If you are a resident of Ohio and are interested in using medical marijuana to treat your illness, then this blog post is for you! In this post, we will discuss the process of how to get a medical marijuana card in Ohio.
Understand the Qualifying Conditions for Medical Marijuana in Ohio
Ohio is one of many states that allow its residents to obtain medical marijuana for medicinal use under certain conditions. To qualify, a licensed medical practitioner must determine that the patient suffers from at least one of over twenty eligible medical conditions, including HIV/AIDS, cancer, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Even if you’re suffering from a debilitating condition not listed, the state grants discretion to qualified physicians to determine the need for medical marijuana on an individual basis. Fortunately, patients don't have to endure the stigma associated with recreational marijuana use in order to benefit from its medically approved applications.
Registered users receive a card which allows them to obtain their prescribed dose at an authorized dispensary. With these guidelines now in place, those with qualifying conditions are now better able to manage pain and alleviate symptoms with a medication that offers fewer side effects.
Get a Written Certification from an Approved Physician
Once you have determined that you have a condition that qualifies for medical marijuana, the next step is to get a written certification from an approved physician. The doctor must be licensed in the state of Ohio and must include a statement confirming that they are recommending the patient for medical marijuana treatment. This document will serve as evidence of your eligibility when applying for your medical marijuana card.
Complete the Application Process
Once you have a written certification from an approved physician, the next step is to complete the application process. Ohio’s Medical Marijuana Control Program provides all the necessary information and forms on its website.
After completing and submitting your application, you will be required to pay an application fee of $50, which you will have to continue to pay annually, as long as your medical marijuana card is valid.
It’s important to keep in mind that only Ohio residents are eligible to apply for a medical marijuana card, and that proof of residency must be submitted at least 30 days prior to applying for a medical marijuana card, otherwise, your application will be rejected. If you’re interested in applying for your Ohio medical marijuana card, visit Veriheal to take the first steps.
Receive Your Medical Marijuana Card
The last step is to receive your medical marijuana card. After submitting your application and paying the necessary fees, it can take up to 30 days for you to receive your card in the mail. But you don’t always have to wait until you have received it before you can then obtain your prescribed dose of medical marijuana.
The state of Ohio also allows doctors to issue a temporary medical marijuana permit for patients to use while they await their permanent card in the mail. This allows patients with debilitating conditions to acquire much-needed medicine without having to wait for their cards.
Visit dispensaries to Purchase Medical Marijuana
Once your card has been received and activated, you may visit one of the licensed dispensaries in Ohio to purchase medical marijuana. Make sure you bring your medical marijuana card and valid ID with you when visiting a dispensary as they will be necessary for making purchases.
It’s also important to remember that while medical marijuana is now legal in Ohio, it is still illegal to possess or consume marijuana outside of the parameters set out by the state’s Medical Marijuana Control Program.
Any violations of these rules can result in serious penalties, so make sure you know and obey all regulations when using your medical marijuana card.
Conclusion
Medical marijuana offers many potential benefits for those with qualifying conditions. By following the steps outlined in this guide, Ohio residents can gain access to medical marijuana quickly and easily. With a valid medical marijuana card, you will be able to purchase your prescribed dose from authorized dispensaries and manage your condition more effectively. Be sure to research all applicable laws before you begin the process, and never purchase or use marijuana outside of the parameters set out by the state.