MARIJUANA MORE HARMFUL THAN HELPFUL

Re: Only licensed physicians may prescribe medical marijuana

There was a story in the Daily Press (Friday, Feb. 6) about a local
man who wants to be a "caregiver" for medical marijuana patients.
Colorado stature is clear that only licensed physicians made decide
who qualifies to receive medical marijuana. Mr. Hewitt would be an
obvious law breaker if he decides to distribute marijuana to anyone
that he determines would benefit from the drug.

It has been my experience over the last 30 years as a medical
professional in Montrose that marijuana has harmed more people than it
has helped. The medical indications for marijuana are quite limited. I
doubt Mr. Hewitt has the training to decide who should and who should
not use marijuana. If he does decide to become a distribution point
for the drug, I would hope that he be prosecuted to the fullest extent
of the law.

Dr. Robert Van Gemert, M.D.

Montrose