Florida law establishes a process for medical cannabis evaluation. This process involves three key components: Florida residency, evaluation by a licensed physician, and state registration. Here’s what you should know about each.
Florida Residency: The First Requirement
You need to be a permanent or seasonal Florida resident. This applies to full-time residents as well as seasonal residents who spend part of the year in Florida.
If you’re a seasonal resident, have documentation ready showing your Florida address. When you book an appointment with MarijMD, the team will walk you through what counts as proof of residency.
Physician Evaluation Requirements
Florida law establishes specific conditions that physicians may evaluate for medical cannabis certification. These include:
Related: What Conditions Qualify for Medical Marijuana in Florida
Related: How to Renew Your Medical Marijuana Card in Florida
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Seizures
- Crohn’s disease
- Chronic muscle spasms
Florida law also allows physicians to evaluate patients with other conditions. The determination is made by the physician during your evaluation based on your individual medical history and circumstances.
A Florida-licensed physician who is registered with the state’s Office of Medical Marijuana must examine you and review your medical history before any certification can be issued.
The Physician Evaluation Process
You must be evaluated by a qualified physician. That doctor needs to be licensed in Florida and registered with the state’s medical marijuana program.
During the evaluation, the physician reviews your medical history, current health status, and any previous treatments you’ve received. Once the physician completes the evaluation, they enter your information into Florida’s medical cannabis registry if they determine certification is appropriate.
What Happens After Physician Certification?
After your evaluation, your doctor submits the certification to Florida. You then apply for your state medical cannabis ID card through the Florida Department of Health. The state charges a $75 fee for the card, whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing it.
Your card is valid for one year and needs to be renewed annually. When it’s time to renew, you’ll need another evaluation from a qualified physician.
Where to Start: Schedule an Evaluation
If you’re interested in medical cannabis evaluation, the first step is to schedule an appointment with a Florida-licensed physician who is registered with the state’s medical marijuana program. MarijMD serves Palm Beach County, including West Palm Beach, Wellington, Palm Beach Gardens, Delray Beach, Jupiter, Boca Raton, and Lake Worth.
MarijMD handles both new patient evaluations and renewals. You can book an appointment online, and the physician will review your medical history and circumstances. If the physician determines certification is appropriate, MarijMD will enter you into the state registry, and then you’re ready to apply for your card.
Common Questions About Florida Medical Cannabis Qualification
Do I need to see a physician for evaluation?
Yes. Florida law requires evaluation by a qualified, licensed physician who is registered with the state.
What if my condition isn’t on the recognized list?
Florida law allows physicians to evaluate patients with conditions not on the standard list. The physician makes this determination during your evaluation based on your individual medical history and circumstances. Bring your full medical history, any test results, and documentation of treatments you’ve received.
Do I have to live in Palm Beach County to use MarijMD?
MarijMD serves the Palm Beach County area, including West Palm Beach, Wellington, Palm Beach Gardens, Delray Beach, Jupiter, Boca Raton, and Lake Worth. If you’re in one of these areas, you can book an appointment. If you’re outside this region, you’ll need to find a qualified physician in your area.
How long does the evaluation process take?
The physician evaluation can typically be completed at your appointment. Once your doctor completes the evaluation, you apply for your state card through the Florida Department of Health. Processing times may vary; ask MarijMD for current details when you book your evaluation.