PFA Tips: Medical Cannabis – Process for Applying in Maryland
By Shelly McLaughlin, Program Director, Pathfinders for Autism
Download a printable version of “Medical Cannabis: Process for Applying in Maryland”
Medical Cannabis is becoming an increasingly more popular treatment with the legalization of its use in many states including Maryland. While cannabis is not being prescribed specifically for autism, the cannabinoids (including THC, CBC, CBD, CBG and CBN) are being used to treat symptoms commonly experienced by patients with autism. To obtain medical cannabis as a registered patient in Maryland, registration with the Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) is required.
What medical conditions qualify for patient registration?
Qualifying medical conditions include cachexia, anorexia, wasting syndrome, severe or chronic pain, severe nausea, seizures, severe or persistent muscle spasms, glaucoma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or another chronic medical condition which is severe and for which other treatments have been ineffective.
What are the steps to purchase cannabis as a registered patient?
Step 1: Register as a patient with MCA
Step 2: Obtain a written certification from a provider registered with the MCA
Step 3: Print your temporary MCA patient ID card
Step 4: Visit a licensed Maryland dispensary
Why go through this process if cannabis is now available for recreational use?
There are a few benefits to holding a medical card. Cardholders are not subject to the 9% sales tax. In addition, cardholders have a larger inventory of products to select from.
Step 1: Register as a patient/caregiver with MCA
What is the process to register as a patient?
You will need:
- A valid, accessible email account
- Full 9- digit Social Security Number
- An electronic copy of a valid government-issued photo ID
- Proof that applicant lives in Maryland
1. Complete and submit the appropriate online application form. There is a non-refundable $25 application fee. (At this link, you will see instructions for VA and Medicaid recipient patient ID card fee waivers.)
2. Verify your email address.
3. Completed applications will be reviewed by MCA and you will receive a follow up email advising whether or not your application has been approved.
4. OPTIONAL: Designate a Caregiver.
How long is a registration valid?
Patients renew every six years and Caregivers renew every two years. Renew here
Photo requirements for registration
The number one reason that applications are not processed are due to the ID photos submitted. The MCA requires a photo be attached with your online application and it has very strict guidelines that must be followed. In general, your photo must look like a passport or driver’s license photo. Review specific guidelines. If the photo does not match the exact requirements, you will receive an email and your application will be on hold until you submit a new photo.
What is a caregiver registration?
A caregiver is a person who, once registered with the MCA and in possession of a valid MCA Caregiver ID card, is able to purchase medical cannabis from a licensed Maryland dispensary on behalf of their designated patient(s) and transport the legally obtained medical cannabis to the patient(s). Caregivers must be at least 21 years of age. In the case of a minor patient (under 18 years of age), only the minor patient’s parents or legal guardians, themselves aged 21 years or older, are eligible to serve as caregivers. A caregiver ID card is $25.00. Review specific caregiver requirements and caregiver registration information.
Step 2: Obtain a written certification from a provider registered with the Commission
Where can a registered patient find an approved provider to obtain a written certification?
Once a patient has been approved by the MCA, the next step is to obtain a written certification. Find an approved registered provider. Click on Find a Provider. If the provider determines that the patient qualifies for a medical card, they will issue a written certification which is uploaded into your account. The written certification is valid for one year.
Your certification from the approved provider expires if not used to purchase cannabis at least once within 120-days of when certification was issued.
Step 3: Print your temporary MCA ID card
How do I purchase my card?
After receiving a written certification, log-in to your OneStop account (with the username and password you selected during registration). Click on “My Dashboard” under “My License, Permits, and Registration”. Click on the “Patient License Number”, then click on “Actions” tab (green button) and select “Temporary ID Card” to view or print. A temporary ID card can only be printed within 90 days of the approval date. After 90 days, you will no longer be able to print a Temporary ID card.
Step 4: Visit a licensed Maryland dispensary
Where can a registered patient purchase legal medical cannabis?
A Maryland patient can only obtain legal medical cannabis from Maryland-licensed dispensaries.
In order to make a medical purchase, the patient must present the written certification and MCA patient ID card at the dispensary.
How much can a registered patient purchase?
Your written certification will state how many grams of dried flower product OR how many grams of THC in processed products you may purchase per month. Sign into your OneStop account and click on My Dashboard to see your written certification. The limit is calculated as a rolling 30 day limit. That is, the amount that a patient may purchase today is calculated as the certified amount minus the total of all purchases made in the last 30 days.
**Pathfinders for Autism (PFA) does not endorse any specific treatments or therapies. Information provided is not meant to serve as medical advice. PFA urges individuals exploring any treatment to work with their treating physician to make the best decisions for their own care. Patients considering the use of medical cannabis need to be aware of Maryland’s law and regulations. PFA supports the need for more scientific research on cannabinoids for autism related symptoms.
Additional Resources
Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission – home page
Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission – Patient Registration
PFA Medical Cannabis Resources
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