DOCTORS HIDING FROM MEDICAL-POT LAW

The Arizona Republic correctly points out that the new Arizona
medical-marijuana law could be both less troublesome to the community
and more beneficial to patients if properly guided by the medical
profession ("State can be model for legal use," Editorial, Saturday).

Great idea, but Arizona physicians have turned their backs on the new
law.

I plan to open a medical-marijuana dispensary in Arizona.

Attempting to assemble a professional and knowledgeable
patient-support team, I have talked to many in the medical community
over the past several months.

I am shocked by the hostility, resistance and ignorance that I have
encountered. The Arizona Department of Health Services is doing a
reasonable job of setting up a system that conforms with the new law,
but it faces a strongly divided and vocal public.

Where are the educated medical professionals The Republic is hoping
will guide this law? The answer is simple. They are missing in action,
covering their rears, afraid to move or, frankly, just not interested.

Arizona's medical professionals, starting at the top with the Arizona
Medical Board, have abandoned the medical-marijuana law to the stoners
and the pot docs.

Don't blame the potheads when this turns out poorly!

Howard L. Grahn

Tucson