Canada legalized recreational use of marijuana on October 17th, 2018. This has led to increased discussions with insurance companies on the eligibility of medicinal cannabis on group benefits plans. For more information, please click the below.
1) Over 300,000 Canadians are currently prescribed medical cannabis.
2) Medicinal cannabis is focused on Canabidiol (CBD) which provides little to no euphoric or high effect. CBD is important for medical uses
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3) Health benefits include relief of pain and muscle spasm, nausea associated with chemotherapy, and anorexia.
4) Current evidence supports the use of medicinal cannabis for: palliative care, cancer, HIV/AIDS, Multiple Sclerosis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
5) Does not currently have a drug identification number.
6) Coverage on benefits plan is not automatic. It is an option which must be added to the drug benefit. Certain requirements must be met.
7) Is an eligible expense on Cost-Plus plans and HCSA’s. Certain requirements must be met.
8) Employers should implement a substance policy which clearly defines cannabis use with respect to the workplace.