A company that specializes in medical cannabis access is partnering with an Ontario cannabis retailer to address consumer questions about medical cannabis.
Apothecare, a cannabis consultation service, has announced a collaboration with a growing network of cannabis retailers, including Ontario’s Stok’d Cannabis.
Stok’d operates four cannabis stores in Ontario: three in Scarborough and one in Niagara Falls. The partnership will bring Apothecare’s pharmacist-led cannabis consultations to Stok’d customers, providing “personalized guidance tailored to their health and wellness needs,” Apothecare shared in a press release.
The move addresses a limitation in Canada whereby retail cannabis employees are not allowed to provide medical advice to customers. The Apothecare-Stok’d partnership will launch immediately, offering virtual and phone consultations for Stok’d customers. Customers can book appointments through the Apothecare website or visit any Stok’d location to learn more.
“With this partnership, Stok’d customers can now connect with Apothecare’s licensed pharmacists, who specialize in integrating cannabis into individualized treatment plans,” notes the press release. “Whether customers seek advice on pain management, sleep disorders, anxiety relief, or other medical concerns, Apothecare will provide professional, evidence-based support in a safe and informed environment.”
Stok’d Cannabis CEO Lisa Bigioni said the partnership will bring added value to their in-store customer experience.
“At Stok’d, we believe in creating a cannabis retail experience that makes everyone feel comfortable and supported,” says Bigioni. “Partnering with Apothecare allows us to enhance that experience by providing access to professional advice for our customers. Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned user, having a pharmacist’s guidance ensures cannabis products are safe for you.”
Ajay Chahal, Co-Founder of Apothecare, emphasizes the importance of professional oversight in cannabis use.
“Many Canadians are turning to cannabis for therapeutic relief, but they often struggle to find credible advice. Our partnership with Stok’d bridges that gap, ensuring their customers have direct access to licensed pharmacists who can provide clear, evidence-based recommendations tailored to their individual health goals.”
A 2024 peer-reviewed study in BMC Medicine surveyed 5,433 Canadians using cannabis for therapeutic purposes and found that chronic pain (67%), anxiety (63.6%), and sleep issues (61.8%), were the most common conditions treated. Despite these medical needs, only 54.1% of participants had medical authorization, highlighting the need for professional guidance in cannabis use.
Many in the industry have been calling for allowing pharmacists to distribute cannabis for medical purposes. In 2024, the federal government’s expert panel even called for pharmacy access to medical cannabis. Specifically, the panel’s report recommended expanding the existing model, which permits online sales, to allow in-person cannabis access at pharmacies.
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