New York City is among the numerous states in the US that have legalized the medical use of marijuana. Even though marijuana can be used for medicinal purposes, its recreational use is still criminalized in the city. You can only use marijuana for medical purposes if you meet specific eligibility criteria and have a medical marijuana (MMJ) card. 

Many people in New York City have not acquired their MMJ card. Getting a NY medical marijuana card remains confusing since most people are not aware of how to go about the application process.

Are you suffering from an eligible medical condition and still confused about the MMJ card application process? Here are a few frequently asked questions about medical marijuana card to get you started on the right footing.

 Obtaining Medical Marijuana: FAQs

1. How do I know that I am eligible for a medical marijuana card?

The law sets certain conditions as eligible to use medical marijuana. If you have Aids, HIV infection, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injury, neuropathy, inflammatory bowel disease, and epilepsy.  

Despite having a life-threatening or debilitating condition, you will be approved for the card if you experience persistent muscle spasms, seizures, severe nausea, chronic pain, and wasting syndrome.  

1. How do I start the application process?

The first step to applying for a medical marijuana card is finding an authorized practitioner to determine whether medical marijuana is the right fit for you. The right medical practitioner for such consultations should be registered with the New York State Department of Medical Health’s Medical Marijuana Program. If the practitioner finds that you need cannabis for your medical condition, they will issue you with a medical marijuana certification. 

1. Where can I find a registered medical practitioner?

Before you engage any healthcare provider for your certification, you should find out whether they are authorized. Check out if their clinic is listed in the practitioner education for the medical marijuana program on the Department’s website.

Once on the website, click the “looking for a registered practitioner” and choose a registered practitioner near you. You can also get a recommendation from a registered practitioner from your regular doctor. 

1. Is there a recommended medical marijuana dosage?

Medical marijuana is limited to oil preparations or metered liquid, semi-solid and solid dosage, transdermal patches, tropical, and metered ground plant preparations. The law prohibits smoking of cannabis and taking edible marijuana. 

Ensure you get all the information about the recommendable medical marijuana dosage, including the approved brand, form, administration method, and limitations, from your practitioner. 

Medical Marijuana Card Registration: FAQs

1. I have my certification, what next?

If your practitioner has certified your use of cannabis for medicinal purposes, the next step is to start the registration process. The Department’s online patient registration system is the recommendable way to apply for the MMJ card. 

If your application is approved, you will get a temporary card instantly. You will receive the registry card via your address; then, you can use it at any registered healthcare facilities near you. 

1. Can a minor register for an MMJ card?

A minor who has a life-threatening illness or a debilitating condition is eligible for medical marijuana use. Due to the age restrictions, a minor cannot apply for a medical marijuana card. A person, usually someone 21 years and above, can submit registration on behalf of a minor.

The applicant is required to identify at most two caregivers who may include a legal guardian or parent, an individual authorized by the parent, or the department’s approved individual. Additionally, the selected individual should also apply for a registry ID card to use when purchasing the drugs on behalf of the minor. 

1. Is there a limit to the medical marijuana I should get?

Usually, your facility will provide you with enough medical marijuana to take you a whole month based on your practitioner’s limitations or recommendations. All the registered healthcare facilities keep a record of the medical marijuana dispensed within a given period. Such records help the prescribers give you the correct dosage with reference to your controlled substance history.

Getting a medical marijuana card is the first step towards enhancing your medical marijuana treatment. The answers to these frequently asked questions should help you navigate the medical marijuana card application process with ease.