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In the past, getting a medical marijuana card in Missouri was a long and challenging process. However, recent changes in the law have made it much easier for patients to access medical marijuana. Under the new law, patients must first obtain a written recommendation from a licensed physician. Once they have this recommendation, they can apply to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
The department will then review the application and determine whether or not the patient is eligible for a medical marijuana card. If the patient is approved, they will be issued a card allowing them to purchase medical marijuana from a licensed dispensary. You can seek assistance from companies like DigiDrs. The entire process of DigiDrs offering medical marijuana cards in Missouri can take around 30 days or more.
The exact time your marijuana card will take to be approved can be determined by different factors. They include:
1. The Number of Applications the Department is Currently Processing
Sometimes the department responsible for approving medical marijuana applications can get backlogged. This can cause delays in the approval process, and you may have to wait a little longer than usual for your application to be approved. In that circumstance, you will have to be patient and wait for the department to catch up on processing applications.
2. Whether or not you have all of the Required Documentation
A marijuana card cannot just be given to anyone; you must have a qualifying condition to receive one. Once a licensed physician has diagnosed you, they must complete and sign a Physician Statement. This document essentially says that the doctor has diagnosed you with a qualifying condition and believes that medical marijuana would be an effective treatment. Some conditions requiring the doctor to recommend marijuana are cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, chronic pain, and muscle spasms. Marijuana will help you manage it as it has been proven to be an effective form of treatment.
3. The Time it Takes to Receive your Physical Card
Once your application has been approved, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services will send you a physical card. Sometimes, the physical card you receive from the state may take longer than usual to arrive. In that case, you will be asked to wait in line for a while as they continue to process applications. Therefore, it would be wise of you to apply sooner than later. The sooner you receive your application, the earlier it will go through and be approved.
How Do You Know If You Qualify for a Marijuana Card in Missouri?
Getting a card can be a long and complicated process. To be eligible for a medical marijuana card in Missouri, you must first receive a written certification from a licensed physician. The certificate must state that you have a qualifying condition that could be treated with medical marijuana. Qualifying conditions include cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, intractable migraines, and chronic pain. Once you have received your certification, you must apply to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
The application must include your physician’s certification, a completed patient and caregiver registration form, and a $50 non-refundable application fee. If you are a veteran or on disability, you may be eligible for a reduced cost. Once your application is received, it will be reviewed by the department. You will receive your Missouri medical marijuana card in the mail if approved. The entire process can take up to two months.
Can You Apply Again after Being Denied a Card?
You can appeal the decision if you are not approved for a Missouri medical marijuana card. The appeal must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the date you received the denial letter. Some of the reasons that can cause you to be denied a card are if the department believes your physician’s certification is not valid or if you do not have a qualifying condition. You can reapply for a new card if you are still denied after appealing.
Missouri residents who are suffering from a qualifying condition no longer have to wait for an extended time to receive their medical marijuana cards. The state has streamlined the process so patients can get the relief they need as soon as possible. If you think you may qualify for a Missouri medical marijuana card, be sure to speak with a licensed physician. They will be able to help you through the process and ensure that you have all of the necessary documentation. Once everything is in order, submit your application to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. In no time, you will be on your way to receiving the relief you need.