As per the estimates by the industry experts, there are more than a whopping three million people in the US that are using marijuana as a medicine. And to many, it may not even be surprising that as high as one-third of this community is from California only. After all, California was the pioneer of legalizing cannabis. Given these numbers, one thing is clear- the plant is slowly becoming a herb for all.
With that being said, you must not forget that marijuana is not legal at the federal level. Right now, there are 33 states and DC where the plant is legal. But in most of these states, you can only use it if you have a medical marijuana card.
The process of getting an MMJ card though is very simple. If you have a qualifying condition in your state, you shouldn’t face much trouble getting it. You just have to pass a simple 420 evaluation.
However, sometimes, even a small mistake, such as not having the right documents or saying something shady to the doctor, may have you fail this step. And this means all your efforts will go down the drain. Considering this, we have made this comprehensive guide to help you avoid any such scenario.
Thinking of applying for a medical marijuana recommendation in Moreno Valley, CA? In this post, we’ve discussed everything you need to know to ace your evaluations.
What’s a Medical Marijuana Evaluation?
MMJ card or not.
Applying for an MMJ evaluation is also very simple. You just book an appointment with a doctor and visit them at a designated time. In states like California, you even have the option to apply for online evaluations.
Qualifying Conditions for an MMJ Card
Qualifying medical conditions to get an MMJ card may depend on the state you are living in. However, here is a list of some of the most common conditions that may make you eligible for the recommendation:
- Cancer
- HIV/Aids
- Seizures
- Chronic Pain
- Terminal Illness
- Parkinson’s Disease
- PTSD
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Crohn’s Disease
- Muscle Spasm
There may be a few more conditions that we can add to this list. But for that, we suggest you check your own state’s list of qualifying conditions.
Where Can You Apply for an MMJ Evaluation?
Finding a medical marijuana doctor or clinic is actually very easy. In most states, modern technology allows you to search for your nearest MMJ evaluation center in just a few clicks. And once you find it, you can just register on their website and book an appointment.
However, not every place provides you with this much convenience. There are states where you need to travel long distances to find an MMJ doctor. In this case, we seriously recommend you to check the reviews of the place online. I mean, you don’t want to drive 50 miles just to get scammed.
In fact, wherever you are living, you should make sure the doctor you are going to is genuine. Check if they are registered with the MMJ program of the state. Look for any scam reports against them online. And try to find out if they really are cannabis-friendly or not. You must not visit a place for which you are not a hundred percent sure.
What to Expect During an Evaluation?
The evaluations for an MMJ card are usually very simple. But if you are already aware of what you may expect, it may help you be prepared. So, here it is.
When you visit a place for your MMJ evaluations, the first thing you’ll have to do is fill out a few forms. Once you are done, your doctor will attend you. During your evaluations, your doctor usually reviews your condition by conducting a few basic tests. He may also ask you a few questions regarding your condition, health, lifestyle, and treatments you are taking currently for your condition.
Sadly, most doctors will not approve of you using cannabis unless you have tried other treatment methods. In that case, they’ll prescribe you some traditional medications first for at least 30 days.
Once your evaluations will be over, they’ll most likely ask you if you have any questions. Asking a few good questions about medical marijuana may help your case here. This will tell them that you are genuinely interested in using the herb as medicine only and not as a stoner.
Right Things to Say During the Evaluations
The first and foremost thing that a doctor judges during a 420 evaluation is your attitude. So make sure you are all relaxed and smiling. This can lean things in your favor instantly. Yes, marijuana evaluations can be tensing, but only if you let it be. So, you need to be in the front seat and drive your session to the right path.
Here’s how you may do it.
Break the ice by talking about someone you know who uses medical marijuana. Tell your doctor how the herb is helping them. And then why you think it may help you with your condition. Alternatively, state you read an article or a book about medical marijuana. And then you did a little research yourself.
Once you are into it, tell them everything you know about the medicinal use of cannabis. Some doctors, especially in newly legalized states, can be a little hesitant recommending marijuana to you. And showcasing your knowledge on the subject may help them make the decision in your favor. If you yourself are in doubt regarding anything, you should ask them. It’s not illegal to ask questions.
Here are a few questions we recommend you should ask during your evaluations if you are applying for a medical marijuana recommendation in Moreno Valley, CA:
- Can cannabis interact with my current medicines?
- What side effects may I expect?
- Will second-hand smoke be a problem?
- What things should I avoid while using marijuana?
- What are some good sources where I can find information about medical cannabis?
In the end, just stay honest with them while answering their questions. And if you really qualify, you’ll get the recommendation without any problem.
Things to take to Your Evaluations?
Ready to attend your 420 evaluations? Here are a few things you must not forget carrying:
- Identification Proof: Passport, Driver’s License, Military issued ID, etc.
- Medical Documents: Detailed medical records, Any X-rays, MRIs, and a list of medications you are currently taking.
- Payment method: A credit or debit card, cash, check, etc.
That was all you needed to know about how medical marijuana evaluations work. And now, it’s time to apply for it and use the information above to ace it like a pro.
