YOU MAY BE
ELIGIBLE FOR COVERAGE

Did you know that in Quebec after a workplace injury, you may be eligible for medical cannabis coverage to help manage your symptoms?

Learn more about the CNESST program, including eligibility requirements and how Abba Customer Care can support your every step of the way.

What Quebec workers need to know

Following a workplace accident, some workers seek ways to better manage their symptoms. In specific situations, medical cannabis may be recognized as an eligible treatment by CNESST. However, coverage is neither automatic nor guaranteed: it is based on a strict medical and administrative evaluation.

What is CNESST?

CNESST (Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail) is responsible in Quebec for:

  • compensation for workplace accidents
  • the handling of occupational diseases
  • covering the medical care necessary for recovery from a work-related injury

Once your injury is recognized, CNESST may cover certain treatments, including medical cannabis, if the criteria are met.

Is medical cannabis covered?

Yes, but under strict conditions.

Medical cannabis may be covered if it is:

  • prescribed by a licensed healthcare professional
  • directly related to a recognized work-related injury
  • part of a Justified Treatment Plan
  • obtained from a supplier authorized by Health Canada

Important:

  • Recreational cannabis is never eligible.
  • Inhaled cannabis (smoked or vaporized) is not reimbursed, except in cases approved by CNESST.
  • CNESST reimburses up to 3 g/day of dried cannabis (or equivalent).

Commonly evaluated conditions

Each case is reviewed individually, but the following criteria are consistently assessed:

  • a clear link between the conditions being treated and the workplace accident
  • A recommendation from a healthcare professional
  • proof that conventional treatments were tried before cannabis
  • complete medical documentation
  • purchase from an authorized producer

IVAC Patients May Be Eligible for Medical Cannabis Reimbursement
Victims of criminal acts in Québec may qualify for reimbursement of medical cannabis through IVAC (Indemnisation des victimes d’actes criminels).

IVAC is administered by CNESST on behalf of the Ministère de la Justice du Québec and provides financial assistance and support services to individuals affected by a criminal act.

Does IVAC Cover Medical Cannabis?

Yes — IVAC may reimburse medical cannabis, but coverage is limited and must meet strict medical and administrative criteria.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Reimbursement is authorized only for physical rehabilitation. (Non‑rehabilitative or psychological uses are not eligible.)
  • A medical recommendation is required from a physician or nurse practitioner who is a member of a recognized professional order.
  • Each request is evaluated individually based on medical justification and the patient’s rehabilitation needs.
  • Only the cannabis product itself is reimbursed. Accessories, devices, and other incidental costs are not covered.
  • Coverage is limited to the period specified in the final medical document submitted to IVAC.

How does reimbursement work?

  1. Approved claim: Your CNESST or IVAC file must be active and recognized. Without this, no reimbursement is possible.
  2. Medical authorization: A Physician or Nurse Practitioner must prescribe cannabis for the work-related injury.
  3. Registration with an authorized provider: You must be registered with a legal medical cannabis provider approved by Health Canada.
  4. Purchase and proof of purchase: The provider can submit the invoice directly to CNESST or IVAC at no cost to the worker.
  5. Submission to CNESST or IVAC: Your request is reviewed on a case by case basis.
  6. Decision: CNESST or IVAC may: approve, deny, or request additional information.

What is not covered

  • Even with an active claim, certain cases are excluded:
  • recreational cannabis
  • products purchased outside the medical system
  • use without a prescription
  • conditions unrelated to the workplace accident

The best approach is still to consult your healthcare professional to assess your situation.

If you need help scheduling an appointment with a healthcare professional, our partner clinic can assist you.

Solution Cannabis Médical offers services specifically tailored for CNESST and IVAC patients to facilitate access to medical cannabis:

  • Specialized consultations: Consultations adapted to meet patients’ specific needs (physical injuries, chronic pain, post-traumatic stress, etc.)
  • Administrative support: Assistance with the process of obtaining the necessary authorizations from the CNESST or IVAC, as well as preparation of documents to optimize reimbursement and direct billing.
  • Personalized treatment plan: Collaboration with patients and healthcare professionals to develop a treatment plan that addresses specific needs, while adhering to CNESST and IVAC protocols.
  • Ongoing support: Monitoring, adjustments, and support provided throughout your journey to ease your path toward wellness.

Need support?

Our customer care team is on standby and excited to help! Whether it’s registration, renewals, document submissions, orders, receipts, or general questions. We’re here to assist you at every step.

Contact us to learn more about your options.