Vets are off the hook in being denied services if they are using medical marijuana, according to a new policy from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

In the past, the policy has denied veterans pain medication if they use illegal drugs, but now, in states that permit the use of medical marijuana, vets can use the substance as directed without being denied VHA substance abuse programs, pain control programs or other clinical programs in which the use of marijuana "maybe be considered inconsistent with treatment goals."

But modifications may need to be made in treatment plans of such patients. Any decision should be made by individual providers and their patients.

According to the directive, 14 states have enacted laws authorizing the use of medical marijuana. Medical marijuana is used for a variety of medical conditions, including glaucoma, chemotherapy-induced nausea, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy and chronic pain.

The VHA directive makes clear that the state laws authorizing the use of medical marijuana are still contrary to current federal law. If a VA physician completed forms to permit a patient to participate in a state medical marijuana program, the Drug Enforcement Administration could possibly revoke the physician's registration to prescribe controlled substances, as well as raise criminal charges. VA providers are expected to comply with federal laws. If a veteran presents a prescription or authorization for medical marijuana to a VA provider or pharmacist, the VA will not provide marijuana nor pay for the prescription to be filled by a non-VA entity.

The directive may be accessed here.

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