Browse All Topics

Programs that register people with specified debilitating medical conditions for a program that allows them to alleviate their symptoms through the limited use of marijuana under medical supervision. Patients must have written certification by a physician that they have one of the medical conditions that qualify for the program (generally cachexia or wasting syndrome, cancer, severe chronic pain, epilepsy and other disorders characterized by seizures, glaucoma, HIV or AIDS, multiple sclerosis and other disorders characterized by muscle spasticity, Crohn's disease or nausea) as well as a statement that the benefits of using marijuana for medical purposes outweigh the health risks. In most areas, a medical marijuana card is issued which enables patients to obtain marijuana and other cannabis products for medical use. Some registration programs also provide telephone verification of an individual's patient status if a medical marijuana dispensary, law enforcement officer or other officials have questions. Medical marijuana programs are only available in states whose electorates have passed ballot measures that remove state-level criminal penalties on the use, possession and cultivation of marijuana by patients and/or their registered caregivers. Qualifications for the program and other requirements vary by state.