The world as we know it today is a digital centre. It is a global village where innovative technology meets imagination, offering limitless possibilities. Telemedicine is a part of the broader concept of digital possibilities. It is a modern approach to healthcare, which allows patients to consult with healthcare providers virtually.
As medical marijuana gains popularity, telemedicine marijuana evaluations ride the wave alongside it by creating access to licensed marijuana doctors online. Accessibility has never been easier.
Sadly, cannabis remains illegal in countries such as the U.S. (according to federal laws). However, states’ laws are more flexible, and as long as doctors and patients comply with these laws, obtaining a marijuana card with an online cannabis doctor in the U.S. is very feasible.
What Is a Telemedicine Marijuana Doctor, and how do Virtual Consultations Work?
A telemedicine marijuana doctor is a certified healthcare professional with the authorization to provide medical evaluations and recommendations for medical marijuana use for patients in eligible states via remote and virtual consultations. They are licensed medical cannabis doctors who conduct online consultations.
Virtual cannabis consultations are straightforward to navigate. You start by visiting a reputable platform to schedule an appointment. Next, select your state (if applicable) and complete a brief questionnaire. Afterwards, you will participate in a video call at a scheduled time with a telemedicine marijuana doctor who will review your medical history, discuss your condition, and proffer guidance on the next steps required.
How Can You Get A Medical Marijuana Card Online Through Telemedicine?
The process of acquiring a telemedicine cannabis card online is straightforward. Here are the steps to follow for a seamless experience.
State Laws
Verify your state’s medical cannabis laws and ascertain the specific qualifying medical conditions that allow for obtaining cannabis online through telemedicine.
Appointment
The next step is to register with a credible platform or clinic that complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) guidelines, and find a medical marijuana doctor online. You will need to complete a short questionnaire, schedule the appointment, and upload the necessary documents. It may also require you to provide existing medical records, though it is not a general requirement in all states.
Consultation
Then, your cannabis telehealth appointment follows shortly. The doctor sends you a secure link to join the video conference or call at the scheduled appointment date. It is recommended to have a stable internet connection, a microphone and camera device, as well as any other required documents handy, for a smooth consultation.
Certification
During the consultation, the medical marijuana doctor will review your information and evaluate if you have a qualifying condition to obtain a medical marijuana card. It is advisable to engage in an open and honest conversation for optimal results. If confirmed, the doctor will issue a medical marijuana recommendation or certification.
READ: What To Say To A Doctor To Get A Medical Marijuana Card
Register with the State Program (if applicable)
In many states, you will use the doctor’s certification to complete your registration on the state’s official medical marijuana program online portal and pay any applicable state fees. This is the waiting period, which may last from a few days to a month. This can lead to either an approval or a denial.
Approval
Once your state has processed your application, you will receive your card, which could be a temporary digital version sent to your email or a physical copy delivered by mail, with which you can visit licensed dispensaries to purchase medical cannabis products. It typically takes a short while to get your digital card and a few weeks to receive the physical card, depending on your location.
The main challenge in this process is verifying the legitimacy of virtual platforms, which you achieve by checking for their licenses and certifications, researching their reputation, checking healthcare provider credentials, and reviewing their data security. These measures will help ensure a safe and reliable experience.
Is It Legal To Get A Medical Cannabis Card Online In The United States?
Acquiring a medical cannabis card in many states can be legal on a state level, but not federally. This means that, depending on your state’s laws, you can apply to get your medical marijuana card online. However, while some states allow telemedicine cannabis options, others only allow telemedicine for renewals.
States that allow telemedicine for medical marijuana
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New York
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
The following states only allow telemedicine medical marijuana for patient renewals.
- Alaska
- Delaware
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Michigan
- New Mexico
- Oregon
- Utah
- Vermont
- Washington State
- Washington DC
States like South Dakota have rejected telemedicine, while states like Florida require in-person visits before proceeding with virtual consultations. It is essential to stay up-to-date with your state’s laws, as the laws governing marijuana use and telemedicine are subject to change.
What Conditions Qualify For an Online Medical Marijuana Evaluation
Conditions that qualify for an online medical marijuana card vary by state; however, here is a list of common qualifying conditions.
