Getting a medical marijuana card is an intricate process, and the specific rules and regulations governing medical marijuana programs differ from state to state. From certifying qualifying conditions and receiving the appropriate doctor recommendations, all the way through to the paperwork and application process, there are a lot of moving parts that applicants need to be aware of if they are to successfully qualify for a medical marijuana card.
If you are considering getting a medical marijuana card, you need to know the process thoroughly to ensure you do not make mistakes along the way. Errors, discrepancies, or false information in your application could ultimately lead to rejection. There are many mistakes people make when applying for a medical card, and here are just a few to look out for.
Not Defining Your Needs
Before even thinking about applying for your medical marijuana card, you need to be able to present a clear reason why medical marijuana is right for you. In most states, this begins by being officially diagnosed with a qualifying condition by a medical professional. This is often combined with a doctor’s recommendation for medical marijuana as a treatment for your condition. Attempting to apply without an official diagnosis or recommendation is not even possible in most states, but will ultimately result in a rejection regardless.
Providing Incorrect Information
Incorrectly filling out applications and forms can result in the rejection of your medical marijuana application. Guidelines vary in each state, but mistakes that are common grounds for rejection include:
- Failing to fill out forms within the appropriate time frame
- Missing necessary paperwork or required information
- Illegible writing, or writing over existing information to make corrections
- The signature and notary dates don’t match
- Medical recommendations not completed by a certified doctor
- Registry database information not matching patient information
- Submitting outdated forms
In many states, a rejected application does not prevent you from applying again, but applications can also be outright denied if it is determined that it violates state statutes. Again, guidelines differ by state, but denials are often given for the following reasons:
- Falsified physician recommendations
- Falsified information on the application
- The applicant is not a resident in states where residency is required
- Incomplete application
- Previous rejections
To avoid rejections or denials, take the time to confirm all information you submit is accurate, all required forms are complete, and are in compliance with the laws and regulations governing medical marijuana in your state.
Not Using a Trusted Provider
Not every doctor has the ability to recommend medical marijuana, and not all medical providers are made equal. Certified MMJ doctors must complete a rigorous screening process enforced by their particular State’s Health Board to register. With Heally, all of our physicians are certified to provide medical marijuana recommendations to patients in their state. You can visit with a doctor from the comfort of your home through our telehealth platform, no appointment is necessary. If our physician thinks cannabis is right for you, they will discuss treatment options and ensure you get the documentation necessary to complete your application.
What Can You Do If Your Medical Marijuana Application Is Denied?
Have you previously submitted a rejected or denied application guilty of any of these mistakes? You are not alone, and your ability to reapply depends both on where you live and the reasons why you were not accepted. Different states have different policies, but most send letters to rejected applicants explaining the reasons for their decision and will outline how you can correct any issues that resulted in a rejection.
Depending on your state, you will have a set number of days to apply again, with another application fee and any information that was previously missing or incorrect. If you need medical marijuana to provide relief from a condition, it is far better to get things right the first time. Take your time to review your state’s requirements and your application documents, and you can avoid paying more application fees and the risk of an outright denial.
