How to Become a Medical Marijuana Caregiver in Illinois
Medical caregivers are a necessity in the medical marketplace. Cannabis caregivers, in particular, help care for minors and incapacitated adults who need cannabis as a treatment option. Caregivers can acquire, transport, and administer cannabis products when patients are unable to do it themselves. While caregivers have many rights regarding cannabis, they aren’t the same as the rights patients have.
This guide explores more about legal medical cannabis caregivers’ rights. We’ll also explain how to become a medical marijuana caregiver in Illinois, and why many patients consider caregiver access to be one of the most important benefits of getting a med card.
How to Become a Caregiver in Illinois
So, how does one become a caregiver for a medical cannabis patient?
- Get designated by a certified, qualifying cannabis patient. They’ll need to follow various instructions to add a caregiver.
- Head over to Illinois’ Department of Public Health website. There, you’ll fill out an application for a Designated Caregiver Registry Card. You’ll need to have proof of residency, like an Illinois state ID or driver’s license.
- Complete a fingerprint-based background check to ensure you’ve not been convicted of an excluded offense.
A complete application will include:
- the actual signed and completed application form,
- qualifying patient information,
- proof of residency,
- proof of identity of the designated caregiver, including proof of age,
- a photograph of the caregiver,
- a copy of the fingerprint consent form,
- the excluded offense waiver, and
- the application fee of $25, payable by check, money order, or credit card (for online applicants only).
It’s important to update your application within 10 days whenever there’s new information, whether you’re the registered qualifying patient or the caregiver.
Illinois Caregivers: What Do They Do (and Who Qualifies)?
In Illinois, designated caregivers are typically family members or people close to and trusted by the registered qualifying patient. These caregivers can procure and transport cannabis in a secured and sealed container that is inaccessible while driving.
In addition, they may prepare the medical cannabis for use by the patient. For example, they can help break up the cannabis flower for vaporization, which can be difficult for a patient with rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis.
Lastly, caregivers must always carry their medical cannabis registry card.
To qualify as an Illinois caregiver, someone must:
- Be at least 21 years of age.
- Serve only one registered qualifying patient.
- Be a resident of Illinois, both at the time of application and during participation in the program.
- Pay the application fee.
If someone is diagnosed with six months or fewer to live, they may designate a caregiver free of charge. The patient will qualify for a free Terminal Illness Registry Card.
Caregivers cannot:
- Have been convicted of an “excluded offense,” such as a violent crime or a felony violation.
- Consume medical cannabis dispensed on behalf of the registered qualifying patient.
- Serve more than one registered patient.
- Purchase or possess more than the maximum amount allowed for the patient during any two-week period.
- Grow, possess, or distribute medical cannabis.
Learn more about how to become a caregiver from the Illinois Department of Public Health.
State Laws for Illinois Caregivers and Their Patients
Designating a Caregiver in Illinois
Adult patients may designate up to a maximum of three caregivers. Qualifying patients under 18 years of age may only designate two caregivers.
If the patient is a minor, there are different instructions for the Qualifying Minor Patient Application. Likewise, there are different instructions for the Qualifying Terminal Minor Patient Application. For the purpose of this guide, we’re exploring designating a caregiver as an adult.
Ideally, qualifying patients should select their designated caregivers at the time of application for a medical cannabis registry identification card. Fortunately, a patient can add a caregiver later if needed.
Cultivating Cannabis as a Caregiver in Illinois
Registered caregivers in Illinois aren’t able to grow cannabis on behalf of their patients. According to Illinois’ medical cannabis program caregiver brochure, a caregiver explicitly cannot “grow, possess, or distribute medical cannabis.” While caregivers can provide several services for their patients, cultivating the plant isn’t one of them.
Ready to get your caregiver card or medical cannabis card in Illinois? Visit NuggMD Illinois to get started.
Learn more about Illinois' cannabis laws and regulations and how to get a med card through NuggMD, visit our Illinois patient FAQs, or speak with one of our highly-rated customer service team members for hands-on support.