- Chronic pain
- Anxiety & depression
- PTSD
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Multiple sclerosis
- Epilepsy
- Seizures
- Glaucoma
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Crohn’s disease
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease)
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Tourette’s syndrome
Other conditions may include:
- Insomnia
- Migraines
- Neuropathy
- Muscle spasms
- Appetite loss
- Weight loss
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Why Choose A Virtual Marijuana Doctor Instead Of In-Person Visits?
The medical marijuana industry is rapidly evolving, and virtual consultations are gaining popularity. Virtual marijuana doctors are changing the game by expanding access to cannabis and providing remote consultations, but what sets them apart from in-person marijuana doctors? Here are some reasons:
Availability and Accessibility
Patients can access specialists across state lines, especially individuals with mobility issues who may be unable to travel long distances. Additionally, consulting with a virtual cannabis doctor can reduce wait times associated with in-person visits. Lastly, it enables socially or economically disadvantaged patients, such as those in remote areas, to have access to medical marijuana evaluations.
Virtual cannabis doctors are overcoming geographical and logistical barriers to revolutionise access to cannabis.
Comfort & Discretion
This is particularly important for patients with conditions like autism, anxiety, panic attacks, agoraphobia, or anthropophobia. Patients can reduce stress and avoid crises by opting for virtual consultations. More so, doctors also offer discreet care, helping patients avoid the stigma that may be associated with visiting a marijuana clinic by offering anonymity while maintaining patient confidentiality.
Convenience & Time-Saving
By choosing virtual consultation, patients can schedule appointments outside traditional office hours. This is often applicable to individuals who may be busy or follow strict work schedules. Given its virtual nature, it also means that there is a more streamlined paperwork due to digital forms and documentation instead of the traditional paperwork trail.
Affordability
Virtual marijuana doctors offer the irresistible package of being affordable to patients with limited financial resources, which ensures inclusivity. This manifests in ways, such as saved cost on transportation and potential overnight stays, potential insurance coverage, competitive rates, and reduced lost income.
However, patients should not be quick to discard in-person visits, as they are not without their benefits. The best choice depends largely on individual needs and circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I schedule a telemedicine appointment with a medical marijuana doctor online?
The steps include: choose a legitimate provider, schedule the appointment, complete the medical questionnaire, gather the necessary documents, and the doctor will contact you on your appointment day through a link that will be made available to you through email or text.
What documents are needed to apply for a medical marijuana card online?
State requirements may differ, but generally, you will need a cannabis doctor’s certification, identity proof, application fee, digital photograph, and residency proof.
Are online medical marijuana consultations private and HIPAA compliant?
Yes, reputable online cannabis platforms, such as medical marijuana doctors, prioritize patient privacy/security and adhere to HIPAA guidelines.
Can I renew my medical marijuana card through a telemedicine consultation?
Yes, it is quite possible to renew your medical marijuana card online. Some states may insist on in-person visits initially, and subsequent renewals online. You will need to verify your state’s requirements and stay up-to-date.
How long does it take to get approved for an online medical cannabis card?
Veriheal has an appointment time of 10-15 mins, after which, post-approval, medical cannabis card delivery takes 1-3 weeks.
What is the average cost of an online medical marijuana evaluation in the U.S.A.?
Online marijuana evaluations are subject to variables such as state fees and consultation rates. It ranges from as low as $39 to as high as over $199.
Do all states allow telemedicine marijuana consultations for card approval?
No, not all states do. Rules on telemedicine cannabis consultations for card approval vary by state. Try to find out about your state’s rules/laws.
Can I connect with a licensed medical cannabis doctor from my phone or laptop? What happens after I am approved for a medical marijuana card online?
Yes, the beauty of telemedicine is ease of accessibility. You can find a licensed medical cannabis doctor from anywhere and from any digital device. After approval, you will be mailed to you digitally or physically. The card lets you purchase cannabis products from licensed dispensaries.
How do I find the best telemedicine marijuana doctor near me?
Search for reputable online platforms such as marijuana doctors that offer virtual consultations with licensed marijuana doctors, especially those in compliance with HIPAA.
Written by Chiagozie Ekemezie