Why it matters: This article highlights a study conducted in Canada that found 14.1% of workers recovering from a work-related injury used cannabis medicinally to help with their recovery. The study sheds light on the use of cannabis among injured workers and the need for healthcare providers to discuss medical cannabis with their patients.
What they are saying: The study found that workers who used medical cannabis for their workplace injuries reported higher levels of pain and sleep disruption compared to those who did not use cannabis. Additionally, many of these workers did not discuss their cannabis use with their healthcare providers. The authors of the study recommend that healthcare providers engage in conversations about the potential benefits and risks of medical cannabis with injured workers.
The big picture: The use of medical cannabis among injured workers is relatively common, but healthcare providers often lack the knowledge and guidance to discuss it with their patients. There is a need for healthcare providers to be better prepared to have these discussions and consider medical cannabis as a potential treatment option for work-related injuries.
What to watch: The inconsistency in U.S. courts’ decisions regarding workers’ compensation coverage for medical cannabis is an ongoing issue. While some states allow reimbursements for medical cannabis use for work-related injuries, others explicitly prohibit it. The debate surrounding the inclusion of medical cannabis in workers’ compensation policies is likely to continue.
My take: The study’s findings emphasize the importance of open and informed discussions between healthcare providers and patients regarding medical cannabis as a potential treatment option. Injured workers should have access to the same entitlements and reimbursements for medical cannabis treatment as they would for other conventional medications and therapies. It is crucial to address the knowledge gap among healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive appropriate guidance and support in their use of medical cannabis for work-related injuries.
