Guam Medical Association expresses concern regarding Bill 215

GUAM - The Guam Medical Association is expressing concern about Bill 215. The legislation was introduced last Friday and was named in honor of local musician K.C. Concepcion or Savage "K" who passed away earlier this year from cancer and was an advocate for medicinal marijuana. Concepcion moved to the state of Washington a couple years ago for medical treatment. Medicinal marijuana is also legal in the state. In a press release issued Monday, the GMA states they're concerned that their opinion was not obtained and they are opposed to this legislative form. "Although we acknowledge that the intent of the bill is to help patients, Bill N o. 215 - 32, as authored by Senator Tina Muna Barnes and Senator Aline Yamashita has instead caused confusion for the general public and patients, leading them to believe that the diseases which they are affected can be either cured or alleviated when the scientific facts may not support their efficacy. The diagnosis and treatment of diseases should be left to trained medical professionals and not be legislated especially when we are requiring physician's prescribing authority," the press release stated.