Doctors – Medical support for the therapeutic use of cannabis

Medical care at the CRC Quebec and patient referral

Physicians affiliated with CRC Québec do not provide primary care to patients evaluated under the program. Their role is strictly limited to matters related to the medical use of cannabis, as well as the completion of the “Medical Document” (MMPR) required by Health Canada. This document allows eligible patients to obtain and use cannabis legally.

Follow-up visits regarding cannabis use may be arranged as needed. However, patients must continue to consult their primary care provider for their general medical care.

Patients may contact the center directly—no medical referral is required. If their condition warrants an evaluation for medical cannabis treatment, our team will assist them in gathering the relevant medical documents. They will then meet with CRC Québec staff and be evaluated by one of the affiliated physicians.

Physicians are also encouraged to refer their patients or direct them to the center to obtain answers to their questions regarding medical cannabis. The information required for referral can be found in the patient recommendation form (PDF). A consultation letter will be sent to the treating physician following the patient’s visit.

Cost to patients

CRC Québec is funded by patients enrolled in its medical program. The services offered include:

• Assistance with collecting the required medical records
• Evaluation of previously used conventional treatments
• Discussion of prior experience with medical cannabis
• Arrangement of a consultation with an affiliated physician
• Professional guidance on the use of medical cannabis

Fees also cover certain uninsured medical services. In-person medical consultations (including consultations for referred patients) are generally covered by provincial health insurance plans.

*Tax deduction:
Purchases made from a licensed producer may be eligible as medical expenses for tax purposes.

Patient eligibility

There is no single medical condition required to obtain authorization for medical cannabis. However, as non-medical use remains regulated under Canadian federal law, patients must provide documented medical evidence justifying the use of cannabis.

Conditions that may be considered include, but are not limited to:

• Severe pain and/or persistent muscle spasms associated with multiple sclerosis
• Severe pain and/or persistent muscle spasms associated with a spinal cord injury or disease
• Acute pain, cachexia, anorexia, weight loss, or nausea caused by cancer
• Acute pain, cachexia, anorexia, weight loss, or nausea associated with HIV/AIDS
• Severe pain associated with advanced forms of arthritis or fibromyalgia
• Seizures associated with epilepsy
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, or nausea caused by inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome
• Glaucoma
• Sleep disorders

Physicians affiliated with CRC Québec act in accordance with their medical knowledge, professional code of ethics, and the best interests of each patient. Any decision regarding authorization for medical cannabis is made based on these principles.