Everything these days is as accessible as ever thanks to technology, and lucky for you – that includes finding medical marijuana doctors. A simple google search can tell you everything you need to know to find the doctor for you. That includes their reviews, offerings, photos, and pricing.
“Spending a little time upfront to locate the provider you want can make all of the difference in the end and help you receive the treatment you need. While there are plenty of medical marijuana providers out there, not all of them are fit for you.”
Gone are the days when you need to be hush-hush and ask around for your medical card under the radar. Even in states, recreational usage is not legal, most of them are medically legal, and each city has more than one option to choose from when looking at medical marijuana doctors. Here’s what you need to know about finding the right one for you.
Check State Guidelines
Every state is different. You’ll want to check your state’s list of qualifying medical conditions to see if you’re eligible for a card. Some states may be more restricted than others.
For example, you may need to go to a qualified doctor’s office before you’re eligible for legal marijuana consumption. Also, some states may only prescribe for severe medical conditions such as cancer or AIDS, and others will allow for sleep disorders and anxiety-related disorders prescriptions.
For example, medical marijuana in washington will have a much easier process than, say, in Kentucky.
Obtain Your Medical Record
Before going in for any appointments or submitting your application, you will likely need to have your medical record handy. It will need to include detailed aspects of your health complications that permit you to obtain a medical marijuana card.
You can simply have your primary physician fax over the documentation you need before your appointment or have them print the docs to make it easier on you.
Research Experts
You’re going to want to find a provider that has a plan for you. This can include a holistic provider with an emphasis on cannabis use but doesn’t have to. You’ll want someone who wants to know you and how to properly treat your symptoms.
How much dosage you may need or how often you may need to increase it. Often, treatment can be complex, and your provider should have a written, detailed plan for you. This should be based on your needs and their expertise.
Prepare for Follow Up
You should expect to be followed up with. You want a doctor who has your well-being at the forefront. From a quality doctor, you can expect to be asked how you’re feeling periodically and related questions. Those questions can include whether the treatment is working, if you need a higher or lower dosage, any side effects, and so on.
Find Someone to Make Recommendations
You want a doctor that is going to give you specific recommendations when heading into the dispensary. There are so many options out there in today’s cannabis industry.
They all have varying effects, and some are significantly stronger than others. Every ailment and disorder calls for a different strain of marijuana, so each should be treated as an individual. In the end, this shows that your provider cares. Any doctor can just send a medical card your way and disappear. Avoid that.
Shop Around
Doctors, including medical marijuana providers, may have varying offerings and price ranges, but what you want universally is safety and to be cared for. This is no different than carefully choosing a regular everyday doctor. They are prescribing you a medicinal plant and should be treated the same.
Remember, it is okay to shop around, ask questions, and jump to a different doctor if you aren’t getting what you need. Be sure to keep your needs at the forefront. Finding the right doctor is just the beginning, but you want it to be a good beginning so you can start on the right foot. Don’t be afraid to compare potential providers.
Conclusion
Choosing a medical marijuana provider is just as unique and important as choosing any other healthcare professional. At the end of the day, you want to find someone who is competent and cares for you as a patient, not just a price tag.
Spending a little time upfront to locate the provider you want can make all of the difference in the end and help you receive the treatment you need. While there are plenty of medical marijuana providers out there, not all of them are fit for you.
