This article was originally published on the Marijuana Patients Organization site on November 22, 2013.
Two of the biggest questions we field at the MPO is ‘What should I expect at the doctors office?’ and ‘will my primary doctor sign a prescription?’
The first step is to ask your primary physician if they would help you get a state certification. In order to qualify for a card, there are different rules in different states and some times doctors simply don’t understand these rules and will often tell you to find a marijuana specialized physician.
So you find a doctor on caponeofcannabis.com/, and schedule a time to meet. It is important to bring documentation with you. For example if you broke your leg and have chronic pain from that, you will likely bring x-rays with you. Any medical records you have related to your condition.
Say you have some form of arthritis and you have not been to a doctor for some time. What do you do?
Having a pain journal or ‘diary’ talking about your pain and your experience with drugs like marijuana will be helpful and important for the doctor.
Even if you used marijuana illegally you should always feel safe discussing your use during your doctors visit. They are there to help not arrest you. Be honest with them.
Getting a card is no different than any other office visit, be ready to wait in a lobby, get bombarded with a few forms and discuss your health.
To find a medical professional in your area visit maijuanapatients.org.