The Faculty of Medicine together with Palliative Care Center, Srinagarind Hospital, had held International Conference on “How to Set up Medical Cannabis Clinic within Supportive and Palliative Care Centers and Cannabis in Oncology and Palliative Care” at Science Museum Park, Khon Kaen.

Thailand had just released the bill that allows cannabis to be use for medical purpose together with Thai health department have issued a suggestion that every hospital should have a clinic that takes care of cannabis case. But soon, there is a shortage of human resources with enough knowledge to operate this clinic.

For this reason, Khon Kaen University and Srinagarind Hospital had to cooperate with Sante Cannabis and McGill University, Canada, to set up this international conference and invite nearby hospital personal to join.  Associate Professor Antonio Vigano, Department of Oncology and Medicine and Ms. Virginie Bacis, Nurse Coordinator Medical Cannabis Program, McGill University Health Centre, Canada who were well-known experts on medical cannabis were the speakers of the conference. Associate Professor Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, President of Khon Kaen University had presided over the opening ceremony and delivered a special lecture on KKU cannabis policy. The conference was a success with over 300 participants from various health organizations.

In addition, McGill University and Khon Kaen University agreed to work together in research projects and cannabis clinic establishment. Professor Srivieng Pairojkul, Head, Palliative Care Center, Srinagarind Hospital; Professor Pewpan Maleewong, Assistant to the President for Research and Academic Services and Professor Thidarut Boonmars, Vice President for Innovation and Enterprise were the main coordinator in developing academic and research collaboration with McGill University.

Reported by: Natakon Naowarojna, International Relations Officer