Pennsylvania has a growing and successful medical marijuana program. The program was established in 2016 by Governor Tom Wolf, and it started operating in 2018, reaching over $500 million in sales in the first two years. By April 2019, more than 100,000 citizens had enrolled in the program. 

The state allows up to 150 dispensaries to operate across three sales zones in the state, with a limit of 50 stores in each zone. 

The future of Pennsylvania’s market is uncertain, but some experts predict that full legalization may pass in 2024. For now, Pennsylvania’s medical cannabis program is one of the most successful in the nation. 

How Do I Register for Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Program?

To become a medical cannabis patient in Pennsylvania, you need to follow a few simple steps

1.) Pre-register

Before you visit your doctor, you need to pre-register with Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Registry.

2.) Get evaluated by your doctor

You’ll next need to get a certification from a state-approved physician. All of the doctors at [site name] are fully licensed to prescribe medical cannabis in their states of service.

4.) Complete the Pennsylvania State Registration

Once you get your certification from your doctor, they will enter it in the state’s registry and you’ll receive instructions for how to complete your state registration and pay the state’s $50 registration fee.

Your fee can be reduced if you are on Medicaid, CHIP, WIC, SNAP, or PACE. This fee from the state is separate from the cost of your evaluation

How Do I Complete My PA Medical Card Renewal Online?

Patients will receive a notice from the state to start the renewal process 60 days before their card expires. The patient should see their physician for their renewal evaluation and complete it as soon as possible to avoid gaps in coverage.

The annual $50 renewal fee is paid separately from the certification and the patient will receive a notice from the department 30 days before the renewal fee is due, along with instructions for paying the fee.

Who Qualifies for a Medical Marijuana Card in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania residents who are 18 years or older must have a qualifying condition and be certified by a Pennsylvania-licensed physician to join the state’s medical cannabis program. Once the doctor enters the patient’s approval in the medical marijuana registry, the patient can finish their registration and officially qualify for the program.

Proof of residency (a PA driver’s license or state ID with their current address) is required for patients and approved caregivers. 

Minors can also participate in the program, but they need the consent of their parent or guardian who will act as their caregiver. All caregivers are required to undergo a background check.

How to Find a PA Medical Marijuana Doctor for an MMJ Evaluation or Renewal

Finding a doctor who is willing to talk about medical cannabis as an option can be hard for patients. But you don’t have to worry if your family doctor can’t or won’t discuss it with you. There are options for patients to find a reliable source of information and guidance.

We make it easy for patients to connect with state-licensed Pennsylvania medical cannabis doctors. Our partnering physicians are knowledgeable about the potential uses of cannabis and are happy to share their expertise with their patients.

Patients should bring their current medical records to their first appointment. This helps the patients and the physicians have the most accurate information possible. You may want to provide the following documents before your consultation:

• Patient charts  

• Current prescriptions  

• Physical therapy records  

• Medical test results  

• Hospital records  

Instead of spending hours in a crowded doctor’s office, we make it easy to complete your evaluation from the comfort of your own home.

What to Expect When Talking to a Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Doctor

During your evaluation, your doctor will gladly answer any questions you may have about your options. You may find it helpful to write down your questions beforehand while waiting in the virtual waiting room. Don’t be afraid to ask! Your doctor is here to help.

Your physician will want to know what medications you’re taking right now, as well as review your medical records so they can fully evaluate your condition and whether medical marijuana is the best choice for you. They may also ask for more records if needed, so you should be ready to get this information.