Medical cannabis was legalized in West Virginia in 2017, making it the 29th state to do so. However, it wasn’t until 2021 that sales at the first licensed medical dispensary would begin.
Now, medical cannabis in West Virginia continues to make strides. There are currently over 25,000 medical cannabis patients, and that number grows each year. Annual sales could reach $40 million by 2025, up from a projected $29 million in 2024.
New bills get introduced through the West Virginia House in attempts to legalize adult-use cannabis, but these attempts haven’t passed yet. Until then, medical cannabis is the only way to access the plant in the Mountain State.
Keep reading to learn how to get a medical marijuana card in West Virginia.
Steps to Get a West Virginia Medical Marijuana Card
To learn how to get a medical marijuana card in WV, follow these simple steps:
- Determine that you qualify for a West Virginia medical marijuana card as a state resident with a qualifying medical condition.
- Schedule a medical cannabis evaluation with a registered physician. If you qualify at the end of your appointment, you’ll receive a copy of your Patient Certification form.
- Submit your application, pay the $50 application fee, and then it’s in the state’s hands. The WV Office of Medical Cannabis typically processes applications within 30-60 days.
Once approved, you’ll be able to use your new medical cannabis card at any licensed dispensary within West Virginia.
How to Renew Your West Virginia Medical Card Online
Cards expire after one year for all patients. As a result, patients must renew their medical cards annually. Fortunately, one can learn how to renew their medical card online.
Renewing will require a re-evaluation, which can be done easily through NuggMD West Virginia, regardless of where you got your original evaluation. New patients or pre-existing, NuggMD welcomes all cannabis patients to use our services.
Who Qualifies for a WV Medical Marijuana Card?
To qualify for a WV medical marijuana card, one must be a qualifying West Virginia resident at least 18 years of age. Potential patients under 18 must have a parent or guardian agree to be the patient’s designated caregiver to join the program.
If you qualify, you’ll then need a Patient Certification form from a registered cannabis practitioner.
West Virginia’s Medical Cannabis Act also states that employers may not retaliate or discriminate against medical cannabis patients. They cannot refuse to hire, discharge, or threaten your medical cannabis use as a patient. However, as the law states, patients may only consume cannabis within the privacy of their own home.
What are the Qualifying Conditions to Get a WV Medical Card?
Patients must receive a recommendation from a certified cannabis physician for one of the following qualifying conditions:
- A terminal illness that is defined as a medical prognosis of life expectancy of approximately one year or less (if the illness runs its normal course).
- AIDS or HIV.
- ALS.
- Cancer.
- Crohn’s Disease.
- Damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity.
- Epilepsy.
- Huntington’s Disease.
- Intractable Seizures.
- Multiple Sclerosis.
- Neuropathies.
- Parkinson’s Disease.
- PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).
- Severe chronic or intractable pain of neuropathic origin or severe chronic or intractable pain.
- Sickle Cell Anemia.
Learn more about qualifying conditions in West Virginia.
How to Find a Certified Medical Marijuana Doctor in West Virginia for an MMJ Evaluation
Finding a doctor who accepts cannabis as a treatment and is willing to recommend the plant for medicinal use can feel like a challenge. Fortunately, NuggMD helps you streamline the process.
NuggMD works with state-licensed medical marijuana doctors in West Virginia who perform honest evaluations of your condition, helping you decide if cannabis is worth trying.
When you see your certified medical marijuana doctor, it’s best to have medical records on hand. That ensures you receive an adequate and thorough assessment during your evaluation. These records may include:
- Patient charts
- Current prescriptions
- Physical therapy records
- Medical test results
- Hospital records
If you’re unsure where to start or don’t have the time or desire to go into the doctor’s office, you’re in good hands online. Visit NuggMD West Virginia to get an evaluation from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Get Your Medical Cannabis Recommendation Online: The NuggMD Process
It’s easy to receive a cannabis evaluation through NuggMD. Follow these simple steps to connect with a licensed West Virginia physician.
- Sign up. Visit NuggMD West Virginia to fill out the 30-second, confidential questionnaire.
- Connect with your new cannabis practitioner. In as little as 15 minutes, you could be out of the virtual waiting room and into a video appointment with your physician. NuggMD’s practitioners are all certified to recommend medical cannabis in the states they service.
- Receive your recommendation. If your NuggMD practitioner approves you for medical cannabis, you’ll receive your certification form. The best part? You only pay for the evaluation if you receive a recommendation.
What to Expect When Talking to a WV Medical Marijuana Doctor Near You on NuggMD
Come prepared with relevant medical records to give your certified medical marijuana doctor as much info as possible. Your NuggMD doctor will want to know about any current treatments or medications you’re taking. They may also request additional records to approve you for medical marijuana WV dispensaries can offer.
We suggest writing down any questions you may have prior to your evaluation, even while waiting for your doc in the virtual waiting room. NuggMD’s physicians are happy to take the time to educate you about the ins and outs of cannabis treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Cannabis in West Virginia
What Types of Cannabis Products Are Available in West Virginia?
Medical cannabis dispensaries in West Virginia can dispense THC in the following forms:
- Flower
- Dermal patches
- Oils
- Tinctures
- Pills/capsules
- Liquids
- Topicals
THC distillates may only be consumed as a smokable joint, in vape pens, or sublingually (under the tongue). Edibles and any other form of concentrate are prohibited.
What Does Marijuana Feel Like?
Cannabis consumers tend to feel more relaxed and uplifted when consuming the plant. Different strains provide varying effects. Generally, though, the most common effects include:
- Temporary memory loss
- Relaxation
- Loss in concentration
- Giggles and euphoria
- Decreased energy (couch-lock)
- A changed perception of time
Sometimes, though, adverse effects may occur instead, particularly with an excessive dose. These “bad trip” symptoms might include paranoia, nausea, vomiting, and even (rarely) psychosis.
Start low and go slow on your dose to have a better chance of avoiding these negative reactions. Be patient with your dose, as the onset and intensity vary for everyone. Finally, collaborate with a healthcare professional to adjust your dosage as needed.
What If My Dose Is Too High?
If you feel that your dose is too high, the most important thing to do is not panic. Everyone metabolizes cannabis differently, so there’s nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, there are several ways for how to sober up from weed at home. It’s also a temporary feeling, so rest assured it will pass.
Then, reach out to your cannabis physician to let them know your dose is too high. Ask for guidance on how to adjust your dosage.
Have More Questions About How to Get Your Med Card in West Virginia?
Learn more about West Virginia’s cannabis laws and regulations. Or browse our extensive list of other patient resources:
- West Virginia Patient FAQs
- Qualifying Conditions for a Medical Card in West Virginia
- Benefits of a Medical Marijuana Card in West Virginia
- How to Become a Caregiver in West Virginia
Reach out to NuggMD today. Our expert customer service helps demystify the process and regulations behind cannabis. We’re ready to help you, as we’ve helped over one million patients and counting! Contact our informed, friendly team today to ask any questions or help you understand the West Virginia medical cannabis program more in-depth.
