The short answer
Veterans get medical cannabis the same way other adults do: through a state program, not through the VA. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs does not prescribe or recommend cannabis. Cannabis is a Schedule I drug under federal law. A VA doctor can talk with you about your use and note it in your chart. That doctor cannot sign a state medical cannabis form. You need a state-licensed physician for that.
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What the VA will do
- Ask about cannabis use at appointments.
- Discuss interactions with your other medicines.
- Keep your VA health care and disability benefits. VA policy states that cannabis use alone is not a reason to deny benefits.
- Continue care for pain, PTSD, and sleep through standard treatments.
What the VA will not do
- Prescribe cannabis.
- Complete state medical cannabis paperwork.
- Pay for cannabis or a state registration fee.
- Refer you to a cannabis clinic.
Getting a state card
Rules vary by state. Most programs ask for four things: proof of residency, a diagnosis on the state qualifying list, a visit with a state-licensed physician, and a registration fee. Card fees run about $25 to $200. Physician visits cost about $100 to $300. Many states charge less for veterans. A few waive the fee.
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Qualifying lists often include PTSD, chronic pain, cancer, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and Crohn's disease. Not every state lists PTSD. Check your state program before you book a visit.
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At the dispensary
Bring your state card, a photo ID, and cash or a debit card. Many dispensaries do not take credit cards because of federal banking rules. Some have ATMs on site.
A budtender will ask three questions: what you are treating, your experience level, and how you want to use it. Product forms include flower, vape, oil, tincture, capsule, edible, topical, and concentrate. THC and CBD percentages are on the label. Start with a low THC product. Ask for the lab report if you want to check for pesticides or mold.
Ask about a veteran discount. Discounts run 10 to 20 percent at many stores. Some dispensaries hold veteran-only hours.
Limits to know
- Federal law bars cannabis users from buying or possessing firearms under 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(3).
- Cannabis is illegal on federal land, including national parks and some military bases.
- Federal employers and many private employers test for THC. THC stays in urine for days to weeks.
- Do not carry cannabis across state lines.
Questions to ask
- Does this product interact with my blood thinner or my pain medicine?
- What dose do I start with, and how long do I wait before taking more?
- Is this strain high in THC or CBD?
- How do I store this, and how long does it keep?
Cost data and state rules change. Confirm current fees and qualifying conditions with your state health department.