In 2011, Delaware took a significant step forward by legalizing medical cannabis, with dispensaries opening their doors in 2015. Today, the program serves over 29,000 patients.
Recent moves in the state House are set to make medical cannabis even more accessible, thanks to proposed changes aimed at easing some of the program's restrictions. While recreational cannabis was legalized, the rollout of adult-use sales has seen a delay, now scheduled for 2025.
Meanwhile, the state loosened requirements for the medical marijuana program with HB285. Doctors may now recommend cannabis for any condition they feel will benefit from medical cannabis treatment. Patients 65 and older can self-certify without the need for a doctor's recommendation, and the state now offers reciprocity to out-of-state patients.
For residents exploring the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, knowing how to get a medical marijuana card in Delaware is an essential starting point for accessing treatment.
5 Steps to Get a Delaware Medical Marijuana Card
Becoming a medical cannabis patient in Delaware is easy. Here’s a simple guide on how to get a medical card:
- Check Your Eligibility: Confirm you're at least 18 years old (or a minor with parental consent) and a resident of Delaware.
- Get Certified: See a Delaware-licensed healthcare professional (MD, DO, APRN, or PA) who can certify your medical need for cannabis. Patients 65 and older are no longer required to get an evaluation to register for a medical cannabis card.
- Fill Out the Application: Complete the patient application form, which you can find online or as a paper version. If you have a caregiver, they'll need to apply, too.
- Pay the Fee: Your application includes a $50 non-refundable fee. You can pay this online or by mail if you're sending a paper application.
- Submit Required Documents: Attach proof of age and residency in Delaware, such as your DE Driver's License or State ID, to your application.
You'll hear back about your application status within 45 days of submission. Once approved, your Delaware medical cannabis card will be valid for one year. The state will offer options for 2 and 3-year certifications once they establish a fee schedule.
How Do I Renew a Medical Card in Delaware?
For now, medical cannabis cards in Delaware are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. The state will offer 2 and 3-year certifications once the fee schedule has been established. You can submit your renewal application up to 90 days before your card's expiration to maintain continuous legal protection.
Need to renew your medical card online? NuggMD Delaware makes it simple to complete your re-evaluation online, even if you initially went through a different provider.
Who Qualifies for Medical Cannabis in Delaware?
To qualify for medical cannabis in Delaware, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old, though minors can qualify for cannabis oil with parental consent.
- Qualifying Medical Condition: As of May 29, 2024, doctors may recommend cannabis for any condition they believe will benefit from the treatment.
- Healthcare Practitioner Certification: Delaware-licensed healthcare professionals (MD, DO, APRN, or PA) will evaluate and certify your medical need for cannabis. They have the discretion to recommend either a standard patient card or a CBD-rich-only card.
- Delaware Residency: Applicants must provide proof of Delaware residency, typically with a DE Driver's License or DE State ID.
For more detailed information on eligibility and the application process, visit the Delaware Health and Social Services Medical Marijuana page.
What Are the Qualifying Conditions for Medical Cannabis in Delaware?
As of May 20, 2024, Delaware no longer requires patients to have specific qualifying conditions. A doctor may recommend cannabis for any condition they believe will benefit from medical cannabis.
How to Find a Certified Medical Marijuana Doctor in Delaware
Finding a doctor who's both knowledgeable about and supportive of medical cannabis can sometimes be challenging.
At NuggMD, we partner with Delaware's top state-licensed medical marijuana practitioners who conduct honest evaluations, helping you understand if cannabis could be a good fit for your treatment plan.
Make sure to have your medical documents like patient charts, current prescriptions, any physical therapy records, medical test results, and hospital records handy during your evaluation. These details ensure a thorough and informed assessment.
And if you're not sure where to start or would rather skip the trip to a doctor's office, NuggMD Delaware has you covered. You can complete your evaluation online from the privacy and ease of your own home, making the process straightforward and stress-free.
Get Your Medical Cannabis Recommendation Online with NuggMD
Getting your medical cannabis recommendation in Delaware is straightforward with NuggMD.
- Sign Up: Visit the NuggMD Delaware site and fill out a quick form to get started. No appointment needed.
- Consultation: Next, you'll have a private video chat with a licensed medical professional in Delaware. This is your chance to discuss your health concerns and consider if medical cannabis fits your needs.
- Get Your Recommendation: If the medical practitioner believes cannabis is right for you, you'll immediately get your recommendation, opening the door to medical cannabis in Delaware.
NuggMD streamlines the process, making it easy and stress-free to get your medical cannabis recommendation from the comfort of your home.
What to Expect When Talking to a Delaware Practitioner on NuggMD
When consulting with a Delaware medical card practitioner through NuggMD, expect a thorough discussion about your ongoing medications and treatments. Providing your medical records beforehand can significantly enhance their understanding of your health background.
It's possible that your doctor will ask for further medical documentation to support your application for a Delaware medical card.
To make the most of your consultation, consider preparing a list of questions in advance. The medical professionals at NuggMD are dedicated to ensuring you're well-informed about the advantages and considerations associated with cannabis therapy.
What Types of Cannabis Products Are Available in Delaware?
In Delaware, medical cannabis patients can access a range of products, including flower, pre-rolls, vaporizers, concentrates, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. Patients with a CBD-rich card are restricted to products with low THC and high CBD levels.
What If My Dose Is Too High?
Finding the right dose of cannabis can sometimes feel like a balancing act, especially when you're new to using cannabis as medicine. If you ever feel like your dose is stronger than expected, remember it's completely normal and nothing to worry about. This is a common experience, as everyone's body reacts to cannabis in its own unique way.
If you're in this situation, the best next step is to get in touch with your medical cannabis doctor. They're available to guide you through these moments and can offer the advice you need to adjust your dose so it's just right for you.
Browse additional tips on what to do if your cannabis dose feels too high to ensure your experience with medical cannabis is both effective and comfortable.
Have More Questions About How to Get Your Med Card in Delaware?
Learn about Delaware's cannabis laws and regulations, find out how to obtain a medical card in Delaware quickly through NuggMD, or browse common Delaware patient FAQs.
