Cannabis is a wonder plant that a lot of people are beginning to find more value in.
Studies show that medical cannabis is useful for many different ailments, and people worldwide are starting to recognize this. It’s still illegal on the federal level, so you should understand how to buy and use cannabis in your state.
If you’re in Pennsylvania and want to find out how to use cannabis, it all starts with applying for your medical card. Here’s what you need to know when you’re looking to get a medical marijuana card in Pennsylvania.
Learn the Requirements For Getting a Pennsylvania Medical Cannabis Card
So what do you have to do to get a medical cannabis card legally?
First off, you need to make sure that you have a relevant medical issue. In Pennsylvania, some of the ailments that would qualify you for a medical card include insomnia, Chron’s disease, glaucoma, anxiety, depression, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and other issues.
Unlike most states, you can’t smoke cannabis in Pennsylvania, even if it’s purchased medically. The state enacted medical cannabis legislation in 2016 that state patients can buy cannabis in the form of vapes, tinctures, and other such methods.
The state legislature recently legalized flower cannabis, but patients still cannot smoke in the state yet. If you purchase flower cannabis, you can only use it in the form of a vape.
If you’re 18 or older and qualify based on the medical criteria above, you can get your Pennsylvania medical cannabis card. You’ll need to sign up in the state database and have a valid Pennsylvania state ID, such as a driver’s license.
Whether you want to take advantage of the anti-inflammation properties or get help with your anxiety, cannabis can help you out.
Research the Laws So You Can Purchase and Use Cannabis Responsibly
Once you understand how to get a medical cannabis card in Pennsylvania, you’ll have a prescription that can be used all over the state. You’re allowed to purchase and carry no more than a month’s supply of liquified cannabis.
These packages must be closed and put away when you’re in your vehicle. The cannabis that you purchase and use has to come from state-sponsored dispensaries that are licensed and insured.
Use PrestoDoctor to get your Medical Marijuana Recommendation
Now that you know the prerequisites of getting medical cannabis, you must find a doctor to help you. Our physicians are licensed and insured and can help you get your medical cannabis card.
They’ll go through the list of applicable symptoms and ask you if cannabis has been a treatment that has worked in the past for you.
Pay For Fees and Keep a Copy of Your Paperwork
You’ll need to pay for the doctor’s visit and some fees for your medical card.
Your prescription will come with a patient number, and you’ll be enrolled in a database. Keep a hard copy of your recommendation with a digital copy so that you can purchase cannabis either in person or online.
Look For Dispensaries That Can Sell You Medical Cannabis
Once you’ve received your prescription, it’s essential to find a dispensary help to sell you what you need. Make sure that they’re state licensed so that all your purchases are legal.
The dispensaries are staffed with professionals that understand cannabis cultivation and the effects that come with the territory. They will offer you plenty of advice on what products you should be purchasing and can advise you on the legal aspect of being a cannabis patient.
Research the Different Products Available and Their Uses
It’s one thing to purchase cannabis, and another thing to be an informed consumer. Since you’re using cannabis for medical reasons, you’ll need to research how it interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system and how it helps you with your ailments.
Cannabis categories are broken down into Indica, Sativa, and hybrids. Indicas are more of a body high and tend to make you sleepier, while Sativas give you an energy buzz and have more cerebral qualities. Hybrid strains consist of a mixture of both.
When you know how each strain interacts with your brain and body, you can figure out which is the best remedy. Each vial of cannabis oil will also list the THC and CBD content, along with its overall potency.
Act Within the Law and Renew Your Card When Necessary
Since Pennsylvania is strictly a medical state, never get lackadaisical about how you use it. The last thing you’d want is to get a drug charge because you didn’t follow the law’s letter with your medical cannabis possession.
Keep your card with you and make sure that you renew your medical prescription each year before the deadline.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card in Pennsylvania
These tips will help you get your medical marijuana card in Pennsylvania. If you love how cannabis helps your health, you’ll want to take time out to scratch this item off your list.
We’d be happy to help you make this a reality. Reach out to us to take advantage of our resources and to learn more about medical cannabis.