Understanding the conditions that qualify for a medical marijuana card can be confusing. Fortunately, new research is uncovering ways to use cannabis to improve people’s lives.
One common condition that qualifies for a medical marijuana card is chemotherapy-induced nausea. Existing antiemetics are often ineffective, but marijuana can help. This helps reduce vomiting and the associated pain and discomfort.
Anxiety Disorders
People with generalized anxiety disorder have persistent excessive worry that interferes with their daily lives. They may also have physical symptoms, such as restlessness, muscle tension, or difficulty sleeping. The concerns focus on everyday issues like work, family, or money.
Other anxiety disorders include panic disorder, social anxiety, and specific phobias. Treatment for these conditions often includes psychotherapy or talk therapy. A common type of psychotherapy for anxiety is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). If you struggle with fears, CBT can teach you new ways of thinking and behaving to overcome them. This may involve gradually exposing yourself to anxiety-inducing situations through exposure therapy. If you’re seeking a medical marijuana card, you’ll need to be diagnosed with a qualifying condition and have a signed certification from your doctor. Your doctor must be registered with the state to certify patients for cannabis use. You can find a registered healthcare practitioner by searching for a physician in your area on the MMCP website. Once you have a physician’s certification, you can apply online for a registry ID card. You must carry your card whenever you have medical marijuana.
Chronic Pain
When it comes to treating chronic pain, cannabis can be highly effective. Many physicians have reported that they have been able to reduce or eliminate their patients’ pharmaceutical medications with marijuana alone.
As a result, the use of this plant for this purpose has become quite popular in both Pennsylvania and Ohio. In the case of Pennsylvania, pain qualifies as a medical marijuana condition under state law. However, speaking with your primary care physician before trying new treatments is essential. They will determine whether medical marijuana is an appropriate option for you.
Anxiety disorders have been known to qualify to become a Virginia marijuana card holder as well. One company that offers to serve Pennsylvania patients features guidance online titled “How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card Without a Condition.”
While data from some states shows that patients may have more than one medical condition for which they are certified, anxiety disorders are the most common reason doctors give certifications. In 2021, for example, anxiety disorders made up 51% of all certifications.
PTSD
PTSD can occur when someone experiences a trauma that leaves them in significant distress. Symptoms of this condition may last more than a month and interfere with the person’s daily functioning. It can affect people directly affected by the event and those who witness it and pick up the pieces afterward, such as first responders and law enforcement officers. It can also impact the family and friends of those who go through the experience.
Those who suffer from this condition and qualify to use medical marijuana for it can apply for an MMIC. They must also designate a primary caregiver. Once these requirements are met, the patient can purchase, possess, grow, and transport marijuana for treatment. The MMIC is valid for one year.
A patient must submit medical documentation completed by their physician that attests to the seriousness of their condition. They must also complete a course that provides education about the pharmacology of cannabis. Approved education providers offer the courses, and they can be completed online.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, is an umbrella term for conditions that cause chronic inflammation of the intestines. This condition isn’t always fatal but can lead to life-threatening complications.
Symptoms of IBD vary widely and can range from mild to severe. It is essential to speak with a doctor to learn about your symptoms and what they mean for you.
New York’s medical marijuana program requires patients to have a qualifying medical condition. You must also have a practitioner register you for the program. This includes physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses. In addition, you can designate up to five caregivers to administer or store cannabis on your behalf.
During an appointment with a practitioner, you will discuss your condition and determine if it qualifies you for participation in the medical marijuana program. If it does, your practitioner will issue an Authorizing Provider Statement, and you can apply online with the state. This is the only way to get a medical marijuana card in New York until 2023 when adult-use sales begin.
Seizures
Seizures are caused by a temporary surge of electrical activity in parts of your brain. These bursts of exercise can cause symptoms like jerking movements, staring spells, and passing out. If you have seizures, you can qualify for a medical marijuana card with the help of a physician who is registered to certify patients for cannabis use in your state.
During your medical consultation, your healthcare provider will inquire about your medical history and any symptoms you may be experiencing. They may do blood tests that check for metabolic and blood chemistry problems, immune system issues, toxins, and poisons. They will also ask you how long the seizures last and whether they’re provoked or unprovoked.
If your doctor approves you, they will give you a certification that you must present to a dispensary when purchasing medical marijuana in New York. The certificate must include your name and a copy of a valid government ID like a driver’s license or passport. If you’re under 18, your parent or guardian must sign the certification. You must then register online for a New York medical marijuana registry identification card.
