Medical cannabis is a chosen avenue for medical treatment by over 300,000 Canadians. In January 2019, medical cannabis will become an optional benefit offered by many insurers.
As it is with many treatments, the costs of medical cannabis can vary quite a bit. To keep plans sustainable, we recommend implementing a maximum benefit amount if you choose to add this coverage. Amounts could include:
$1000
$2500
$5000
Comprehensive access controls such as pre-determined medical conditions, annual maximums, coverage criteria and eligibility guidelines will ensure appropriate use. These controls help to support members who need medical cannabis, while also acting responsibly.
Medical cannabis can be helpful for some serious medical conditions, and coverage will only apply to certain conditions and symptoms met by specific criteria:
Spasticity or neuropathic pain associated with multiple sclerosis
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting or neuropathic pain associated with cancer
Anorexia or neuropathic pain associated with HIV/AIDS
Symptoms associated with palliative care