The Illinois Department of Public Health announced Tuesday that two new conditions have been added to the list of debilitating medical issues that can qualify an Illinois resident for the state’s Medical Cannabis Patient Program
IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra approved adding polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome with chronic pain and sickle cell disease after a review by the Medical Cannabis Advisory Board and IDPH staff, according to the release
The additions bring the total list of conditions approved for treatment with medical cannabis to 58, the department said
Under Illinois law, the director reviews petition requests to add conditions to the approved list of debilitating medical conditions for which medical cannabis can be used as a treatment, considering scientific analysis and medical literature to determine whether the treatment is appropriate for each condition
“Medical cannabis can provide relief for people living with certain debilitating conditions,” Vohra said. “IDPH reviews petitions carefully using expert opinion and the most up-to-date evidence to make decisions that best serve Illinois residents. We look forward to working with our medical providers to ensure safe, appropriate access for individuals struggling with these newly approved conditions.”
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, formerly known as polycystic ovary syndrome, is characterized by hormonal fluctuations that affect metabolism, reproductive health, skin and mental well-being, the release said. Cannabis has been shown to provide relief from the chronic pain associated with the condition, according to the department
Sickle cell disease refers to a group of inherited red blood cell disorders in which abnormal blood cells can lead to extreme pain, anemia, fatigue, swelling, infections and organ damage, the department said. Cannabis can provide relief from the pain that accompanies the disease, according to the release
The orders adding the two conditions are effective immediately, and providers can now begin certifying patients with those conditions for treatment with medical cannabis, the department said
This article was reformatted from a news release using artificial intelligence. A Shaw Local editor verified the information, edited the article and approved it before publication
