If you’re considering whether to speak with a physician about medical cannabis in Florida, you’re not alone. Many people in Palm Beach County are exploring this option. Here’s what you should know: Florida recognizes approximately 20 conditions listed in state law, and physicians may also evaluate other conditions based on individual circumstances.

The key thing to understand is that you cannot self-diagnose or apply on your own. You need a board-certified, Florida-licensed physician to evaluate you. That’s where the process starts, and it’s the first step.

Conditions Listed Under Florida Law

Florida law lists specific conditions. If you have one of these, you may be eligible for evaluation:

• Cancer
• Epilepsy
• Glaucoma
• HIV/AIDS
• Crohn’s disease
• Seizure disorders
• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
• ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease)
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Muscular dystrophy
• Myasthenia gravis
• Neuropathy
• Chronic muscle spasms
• Osteoarthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Terminal conditions

These are the conditions the state recognizes. If you have one of them, you may discuss evaluation with a physician.

Conditions That May Be Evaluated by Physicians

There is a second group of conditions that Florida allows physicians to evaluate based on their professional judgment. These include anxiety, anorexia, adult ADHD, arthritis, bipolar disorder (with anxiety or depression), and chronic back pain.

Here’s what that means: a physician can evaluate you for these conditions and determine whether to recommend you for the program based on their professional assessment. It is not automatic, but evaluation is possible. A physician will need to assess your individual situation.

Beyond those, Florida law also allows a qualified physician to evaluate you for any other condition where, in the physician’s judgment, evaluation is appropriate. This means your doctor can consider your individual health situation.

What May Prevent Qualification

It’s helpful to know upfront what factors a physician will consider. You may not qualify if:

• You do not have a condition a physician would evaluate
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You have a health condition that a physician determines makes evaluation inappropriate
• You have certain criminal history issues
• You have a documented history of substance abuse that is currently active

The physician will discuss your full medical history with you during your evaluation. If there is any concern, they will tell you directly.

How the Evaluation Process Works

Once you’ve identified a condition you wish to discuss with a physician, here’s what happens next.

Related: Florida Medical Marijuana Registry Enrollment: Step-by-Step

Related: How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Florida: Step-by-Step

First, you book an appointment with a qualified physician. The doctor will review your medical records and talk with you about your condition and your medical history. This is a real conversation between you and your healthcare provider.

Related: What to Expect at a Medical Marijuana Card Appointment

If the physician determines you qualify, they will enter you into Florida’s medical cannabis registry. Only after that happens can you apply for your state ID card. The state charges a $75 fee for the initial card, and renewals are also $75 per year.

Your medical card is valid for one year and then needs to be renewed annually. That is a simple process, and many patients renew their cards with the same clinic.

If you’re in West Palm Beach, Wellington, Palm Beach Gardens, Delray Beach, Jupiter, Boca Raton, or Lake Worth, MarijMD has board-certified physicians available for evaluation. You can book your appointment online and pay a deposit at the time of booking.

What to Bring to Your Evaluation

Bring your photo ID and your medical records. If you’ve been evaluated or treated for your condition by another doctor, bring those records or have them sent ahead. The physician needs to see documentation of your condition.

Also bring a list of any medications you’re currently taking. This helps the doctor understand your full health picture.

Be honest about your full medical and substance use history. Your doctor needs accurate information to make an informed decision about whether an evaluation is appropriate for you.

After You’re Approved: What’s Next

Once a physician certifies you, you’ll receive documentation to apply for your state ID card through Florida’s Department of Health. The application is straightforward, and you’ll pay the $75 state fee at that time.

Your card typically arrives within a few weeks. Once you have it, you’re able to visit dispensaries and access the state medical cannabis program.

Many first-time patients have questions about the process. It helps to work with a clinic that specializes in these evaluations and can walk you through each step. MarijMD handles hundreds of certifications and renewals every year, and the team is available to answer questions from patients.

Common Questions About Qualifying Conditions

For questions about whether you may qualify, contact MarijMD or speak with a qualified physician.

Can anxiety be evaluated by a physician in Florida?

Anxiety is listed as a condition that physicians may evaluate at their discretion. Your doctor will review your specific situation and medical history to determine whether an evaluation is appropriate.

Can I speak with a physician about chronic pain?

Chronic back pain is a condition physicians may evaluate. Other types of chronic pain may also be considered by a physician. Bring documentation of your condition and be ready to discuss your situation.

What if I have a condition that’s not on the list?

Florida law allows a qualified physician to evaluate you for conditions not explicitly listed. Your doctor can explain whether your condition might be appropriate for evaluation. The best way to find out is to book an evaluation and have a conversation with a physician.

Do I need to live in Palm Beach County to use MarijMD?

MarijMD is located in Palm Beach County and serves 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 schedule an appointment online. If you’re outside the service area, a local qualified physician can help you with your evaluation.