Can CBD Be Covered By Insurance in the US?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is now considered a mainstream product in the United States. It is used to treat pain, anxiety, depression, as well as severe cases of epilepsy and seizures. However, high-quality CBD products do not come cheap. Hence, many Americans want to know if CBD can be covered by insurance.  

Why Medicare Doesn’t Cover CBD?  

Since the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, there has been an increase in the consumption of CBD. The result of a 2019 Gallup poll showed that 14% of Americans admit to using CBD products, including chocolates, oils, capsules, and lotions. It is available over the counter in many local supermarkets, and there are also online CBD dispensaries.  

Medicare policy only covers treatment that is received in a medical facility such as a clinic or hospital. It also covers a limited range of prescription drugs, and this list does not include CBD medications. However, Medicare has a Part D prescription drug plan where beneficiaries can extend their drug coverage.  

Meanwhile, CBD medications are not approved by the FDA except Epidolex, which is often used for rare cases of childhood seizures. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services states that only FDA-approved drugs are covered in the Part D prescription plan.      

What Is The Situation Abroad?  

There is currently widespread use of CBD for various medicinal purposes such as pain treatment, anxiety, stress relief, and sleep aid in the united states. However, CBD is not FDA-approved, which means that it cannot be prescribed by a doctor. It also implies that CBD is not covered by health insurance within the United States.  

In Canada, there is no CBD oil insurance policy either. Still, you may be able to claim insurance depending on your tax policy. The Revenue Canada Medical Expense Tax Credit may allow residents to claim CBD oil under their tax returns. However, this depends on your health insurance coverage as some companies do not offer this benefit.  

So far in the UK, Sativex is the only CBD medication that is covered by health insurance. It is approved as a legit medication for pain and muscle spasticity caused by Multiple Sclerosis. However, non-prescription CBD drugs and oils are not covered by health insurance.  

Will Health Insurance Plans Cover CBD In the Near Future? 

Although the CBD industry is on a high rise, there is still a lot of restriction on the use of CBD in the US. With the limited scientific data on the health effects and proven benefits of CBD, it is yet to be FDA-approved. This means that CBD drugs cannot be prescribed as a medication except Epidolex.  

In addition, Medicare only covers FDA-approved drugs. Still, research on CBD is ongoing. Many CBD manufacturers are waiting for science-backing to produce CBD medications for various types of health conditions. For instance, Epidolex is an FDA-approved CBD medication for severe health conditions.  

Ultimately, researchers speculate that CBD may soon be classified as a drug in the near future. As a result, you may be able to get health insurance for your CBD drug prescription. In the meantime, you can look out for high-quality and budget-friendly CBD vendors. You can also speak more with your doctor before using CBD as a medication. 

See also: Articles, CBD, Laws, United-States

Enny Soyinka

PharmacologistExpertise : Research on cannabinoids, Brand Reviewer

Enny Soyinka stands at the forefront of hemp research, blending a deep-rooted passion for holistic health with a robust scientific background. As an accomplished pharmacologist, Enny's extensive research into hemp has made them a pivotal figure in demystifying its health benefits. Their expertise shines a light on the nuanced relationship between cannabinoids and wellness, offering well-informed insights in the dynamic world of cannabinoids.