Living on the East Coast means having access to one of the best medical marijuana programs in the area. Home to over 100,000 registered medical marijuana patients, Massachusetts is a welcome haven for those unable to rely on conventional medications and therapeutics to alleviate their symptoms.
Despite having some of the most transparent medical cannabis laws on the books, there is still some confusion about the application process and requirements. Take a look at the following information about the Massachusetts Medical Use of Marijuana Program (MMUMP).
Residents must be 18 and older or a minor with a qualified adult to apply for a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts. In order to get approved, they must also satisfy all other program requirements set forth by the Massachusetts Medical Use of Marijuana Program.
One key provision of the MMUMP is for patients to have a qualifying medical condition or medical disorder that causes symptoms that significantly impair their health or ability to function.
Below are the medical conditions allowed for medical cannabis treatment.
Adults only need written certification from one healthcare provider. Minors, however, must have the written approval of 2 medical providers, 1 of which must be the patient’s pediatrician or pediatric specialist.
Massachusetts patients can see any licensed physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner who is registered with the MMUMP.*
The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission no longer charges residents a fee for its Medical Use of Marijuana Program. However, applicants must see an approved medical physician or provider for treatment authorization to register for the program. Medical marijuana health evaluation and recommendations fees vary greatly per provider.
To become Massachusetts medical marijuana treatment patients, residents must complete an application, provide proof of residency, identity, and documentation of their qualifying ailment. Potential patients must also undergo a health evaluation from an approved marijuana doctor or provider for certification.
Medical marijuana evaluations are necessary for physicians to determine treatment suitability and dosage allotments. Upon completion, qualifying patients learn their certification status and receive a PIN number to complete the application process online.
When it comes to health and symptom management, time is of the essence, and treatment delays can be extremely unpleasant, though common. Many Massachusettsans find it much quicker and more convenient to visit the Marijuana Doctors website.
People have been enjoying the medicinal benefits of cannabis for centuries. But it wasn’t until 2012 that Massachusetts decriminalized the use of marijuana for qualified medical patients and implemented regulations for recreational cannabis for adult use in 2016. Recreational access is restricted to adults 21 and up and stipulations apply.
Despite the popularity of the state’s recreational use laws, having a medical cannabis card is still the most advantageous and safest method for patients to medicate with cannabis safely and legally.
Below are the most common questions applicants have about becoming a patient in Massachusetts.
With Marijuana Doctors, finding a trustworthy yet credible medical marijuana doctor is quick and easy. We thoroughly screen licensed medical providers to ensure patients can confidently find a suitable physician to see online for their health evaluation and cannabis treatment recommendations.
Check out the Find a Doctor locator to get started!
Medical cannabis registry cards are valid for one year. Annual recertifications and renewals are necessary to ensure continuous access to medical marijuana treatment. Many patients find completing their Massachusetts Medical Use of Marijuana Program renewals with Marijuana Doctors easier because they can make their costs more affordable.
Patients should keep their treatment cards on their person at all times, especially when in possession of medical marijuana. Although there’s no fee for first-issue treatment cards, there is a nominal $10 replacement fee. Renewing patients with demonstrated financial hardship may submit a replacement fee waiver request to the commission when applying for a replacement card.
Caregivers are authorized individuals who prepare, purchase, transport, or administer marijuana treatments to patients. Caregivers may also provide transportation to medical marijuana treatment centers and cultivate cannabis for approved patients.
To become a caregiver, applicants must register with the Massachusetts Medical Use of Marijuana Program. Eligibility requirements for personal caregivers include the following:
Caregivers are not required for all program participants, only for those who are minors or need assistance. Adult patients can, at their discretion, designate up to two caregivers.
Finding a dispensary or medical marijuana treatment center is as simple as clicking the Find a Dispensary link. With so many treatment centers available, patients no longer have to waste time, gas, or effort to get medical marijuana.