A new study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs finds that 96% of Vermont primary care providers are either neutral or in agreement that psychedelics have high therapeutic potential.
The research, conducted by scientists at the University of Vermont, highlights a growing openness among healthcare professionals toward the medical use of substances like psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA.
For the study, researchers conducted a cross-sectional survey of 770 Vermont primary care providers (PCPs) about their familiarity and concerns with psychedelics, as well as opinions on access and therapeutic value.
Two-thirds of respondents reported familiarity with psychedelics being used therapeutically, but less than half were aware of current regulatory statuses of LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA. Notably, 96% were neutral or agreed that psychedelics have high therapeutic potential.
The highest concerns among the 4% who oppose the use of psychedelics is its effects on youth, potential for psychosis, and traffic safety. 83% were not at all or only slightly concerned about the inherent dangers of psychedelics.
In addition 76% of PCPs were interested in further education.
“Overall, PCPs in Vermont, a state considering changes in access to psilocybin, are familiar with psychedelics, and cautiously optimistic about their therapeutic role”, concludes the study. “As research develops, it is important to incorporate resultant changes in policy and medicine into PCP continuing education.”
