{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-question-tags-template-js","path":"/question-tag/illinois/","result":{"data":{"allQuestion":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Question_12600-markdown","title":"What are the benefits of having an Illinois medical marijuana card?","slug":"what-are-the-benefits-of-having-an-illinois-medical-marijuana-card","content":"**What Are the Benefits of Having an Illinois Medical Marijuana Card?**\n\n**Georges K.**\n\n______\n\nWhile there are a number of benefits of having a [medical cannabis card in Illinois](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois/), it’s not really an either-or situation. You get a medical card if you need it — if you have a condition that’s qualified by the state to receive cannabis products.\n\nThe [Illinois Department of Public Health](https://dph.illinois.gov/) (IDHP) has a long and growing list of [“debilitating conditions”](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis/debilitating-conditions.html)  that qualify, including chronic pain, glaucoma, migraines, rheumatoid arthritis, and many others.\n\nYou need to consult with a health practitioner to see if you might qualify for your certification, and then [apply to get your card](https://hellomd.com/get-started) through the state.\n\nAfter that you can buy your weed through a legal dispensary, some of which only serve medical marijuana patents. \n\nRobin R.\n\n______\n\n![iStock-1309245471-min.jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/i_Stock_1309245471_min_adcfdf5cd9.jpg)\n\nBesides the health benefits, one of the great reasons to [get your medical marijuana card](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois) is a financial one. Legal marijuana in Illinois can be expensive because of taxes. \n\nThere are a lot of taxes here. There’s **an excise tax that can be up to 25%** of the purchase price at some dispensaries. In addition to that, there’s up to 6.5% charged for Illinois sales tax. Medical marijuana cardholders are exempt except for a 1% state retailer occupational tax, so you can save almost 33% of your weed costs for the year.\n\nAlso, under the law, medical marijuana patients are prioritized, so they get access to their supply even if there are shortages in the recreational market. A number of dispensaries offer discounts and reserve a certain supply of premium products for medical cannabis patients.\n\nAlso with medical-grade dispensaries you get access to better quality products, sometimes sourced from local and organic growers.\n\nAs well, if you have a green thumb and want to save money, you can [grow up to five cannabis plants](https://www.illinoispolicy.org/what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana-legalization-in-illinois/) as a medical user, but could be fined as much as **$200** for doing the same as a rec user.\n\nHelena\n\n______\n\n![iStock-1189150676-min.jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/i_Stock_1189150676_min_01cdb30aa7.jpg)\n\nI should also point out that if you're 21 or older and a legal Illinois resident, you are allowed to buy up to 30g of weed , five grams of concentrate, and edibles with up to 500mg of THC as a recreational user. But as a medical marijuana patient, or an authorized caregiver, you can basically get twice the amount. You can [buy up to 2.5 ounces (71 grams)](https://hellomd.com/articles/illinois-weed-map-your-guide-to-getting-safe-and-legal-weed) of cannabis per 14-day period from an authorized dispensary.\n\nAnd while minors can’t use weed legally, people [under the age of 18](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis/minor-qualifying-patients.html) could possibly get a medical card with the permission of a parent or guardian.\n\nOnce you have a medical marijuana card, if you have a health condition that makes it hard to get around, you could have an authorized caregiver buy products for you. But dispensaries like [Verilife](https://www.verilife.com/verilife-dispensary-locations) also have online ordering and will do home deliveries, often the same day.\n\n[Verilife](https://www.verilife.com/il) also has some [good advice]( https://www.verilife.com/il/patients-and-caregivers/talking-to-your-doctor) for you if you are going to be talking to a health practitioner about possibly getting a [medical marijuana card](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois/). For example, you should have your health records available, and be prepared to talk about what you hope to gain by using medical weed. Have a list of questions you want to ask — about possible side effects, or examples, and the pros and cons of medical cannabis. And so on.\n\nAnn B.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/14b42/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.jpg","srcSet":"/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/f836f/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.jpg 200w,\n/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/2244e/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.jpg 400w,\n/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/14b42/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.jpg 800w,\n/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/47498/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.jpg 1200w,\n/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/0e329/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.jpg 1600w,\n/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/1fc67/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.jpg 3863w","srcWebp":"/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/58556/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/61e93/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.webp 200w,\n/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/1f5c5/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.webp 400w,\n/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/58556/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.webp 800w,\n/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/99238/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.webp 1200w,\n/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/7c22d/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.webp 1600w,\n/static/48f0fdc1e434c3364db712cf925e8eb5/1f5bd/f21826bb45a1cedf8b48100eb1201a67.webp 3863w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Question_12597-markdown","title":"Can I renew my Illinois medical marijuana card?","slug":"can-i-renew-my-illinois-medical-marijuana-card","content":"**“I live outside Chicago and have had a medical marijuana card for help with the PTSD I developed as a first responder. When it expires later this year, do I have to apply for a medical card again, or is there some way to renew it more easily?”