So, i have finally managed to get my shit together and have taken all the steps required to obtain a medical marijuana card (MMC) from the state of Maryland. First, you must have what the state considers a “qualifying condition” and obtain copies of a record that supports this. Then, one must complete an application for the card online, then get a “recommendation” from a registered provider, then wait to receive the states’ okey dokey to be issued a registration number and card, and then i can visit a local dispensary to discuss my needs with a knowledgable budtender. Currently, i am waiting for the state’s approval of my application – can take 45 days or so.
When i went to see the nearest registered M.D. i was struck by the feeling of farcity (is that a word?) of the process. She was/is a practicing internal med. physician, of advancing years and quite pleasant but i came away thinking what a non-actual medical consult i had just had and wondering if she ever declines a prospective MMJ pts’. request. I also thought about what an easy – read boring – way to spend one’s day and unique abilities. Maybe i’m just jealous.
This whole process could be daunting for folks with limited computer skills (like me), not to mention the cash outlay required. Due to the feds., at this time one must pay with cash – no banking allowed. The visit to the M.D. for a recommendation costs $200.00 and if i want an actual, got-it-in-my-hand card ( so you can prove you’re legal to a cop i guess), it’s another $50.00 please. At the dispensary it’s cash only, but they do take debit cards – again just cash.
I needed help from my sister to complete the online application as well. Thanks, D. (uploading passport style photos and photos of my drivers license). Simple for many, but not all of us. I’m concerned that for many who may want to try MMJ or need to move from taking whatever they can buy on the street to choosing a strain with known attributes, the cost and/or rigmorole of getting a MMC may be too much. Especially the cost.
A lot of people who might benefit from the medicinal qualities of MMJ are disabled, unable to work, and just don’t have hundreds of dollars at their disposal for discretionary spending. I guess that until marijuana is legal recreationally, or recognized as a valid, therapeutic drug covered by insurance there will be barriers to those who may need it most.
And $50.00 for a plastic card – really, Maryland?
BTW – i did attend my brother’s after-party last weekend and it was fine, fun actually. The people i was afraid of seeing again after 40-some years were just wonderful, i had a great time. Life is so much better when you’re not depressed. Duh.
Doc
6/21/18 11am Update – today i became a legal pot-head! Maryland approved my application and it only took 14 days. Now, off to do some shopping.
thebigfarm 