Medical cannabis is one of the hottest and controversial topics in the field of medicine. And why not? Since ancient times, cannabis has been used for pain relief and many other diseases. However, it is only in the last part of the 20th century that scientists became serious on studying weed. In just years of studying this plant, they have proven many times that this medical wonder is effective in treating a host of medical conditions.
Yet, despite the plant’s healing powers, only 33 states in the US have legalized medical marijuana. And to improve your chances of buying them at stores, you should present proofs that you are eligible to buy medicinal weed. One powerful document that shows your validity as a customer is the medical marijuana card.
What is a Medical Marijuana Card?
A medical marijuana card (also known as MMID or cannabis card) is issued by some states that will allow qualified patients to purchase medicinal weed. Patients can also use this ID to enter cannabis clubs in their state. In some conditions, it can also act a license to grow weed at home.
Being a cardholder means you’re duly registered in your state. This ID also allows you to use marijuana without fear of possible legal issues and charges in your state.
How to Get a Cannabis Card?
Here are some steps in applying for the MMID:
- Know the state legislation and restrictions for medicinal cannabis – Each state has its own provisions and guidelines on cannabis. To give you an idea, in the 33 states that legalized medical marijuana, 10 of them also decriminalize recreational use of the plant. These 10 states have a more liberal stance of weed, while the rest have more restrictions. Thus, you need to study the hurdles that you may need to remove.
- Get the needed medical records – You must get a signed recommendation from your physician with supporting records that you have any illness, injury, or disability, that would be relieved by using cannabis. In some states, you also need to request your physician to work directly with the state health agencies in processing your application.
Some of the most common medical conditions that qualify you for getting an MMID are:
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Alzheimer’s
- Crohn’s Disease
- Glaucoma
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Update your MMID after a certain period – MMIDs are valid only for some period (like one year) in some states. See to it that you renew your card before it expires. During the renewal process, the state health agency might require you to undergo another screening process to find out if you still need pot as medicine.
With a cannabis card, you can get the powerful benefits of pot in treating your health issues with fewer legal restrictions. So, head to your state health department now and ask for more information on how to get your MMID.
Author: Carrie Sze