**\n\nNaoyuki\n\n_____________\n\n![iStock-1289597705-min.jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/i_Stock_1289597705_min_5f3b7e1219.jpg)\n\nThe answer is, yes, you can usually extend or renew your certification for medical weed. The Illinois Depart of Public Health (IDPH) has [a page on this topic](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis/extending-your-registry-card.html). \n\nSo there are two types of renewals. The first is if you didn’t take a three-year medical marijuana card when you [first registered](https://hellomd.com/get-started) in the state. Then you can get a yearly incremental renewal without going through the process of being recommended for certification by an Illinois health practitioner. \n\nAnd if you don’t remember to renew, don’t worry. The [IDPH](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis.html) will send a courtesy email about your extension renewal about 45 days before expiration date on the medical cannabis registry card.\n\nBut if for some reason your registry card does expire, you’ll have to [apply for your medical marijuana card again](https://etk.icts.illinois.gov/etk-icts-prod/login.request.do). \n\nThe second type of renewal is if you have a three-year medical card and you’re coming to the end of its term. Again, you’ll get an email reminder that you need to renew about five months before the card’s expiry date.\n\nBut in this case, you’ll have to see your certifying health care professional for a new updated online certification as well as providing a new photo and additional documents. In this case you are starting from scratch.\n\nByrne Gleason\n\n_____________\n\n![iStock-1252417907-min.jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/i_Stock_1252417907_min_f15e985121.jpg)\n\nI don’t know if you have a caregiver who buys medical marijuana on your behalf, but if you do, you’ll have to renew their card at the same time.\n\nUnder Illinois law, you can have up to three caregivers certified to buy weed for you from a licensed state medical dispensary.\n\nTo [qualify for an Illinois patient-caregiver registry ID](https://www.verilife.com/il/illinois-medical-marijuana-info-for-patients-caregivers) you must be:\n\n- A resident of the state of Illinois during participation in the program\n- At least 21 years of age\n- A caregiver to only one qualifying patient\n\nBy the way, medical cannabis is a good choice for PTSD. There’s evidence to show it can [help with symptoms](https://hellomd.com/articles/top-5-marijuana-strains-to-help-relieve-ptsd-symptoms) that include anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, nightmares, and other debilitating symptoms. Good luck in getting your PTSD under control.\n\nLouise Thelma\n\n_____________\n\n![iStock-1129397827-min.jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/i_Stock_1129397827_min_5db4555664.jpg)\n\nWhether you are renewing an expired medical cannabis card or one that has reached the end of it’s three-year period, [HelloMD](https://illinois.hellomd.com/start) is a great way to get this done. Our [medical card certification process](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois) for Illinois residents legally entitled to buy weed for approved health purposes has proven to be fast, easy and cost effective. \n\nAfter providing some basic details about yourself online, you then have a telehealth consult with one of our Illinois practitioners who is thoroughly versed in the certification process. They’ll ask you questions about your medical history and answer any questions or concerns you may have, in a comfortable online process that typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.\n\nYou would then apply for your card through the state’s [Medical Cannabis Patient Registry Program](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis.html). With the card, you’ll be able to buy the medical cannabis products you need through a state-licensed dispensary.\n\nGerrard Ludwig\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/14b42/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.jpg","srcSet":"/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/f836f/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.jpg 200w,\n/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/2244e/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.jpg 400w,\n/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/14b42/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.jpg 800w,\n/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/47498/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.jpg 1200w,\n/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/0e329/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.jpg 1600w,\n/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/208d9/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.jpg 6720w","srcWebp":"/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/58556/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/61e93/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.webp 200w,\n/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/1f5c5/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.webp 400w,\n/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/58556/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.webp 800w,\n/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/99238/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.webp 1200w,\n/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/7c22d/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.webp 1600w,\n/static/826f6295dd5bab9c47f7fb401f1f6e49/d4b3d/b4f5336a9f994b7a940cb620df0ee154.webp 6720w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Question_12596-markdown","title":"How do I get a medical marijuana card in Illinois?","slug":"how-do-i-get-a-medical-marijuana-card-in-illinois","content":"**“I’m a (legal) recreational user of weed in Illinois. But I cope with a fair amount of chronic pain from an old boating accident. I’m thinking about getting a medical marijuana card. Is this easy?”**\n\nJoe M.\n\n------------\n\n![It's easy to get a medical marijuana card online with HelloMD](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_04_at_4_37_08_PM_cdf4bbdb7e.png)\n\nIt is easy but you have to follow the right steps so you can get access to legal medical marijuana without a problem. This will allow you to take advantage of [medical-only dispensaries](https://www.verilife.com/blog/medical-vs-recreational-marijuana-laws), lower costs because of fewer taxes, and the ability to grow your own plants — up to five, provided they are out of sight, unavailable to minors and meet other qualifications.