Finding the Right Medical Marijuana Doctor
With the somewhat recent unearthing of the benefits of medical marijuana as a treatment for a number of different conditions, comes a host of things patients need to know before seeking medical cannabis treatments. For instance, some states have still not cleared marijuana’s medical use, while others have lifted regulation of marijuana entirely. However, the current trends show an upward slope in more lax regulation of medical marijuana around the country, as we move towards the future. Thankfully, there is good news for Florida residents! The benefits of medical marijuana can now be realized by Florida patients suffering from a number of different conditions. In order to get started on your path to compassionate care, here’s what you need to know about finding the right medical marijuana (MMJ) doctor.
What Conditions Are Covered in Florida for Medical Marijuana?
Florida has a relatively generous list of conditions for which they allow medical cannabis treatment options. In 2014, Florida first legalized medical marijuana use for the treatment of cancer and epilepsy. The amount of THC allowed in these treatments was relatively low at that time, however. This was known as the Compassionate Use Act. In 2016, Amendment 2 (and subsequent Senate Bill 8A) expanded the list of medical conditions that are now eligible for treatment with medical cannabis. The current list of conditions covered in Florida is as follows: Cancer, Epilepsy, Glaucoma, HIV, AIDS, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Multiple sclerosis (MS). Florida medical marijuana laws also allow treatment with medical cannabis for medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to those already covered, any terminal condition diagnosed by a physician other than the qualified physician issuing the physician certification, and chronic nonmalignant pain caused by a qualifying medical condition or that originates from a qualifying medical condition and persists beyond the usual course of that qualifying medical condition.
How Do I Get A Medical Marijuana Card in Florida?
Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Florida can be a long, complicated process, and there are a few things you should be prepared for. First off, your doctor/physician will need to be registered and able to recommend medical marijuana in Florida. Thankfully, a licensed and registered medical marijuana practitioner can also help walk you through the process of obtaining your medical marijuana card. Here is what you will need prior to obtaining your medical marijuana card:
- All patients must be at least 18 years of age and a Florida resident with valid Florida ID. If you do not have a Florida ID, an out of state ID and passport or other proof of residency (such as bank statement or utility bill) is acceptable.
- You will need your medical records or official documentation from your primary care physician to present to your MMJ doctor at the time of your appointment.
- You must have been diagnosed by a physician as having a debilitating condition at some point.
- All patients must register with the Department of Health.
- There must be evidence that other treatments have failed at mitigating your symptoms before an MMJ doctor can recommend medical cannabis for treatment.
- Patient – Doctor Statutorily Required-Documentation must be submitted for the Coalition for Medical Marijuana Research and Education.
Choose A Reputable Medical Marijuana Doctor
Obtaining your medical marijuana card can be demanding and as daunting a task as any. Fortunately, the Herbal Clinic, MD has your back when it comes to the proper care, guidance, and professionalism in regards to your needs. We understand how difficult it can be to find a good physician that you trust. Choosing the right medical marijuana doctor can be equally as frustrating (if not more so). At the Herbal Clinic, we believe the best type of medical care involves a mutually beneficial patient and doctor relationship. Our physicians will discuss treatment options with you, one-on-one, in order to find the best care plan for you. Why wait? Call 727-202-4325 or click here to schedule an appointment today!
