Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana is a legitimate medical therapy – yet so many veterans find it difficult to access. This is because the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), as a federal agency, must follow federal law that still classifies marijuana as a controlled substance and thus considers it illegal. As a result, the VA isn’t allowed to recommend, prescribe, or otherwise help veterans obtain medical marijuana.
Dozens of states, meanwhile, have approved the use of medical marijuana, making its use legal within a state’s boundaries. Florida is one of these states. As an added bonus, veterans who participate in state-approved medical marijuana programs can do so without any effect on their VA eligibility or benefits. In other words, veterans in Florida can explore the use of medical marijuana if they choose.
Benefits of Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana is used to treat a wide variety of physical and mental health issues, including:
- Anxiety
- Cancer pain
- Chronic pain
- Depression
- Glaucoma
- Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
- Insomnia
- Migraines
- Muscle spasms
- Multiple sclerosis symptoms
- Nausea and vomiting
- Nerve pain
- Parkinson’s disease tremors
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Weight loss
In addition, medical marijuana offers a safe and effective alternative to certain medications. For example, cannabis doesn’t carry the addiction risk and harmful side effects that exist with controlled substances such as opioids. Marijuana is also easier on the kidneys or for those who suffer from acid reflux or GERD than traditional painkillers, including over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.
At Veterans Healthcare in north Florida, we’re interested in exploring all your healthcare treatment options, including medical marijuana. It may especially be beneficial for our patients who suffer from substance abuse issues.
Medical Cannabis for Veterans Physical & Mental Health Issues
Find out if medical marijuana is right for you. Call Veterans Healthcare at (800) 511-0497 or request an appointment now. We see medical marijuana patients by appointment only at our clinic in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.
