In recent years, medical marijuana has gained a lot of traction in the state of Louisiana as a feasible option for patients who are looking for relief from a variety of different medical conditions. However, to legally purchase and use medical marijuana in Louisiana, you will first need to acquire a medical marijuana card from the state. In the following paragraphs, we will go over the procedures that must be followed to get a card allowing you to legally use marijuana for medicinal purposes in Louisiana.
1. Determine If You Qualify
Before you start the process of obtaining a medical marijuana Louisiana card, you need to make sure that you qualify for one. The state of Louisiana has a list of qualifying conditions that may be treated with medical marijuana. These conditions include:
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Crohn’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Muscular dystrophy
- Seizure disorders
- Glaucoma
- Parkinson’s disease
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
If you suffer from one of these conditions or have been diagnosed with a condition that is similar to and could benefit from medical marijuana, you may qualify for a medical marijuana card in Louisiana.
2. Obtain A Recommendation From A Qualified Physician
The next step in obtaining a medical marijuana card in Louisiana is to obtain a recommendation from a qualified physician. To obtain a recommendation, you must first establish a bona fide physician-patient relationship with a medical practitioner who has been granted a Louisiana licensure.
Once you have established a relationship with a qualified physician, they will need to certify that you have one of the qualifying medical conditions and that medical marijuana may be beneficial in treating your condition. The physician will then provide you with a recommendation, which you will need to include in your application for a medical marijuana card.
3. Complete The Application
A medicinal marijuana card in Louisiana can be applied for after you have received a recommendation from a doctor. The application can be found on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and must be completed in its entirety.
In addition to providing your personal information and medical history, you will need to provide a copy of your recommendation from a qualified physician. In addition to filling out an application and providing evidence of Louisiana residency, you will be required to pay a non-refundable application fee.
4. Wait For Approval
After you have submitted your application for a medical marijuana card in Louisiana, you will need to wait for approval. The Louisiana Department of Health will review your application and will either approve or deny your request for a medical marijuana card.
After your application has been reviewed and accepted, your medical marijuana card will be sent to you. Your card will have a yearly expiration date and will need to be updated each year.
5. Purchase Medical Marijuana
If you qualify for medicinal marijuana in Louisiana, you can make purchases from approved dispensaries after obtaining a medical marijuana card. Louisiana currently has nine licensed dispensaries, and you will need to choose one to purchase your medical marijuana.
Before you visit a dispensary, you should research the different strains of medical marijuana that are available and discuss your options with your physician. It is important to remember that medical marijuana should only be used under the guidance of a medical professional and by state laws.
Conclusion
Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Louisiana can be a relatively simple process if you follow the steps outlined above. Remember to first determine if you qualify, obtain a recommendation from a qualified physician, complete the application, wait for approval, and then purchase medical marijuana from a licensed dispensary. If you have a qualifying medical condition in Louisiana, you can get a medical marijuana card that will allow you to lawfully buy and use marijuana for medical purposes.