Medical Cannabis in California is nothing all that new. Rather, this state has served as the basis for 14 other states in the union to proactively decriminalize marijuana for medicinal usages. Thanks to the progressive medical marijuana program in California, more and more people are starting to understand how many practical medical applications that California offers. For patients who are suffering, now they have another alternative healthcare option that many find to offer the relief that they are seeking but void of side effects, adverse reactions or interactions that are common with many prescription drugs.
Current Laws on California Medical Cannabis
The laws here can be difficult to understand if you are not a lawyer. However, they can be broken down to basic terms to make them easier to digress. The laws ensure that "seriously ill Californians have the right to obtain and use marijuana for medical purposes." They are designed to ensure "that patients and their primary caregivers who obtain and use marijuana for medical purposes upon the recommendation of a physician are not subject to criminal prosecution or sanctions of any kind."
Who Can Legally Use California Medical Cannabis?
As per the law, only patients and their state approved caregivers. According to California law, all patients must be registered with the medical program, which is managed by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). In order to qualify, patients must be examined by a doctor and written a recommendation for cannabis. Then they must submit an application to the health department with that recommendation to be issued a California medical cannabis card.
Where You Can Buy Medical Cannabis in California
Upon receiving your California Medical Cannabis card in the mail, you will be able to purchase cannabis from various dispensaries that are located throughout the state. The dispensaries only allow valid card holders to gain entrance and make purchases (or their primary caregivers who hold valid cards). Each county has its own laws regarding the amount of marijuana that a patient can purchase or possess at any given time.
Qualifying Medical Conditions for Cannabis in California
This state differs greatly from the other states that have legalized cannabis for medicinal usages. This is because Medical Cannabis in California hosts the most liberal medical marijuana program. Currently, there are 166 qualifying conditions. A few are added and removed each year by voters. A marijuana doctor can help you determine if you qualify under state law.