Short answer
No. The VA does not prescribe, supply, or pay for medical cannabis. Cannabis is a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law. VA providers cannot recommend it, write a prescription for it, or order it from a VA pharmacy. A veteran who wants medical cannabis needs a recommendation from a non-VA provider in a state that allows it, then buys the product from a state-licensed dispensary at their own cost.
What VA policy allows
VHA Directive 1315 covers veterans who take part in state-approved cannabis programs. Under that directive:
veterans medical cannabis program requirements
- VA providers may talk with a veteran about cannabis use.
- Providers may record that use in the medical record.
- Providers may adjust a treatment plan based on it.
- Providers may not recommend cannabis or complete forms for a state program.
The written policy applies across VHA facilities. Veterans report differences in how front-desk staff and clinicians handle questions about state paperwork.
veterans medical cannabis program requirements
Benefits are not cut for cannabis use
The VA states that veterans will not lose VA benefits because they take part in a state medical cannabis program. Disability compensation, health care enrollment, and pension payments continue. The VA does not test veterans for cannabis as a condition of care.
Some exceptions exist. Certain transplant programs and substance use treatment plans set their own rules. Ask the treating team for the rules that apply.
Cost and access
The VA cannot pay for cannabis, reimburse it, or fill a prescription for it. State dispensary prices for a one-month supply of cannabis flower range from about $100 to $400, based on state and dose. Veterans pay that amount unless a state program offers a discount. Several states cut or waive medical card fees for veterans.
Research and legislation
Federal law limits VA research on cannabis. The VA has funded a small number of studies, including work on cannabis for chronic pain and PTSD. Bills such as the VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act have been introduced in Congress more than once. As of 2025, no law has removed cannabis from Schedule I or given the VA authority to prescribe it.
Steps a veteran can take
- Check state law. About 38 states allow medical cannabis.
- See a state-licensed provider for a recommendation.
- Register with the state program if the state requires it.
- Tell the VA care team about use, so the record and drug interaction checks stay accurate.
- Pay for cannabis outside the VA system.
Unknown: card fees, wait times, and product prices change each year and differ by state.