How To Get A Medical Marijuana Card

It’s no secret that Minnesota has one of the strictest and most conservative medical marijuana programs in the country. The program has added several other conditions since. These include chronic/intractable pain, PTSD, autism, and obstructive sleep apnea. The limited capacity of the program means that MMJ dispensaries in Minnesota are not faring well. Those caught in possession of marijuana in Minnesota without an MMJ card are still subject to harsh criminal penalties. However, possession of more than 42.5 grams is a felony offense. Regardless of the current restrictions/limitations in place, if you are wondering how to get a medical marijuana card in Minnesota, we can help. This comprehensive guide outlines the steps you need to take. It also highlights critical information and considerations relating to MMJ card approval. Need a Medical Marijuana Card ? The process of obtaining a medical card in the state of Minnesota is relatively straightforward. Unlike in a few other states, it is possible to do part of the process online. Here are the steps you need to take to apply for a medical marijuana card in Minnesota.

Retrieve your medical records and contact a physician or other health care professional. It isn’t easy to find one that is willing to look over your records to see if you are a qualified patient. In early 2019, it was revealed that 30 doctors were responsible for certifying half of all enrolled patients! At present, a significant number of people continue to drop out of the program. Only doctors, physician assistants, or advanced practice registered nurses can certify that you have a qualifying medical condition. We provide a list of these conditions a little later. You must provide an email address for the healthcare provider’s office. This is because they register you with the state’s online Medical Cannabis Patient Registry. Complete, sign, and bring in the Patient E-mail Acknowledgement Form to the physician. It states that you will receive an email notification from the office explaining how to proceed with the application.

Please note that healthcare providers are NOT required by law to review your records or issue you a marijuana certification. This is the case even if you are a patient with a documented qualifying condition. Having trouble finding a qualified healthcare provider that is willing to look over your information? During the assessment, the doctor will look through your medical records. They will also discuss why you believe you require MMJ for your condition. Once the physician certifies you, expect an email from the Minnesota Office of Medical Cannabis. We advise you also to check your spam and junk folders if you don’t receive it within a few days. This is a crucial email as it contains the link required to register online. It also has a vital information sheet you should read before completing the registration. The certification lasts for 90 days, so make sure you complete the process within this timeframe. Once you have received the email link, you will need to register online.

A government-issued ID showing proof of MN residency. Examples include your state of Minnesota ID or driver’s license. You can scan a photo from your phone. Your government assistance plan ID. This can consist of an ID for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability (SSD), Medical Assistance, CHAMPVA, Veteran Affairs, Indian Health Service, or Medicaid ID. You’ll have to scan the ID in a format that’s no larger than 3 MB. Medicare Cards are NOT accepted. A credit card to pay the non-refundable Registration Fee. The Patient Self-Evaluation Report, which is accessible in your account in the registry. While this may seem like a lot, the process is quite easy and shouldn’t take that long. Once you have finished the Patient Self-Evaluation Report, you will receive another verification email. It states that your account is approved and that you are now eligible to visit a Cannabis Patient Center. The MMJ program processes enrollments in the order they are received.

As a result, it could take up to 30 days to receive approval. Once you receive your approval email, you may then visit the Cannabis Patient Center (CPC). Either you, your parent, your legal guardian, or your caregiver must visit the CPC. Make sure you bring your appointment summary and list of medications you currently use. A pharmacist will review your information and recommend a specific dosage and type. You do NOT have the freedom to choose your cannabis products. You can check here for a complete list of CPC locations in the state of Minnesota. When your CPC medical cannabis supply runs out, you need to log back into your Patient Account and complete an additional Patient Self Evaluation Form. Once completed, you may then re-visit the CPC to receive your next supply of medication. What Are the Minnesota Medical Card Costs? You need to re-enroll in the program annually. Reduced application/renewal fees are available for patients on Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability, Medicaid, MNCare, IHS, or CHAMPVA.