QUEBEC CITY, Sept. 20, 2018 /CNW Telbec/ - In light of clinical advances demonstrating the efficacy of cannabis in the treatment or relief of certain medical conditions, SSQ Insurance will be offering a new option as of January 1, 2019, to cover medical cannabis expenses.
"This coverage, in compliance with federal law on medical marijuana use, is for those for whom traditional prescription drugs have been deemed ineffective," said Éric Trudel, Senior Vice-President, Strategies and Product Management at SSQ Insurance.
In an effort to control group insurance costs, eligibility for the expenses incurred for the purchase of medical cannabis will be subject to certain conditions determined by SSQ Insurance. Therefore, prior authorization from SSQ Insurance will be required given that medical cannabis will be covered only when used to treat or relieve one of the following medical conditions when standard pharmacological treatments have not worked:
- Chronic neuropathic pain
- Cancer related pain
- Spasticity secondary to multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury
- Nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy
In addition, medical cannabis must be prescribed by an authorized physician or nurse and purchased solely from a licensed vendor duly authorized by Health Canada.
SSQ Insurance will monitor legislative changes and clinical advances in the field and make the necessary adjustments to the eligibility conditions listed above.
About SSQ Insurance
Founded in 1944, SSQ Insurance is a mutualist company that puts community at the heart of insurance. With assets under management of $12 billion, SSQ Insurance is one of the largest companies in the industry. Working for a community of over three million customers, SSQ Insurance employs over 2,000 people. Leader in group insurance, the company also sets itself apart through its expertise in individual life and health insurance, general insurance and the investment sector. For more information, please visit ssq.ca.
SOURCE SSQ Insurance
SSQ Insurance, Danielle Rioux, 1-866-332-3806, [email protected]
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