Emily Fisher on Cannabis Access, Education, and the Need for Real-World Evidence

"Planting Seeds with Senator Sharif Street," host Gibran Washington welcomed Emily Fisher, the founder and CEO of Leafwell, to discuss the evolving landscape of medical cannabis. Fisher, a breast cancer survivor and medical cannabis patient, shared her personal journey and advocated for greater accessibility and education surrounding cannabis as medicine. The conversation highlighted the importance of real-world evidence in cannabis research, acknowledging the plant's complexity and the need for diverse data to understand its therapeutic potential. Fisher emphasized the crucial role of diversity in clinical trials, noting that treatments may affect different populations differently due to genetics, cultural practices, and social backgrounds. She also discussed the increasing need for therapeutic guidance on cannabis use, especially in states transitioning from medical to adult-use markets, and stressed the importance of prioritizing patient care amidst evolving regulations. Leafwell, Fisher explained, is committed to patient education and research, following up with over 15,000 patients monthly to understand their experiences. The conversation underscored the need for collaboration among policymakers, industry stakeholders, and healthcare providers to ensure that cannabis reaches its full potential as a therapeutic tool. Fisher's advocacy and Leafwell's work serve as a valuable contribution to the ongoing efforts to create a more informed, accessible, and inclusive medical cannabis landscape.