In 2016, Florida voters approved Amendment 2, which legalized medical marijuana for patients with qualifying medical conditions. Since then, the Florida Department of Health has been working to establish rules and regulations surrounding medical marijuana use in the state.
One of the most important aspects of the medical marijuana program in Florida is obtaining a medical marijuana card. However, with so much legal jargon surrounding these regulations it can be overwhelming trying to discern whether you qualify or not. Thankfully, the experts here at ComCan Healthcare have versed themselves in the laws and rules governing medical marijuana cards and how to acquire one. Some of the necessary items include:
Qualifying Conditions
To qualify for a medical marijuana card in Florida, patients must have a qualifying medical condition. These conditions include:
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Crohn’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Chronic pain (with a qualifying diagnosis)
- Any terminal condition diagnosed by a physician other than the qualified physician issuing the physician certification
- Other debilitating medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to those listed above
In addition, patients must have tried other treatments for their condition before being approved for medical marijuana use.
Getting a Physician’s Certification
To get a medical marijuana card in Florida, patients must first get a physician’s certification. This certification must come from a qualified physician who has completed a course on medical marijuana use and is registered with the Florida Department of Health’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use.
The certification must include the physician’s full name, medical license number, and the patient’s qualifying condition. It must also include a statement that the physician believes that the patient will benefit from the medical use of marijuana. ComCan Healthcare’s doctors are approved to provide direction, daily usage, and obtaining the medical marijuana license.
Applying for a Medical Marijuana Card
Once a patient has a physician’s certification, they can apply for a medical marijuana card with the Florida Department of Health. The application must include:
- The patient’s full name, address, and date of birth
- A copy of the patient’s valid Florida driver’s license or state identification card
- A passport-style photo taken within the last 90 days
- The physician’s certification
Patients can submit their application online or by mail. Once the application is processed and approved, the patient will receive their medical marijuana card in the mail. ComCan’s team of medical marijuana specialists will assist you in getting your card approved and processed right away so you can get to utilizing medical marijuana in your day to day life as needed.
Using Medical Marijuana in Florida
Patients with a medical marijuana card in Florida are allowed to use marijuana for medical purposes. However, there are rules and regulations surrounding the use of medical marijuana in the state.
First, patients are only allowed to use medical marijuana that has been purchased from a licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (MMTC) in Florida. Patients are not allowed to grow their own marijuana.
Second, patients are not allowed to use medical marijuana in public. They must use it in private, such as in their own home.
Finally, patients are not allowed to drive under the influence of medical marijuana. Just like alcohol, it is illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana in Florida.
Here at ComCan Healthcare, our doctors take the time to work out a usage plan that works for you, your lifestyle, and your condition. We’ll walk you through the various products, dosages, and experiences you may come across on your medical marijuana journey.
Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Florida can be a bit of a process, but it is worth it for patients who need it to manage their medical conditions. By following the rules and regulations surrounding medical marijuana use in Florida, patients can legally and safely use medical marijuana for their medical needs. To get started, contact ComCan Healthcare to schedule your appointment!
