Does Medicare cover medical marijuana if it's prescribed for chronic pain or cancer?

Question

Larry Dalton · Accepted Answer

Marijuana or marijuana treatments are not recognized by federal law, even though states may recognize it as a form of treatment. Since federal laws govern Medicare, it does not acknowledge marijuana as a legal treatment, regardless of whether it is legal in your state for medical purposes.

Answered by Larry Dalton on May 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK & TX

Answered by Larry Dalton Medicare Insurance Agent

Charise Karjala · Answer

This answer is provided in a video format. Watch the agent's video response here: https://medicareagentshub.com/questions/does-medicare-cover-medical-marijuana-if-its-prescribed-for-chronic-pain-or-cancer#charise-karjala

Gary Church · Answer

As of now, Medicare does not cover marijuana for treatment. There is a possibility in the future, as marijuana is still a Class 1 drug.

Paul Potter · Answer

Marijuana is legal in many states but not by the Federal government.  Therefore Medicare doesn't include Marijuana as a category of drug for coverage. 

We will see what happens in the future.

Cody Brown · Answer

Unfortunately, this is something Medicare doesn't cover. Medicare does not cover medical marijuana for any type of condition.

Angie Templin · Answer

Medical marijuana is not approved by Medicare or any Medicare Rx coverage.  While some states have legalized medical marijuana, it is not legal federally.

Brian Leichner · Answer

Since Medicare is a Federal program and marihuana is illegal on the Federal level, it is not covered.  I forecast that both of these will align at that same time.  I'm pretty sure it is "politically" based on "lobbying" and the long and deep ties to big pharma.  So for now, you will have to pay for it yourself as a "not covered" on the formulary medicine.  

My only other suggestion is to do a thorough review of all of your Medicare options to save money in other areas.  It isn't unusual to save $50 per month with a review.  My name is Brian and I help people save money on Medicare and help people to help people with Medicare.  402.708.6616 is my phone number if you need a resource.

Janet Cruz · Answer

Marijuana is classified as a schedule 1 controlled substance under federal law indicating it has no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. So, no, it is not covered by Medicare. Medicare cannot cover substances that are illegal at the federal level even though state laws permit its use.

Answered by Janet Cruz on June 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Janet Cruz Medicare Insurance Agent

Fred Manas · Answer

Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical marijuana as a treatment option because marijuana is classified as a Schedule I Drug and it's not FDA-approved.

Sam Silva · Answer

No, Medicare does not cover medical marijuana, even if it is prescribed for chronic pain, cancer, or other conditions.

Federal law classifies marijuana as a controlled substance, which prevents Medicare from covering it.

Glenn Alterman · Answer

No.   This is a class one controlled substance and federal law does not allow Medicare to pay for this

David Christian · Answer

Not at all.  Medicare only covers specific medicines that are legal at the Federal level.  Medical Marijuana is not legal at the federal level.

Christopher Stewart · Answer

Medicare does not cover medical marijuana. There may be some specific cannabis-based medications that are covered by Medicare and your plan, but you would need to review those with your agent.

Does Medicare cover medical marijuana if it's prescribed for chronic pain or cancer?

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Does Medicare cover medical marijuana if it's prescribed for chronic pain or cancer?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents HubA non-government resource website

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website