How to Select a Qualifying Condition for Medical Marijuana
Determining if you have a qualifying condition is the first step toward accessing medical cannabis. Each state has its own requirements—some provide specific lists of conditions, while others leave the decision to your doctor.
NuggMD simplifies the qualification process. Our certified practitioners help you navigate through options, ensuring you understand each step to getting your medical marijuana card. Through our risk-free evaluations, you only pay if approved. But what conditions qualify you for medical cannabis access?
How do I choose a qualifying condition?
Many states have a list of qualifying conditions. Other states may allow a practitioner to decide if a condition or symptom of a condition qualifies.
If you aren’t sure, you can select your state to find a list of qualifying conditions, or schedule an evaluation and speak with one of our qualified practitioners. You’re only billed if you’re approved to access medical cannabis, so there’s no risk to you.
What are the most common qualifying conditions?
Qualifying conditions vary by state and sometimes even by the individual. Some of the most common and all-encompassing conditions include:
- Anxiety
- Arthritis
- Chronic pain
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Insomnia
- Migraines
- Neuropathy
- Stress
However, the list of qualifying conditions can vary widely by state. And just because your condition isn’t listed doesn’t necessarily mean you are ineligible for a medical card. It’s always best to speak with a qualified medical cannabis practitioner if you have any questions about what might qualify.
What if my condition isn’t listed as qualifying in my state?
You may still qualify for medical cannabis even if you don’t see your condition listed.
Many states now have a process allowing medical cannabis card applicants to petition the state to add a qualifying condition. Some states have eliminated the list of qualifying conditions entirely, instead allowing a doctor to decide if medical cannabis is an appropriate recommendation. And others have a list of qualifying conditions but qualify any additional illness where medical cannabis might be deemed appropriate.
If you aren’t sure if you qualify, it’s best to schedule an evaluation and speak to your practitioner about your condition and symptoms. In some cases, you might qualify under a listed condition, but the state uses different language than you or your primary care physician to describe your situation. For example, if you have back pain or migraines, you might qualify instead under “chronic pain” or “intractable pain” as a condition. The final decision on if your condition qualifies is up to your practitioner.
Can I get medical cannabis to treat the symptoms of a condition?
Yes, if one of your symptoms qualifies, you may still be eligible for medical cannabis even if you don’t see your condition listed. Speak with one of NuggMD’s certified cannabis practitioners today to find out if you might qualify based on one or more of your symptoms.
Can I select multiple qualifying conditions?
Yes, you can select or qualify for multiple conditions. There are often co-occurring conditions or symptoms that may also qualify for medical cannabis.
For example, someone with arthritis might experience chronic pain and insomnia, which are two separate qualifying conditions. Or someone with depression might qualify for medical cannabis under a different condition or symptom, like anxiety or chronic stress, especially if “depression” isn’t a listed condition in your state.
Do I need to have been diagnosed with a condition before seeing a medical marijuana doctor?
Some states require medical records with proof of diagnosis, while others allow the practitioner to make the diagnosis with an initial evaluation.
To learn more about your state’s requirements, select it from the list below. Or save time and schedule an evaluation with a NuggMD practitioner with no risk to you. You’re only charged if you’re approved.
How do I prove I have a qualifying condition?
Whether you need proof of a qualifying condition can vary by the condition and the state in which you’re applying for medical cannabis access. It’s best to bring relevant medical records to your evaluation to help your practitioner thoroughly assess your condition. Some states require you to bring your medical records to your first evaluation. Select your state from the list below to learn more.
What if I’m already taking medication to treat my condition?
Be sure to mention during your evaluation if you’re already taking any other medications, especially if they’re used to treat your qualifying condition or related symptoms. Cannabis may interact with certain prescription and over-the-counter medications. Your evaluating medical practitioner can help you plan appropriate products and dosage to reduce the chances of unwanted side effects.
What if I’m already visiting another doctor to treat my condition?
You can see your existing doctor if you’re more comfortable, but not all doctors are comfortable or qualified to prescribe cannabis.
To save time and hassle, you can see a NuggMD practitioner remotely for your evaluation in most states. Our practitioners can answer your questions and help you understand any considerations to make the best decision for your health needs and wellness goals. Even better, there’s no appointment necessary, and you only pay for your evaluation if you’re approved to access medical cannabis, so there’s no risk to you.
Be sure to discuss your new medical cannabis card with the other members of your care team to ensure no other medications interact with cannabis.
