Medical Cannabis: The Basics (Pennsylvania)

As more people find out the benefits of medical cannabis, there are also a lot of questions.

Is it right for me? What are the side effects? Will get in trouble for this?

Every person is an individual and everyone’s health needs are different. You always want to discuss your health needs with your physician. What I offer below are a few tips.

1. Go to the Pennsylvania Website - The website gives step by step instructions on how to access medical cannabis if you have a qualifying condition. It lists the qualifying conditions and has a link to a list of certifiers organized by county.

2. Register for Medical Cannabis Program - Once you determine that you have a qualifying condition and that you wish to pursue treatment with medical cannabis, you can register for the Pennslyvania Program. The registry is VERY particular. The information you use to register must be exactly as it appears on your ID or you will get an error message. Your ID must be a Pennsylvania driver’s license or an ID card issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

3. Choose your certifier - The PA website has a comprehensive list of approved certifiers organized by county. I recommend find the ones closest to you and then researching them. Ask your self, how knowledgeable are they about medical cannabis? While they will not be prescribing this to you, they should be able to answer basic questions about how medical cannabis may or may not benefit you.

4. Meeting with certifier - Remember to bring records about your qualifying condition. Have an updated list of your medications, herbs, and supplements. The certifier will need this to counsel you properly on any interactions.

5. Order your card - Once certified, you will need to log back onto the Pennsylvania website. After the system updates with your certification, you can order your card. If you have a financial hardship, there are options to have your case reviewed for a fee waiver.

6. Find a dispensary - You cannot enter a dispensary without a medical marijuana card.

Special cases

Caregivers - All minors will need to have a registered caregiver. Caregivers can register through the PA website. Caregivers must be at least 21 years old, a Pennsylvania resident and complete a criminal history background check. The caregiver application process can take four to six weeks.

Caregivers can not have been convicted of a criminal offense relating to the sale or possession of drugs, narcotics, or a controlled substance in the last five years.