Marijuana can help relieve several symptoms, including chronic pain, nausea, and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis, and sleep problems in people with obstructive sleep apnea. It can be administered through smoking, vaporizing, or eating.
Medical marijuana programs are increasing across the country. However, there are many questions about how these programs will benefit individuals.
Cost Savings
While there is an expanding body of research about marijuana’s clinical benefits, including its ability to reduce specific symptoms and diseases, little is known about how state medical marijuana policies impact traditional healthcare spending and utilization. A study in five states found that medical marijuana laws decrease prescription drug use among Medicaid beneficiaries, two of which can save taxpayer dollars and help people get better relief from their chronic pain.
Cannabis isn’t strong enough to replace opioids for post-surgery pain, but it can ease the chronic aches and pains that plague millions of Americans, especially as they age. It can also treat nausea and vomiting caused by cancer treatments or other diseases. It’s also a healthier alternative to NSAIDs, which can harm your stomach and kidneys.
Getting your card isn’t cheap but it can save you money in the long run. Having a card allows you to avoid paying retail tax on your cannabis, saving you 5-10% (and up to 35% in some states) on each purchase.
In addition to saving on taxes, having a card gives you access to special discounts and promotions that aren’t available to recreational shoppers. Depending on your specific needs, you may require higher potency strains of cannabis, so having a Maryland medical marijuana card can allow you to explore new options to help you feel your best.
Access to High-Quality Products
As marijuana becomes more popular as a medicinal plant, medical consumers are getting access to higher-quality products. Medical dispensaries typically stock shelves with premium strains that recreational users cannot buy. In addition, medical customers can purchase larger quantities of cannabis than recreational users. This allows them to build and have a stash on hand whenever needed.
Marijuana can often relieve pain caused by chronic illnesses like cancer or arthritis. It can also relieve anxiety, reduce nausea, and help with bowel movements in people suffering from GI issues, like Crohn’s disease or irritable bowel syndrome. Moreover, it is widely used as an alternative to opioids for patients who experience acute pain, such as from surgery.
Unlike opiate prescriptions, marijuana does not lead to dependency. However, medical professionals are cautious about prescribing marijuana because of the limited research on its effects. Furthermore, they are concerned about being held liable if their patients suffer adverse reactions.
By having a medical marijuana card, you can be assured of your doctor’s approval to use the plant. Sometimes, you may even get your employer to agree not to fire you for using cannabis for your condition.
Convenience
The procedure for acquiring a medical marijuana card differs from one state to another. In most cases, it involves undergoing an examination with a doctor who can certify you for medicinal cannabis. However, this can be done from your home, thanks to telemedicine technology. This means you don’t have to take time off work to visit a physician and may save money in the long run.
Another benefit of a med card is that many states offer exemptions on excise taxes, saving you as much as 37% in some cases. Recreational users pay total sales taxes, which can significantly drive up the cost of your weed.
Additionally, medical consumers typically receive higher purchasing allotments and can access more potent products designed for medical consumption. These high-concentrate medications can help ease the pain of MS, fibromyalgia, interstitial cystitis, and other conditions.
Many medical patients claim that marijuana has helped them avoid using potentially addictive opioids to manage their pain. The calming effects of marijuana can also potentially reduce tremors and other symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. Lastly, it has been reported to be effective for muscle spasticity and nerve pain associated with ALS and shingles.
Legality
Obtaining a medical marijuana card differs from state to state but is generally straightforward. The first step is to find a healthcare practitioner who can issue you a medical marijuana certification/recommendation. The best telemedicine platforms make this easy by connecting you with qualified doctors to evaluate your condition. This can be done from the comfort of your home, so you don’t have to travel or spend time away from work.
Once you’ve received your certification/recommendation, the next step is to register online with your state’s medical marijuana program. Most states require some form of identification and proof of residency. This can be as simple as a government-issued ID or a lease/rental agreement.
After registering, you’ll receive a medical marijuana identification card required to purchase products at dispensaries. Most states also exempt medical marijuana patients from paying sales and excise taxes, so you’ll save 5-10% on every purchase.
Marijuana is an effective treatment for chronic pain, especially nerve pain from multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia. It also reduces tremors in Parkinson’s disease and is thought to help relieve pain from other disorders that cause inflammation, such as endometriosis and interstitial cystitis.
