Join Our Patient Network

Medical cannabis refers to the range of products derived from the whole cannabis plant or its extracts. These products contain a variety of active cannabinoids and terpenes that patients take for medical reasons after obtaining authorization from a health care practitioner. There are different types of cannabis plants including: Indica, Sativa, and a range of hybrid mixes. Within these plant types there are specific cultivars or “strains”, each with a unique profile. All cannabis used for medical treatments contain several complex compounds, the most notable of which are Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD).

The cost for medical cannabis is set by the individual Licensed Producers. Current cost ranges between $5 and $15 per gram of dried cannabis or extracts. This will depend on the Licensed Producer selected and whether or not you qualify for compassionate care programs (note: not all Licensed Producers have these). Most patients will use less than 1 gram a day.

Under the Cannabis Act, medical cannabis patients are required to purchase their medical cannabis from a Licensed Producer or LP. Licensed Producers are regulated by Health Canada and follow strict quality control guidelines. Once a physician prescribes a Medical Authorization document, you are required to select and register with a Licensed Producer, which you can then place an order with.

While medical cannabis consultations or appointments with a qualified doctor are covered by most provincial healthcare plans, the cost of the medical cannabis is generally not covered. As private insurers begin to recognize the value and benefits associated with cannabinoid therapy, some now offer coverage for specific conditions, so it is worth checking periodically with your benefits provider. Additionally, some insurance companies will cover medical cannabis through a HSA (Health Spending Account). It’s worth noting that even if medical cannabis isn’t covered by your health insurer, it may still be more of a cost-effective option than using other prescription products with a co-payment insurance plan. Finally, if you deal with Veterans Affairs or are in a position to request Compassion Pricing, our physicians or educators can assist you with the process of applying for coverage or discount in pricing.

There are two methods of becoming a patient at Canabo to book an appointment. Firstly, our clinic accepts patients who have been referred to the clinic by their physician or a medical specialist. After your physician completes the Patient Referral Form and shares it with the clinic, an intake team member will contact you to book an appointment. Secondly, you can complete a self-referral form on this website and electronically submit it. Once received, an intake team member will contact you to schedule an appointment.