Authorizing Cannabis

Since 2018, patients have been able to access medical cannabis that has been authorized by a physician who signs a medical document. New research supporting the therapeutic use, safety and efficacy on cannabis is only now emerging, which puts family physicians in a difficult position as they may be asked to authorize cannabis when they are not familiar with the process. During this session, our panelists will discuss the mechanics of authorizing cannabis, the evidence behind using cannabis for different medical conditions and resources available for family physicians.  Panelists: Dr. Gordon Arbess  Dr. Erin Lurie  Allan Carpenter  Moderator: Dr. Carrie Bernard, Family Physician Queen Square FHT, Continuing Professional Development and Partnerships Lead, Division of Mental Health & Addictions DFCM, Assistant Professor DFCM University of Toronto, Assistant Clinical Professor DFM McMaster University  Co-Host: Dr. Stephanie Zhou, Addictions Medicine Physician and EDI & Social Accountability Lead, Sunnybrook Hospital; FHO Lead, Don Mills FHT; Assistant Professor, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine; Board Director, Toronto Public Health, Toronto, ON This session took place on October 22nd 2025. A Video recording is also available