How Do You Get a Medical Cannabis Prescription in Ontario?

Medical cannabis is an alternative treatment for various medical conditions. Medical cannabis has been shown to help alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like anxiety, depression, cancer, chronic pain, and many others. Since 2001, Canadian residents have had legal access to medical cannabis with Ontario province leading in medical cannabis prescription. Through legal protection by Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR) patients are medically prescribed medical marijuana to help with their ailments. And while this has led to a growing number of patients in the province, many people are still unsure where to start or what to expect when getting a medical cannabis prescription. This guide will walk you through getting a medical cannabis prescription in Ontario.

Do Your Research

Before starting the process, it’s important to research and understand the laws and regulations surrounding medical cannabis in Ontario. Find out whether you are eligible to possess and use medical cannabis. Additionally, you should also know the kind of products available and what specific conditions they treat. You can find this information through online resources or books or by talking to your healthcare provider.

Get a Referral

Once you have done your research, the next step is to get a referral from your healthcare provider. This can be your family doctor,  specialist or a direct visit to an Ontario Medical Cannabis Clinic for a referal. Simply book an appointment with them and express your interest in medical cannabis as an alternative treatment. The provider will review your history and determine if medical cannabis is viable for your condition. They will then provide you with a referral to a licensed cannabis clinic.

Book an Appointment with a Licensed Cannabis Clinic

Once you have a referral, you should book an appointment with a licensed cannabis clinic. You can do this by calling or visiting their website. During the appointment, a registered nurse or physician will assess your medical history to verify your condition and help you choose the right products and dosage for your condition. You will need to bring your referral alongside a valid government-issued ID.

Get a Medical Cannabis Prescription

After your assessment, you will receive a medical marijuana prescription from the licensed cannabis clinic. You will then register with a licensed producer who is legally authorized by Health Canada to produce and distribute medical cannabis. It can be a retail store or online dispensary where you order the medical cannabis from. They may ask you to provide a valid medical document and a government-issued ID so ensure to have them. The producer will offer a list of available products and help you choose the right product for your needs. They will also help you determine the appropriate dosage and provide guidance on using the product. It’s essential to ensure that you follow the dosing instructions provided by your healthcare practitioner and licensed producer.

Renewing Your Prescription

Medical cannabis prescriptions expire every 12 months, so it is important to apply for a renewal at least four months before expiry to avoid any inconveniences.  Submit a license renewal request at Cannabis Tracking and Licensing System (CTLS) and stay in touch with your provider. Depending on your condition, you may need to attend follow-up appointments to ensure that medical cannabis is still the best treatment for you.

Conclusion
Getting a medical cannabis prescription in Ontario is straightforward as long as you are eligible and follow the proper steps. Once you have your prescription, you can purchase medical cannabis from a licensed producer and use it for your medical condition. Follow the instructions provided to ensure you use the product safely and effectively. If you have any questions or concerns about medical cannabis and its use, don’t hesitate to speak with your healthcare practitioner.