Make an Appointment with a Licensed Medical Marijuana Doctor and Get Approved TODAY!
Have questions or prefer to schedule on the phone?
Call: (484) 346-5140
It's Fast and Simple!
At the Sanctuary Wellness Institute, you can access medical marijuana evaluations online, making it easier than ever to receive expert consultations. Our HIPAA-compliant telemedicine platform connects you with certified healthcare professionals who are authorized to evaluate your eligibility for medical marijuana.
These online evaluations provide a convenient, accessible, and secure way to meet with healthcare providers, allowing you to avoid travel and minimize wait times. Online consultations allow you to receive personalized guidance on whether medical marijuana is suitable for your condition, as well as how to proceed with obtaining a medical marijuana card if you qualify.
Medical marijuana refers to cannabis plants or cannabinoids prescribed specifically for therapeutic purposes. The active compounds in cannabis, primarily THC and CBD, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to provide relief from symptoms associated with a wide range of conditions.
Medical marijuana differs from recreational marijuana in that it is carefully monitored and dosed to target specific health concerns under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider. Depending on state regulations, medical marijuana is available in forms such as oils, tinctures, capsules, and smokable flower, each tailored to patient needs.
Each state has its own list of qualifying conditions for medical marijuana, with over 100 recognized conditions across the United States. However, some of the most common qualifying conditions include:
We recommend verifying the specific qualifying conditions in your state, as these lists can vary. Check our Laws by State page for details on qualifying conditions and regulations in your area.
Medical marijuana offers a range of benefits for individuals managing chronic or severe health conditions. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD help reduce inflammation, relieve chronic pain, and ease anxiety, making it an effective therapy for conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, and PTSD.
For instance, medical marijuana may reduce anxiety and improve mood by calming the nervous system. In cases of chronic pain, arthritis, or cancer, it can relieve symptoms without the addictive risks associated with opioids. Additionally, research suggests cannabis may ease symptoms of PTSD, epilepsy, and glaucoma.
Obtaining medical marijuana can vary from state to state, however, the process generally involves these steps:
Schedule an evaluation with a state-certified provider who can determine if you qualify for medical marijuana.
If approved, the physician will provide certification of your condition to submit to your state’s medical marijuana program.
Submit your application to the state and receive your card, which allows access to medical marijuana dispensaries.
Medical marijuana cards are not permanent and must be renewed periodically, usually requiring reevaluation to verify continued eligibility. Renewal processes vary by state but typically involve consulting with a licensed provider, submitting a new application, and paying a renewal fee.
Renewal intervals and requirements differ across states, so patients should review their state-specific guidelines to ensure they remain in compliance and can continue accessing medical marijuana without interruption.
The majority of states with medical marijuana programs require patients to renew their card once a year, however, some states like Maryland only require renewals every 6 years. Some states such as Florida require patients to renew their card on a more regular basis such as every 210 days. It is important to check your state's requirements to keep your card from expiring.
Many states offer medical marijuana caregiver programs, allowing designated individuals to obtain and administer medical marijuana on behalf of patients who cannot do so themselves. This includes patients with debilitating conditions that prevent them from leaving their home as well as minors with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder or Epilepsy.
The caregiver application process typically requires background checks, proof of residency, and patient authorization.
These requirements and limitations, such as the number of patients one caregiver can serve, vary by state. Check with your state’s medical marijuana program for specific caregiver qualifications and responsibilities to ensure compliance.
Book Your AppointmentMarijuana dosing is individualized and depends on the patient’s condition, experience with cannabis, and tolerance. Many providers recommend starting with a low dose and increasing gradually to reach the desired effect.
While different forms of cannabis can have more potent effects than others, in most cases a single dose of THC can range from 5-10 milligrams. For patients new to cannabis it is advisable to start with a low dose and work your way up, this way you can monitor any unwanted side effects.
Patients can also microdose cannabis by keeping the THC level around 1mg to 3mg to feel the benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects. Once THC levels reach about 5mg, patients will be more likely to feel psychological effects.
It’s also important to find a suitable balance between THC and CBD to maximize benefits and minimize unwanted effects. Consulting with a medical provider can help determine the most effective dosage for your unique needs.
Try out our helpful Edible Dosage Calculator to learn how to dose your THC or CBD edibles.
The cost of medical marijuana can vary significantly based on factors such as product type, state taxes, and dosage needs. In addition to dispensary costs, patients may also need to budget for initial and renewal card fees, which vary by state.
Discounts or financial aid programs may be available in some areas for qualifying low-income patients, veterans, or seniors. To get an accurate cost estimate, check your local dispensary’s pricing and inquire about any available financial support options for patients.
In most states, patients must be at least 18 years old to apply for a medical marijuana card. However, minors with qualifying conditions may still be eligible through caregiver programs with parental consent and approval from a certified physician.
Medical marijuana is used specifically for therapeutic purposes, often containing cannabinoids tailored for symptom management. Recreational marijuana is intended for personal enjoyment and may have different THC levels and strains than those used in medical marijuana.
To renew a medical marijuana card, you must schedule a reevaluation with a licensed provider and submit the renewal application to your state. Renewal timelines vary, so check your state’s specific requirements for renewal periods and fees.
The duration medical marijuana stays in the system depends on factors like dosage, frequency of use, and the individual's metabolism. Typically, marijuana can be detected in urine for 3-30 days after use.
The time required to receive a medical marijuana card varies by state but generally ranges from a few days to several weeks after completing your application and medical evaluation.
Our mission is to provide easily accessible health and wellness services to help our patients live their best lives. Reach out to us to learn more about our services.