You can also find detailed, up-to-date information on medical programs in each state, territory, and the District of Columbia at the Americans for Safe Access website: https://www. safeaccessnow. org/becoming_a_state_authorized_patient. For more details, visit your state government’s website or do a web search using terms like “Medical marijuana program Pennsylvania. ”
You may also be able to request a list of qualifying conditions from your doctor or your local public health department. Common conditions that qualify for treatment with medical marijuana include cancer, seizure disorders, HIV/AIDS, glaucoma, and severe pain for which your doctor might otherwise prescribe an opioid. Some states allow the use of medical marijuana for almost any condition, while others are much more restrictive. A few states have “limited access” programs where qualifying patients can use low-THC, high-CBD cannabis products to treat a variety of conditions. [3] X Trustworthy Source National Conference of State Legislatures Bipartisan, nongovernment organization serving the members of state legislatures and their constituents Go to source
For example, to qualify for Illinois’s medical marijuana program, you must be an Illinois resident at the time of your application and remain a resident as long as you participate in the program. [5] X Research source In Pennsylvania, you have to have a PA state ID or driver’s license in order to qualify for a medical marijuana card. [6] X Trustworthy Source State of Pennsylvania Official website for the State of Pennsylvania Go to source
For instance, in Illinois, you can’t participate in the medical marijuana program if you hold a Commercial Driver’s License or school bus permit. Active duty police officers, firefighters, and correctional officers are also restricted from participating. [8] X Research source If you’re a minor, you may be able to use medical marijuana under the supervision of an approved parent or guardian.
For example, in Colorado, a medical marijuana patient can possess no more than 2 ounces (57 g) of marijuana and cultivate no more than 6 plants. [10] X Research source In other states, such as Illinois, patients are not allowed to grow their own marijuana. [11] X Research source There may also be restrictions on where and how you can use marijuana. For example, in Pennsylvania, a medical marijuana patient can’t smoke marijuana, use it in a public place, use or possess it on school grounds, or give it to anyone else. [12] X Research source It’s illegal to drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence of marijuana, even in places where marijuana use is legal.
For example, you might say something like, “Over-the-counter medications aren’t doing much for my pain, and I don’t want to use opioids. Can we look into getting me approved for the medical marijuana program?”
Ideally, you should work with a doctor who’s already familiar with your medical history. In some states, such as Pennsylvania, physicians who want to approve patients for medical marijuana use must register with the Department of Health. [15] X Trustworthy Source State of Pennsylvania Official website for the State of Pennsylvania Go to source Find out if your state maintains a list of approved physicians.
How long you’ve had the medical condition(s) you’re hoping to treat What other treatment methods you’ve tried Any other medical conditions you have or medications you’re currently taking
You can make the process easier by bringing in any required forms or paperwork for your doctor to sign. You can find medical marijuana recommendation documents by state on the Americans for Safe Access Website: https://www. safeaccessnow. org/state_by_state_recommending_cannabis.
Visit your state’s medical marijuana program website and read their application instructions to determine what kind of documentation you need. In some states, such as Florida, your doctor must begin the application process for you by submitting their recommendation directly to the medical marijuana program registry. In these cases, you may only need to provide a copy of your ID or other accepted proof of residency. In some states, such as Maryland, you will also need to provide a photograph of yourself. [19] X Research source
For example, you can find links to apply for a medical marijuana card on the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s Medical Marijuana Program website: https://padohmmp. custhelp. com/app/login. If you live in a state where your doctor must begin the application process for you, such as Florida, you’ll get an email with a temporary user ID and password from the medical marijuana registry. [20] X Research source Depending on where you live, you may also be able to complete a paper application. Ask your doctor or local health department if this is an option.
In some states, you may qualify for a reduced fee if you can demonstrate financial need (e. g. , if you qualify for SNAP benefits).
In some cases, you may be able to print out a temporary ID card or use a copy of your approved application as your ID until your permanent card arrives. [23] X Research source
Your doctor may be able to recommend a reputable dispensary, or your state’s medical marijuana program website may offer a list of licensed dispensaries in your area.
