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Introduction

On July 6, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a historic amendment of the VA budget bill that entails a historic change in the avenue through which veterans can access medical cannabis. One of the historic provisions based on the Veterans Equal Access Act will enable doctors of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to recommend cannabis to their clients in states where it is legal, for the first time. This is a major move towards giving veterans more alternatives in the management of their health, particularly those related to chronic aches, PTSD, and anxiety. Although the VA has not yet been allowed to prescribe cannabis under federal law, this amendment will enable VA physicians to openly discuss medical marijuana as an alternative to prescription narcotics.

This is a turning point not just of policy but also of culture. The veterans have had decades of experience working through the system, which tends to favor pharmaceuticals more than individualized treatment. It is now able to recognize the first time in history, that healing may be in many forms, including plant-based therapies. The change allows more open and honest conversations, superior therapeutic relationships, and a healthcare experience of being seen, heard, and supported. This progress has taken years to come to many veterans, and this amendment marks the dawn of a new era where there are whole-person treatment options available in an accessible way.

To the osteopathic physicians who share our mission, this new law is not only motivating, but it also confirms the role that we always thought the DOs would be in being the primary medical cannabis care practice managers of the veterans.

Why This Amendment Matters

The use of alternative methods for chronic pain, PTSD, and anxiety treatment has been a barrier to veterans over the years. In states where medical cannabis is legal, the VA physicians were not even allowed to fill out the paperwork or provide such recommendations. This compelled veterans to resort to external treatment, usually with no attachment to their VA-controlled records.

That is altered by the July 2025 legislation. It repeals Veterans Health Directive 1315 and guarantees that the veterans will never be punished or overlooked because they prefer cannabis to opioids. This dramatic change will enable veterans by providing them with the courage to make smart choices on their health that will open up VA doctors, particularly those specializing in osteopathy, to take a more active part in cannabis-based treatment planning.

The amendment is also a step towards increased continuity of care. In the past, the veterans were required to independently handle medical data among different providers, which led to gaps in treatment and posed a potential safety risk.

The Osteopathic Advantage

Osteopathic Doctors (DOs) are uniquely qualified to lead in this new era of cannabis-inclusive care. With training grounded in integrative, preventive, and musculoskeletal medicine, DOs are particularly adept at treating the “invisible wounds of war”—PTSD, chronic pain, and traumatic brain injury conditions, where cannabis often shows promise.

Unlike traditional physicians, DOs consider the interconnectedness of body systems and the impact of mental, emotional, and environmental stressors on a patient’s health. This makes them an ideal fit for veterans seeking personalized, low-risk, non-narcotic therapies. With the new VA rules in place, DOs can safely recommend medical cannabis as part of a broader healing strategy.

What This Means for Mendry

Mendry’s mission has always been clear: connect veterans to compassionate, informed providers who understand both the military experience and the therapeutic potential of medical cannabis. The new legislation provides structural support for our model. It empowers VA-participating DOs to join our network and engage in open, compliant conversations with patients. Mendry serves as a platform that facilitates this connection, ensuring that veterans have access to the care they deserve. We are not a regulatory body, but rather a facilitator of the connection between veterans and DOs.

Mendry operates as a membership platform, offering:

  • Free access for veterans to find cannabis-supportive DOs
     
  • Paid memberships for DOs who want to reach veteran populations
     
  • Resources, education, and podcast advocacy to destigmatize medical cannabis
     

We do not collect HIPAA-protected information. We don’t interfere with patient care. But we do create a secure and efficient bridge between veterans and doctors who care, ensuring a smooth and reliable connection.

Why DOs Will Be Central to Cannabis Care at the VA

Now that VA doctors can discuss medical marijuana, the need for physicians trained in comprehensive care planning is greater than ever. DOs are already billing the VA under Community Care for musculoskeletal complaints, pain management, and primary care. Adding cannabis as a consultative option simply strengthens its utility and relevance.

Moreover, DOs understand the nuances of cannabis dosing, side effects, and interactions with traditional medications. In a system where polypharmacy is common and addiction is a risk, having a physician who can guide cannabis use thoughtfully is a critical advantage.

Veterans Deserve Choice

This amendment is ultimately about giving veterans options. As Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) stated, veterans who use cannabis legally should not be punished or denied guidance. Mast, himself a double amputee combat veteran, explained the harsh reality of narcotic dependency in post-combat recovery. He called cannabis access “a godsend” for those seeking to avoid addictive painkillers.

This is where Mendry and osteopathic doctors step in. We stand on the front lines of patient advocacy, ensuring that every veteran who wants an alternative path has access to a provider who understands and supports that choice.

The Road Ahead: Psychedelics and Beyond

The same VA bill also includes funding and policy groundwork for psychedelic-assisted therapies. From MDMA to psilocybin, the VA is being directed to prepare its healthcare infrastructure for these emerging treatments. Once again, osteopathic doctors—trained in whole-person wellness and preventive care—will be essential allies in integrating new, evidence-backed therapies.

Mendry will continue to evolve alongside policy, ensuring that our veteran members and DO partners remain informed, supported, and connected.

Call to Action: Join the Movement

If you are a DO who believes in safe, legal, and compassionate cannabis care, now is the time to join Mendry. By joining our platform, you can connect with veterans across the country who are looking for physicians who will respect their choices and offer informed guidance. For veterans, Mendry provides a network of providers who are already ahead of the curve, ensuring that you have access to the care you need. Joining Mendry not only expands your network but also allows you to be part of a movement that is reshaping veteran healthcare.

If you are a veteran, the conversation is changing. For the first time, your VA doctor may be able to discuss cannabis with you without fear or restriction. Mendry can help you find providers who are already ahead of the curve.

And if you’re a sponsor or advocate, your support is not just crucial, but profoundly appreciated. You are the backbone of this movement, making it possible, funding the infrastructure that connects veterans to dignity, relief, and empowerment. Your role is not just important, but integral to this cause.

Conclusion

The passing of this amendment isn’t just a legislative victory. It’s a cultural shift—one that recognizes the lived experiences of veterans and honors their right to explore healing beyond the limits of old medical dogma. DOs, by their training and ethos, are not just partners, but the driving force behind this journey, valued and integral to this movement.

At Mendry, we are proud to amplify their voices, connect them with those who’ve served, and shape a future where every veteran has the support they need to heal, grow, and thrive.

Learn more or join the network at mendry.blog/.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Educational use only. No medical or legal advice.

Mendry is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, not a government agency, and not affiliated with the VA or any federal or state agency.

Mendry does not provide treatment, prescribe or sell cannabis, or collect PHI.

Healthcare decisions are yours and your licensed clinicians’ only.

Emergency: 911 | Veterans Crisis Line: 988 (Press 1)

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