 2024.

Both the SPD and CDU have criticised so-called 'click-through' prescriptions, where patients receive medication after just 30 seconds of online consultation. Yüksel stressed that such quick approvals are unacceptable and that digital prescriptions themselves are non-negotiable under European law. He also defended physicians' freedom to treat pain, arguing that strict rules could harm patients with individual needs.

CDU's Dr. Thomas Pauls acknowledged telemedicine's role but warned against lax standards for minor ailments. He also opposed over-the-counter cannabis sales, calling for a legally secure approach instead. Meanwhile, VCA's Dr. Christiane Neubaur proposed pilot projects allowing certain cannabis products to be sold in pharmacies without a prescription.

Yüksel further promised stricter rules for doctor-patient relationships, ensuring thorough medical histories before prescriptions. He insisted that telemedicine cannot be rolled back, as it is now a permanent part of modern healthcare.

The current draft law appears unlikely to proceed without major changes. Lawmakers must now address concerns over digital prescription safety, cannabis access, and the balance between convenience and medical oversight. Any revised legislation will need broader support to move forward.