Medical Marijuana Coverage

In June 2013 Health Canada introduced regulations to permit larger-scale medical marijuana production facilities. As a result, 15 companies are now fully authorized to produce and sell the product. Eight other companies are authorized to produce, but not to sell.

There is a very strict application process in which a company must meet Health Canada’s criteria in order to be considered. 

Consideration is given to the following:

• Storage
• Location
• Human Resources
• Pest Management
• Packaging/Inventory
• Record Keeping
• Sales and Marketing
• Quality Assurance

There are 3 steps when applying to Health Canada for an Authorization to Possess Marihuana for Medical Purposes and for a legal source of supply under the Marihuana Medical Access Program (MMAP):

Consult your Medical Practitioner

Before you apply to the MMAP your doctor must provide a letter declaring that other avenues of treatment have been used and have not been effective.  If you and your doctor agree you should apply to the MMAP to obtain marihuana for your condition and/or symptoms, you must choose a source of supply. As of March 31, 2014 you   would no longer be permitted to access Health Canada supply of medical marijuana, you will need to register with a licensed producer.

Is my medicine covered by my medical plan?

Because medicinal cannabis doesn’t at this time have a Drug Identification Number (DIN) it isn’t covered by any Federal, Provincial or private health insurance. If you are a veteran you may be covered by the Veterans Affairs of Canada or there is the option to declare it as a medical expense on your personal taxes providing you have valid receipts.

For any other questions about drug coverage go to http://www.caahealth.ca/