Getting a medical cannabis prescription in Canada is now more accessible than ever, but that doesn’t mean everyone automatically qualifies. Before you can be authorized, your healthcare provider will assess your medical history and discuss your symptoms to ensure that cannabis is a safe and suitable treatment option. Whether you’re applying for a Personal Grow Licence or planning to order your medicine through a licensed producer, these are some of the questions you can expect during your consultation.
1. Why do you need this treatment?
This is often the first and most important question. Your doctor will want to know what symptoms or medical conditions you’re struggling with—whether that’s chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, or another issue. Years ago, only a few severe conditions qualified, but today Health Canada states there are no restrictions on the conditions for which a practitioner can authorize medical cannabis. The key is whether your doctor believes it may help manage your symptoms effectively.
2. What other treatments have you tried, and how did they work?
Medical cannabis isn’t typically the first option. Doctors usually explore it after traditional treatments have proven ineffective or caused unwanted side effects. You’ll be asked to explain what medications or therapies you’ve used and what results you experienced. If cannabis seems like a more effective, natural alternative, your doctor can provide authorization. From there, you can choose to purchase your medicine from a federally licensed producer (LP) or apply for your own Medical Cannabis Grow Licence under the ACMPR program, allowing you to cultivate your own marijuana plants for personal medical use.
Bonus Question: Have you used cannabis before?
Be honest and open with your doctor about your cannabis use. If you say you use less than you actually do, it could result in an inaccurate prescription and an ineffective dosage. Transparency helps your doctor better understand your tolerance, patterns, and the best form of treatment—whether through oils, capsules, vapour, or dried flower.
Across Ontario and Canada, cannabis patient educators and trained medical cannabis doctors are helping patients access the support they need safely and legally. Veterans—especially those managing PTSD—receive additional support through GrowVets, where services such as authorizations and grow licence applications are provided free of charge.
If you’re ready to explore whether medical cannabis is right for you, reach out to a trusted medical cannabis clinic in Toronto or your province. GrowLegally has helped thousands of Canadians navigate Health Canada’s process with compassion and expertise. Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward managing your symptoms with confidence.