A medical weed card gives you access to countless medical-grade products with more potent and relaxing effects. This difference between products is crucial for many cannabis enthusiasts — especially those living with chronic pain and other medical conditions.
In this post we’ll discuss how to get a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts and the wide scope of medical marijuana card benefits.
What Is a Medical Weed Card For?
A medical marijuana card gives you access to various “medical-grade” cannabis products. A card is necessary to purchase weed in states where cannabis is legal medically but not recreationally. Even in states where cannabis is fully legal — such as Massachusetts — you can’t buy medical-grade weed without a card. Instead, you’ll be restricted to recreational dispensaries and products.
Medical marijuana benefits users in ways that recreational products simply can’t. This is because medical cannabis generally has higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and, most importantly, cannabinol (CBD). This strengthens medical weed’s feelings of relaxation, euphoria, and pain relief.
How To Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, you must receive your medical card from the Massachusetts Medical Use of Marijuana program. Registration is now free, though replacement cards cost $10.
Follow these steps to get a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts:
1. Receive a Written Recommendation
A certifying healthcare provider must write a recommendation citing that you have a qualifying medical condition. Your provider can be a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant who is officially registered in the Massachusetts Medical Use of Marijuana program. Individuals under the age of 18 must have certification from at least two providers, including one pediatrician or pediatric specialist.
Qualifying conditions for medical marijuana cards in Massachusetts include:
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Arthritis
- Chronic pain
- Crohn’s disease
- Depression
- Glaucoma
- Hepatitis C
- Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Insomnia
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Sarcoma
After your certification is filed with the state program, you will receive a personal identification number (PIN) to sign into the online portal. However, this may take time to complete.
Prepare Your ID and ID Photo
While waiting for your PIN, double-check that you have a valid ID, such as a driver’s license. Then, you will need a professional passport-style photo. Due to strict ID criteria, having your picture taken professionally is usually easier. Many corporate pharmacy stores with photo departments can do this relatively cheaply.
Register Online
After receiving your PIN and photo, visit the state program’s online system. This will take you through several easy steps to complete your medical marijuana card application form. Once your application is approved, your card should arrive in about 14 business days.
Do You Need a Medical Marijuana Card at Harbor House Collective?
For many people, using cannabis is about more than having a good time. Medical-grade products can help treat pain, insomnia, anxiety, and more. At Harbor House Collective, we are dedicated to keeping safe and high-quality weed accessible to our community. We can point you toward your best products and help you learn how to get a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts.
Visit Harbor House in Chelsea to learn more.
