Veterans &
First Responders

Supporting you in your health and wellness journey through treatment with medical cannabis.

Patient Information

Welcome to Margaree Health Group. We understand that serving your country and community as First Responders and Military members can sometimes be done at great cost to those who wear the uniform, and their families. We are here to help.

If you have a pensionable condition recognized by Veterans Affairs Canada linked to your service time in either the Canadian Armed Forces or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, you can be eligible for a medical cannabis prescription with direct billing to Veterans Affairs Canada. If you have not started the application process, the Royal Canadian Legion can assist you with the process of applying for a pensionable condition. They are also able to assist you with the processing of your application.

Patient Eligibility

Until you have a recognized/approved medical condition, Veterans Affairs Canada will not pay for medical cannabis product. Veterans can still be seen without VAC’s approval, but the cost of the product will be your responsibility. Keep in mind that Margaree Health Group does not charge an administration fee for your appointment. Under the current regulations, VAC is covering the cost of medical cannabis based on the following criteria for those with recognized pensionable conditions:

A condition for which cannabis has been shown to be effective. For example, PTSD, osteoarthritis, tinnitus, and more. If you are unsure if your condition is eligible for coverage, contact us for more information
$8.50 is the maximum cost per gram; however, many license producers offer specific programs for veterans with staff on hand to help understand the process and regulations set out by VAC.
VAC will provide up-to 3 grams of dried cannabis per day or the equivalent in cannabis oil. If you required more than 3 grams per day, VAC will have an exceptional circumstances process that will require you to work with your medical specialist to exceed that limit.

If you are a first responder and you don’t qualify for coverage under Veterans Affairs Canada, we are still able to help, just complete the steps in the referral process and we will start you on your journey to wellness.

Veteran Quick Links

What is a Pensionable Condition for VAC?

VAC has compiled a current description of injuries and diseases for which pension application may be made. An extensive list of pensionable conditions can be found below.

Should I use Dried Cannabis or Oil?

Our medical professionals can assist you with selecting the product that will best suit your individual needs.

Taking cannabis oil doesn’t require any equipment. It is best if the recommended dosage is ingested so it can quickly absorb into the digestive track.

There are multiple methods to consume dried cannabis, but we recommend using a vaporizer for the benefits it provides over smoking cannabis.

VETERAN & FIRST RESPONDER

Referral Process

Step One

Print off the referral form, take it to your primary care physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist, and have them complete the form with you. The referral form must be sent directly from your medical specialist’s office to Margaree Health Group. Your medical specialist can request the Margaree location closest to you.

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Once your referral is received and reviewed, the clinic will call you to schedule an appointment. The clinic will also provide you with instructions on how to complete the necessary paperwork prior to your appointment. Feel free to bring a friend or family member with you to your appointment for support.

Step Two

Step Three

At the appointment, you’ll be seen by a doctor and health educator who will create an individualized treatment plan. During our visit all of the documents and dosage information will be provided to you.

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Step Five

Once the medical documents and licensed producer registration has been processed, you’re ready to order! Patients are responsible for ordering their own products, but our healthcare professional will help you chose which products are best for you.

The cost of your order will be directly billed to VAC by the licensed producer. If you’re unsure how to proceed with your order, we are here to help!

Step Five

Benefits of Medical Cannabis for PTSD

In the correct dosage, medical cannabis can help to ease PTSD related symptoms, usually with cannabis containing a high level of CBD. Using medical cannabis as a sleep aid can help patients fall asleep faster and help them stay asleep, which can be difficult for individuals suffering from PTSD. When it comes to medical cannabis as a treatment option, individual results may vary. What might work for you may not work for others.

How can medical cannabis help with PTSD and other common conditions?

Veterans Quick Facts on Mental Health

Of all Veterans (CAF & RCMP) who received a benefit from Veterans Affairs Canada, 18% received a disability benefit for a mental health condition.

0 %

Of these received it specifically for post-traumatic stress disorder (commonly referred to as PTSD).

0 %

Of members who deployed to Afghanistan have received a VAC pension or award for a mental health condition.

0 %

Of Canadian Armed Forces Veterans, with a disability benefit related to service in Afghanistan, received a Veterans Affairs Canada pension or award for PTSD.

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Veterans &
First Responders

Patient Information

Patient Eligibility

Veteran Quick Links

What is a Pensionable Condition for VAC?

VAC has compiled a current description of injuries and diseases for which pension application may be made. An extensive list of pensionable conditions can be found below.

Should I use Dried Cannabis or Oil?

Our medical professionals can assist you with selecting the product that will best suit your individual needs.

VETERAN & FIRST RESPONDER

Referral Process

Benefits of Medical Cannabis for PTSD

How can medical cannabis help with PTSD and other common conditions?

Veterans Quick Facts on Mental Health

Of all Veterans (CAF & RCMP) who received a benefit from Veterans Affairs Canada, 18% received a disability benefit for a mental health condition.

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