The Cannabis Caregiver Economy: Why These Workers Deserve Market Access And How States Can Help
Caregivers are at the forefront of the medical cannabis industry, tailoring treatments and providing personalized care for patients.
Despite their vital contributions, their recognition and compensation often fall short. How can caregivers be fairly rewarded for their work, and what challenges do they face?
According to Lou Pino, a veteran event organizer and caregiver on the East Coast and founder of Gene Traders, an event dedicated to exchanging cannabis strains, the caregiver economy is an essential component of the industry that needs more support and understanding.
“Being a caregiver comes with its share of challenges. Often, caregivers must bear the financial burden of their work, paying for everything out of their own pockets. This includes purchasing supplies, services, and equipment. It’s a demanding role that requires a significant investment, both financially and emotionally,” Pino explained.
Caregiving is far from free work. It’s an endeavor that costs caregivers their own money to ensure patients receive the personalized care they need. In an exclusive interview with Benzinga, Pino shared his insights on how caregivers can navigate these challenges while also fostering innovation and diversity in cannabis cultivation.
Gene Traders: Exchanging Medicine
“In 2013, I was organizing medical events in Rhode Island to help educate people about what cannabis works best for various conditions,” Pino said.
Recognizing the lack of resources for cultivators, he created Gene Traders as an event for exchanging knowledge and resources. “The most valuable thing about Gene …