How to Qualify as a Medical Marijuana Patient in Arizona

Cannabis or marijuana remains to be controversial. It is still illegal in many places in the world as too much of it can be addicting and can mess you up. However, it has been legalized in some areas, including Arizona, for medical use.

But before you can buy weed and use it to cure your health issue, you need to get an Arizona medical marijuana card.

What is a Medical Marijuana Card, and Why Do You need it?

An Arizona medical marijuana card allows you to buy marijuana as part of your medications. It is almost like a prescription—without one, you will not be able to purchase the drugs that you need.

The US government gives the card through the Arizona Department of Health Services.

However, even if marijuana is available legally in Arizona, you cannot get your hands on it without a card. Plus, you can only get the required dosage of cannabis that is prescribed by a professional physician, which is usually up to 2.5 ounces only.

Who can Get Medical Marijuana Card?

There are specific qualifications that you need to meet if you want to get this card, which is the following:

• Must be 18 years old and above (a legal guardian registered as a caregiver should accompany patients who are below 18)
• Must have a valid Arizona ID or an Arizona Driver’s License
• Must have an Arizona address

Patients must also have at least one of the following conditions to qualify for a medical marijuana card:

• HIV
• AIDS
• Cancer
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Seizures and epilepsy
• Crohn’s disease
• Glaucoma
• Hepatitis C
• Chronic pain including migraines or arthritis
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
• Severe nausea
• Severe or persistent muscle spasms, including that from multiple sclerosis
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

How to Get the Card

If you think you qualify, you can schedule an appointment with a marijuana doctor in Arizona. There are several places where you can find these professionals, especially on the internet.

However, ensure that your source is reliable and that you are meeting with a legit and licensed doctor.

You can also sign up on several websites that can help you process your medical marijuana card. By signing up, you can easily upload your medical records, set an appointment with a doctor, get checked, and get approved.

Of course, there are fees included, which is around $199 to $379. But, be sure they are HSA and FSA approved.

Bring your medical records, a valid ID, and a signed Patient Attestation Form. Once you do so, you will get an appointment and will be consulting with a licensed physician. During this time, you will talk about your medical issues, and they can provide you with your medical marijuana treatment.

Ask whatever you need to know, specifically the treatment. After that, you can pay the patient fee of $150 to the state.

Once you have finished your consultation, and you have passed your application, the process is complete. The state will review your request and send your card after 14 days.

However, be reminded that you need to be re-certified by your doctor annually. You will likely receive a notification when your card is near its expiration so that you can work on your card renewal.

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