Medical cannabis has transformed lives worldwide, offering relief and hope for patients with various health conditions. In Israel, a leader in cannabis research and innovation, accessing medical cannabis requires a thorough yet streamlined process overseen by the Ministry of Health’s Medicinal Cannabis Unit (Yakar). Whether you’re seeking pain management, support for PTSD, or treatment for other qualifying conditions, this guide will help you navigate the licensing process, understand available products, and access authorized pharmacies.

Recognizing Licenses

Cannabis licenses and prescriptions issued outside of Israel are not recognized by the Ministry of Health and cannot be transferred for use in Israel.

Obtaining Legal Cannabis Use

To legally use cannabis in Israel, you must obtain a license from the Medicinal Cannabis Unit (Yakar), part of the Ministry of Health. This license grants access to a prescription for cannabis.

• Application Process:
  • Patients can apply directly through Yakar with assistance from their doctor.
  • Alternatively, patients may hire companies specializing in helping individuals secure a license.

Purchasing Medical Cannabis and Costs

Cannabis prescriptions are dispensed at authorized pharmacies. Prescriptions typically start at 10 grams per month and can increase in 10-gram increments. For renewals or changes to a license, patients must apply through Yakar.

• Costs: Patients pay out of pocket unless they qualify for additional government funding. Prices for a 10-gram package range from 100 NIS to 350 NIS.

Approved Uses

Licenses are issued for various medical conditions, including physical illnesses, chronic pain, and PTSD, which is the only recognized mental health condition.

Available Products

• Cannabis flowers for inhalation are the most commonly used form.
• Sublingual cannabis oils are also available.
• Other products, such as edibles, topicals, vape cartridges, and items with THC levels over 25%, are not legally sold in Israel.

Streamlined Application Process

As part of the medical cannabis reform, measures have been implemented to improve the licensing process. Key changes include:

• Outsourcing administrative tasks to a third party.
• Introducing an online system for doctors and patients to submit documents and manage applications.

Steps to Apply for a License

• Step 1 – Through an Authorized Doctor:
• • Patients can visit a doctor certified by Yakar to issue licenses.
  • If approved, the doctor can issue a license and delivery instructions during the visit.
• Step 2 – Through Online Applications:
• • A specialist in the relevant medical field submits an application on behalf of the patient.
  • Patients can upload additional required documents through a link sent to their mobile phone.

Oncology Patients

Oncology patients may apply for a license directly through hospital oncology departments where the service is offered.

Appeals and Renewals

• Second Consideration: If a license application is denied, patients can request a second review. This is done through the treating doctor and involves a review by two IMCA specialists.
• Renewals: Patients with valid licenses can continue purchasing cannabis from authorized suppliers or convert their licenses for use at approved pharmacies.

Contact Information

For questions or assistance, contact the Medicinal Cannabis Unit (Yakar) at:

• Phone: 08-6268000
• Fax: 02-6474810
• Email: [email protected]

For more details, visit the Ministry of Health website.

* Last updated on November 24, 2024 *