In the Sunshine State, the rising trend of natural drug alternatives has paved the way for medical cannabis use. A medical marijuana card is a legal authorization that allows eligible patients to benefit from the healing effects of medical cannabis. Moreover, the legalized status of cannabis for medical purposes has allowed qualifying patients to buy cannabis from nearby licensed marijuana dispensaries. However, there is a proper procedure for attaining a medical marijuana card in Florida. Thus, not everyone is eligible for cannabis use for health in Florida.
In this article, we will dive deep to explain the importance of a medical marijuana card and things to consider when getting one. Moreover, we will discuss lawfully getting a Florida marijuana card.
What you should know about Medical Marijuana
Your Medical Marijuana Card (MMC) serves as your official identification as a cannabis patient in Florida. Just like a driver’s license, it is the key to legally purchasing, consuming, and even cultivating cannabis products within the state. However, having an MMC comes with benefits and responsibilities, making it a crucial document you should handle carefully.
An MMC typically displays:
- Photograph for identification purposes.
- Name and Date of Birth to confirm your identity.
- Patient License Number: A unique identifier in the state’s registry.
- Address: To ensure residency compliance.
However, it must be noted that your medical marijuana card is valid for 12 months from the date it is approved. Thus, you must renew it annually to continue legally purchasing and using medical marijuana.
Does the MMJ card expire?
Medical marijuana card must be renewed up to 45 days before it expires. However, you must ensure your card renewal is on time to avoid losing access to your required dosage. Thus, you can renew your card online or by mail. The process involves:
- Paying the renewal fee ($75)
- Completing a renewal application
- Providing evidence of ongoing certification from your qualified physician
Moreover, you must see a qualified physician for a follow-up appointment at least every seven months (210 days) to maintain your active certification. Nevertheless, this can be done in person or via telehealth.
Things to Consider when Applying for an MMJ Card
In Florida, eligible patients can easily apply for an MMJ card after they receive a doctor’s recommendation suggesting they qualify for cannabis use. Nonetheless, the process of obtaining a doctor’s referral can be complex if you are not aware of the qualifying conditions for cannabis use.
Read on to know the qualifying conditions for using medical cannabis.
Qualifying for Medical Marijuana Use
Individuals with certain health conditions can use cannabis in Florida. Firstly, they must seek help from a licensed physician for a thorough health evaluation to know whether marijuana is suitable. Secondly, they must obtain their MMJ card to lawfully use cannabis. Among the qualifying conditions for marijuana use are:
- Glaucoma
- Anxiety
- Hepatitis C
- Sickle Cell Anemia
- Severe & Chronic Pain
- Migraine Headaches
- Cancer
- Back Pain
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Insomnia & Sleep Disorders
- Severe Nausea
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Chronic nonmalignant Pain
- Cachexia
- Epilepsy
- HIV/AIDS
- Spasticity
- Anorexia & Eating Disorders
- Lyme Disease
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Muscle Spasms
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Chronic Pain
This list includes medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to those above. Also, there are several things you must consider when applying for an MMJ card. As a result, approaching a qualified medical marijuana doctor is necessary.
Understanding the Eligibility Check
You must ensure that you meet the state of Florida’s criteria by having a qualifying medical condition. Thus, you must consult with a qualified doctor to determine if your condition can be effectively managed with marijuana.
Consultation with a State-Licensed Physician
You must reach out to a marijuana physician in Florida who has undergone specialized medical marijuana training and is authorized to recommend its use. With expert consultation, you can learn if medical marijuana is a suitable option for you as they assist you in ruling out your symptoms.
Getting your Medical Marijuana Card
If your eligibility is confirmed, the physician will add your information to the Medical Marijuana Use Registry. Subsequently, you will receive an email from the Office of Medical Marijuana Use (OMMU) with comprehensive instructions on applying for an MMJ card.
Submitting an Application
You can follow the instructions to submit your application online through OMMU’s website as soon as you receive the email. However, providing accurate personal data, proof of Florida residency, a passport-sized photograph, and the required application fee is necessary.
Approval
The OMMU will review your application for eligibility, and upon approval, your marijuana card will be mailed to you. Also, this card allows you to purchase and possess medical marijuana in the Sunshine State legally. Thus, you can use it to visit any nearby marijuana dispensary to buy marijuana products.
Visit a Dispensary
As soon as you attain your medical marijuana card, you can visit any marijuana dispensary to purchase marijuana products. The experts at the dispensary can assist you in selecting the most suitable medical marijuana products based on your health requirements. Thus, learning about the best medical marijuana dispensaries in your area can help. Among the top dispensaries are Green Dragon, the Cannabist, and Curaleaf.
Moreover, consulting with a medical expert knowledgeable about marijuana regulations and guidelines is crucial.
Considering Dosage and Administration
Proper dosage is essential for safe medical marijuana use. Therefore, patients should follow the recommended dosage provided by their healthcare provider and adhere to any specific administration guidelines. Moreover, you must avoid self-medication as it can lead to side effects.
We can assist you in the card acquisition as we offer our services across various locations, including Naples, Sarasota, Melbourne, St. Petersburg, Hialeah, and Jacksonville.
The Takeaway
Medical marijuana is a drug alternative with numerous health benefits. You can add it to your medical plan with the help of our experts at My Florida Green. However, you must note that marijuana is not a cure for any illness, as it only offers therapeutic effects to manage the symptoms. Conclusively, safety considerations and proper dosage are necessary with the help of a medical marijuana doctor in Melbourne.
