Medical marijuana has become a popular alternative treatment for various conditions. Many states in the US have legalized medical marijuana, and people who have a medical marijuana card can purchase cannabis products legally. However, confusion often arises when it comes to renewing or recertifying the medical marijuana card. At Cannaleaf Health, we’ve helped a lot of Marylanders maintain their medical marijuana cards, and wanted to go over the differences between renewing and recertifying.
Renewing your Medical Marijuana Card
Renewing your medical marijuana card means that you need to submit a new application to the state’s medical marijuana program. This process is similar to the initial application process when you first applied for your medical marijuana card. Generally, medical marijuana cards are valid for one year, after which you need to renew it to continue using cannabis legally.
To renew your medical marijuana card, you need to submit a new application and provide updated medical records that confirm your qualifying condition. You will also likely need to pay a fee.
Recertifying your Medical Marijuana Card
Recertifying your medical marijuana card means that you need to confirm your eligibility to use medical marijuana. This process involves verifying that you still have a qualifying medical condition that can be treated with medical marijuana. It is often simpler than renewing your card and does not require you to submit a new application.
To recertify your medical marijuana card, you need to visit a doctor or a medical marijuana clinic. The doctor will review your medical records and confirm that you still have a qualifying condition that can be treated with medical marijuana. The doctor will then issue a recertification form that you need to submit to the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission. This form verifies that you are still eligible to use medical marijuana and extends the validity of your medical marijuana card.
Key Differences
The main difference between renewing and recertifying your medical marijuana card is the level of documentation required. When renewing your card, you need to submit a new application and provide updated medical records to confirm your qualifying condition. Recertifying your card requires a doctor’s visit, but you do not need to submit a new application or provide updated medical records.
Another key difference is the cost. Renewing your medical marijuana card usually involves paying a fee. In contrast, recertifying your card may involve a fee for the doctor’s visit, but there is no additional fee to the state’s medical marijuana program.
Consult with an Experienced Marijuana Doctor in Maryland
It is important to understand the difference between renewing and recertifying your medical marijuana card to ensure that you maintain legal access to medical cannabis. If you still have questions about renewing/recertifying, or have any marijuana related questions at all, you can give our team of experienced medical marijuana doctors a call at (443-800-0670). Don’t suffer any longer, find relief from your ailments through the usage of cannabis!
