Louisiana is one of the states in the United States that has legalized access to medical cannabis for patients who have a recommendation from a licensed physician. Although Louisiana’s medical cannabis program is relatively young compared to other states, it has been growing and evolving rapidly.
The state first passed medical cannabis legislation in 1978, however the program has never functioned. Then, in 2015, the state’s medical cannabis program was initiated, but it wasn’t until 2019 that the first sales of medical cannabis were allowed. Initially, the program had limitations and only permitted patients to use non-smokable forms of cannabis.
In 2020, a significant expansion of the program took place with the passing of HB 819. This legislation enabled all state-licensed physicians to recommend medical cannabis for any condition they believed would be debilitating for the patient. Subsequently, in 2021, HB 391 was enacted, lifting the ban on smokable cannabis. The implementation of this bill occurred in January 2022. As a result, Louisiana’s medical cannabis program has continued to mature and improve.
Interestingly, unlike many other states, Louisiana does not require patients to register or obtain a medical cannabis card. Instead, physicians enter patients’ information into the state database and send it directly to the patient’s designated dispensary.While this system allows for swift access to medical cannabis, it has both advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, it eliminates the need for state application processing. However, it can pose challenges for patients when they need to identify themselves to law enforcement.
Nonetheless, obtaining a medical cannabis evaluation and recommendation in Louisiana is a relatively quick and straightforward process. The state’s evolving program aims to provide patients with accessible and effective medical cannabis treatment.
How to Apply for a Louisiana Medical Marijuana Card
STEP 1: BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
Start by scheduling an appointment with a Dr.Weedy-affiliated medical marijuana physician, selecting a time that suits your schedule. As part of this step, you’ll need to provide your basic medical history. Remember, at this stage, medical records indicating that you have a qualifying condition(s) are necessary.
STEP 2: CONSULT WITH A MEDICAL MARIJUANA DOCTOR
Join our virtual consultation room at the scheduled time and experience a 15-minute comprehensive assessment with our doctor. During this session, our physician will carefully evaluate your medical condition and concerns.
STEP 3: GET APPROVED
Upon the conclusion of your appointment, if approved, the physician will fill out a recommendation form for medical marijuana and send it directly to your chosen dispensary. This recommendation serves as proof of your eligibility for the medical marijuana program, and the dispensary staff will verify this in the Prescription Monitoring Program database.
In Louisiana, there is no need for patients to register or receive a physical medical marijuana card. Please note, proof of Louisiana residency is essential for your application to be accepted by the state of LA.
Finally, your license will need to be recertified annually, requiring another consultation with a licensed physician. As your certification nears expiration, our team at Dr. Weedy will reach out to help you set up a renewal consultation.
At Dr.Weedy, we aim to make the process as smooth as possible for our patients. We’re here to support you on your path towards improved health and wellness through medical marijuana treatment.
Benefits of Having a Medical Rec in Louisiana
Having a medical marijuana certification in Louisiana comes with several significant advantages. Here are the key benefits you can enjoy as a registered patient:
- Access to a Variety of Products:
Once you have a medical marijuana certificate, you are allowed to possess a maximum 30-day supply of cannabis products. The specific amount will be determined by your physician. Registered patients have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of products, including extracts, oils, pills, tinctures, solutions, suspensions, chewables, metered-dose inhalers, lotions, patches, sprays, and suppositories.
- Purchase Allowance for Cannabis Flower:
Patients registered with the state medical marijuana program are eligible to purchase up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis flower within a 14-day period from licensed dispensaries in Louisiana.
- Tax Exemption:
One significant advantage of having a medical card is that patients are exempt from paying sales tax on their medical marijuana purchases. This exemption can result in substantial cost savings over time, making medical marijuana treatment more affordable for patients.
Caregivers in Louisiana
To become a caregiver in Louisiana, individuals must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Caregivers must be at least 21 years old or older to purchase and assist in administering medical cannabis to a patient.
- Responsibility: They must have significant responsibility for managing the well-being of the patient they are caring for. This includes providing support, monitoring the patient’s health, and ensuring their overall safety and comfort.
- Criminal Record: Caregivers must not have been convicted of a disqualifying felony offense. This requirement ensures that caregivers have a clean legal background and can be trusted in their caregiving role.
- Number of Patients: Caregivers are generally limited to assisting no more than five qualifying patients with their therapeutic use of cannabis. However, an exception is made if the designated caregiver’s qualifying patients reside in or are admitted to a healthcare facility or residential care facility where the caregiver is employed.
- Residency: Caregivers, like the patients, must prove their residency in Louisiana. This can be done by submitting a valid driver’s license or state identification card as proof of residency.
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