Patients in Germany suffering from serious illness, such as multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, serious appetite loss or nausea from chemotherapy, will now be able to receive prescriptions from their doctors for medical marijuana. "Seriously ill people must be treated in the best ways possible," said Health Minister Hermann Gröhe, who proposed the law. The new law will expand the amount of patients and eventually allow cannabis products to be grown under state supervision. Private producers could also apply, but the requirements for approval would be very strict.