Nearly every state allows some form of cannabis consumption, whether for adult recreational use, medical purposes, or limited medical use, although state laws vary widely. To further complicate matters, federal law still prohibits the production, distribution and possession of marijuana except for federally approved research. However, the federal government generally allows states to set their own regulations, primarily targeting criminal networks involved in marijuana operations.
In order to obtain medical marijuana, states typically require a medical marijuana card. This requirement holds true even in states that have legalized recreational use. Criteria for obtaining a card vary by state, but generally involve a doctor’s prescription for a qualifying medical condition, registration on a state list, and some type of photo identification.
Please consult your doctor for certification
To purchase medical marijuana, you must obtain a doctor’s note confirming your eligibility. However, not every doctor can offer this; only those who are registered with the health department and have completed specific training are eligible.
The health department has provided an online list of approved practitioners, many of whom are offering virtual consultations. The certified physician may contact your primary care physician to collect your medical records. Recertification requires annual visits, but does not have to be by the same doctor each time.
Medical record collection
To schedule your appointment, please use the online booking system. Please be sure to complete the electronic admission form for new patients. Provide your most recent medical documentation to confirm your eligibility.
You can upload these files with your new patient files or bring them with you to your appointment. Please note that while you can sign a waiver to request records, your certification may be delayed until we receive the necessary documentation. Leafy Doc Montana is the premier destination for obtaining a medical marijuana card online, featuring doctors who are experts in the field. They guide potential patients through every step of the process.
Use your card at the pharmacy
It may take several weeks to receive your physical card from the state health department. In the meantime, you may receive a temporary medical marijuana card that can be used at a dispensary based on your doctor’s recommendation. Pharmacy staff (called “budtenders”) can provide product information.
Bring your doctor’s recommendations, but remember that each pharmacy sells different products, so they may not carry all the products your doctor recommends.
Stay connected with your healthcare team
Marijuana can affect people in many ways, and even experienced doctors and pharmacists may not always be able to predict how a specific product will affect patients. Recognize that finding the right medical marijuana therapy for you may take some trial and error.
If you try a product and aren’t satisfied with the results, feel it doesn’t meet your expectations, or are having trouble getting your card, contact your cannabis doctor.
Restrictions on Obtaining a Medical Card
A caregiver assigned to a patient is prohibited from using marijuana for the medical needs of the patient. They need:
- Exclusive supply of cannabis to designated patients
- Complies with RCW 69.51A
- Caring for only one patient at a time
Patients can only designate one caregiver at a time. To change or cancel a caregiver, the patient must complete a withdrawal request form and submit it to the specified address. Patients should consult their healthcare provider to obtain a new authorization form to designate a new caregiver.
endnote
When meeting with your doctor, whether in person or via telemedicine, it can be helpful to have your medical record ready. The more records you provide, the more accurately your doctor can evaluate.
