Medical marijuana became legal in Ohio in the summer of 2016. The decision was made after the lawmakers carefully analyzed statistics from doctors and scientists that cannabis can improve the health of patients suffering from dilapidating or chronic diseases. What sealed the legalization of medical marijuana was the signing of House Bill 523. While applying for an MMJ card, it is always good to consider Ohio medical card cost. 

As much as medical marijuana is legal in Ohio, there are several requirements that a patient needs to meet before accessing the drug. In this post, we’ve explained the requirements needed by patients before accessing medical marijuana. Keep on reading to be more knowledgeable on how to obtain and renew Ohio medical marijuana. 

Steps to obtain Ohio medical marijuana card 

Before a patient or a caregiver can obtain a medical marijuana card in Ohio, they need to follow the laid down criteria. Medical marijuana may be legal in most states in America, but it is still a controlled drug. Patients and caregivers need to seek approval first from the Department of Health in Ohio. Approvals are applied when a patient proves that he or she is suffering from a qualifying medical condition. These are health issues that keep on recurring or chronic. 

1. Seek recommendations from a state-licensed doctor 

Before you can apply for medical marijuana in Ohio, you need to book an appointment with a licensed physician from Ohio. Remember that not all doctors in Ohio advocate for the use of medical marijuana. When looking for a licensed, practicing doctor from Ohio, you need to ensure that they support medical marijuana use. Once you are at the doctor’s office, you will have to provide personal medical records or family medical history. You need to provide enough proof that you are indeed suffering from qualifying medical conditions with dilapidating symptoms. Remember to ask about Ohio medical card cost while you are consulting with your doctor. 

You can also contact your doctor online for a telemedicine session if you can’t make it to his or her office. The doctor will fill out a recommendation form to be sent to the State Department of Health. Patients registered for the MMJ program in Ohio will have an easy time applying for a medical marijuana card. 

2. Documents needed 

Before you can apply for an Ohio medical marijuana card, you first need to prove that you are an Ohioan. To do this, you will require documents. The document needed to prove residence is a state-issued identification card. And the essential document required is a copy of your driver’s license, which will act as proof of identity. 

Conclusion 

Once you have followed all these steps and you have known Ohio medical card cost, a medical marijuana card will be sent to you if you are approved by the State Department of Health. Your application may also be denied if you can’t prove that you are an Ohioan resident or if you are not suffering from any qualifying medical condition. Your card will only be valid for a year, and then you have to renew it.