If you’re a Virginia resident diagnosed with an illness that may improve with medical marijuana, you can receive a written certification from a licensed physician. You’ll need to show this certification at a Virginia medical cannabis dispensary to purchase medicine.
Recreational marijuana sales aren’t available in Virginia until 2024. Until then, you can purchase medical cannabis products at a dispensary with a valid Virginia med card.
Relief From Pain
In states where marijuana is legal, patients can enjoy a variety of benefits from consuming medical cannabis. Virginia is no exception to this. Medical marijuana helps treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain. In addition to easing pain, it can also help with anxiety and depression.
For veterans suffering from PTSD, medical marijuana can alleviate symptoms that affect sleep. This can enhance veterans’ quality of life overall and free them up to concentrate on their hobbies, academics, careers, and families.
Making an appointment with a qualified state practitioner is the first step for anyone interested in obtaining a VA medicinal marijuana card. Virginia does not have a list of qualifying conditions but instead leaves the determination of whether or not a patient could benefit from cannabis therapy up to the practitioners. To be approved for a card, patients must undergo a cannabis evaluation and obtain written certification from their practitioner.
Relief From Nausea
In states where medical marijuana is legal, there’s usually a list of qualifying conditions. However, Virginia allows physicians registered in the state’s program to recommend cannabis at their discretion. So, a broad range of conditions can qualify for this form of treatment, including anxiety, chronic pain, nausea, seizures, PTSD, and glaucoma.
Obtaining a medical marijuanas card in VA can offer several benefits, including access to regulated cannabis products. It can also provide legal protections and protect patients from stigma. However, patients must carefully consider the pros and cons of obtaining a card with their healthcare professional.
The first step is to get a physician’s certification.
Relief From Anxiety
While all of us experience stress and anxiety from time to time, some people develop chronic heightened levels that negatively impact their relationships, careers, and daily functioning. Medical marijuana may help reduce the severity of anxiety symptoms, and products that contain CBD could be particularly beneficial for patients with this condition.
While cannabis can be mentally addictive, avoiding high doses and scheduling your use is critical for anxiety sufferers. Timing your dosages also helps you pinpoint whether your heightened anxiety is related to marijuana, and it allows you to identify the best strains and concentrations for your unique needs.
While a VA MMJ card is no longer required to access medicinal cannabis, you will still need a written certification from your physician and a state-issued ID to purchase cannabis at Virginia dispensaries.
Relief From Seizures
In many states, medical cannabis is available for the treatment of seizures. Traditional treatments for this condition have often been ineffective, and the side effects of many prescription medications can be unpleasant or even dangerous. For veterans suffering from seizures, a VA marijuana card can provide relief from these debilitating symptoms.
Unlike recreational marijuana, medical cannabis is subject to stringent quality control and testing procedures. This means you can be confident that your product is safe and not contaminated with harmful additives. Furthermore, medical cannabis is taxed at a much lower rate than recreational marijuana. This can save you up to 5-10% on your purchase.
To obtain your VA medical marijuana card, you must have a valid state-approved ID and a signed recommendation from an approved practitioner. You can find an approved state practitioner using the Virginia Department of Health Professions list. However, this process can be time-consuming as it requires you to visit the practitioner’s office, establish yourself as a patient, and pay the fee.
Relief From Spasticity
Spasticity is a condition that can lead to a range of symptoms, including pain, weakness, anxiety, and difficulty walking. Medical marijuana can help alleviate the symptoms associated with spasticity. It is also a safe alternative to other medications for spasticity, which can cause serious side effects. These medications can also build tolerance over time, and they are not always effective in the long term.
If you have a current medical marijuana card, you are allowed to buy and possess up to four ounces of cannabis in Virginia within 30 days. However, minors and incapacitated adults must designate a caregiver to assist them in obtaining and using medical marijuana.
Most states have a list of qualifying conditions, but in Virginia, you qualify if your practitioner determines that cannabis can alleviate the symptoms caused by your condition or disease. You must also have a valid government ID and pay the registration fee.
Relief From Nausea
When used as a therapeutic tool, medical marijuana can effectively lessen nausea that occasionally results from AIDS or cancer therapies. It can also be used to help improve appetite and alleviate pain from multiple sclerosis.
Medical cannabis can be administered in the form of oils, pills, capsules, topical creams, or tinctures. It can also be smoked in the form of joints or edibles. It may be used in conjunction with other medicines, such as sedatives or antidepressants.
If you’re looking to get a VA medical marijuana card, start by booking an evaluation with a healthcare practitioner who is registered to issue written certifications for medical marijuana. Licensed medical cannabis practitioners can recommend patients who have a diagnosed condition that could improve with the use of marijuana.