By Avicanna Inc.
Many Canadian veterans live with ongoing health challenges such as chronic pain, sleep problems, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions often occur together and can change over time. Because of this, treatment plans need to be carefully managed and supported by healthcare professionals who understand veterans’ needs.
As medical knowledge about cannabinoid-based medicine continues to grow in Canada, healthcare providers are working to better understand how these therapies may be used safely and appropriately as part of a broader care plan.
This June, Avicanna Inc. will host its 6th Annual Medical Symposium at the MaRS Discovery District in Toronto. The event will bring together healthcare professionals and researchers from across the country to share evidence and practical experience in caring for patients, including veterans.
What veterans and families have shared
To better understand medical cannabis use among veteran populations, a series of structured patient roundtable discussions were conducted by Avicanna in December 2025 and January 2026. These discussions focused on the lived experience of veterans using medical cannabis with healthcare providers and pharmacists supporting access and the potential impact of on health, daily functioning, and continuity of care.
Participants consistently highlighted the importance of stable treatment plans, clear guidance from healthcare professionals, and reliable access to care.
One spouse shared:
“If something didn’t work, we could call and ask what to do next. We didn’t have to wait for another prescription or another appointment. We already had a plan, and that’s what kept things stable.”
A veteran described the role of treatment stability in daily life:
“I finally have footing, something that works. Taking that away after everything the military put me through would be a huge blow.”
Another veteran emphasized the value of clinical support and guidance:
“If you don’t have someone to explain it to you, it’s really hard to figure out. The support around it is what makes it work. It’s not just the product, it’s having someone there to guide you.”
These perspectives highlight that care is not only about medication. It is also about communication, planning, and ongoing support that veterans receive from healthcare providers and their medical cannabis platform.
A focus on practical care
Several sessions at this year’s Symposium will focus on issues that directly affect veterans, including how reimbursement changes may influence treatment decisions, product selection, and continuity of care. The goal is to help healthcare professionals support veterans while maintaining stable, effective treatment plans.
At its core, the Symposium is about improving care through education and collaboration. For veterans, this means ensuring that healthcare providers are prepared to:
• Review and adjust treatment plans when needed
• Explain coverage and documentation requirements
• Support symptom management over time
• Maintain continuity of care as policies change
As the medical cannabis space evolves, education and coordination across the healthcare system remain important. Veterans deserve care that is consistent, informed, and responsive to their needs.
While the in-person event is for health care professionals and researchers, Veterans, caregivers, and the healthcare community can attend the Symposium virtually. Registration is free.
