How to Become a Medical Marijuana Caregiver in West Virginia
Cannabis is only legal for medical purposes in West Virginia. For many patients, caregivers provide extra help and convenience obtaining and using their medical cannabis. Other medical cannabis patients wouldn’t be able to use or acquire their medication without a WV caregiver.
In order to provide care for patients, caregivers are afforded certain legal rights and responsibilities. Those rights are not the same as a patient’s rights.
Whether you’re considering becoming a cannabis caregiver or you’re a patient and think you might need one, it’s a good idea to get to know the rights and responsibilities of a caregiver as well as the process of becoming one.
How to Become a Medical Cannabis Caregiver in West Virginia
The process to register a medical cannabis caregiver in West Virginia is fairly straightforward. First, you'll need to get your WV medical card.
You can complete the entire process through the state’s online portal.
- Head to the state’s online portal and create an account.
- Log in to your account, and select “Create New Application.”
- Then, select “New Caregiver Registration.”
- Fill out all the required information and answer the questions you’re asked.
- Next, you’ll be asked to upload key documents, like your passport-style photo, a digital copy of your ID, any other proof of WV residency, consent for your criminal background check, and the formal designation from the patient.
- Pay the state’s $50 fee.
- Once you submit your application, you’ll need to wait up to 30-60 days for the state to process your application and mail your card.
What is a Medical Marijuana Caregiver (and Who Qualifies in West Virginia)?
A designated WV caregiver can purchase, transport, and prepare cannabis for use on behalf of qualified patients. To become an MMJ caregiver in West Virginia, a person must meet the following criteria:
- be responsible for the management of the wellbeing of the registered patient concerning their palliative use of cannabis,
- be at least 21 years of age, although the OMC has the latitude to make exceptions in extremely rare circumstances,
- for patients under 18 years of age, be a parent or guardian unless it can be demonstrated that “no parent or legal guardian is appropriate or available.”
Caregivers in West Virginia cannot be the patient’s doctor.
West Virginia Laws for MMJ Caregivers and Their Patients
Designating a Caregiver in West Virginia
In West Virginia, a caregiver must be designated by the patient or their legal guardian using the West Virginia Caregiver Designation Form, pay the state’s application fee, and submit a criminal history background check. The application will be denied if the designated caregiver has a history of drug abuse, felony possession, sale of controlled substances or drug-related conspiracy.
Cultivating Cannabis as a Caregiver in West Virginia
Home cultivation of cannabis is illegal for both recreational and medical purposes in West Virginia. So, neither patients or caregivers can legally cultivate their own cannabis in West Virginia.
Caregiver access is one of many benefits of getting a WV medical card. Learn how to get your West Virginia medical card and take the next step on your personal path to wellness.
Have questions? Learn more about West Virginia’s cannabis laws and regulations and find answers to other common West Virginia patient questions.
