In a groundbreaking ruling, an Alberta worker’s appeal to have medical cannabis costs covered by the Worker’s Compensation Board (WCB) has been successful. This decision sets a precedent for future cases involving medical aid for chronic pain management.
A Tenacious Battle for Coverage
The journey to this victory was not swift. It began with a workplace accident in January 2011, which resulted in a left ankle fracture and Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) for the worker. Initially, the WCB accepted the injury claim but denied coverage for medical cannabis in 2015, labeling it as a non-standard medical aid.
Turning the Tide
Persistence led to a pivotal change in 2017 when the WCB acknowledged the worker’s use of medical cannabis was indeed related to the workplace injury. However, the struggle continued as the WCB introduced new policy criteria in 2022, requiring rigorous reassessment and evidence of functional improvement for ongoing coverage.
The Final Verdict
On March 19, 2024, the Appeals Commission for Alberta Workers’ Compensation overturned a previous decision by the WCB’s Dispute Resolution and Decision Review Body (DRDRB). The commission recognized the worker’s need for medical cannabis to manage chronic pain effectively, allowing him to function and engage in daily activities.
This landmark ruling emphasizes the evolving understanding and acceptance of medical cannabis as a viable treatment option. It also highlights the importance of patient advocacy and the need for policies that adapt to emerging medical treatments.