Cannabis is receiving renewed attention in medical research for its potential benefits in treating certain patient conditions. Though cannabis is restricted by federal law, it has become more prevalent in the medical community as individual states have passed their own regulations allowing its use.
How do I qualify for a Maryland medical cannabis card?
□ You must have a valid US issued photo ID. You may use your Maryland Driver’s License or Motor Vehicle Administration ID,
Military ID, or Passport
□ You must be at least 18 years of age
□ You need a medical record that outlines your medical diagnosis
□ You must have one of the qualifying conditions including but not limited to cachexia, anorexia, wasting syndrome, severe or chronic pain, nausea, seizures, muscle spasms, glaucoma, post-traumatic stress disorder, cancer, or another chronic medical condition which is severe and which other treatments have been ineffective.
How do I register?
□ Register on the MMCC website https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/home.aspx
You will receive a 16-digit Cannabis patient ID number in 5-10 business days.
What happens after I’m approved?
Once approved for a med card, you may print your temporary Patient ID Card from the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission and
go to a dispensary. For more information, you may visit this website: https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/process_to_obtain.aspx
How long is my med card valid for?
The med card in Maryland is valid for 3 years. However, please take note that the written certification should be used within 120 days
of issuance, otherwise it becomes null and void.
Are there other fees I need to pay for?
The cost of the initial consultation is $175.00. The state of MD charges patients a $50 fee for the medical card, and that is separate from our included services. It must be paid by patients in advance prior to appointment. Insurance companies do not cover the cost of a written certification in Maryland.
Are there risks of medical cannabis?
Yes. There are risks for organ damage.
Heart Disease Issues and Precautions
There are adverse effects in using cannabis for those who are susceptible to heart disease. In smoking cannabis, there is a dosedependent increase in heart rate, an increase in blood pressure and low blood pressure.
Pregnancy and Lactation Precautions
Inconclusive studies have reached the following conclusions to date about recreational cannabis use: decreased head circumference (heavy users in utero), increased incidence of low birth weight, and increased incidence of childhood leukemia
Driving and Operating Machinery
While many studies regarding cannabis use and driving are inconclusive, it must be remembered that dose, method of administration, and patient tolerance are critical factors in trying to assess impairment. Take caution regarding use of cannabis and driving or operating machinery, cannabis use may cause impairment and cannabis can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment.
Drug Interactions
THC and CBD have been shown to impact different enzyme groups in the human body. Please check with your doctor if any on your medication will interact with medical cannabis.
Mental Health Risks
Long-term cannabis smoking has been linked to mental illness in some people, such as: temporary hallucinations, temporary paranoia, or worsening symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. Cannabis use has also been linked to other mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts among teens.
Cannabis Use Disorders and Addiction
There may be long-term effects of regular cannabis use including dependence, addiction, and tolerance.
Withdrawal and Tolerance
Cannabis withdrawal can occur after stopping regular cannabis use. Symptoms generally develop within a week of cessation, and can
include: irritability and aggression, nervousness or anxiety, sleep difficulty, decreased appetite or weight loss, restlessness, depressed mood, abdominal pain, tremors, sweating, fever, chills, and headaches. Some recreational-use states still allow employers, landlords, and family courts to discriminate against cannabis users. A medical cannabis certification provides you with legal documentation demonstrating that your use is medically warranted. This can protect you against discriminatory or punitive actions in many states.
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