Is A Medical Marijuana Card The Key To Addressing Your Medical Condition?

As more and more states enact legislation to decriminalize or even legalize recreational marijuana, many people in these states who use medical marijuana for certain health conditions are wondering if there's any reason to go through the process of getting a medical marijuana card. It turns out there are several reasons to go the medical card route. Here's what you need to know to make the best choice for you.

The Case for Medical Marijuana

Although few scientific studies have been conducted on the health benefits of marijuana, also known as cannabis, there are many anecdotal reports about its therapeutic benefits. Individuals suffering from painful side-effects of medical conditions or treatments say they get relief from medical cannabis, People suffering from neuromuscular conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's, or Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), as well as certain types of seizure disorders, report a decrease in symptoms, and many veterans suffering from PTSD say it has brought them relief. It has also been reported that people suffering from cancer and its treatment find relief from the pain and nausea it causes. It's clear that many individuals find medical marijuana to be an effective treatment for certain conditions.

Benefits of a Medical Marijuana Card

If you are using cannabis for a medical solution and you live in a state where recreational cannabis is legally available, you likely wonder why you need to go to the trouble of getting a medical marijuana card. A medical card gives you access to a medical marijuana dispensary and the knowledgeable people that work there. They can be a fountain of information about cannabis dosage, potency, and therapeutic benefits.

Another benefit of a medical card is that, typically, medical dispensaries will charge less for marijuana, which is important who may have limited financial ability to pay. Often, medical dispensaries don't have the potency limitations that recreational dispensaries must abide by. Medical patients often need these higher potency products to get the relief they need. In addition, most states require recreational cannabis users to be at least 21 years of age, which rules out its use by minors who need it for their treatment.

Obtaining a Medical Marijuana Card

In states where medical marijuana is legal, it's not typically difficult to get a card, but there are a few protocols you must follow. Usually, you need to be a resident of the state to get a valid card for that state.

In addition, you need to have a qualifying medical condition. Every state has its own list of medical conditions for which cannabis treatment is legal. You'll need to check with your state laws or a medical dispensary for which ailments you can seek marijuana treatment. You'll also need a recommendation from a doctor. If your regular physician is not comfortable prescribing medical cannabis, you can ask for a referral to a doctor who is. Then you fill out a form and submit it to your state's legalization authority, usually the state health department. You should receive your card in the mail within a few weeks, and you can visit a nearby dispensary to start your foray into the world of medical marijuana. Learn more from a company like Medical Marijuana Certifications LLC.