Qualifying Conditions for a Medical Card in Texas
Recreational cannabis remains illegal in Texas, which means the state only offers the plant through its medical program. The Compassionate Use Program in Texas has helped thousands of medical marijuana patients since it began selling cannabis products in 2018. And under current Texas MMJ laws, millions more may qualify.
To qualify for a medical cannabis card and its benefits, patients must meet certain state-specific qualifications. So, what conditions qualify for a Texas medical card?
Texas Compassionate Use Program Qualifying Conditions
The list of qualifying conditions in Texas has expanded since the state’s Compassionate Use Program first began. In 2021, Texas House Bill 1535 expanded cannabis use to patients with PTSD and other conditions not included in the initial legislation.
Below is an up-to-date list of what conditions qualify for a medical card in Texas:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- An incurable neurodegenerative disease (as defined by the Texas Administrative Code)
- Autism
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Huntington’s Disease
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Muscular Dystrophies
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Peripheral neuropathies
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Seizure disorders
- Spasticity
Understanding Texas Medical Marijuana Card Requirements
Beyond having a qualifying condition, there are other basic requirements to become a medical cannabis patient.
Do you have to be a resident to get a medical card in Texas? Yes, though there are no restrictions on how long you need to have lived in Texas as a resident. Certain other states may require that you be a resident for six months or a year before you qualify.
How old do you have to be to get a medical card? To be eligible for the Compassionate Use Program, you must also be at least 18 years old or have a legal guardian present to provide consent.
To qualify as a medical cannabis patient in Texas, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old (or have a parent or guardian that consents for you).
- Be a permanent Texas resident.
- Have a qualifying medical condition.
You Have a Qualifying Condition for a Medical Card in Texas… Now What?
If you qualify for a medical cannabis card in Texas (or you aren’t sure if you qualify), it’s time to set up an evaluation with a certified medical professional!
Fortunately, NuggMD Texas makes it easy to connect prospective patients with state-certified medical practitioners. Each of our physicians is qualified to recommend cannabis as a treatment.
Our belief is that everyone deserves the right to access medication for their condition. It’s one reason why we only charge for your evaluation if you’re approved as a medical cannabis patient. Otherwise, the NuggMD evaluation is free!
Learn more about how to get a med card in Texas today.
What Forms Do You Need When Meeting with a Texas Medical Marijuana Doctor?
It’s easy to tackle your medical cannabis evaluation online using NuggMD.
To further expedite the process, it’s always best to have your medical records on hand during your evaluation. These might include:
- Current prescriptions,
- Hospital records,
- Medical test results,
- Patient charts,
- Physical therapy records.
You may also be asked to provide proof of residency and age. If you’re under 18, you’ll need a parent or guardian with you to help consent to your becoming a medical cannabis patient.
Have more questions? Browse our list of common Texas patient FAQs.