\n\n![Pain can be crippling](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_02_at_3_21_48_PM_0f3241603f.png)\n\n[Getting a medical card](https://hellomd.com/get-started) requires an appointment with a certified practitioner who will evaluate whether your health condition merits certification. After this, you [register with the state](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis.html) and pay the necessary fees to receive a medical marijuana card.\n\n![A medical cannabis cardholder in Illinois](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_04_at_4_36_05_PM_51902e9f7e.png)\n\nYou actually don’t receive a card. These days you get a **digital version**, which you print out and present to one of the state’s licensed dispensaries, like [Verilife](https://www.verilife.com/verilife-dispensary-locations), which has eight locations in Illinois, serving the medical and recreational markets.\n\nYou can either go to the physical dispensary or [order home delivery online](https://www.verilife.com/il/menu/verilife-river-north-il).\n\nCarly G.\n\n----------------\n\n![Fruity OG flower](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_25_at_8_46_24_PM_5c4001c6f1.png)\n\nYou’ll be happy to hear there are a number of [weed strains that can help with chronic pain](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-best-cannabis-strains-for-chronic-pain). For example, [Sour Diesel](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-5-most-popular-strains-of-cannabis) is a high THC concentrate strain that can boost energy and mood as it helps manage pain. Because of the energy boost, it is good for daytime use.\n\n![Verilife dispensaries are throughout Illinois](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_9_28_52_AM_319716a042.png)\n\nSome of the Verilife dispensaries carry [Sativa Sour Diesel Dogwalkers pre-rolls](https://www.verilife.com/il/menu/arlington-heights-medical), with a whopping 30+% THC content. When you buy this cannabis product, a portion of the proceeds goes to deserving animal shelters across the country. So it’s a win-win.\n\nIf you prefer your pain management without getting over-the-top high, then it’s a good idea to use a strain with high CBD content. For this reason, [Harlequin](https://hellomd.com/strains/harlequin) has become popular with the medical marijuana community looking for pain relief and other health benefits without the pronounced psychoactivity. The Sativa hybrid typically has a CBD/THC ratio of 5/2.\n\nMelissa B.\n\n-------------------\n![Medical marijuana in Illinois](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_02_at_3_18_47_PM_047f094d11.png)\n\n\nWhen looking to [get a medical marijuana card in Illinois](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois), the first step is to have a consultation with a healthcare practitioner. This can include advanced practice registered nurse–full practice authority, advanced practice nurse, physician assistant, doctor of medicine (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO).\n\nOf course, the question is, does the practitioner have the knowledge to answer your questions and provide certification for your condition?. Not all medical practitioners, including some family doctors, have kept up with the field of cannabis care, because it is so fast changing, and in some cases they are put off by the stigma that sometimes accompanies marijuana use.\n\n![Getting your medical marijuana card allows you to buy legal marijuana in Illinois](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_10_39_10_PM_f08ab2a575.png)\n\n[HelloMD’s practitioners](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois/) are all thoroughly versed in matching your medical with a long list of [debilitating conditions](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis/debilitating-conditions.html), ranging from autism and Alzheimer’s to traumatic brain injury and ulcerative colitis.\n\nThe process is easy and smooth, and all done online. You sign up and provide basic information about yourself, and then you do a consultation with an experienced Illinois practitioner, typically lasting 15 to 30 minutes. They’ll ask you some questions about your medical history, and you can ask them any questions you have or tell them about any concerns.\n\n![Talk to a HelloMD practitioner online](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_01_at_2_25_14_PM_00d7303ec2.png)\n\nOnce you’re certified, you will need to register your certification with Illinois’ online [Medical Cannabis Patient Program](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis/medical-cannabis-registry-application), where you will need proof of residency in addition to proof of identification.\n\nAfter you submit your application, you’ll receive a provisional registration letter, which you’ll print and use to buy medical cannabis at a state-licensed dispensary. The letter is valid for 90 days. If Illinois approves your application for medical marijuana status, you’ll then receive a digital copy of your medical card that you can print out and use at dispensaries.\n\n![You can purchase weed in Illinois with a medical marijuana card](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_04_at_4_23_48_PM_d843f50589.png)\n\n\nThe cost of the [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois/) consultation is $159, and you only pay if you are approved. There are also state fees you’ll have to pay for when you make your application, ranging from $25 to $300, depending on how long the card is good for, and the number of designated caregivers assigned to a patient.\n\nI hope that helps.\n\nPeter G.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAKABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDBP/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMAAv/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABWOmCacQa/8QAGRAAAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgABAxIz/9oACAEBAAEFAjd6kVDUekuS/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEP/aAAgBAwEBPwE//8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIQEf/aAAgBAgEBPwFjjif/xAAaEAACAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAQAiIx/9oACAEBAAY/AtewYthUIa//xAAaEAEAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABACEQETGh/9oACAEBAAE/IaLvRN8JAq5fuIcJ/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABCwL//EABcRAQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQESH/2gAIAQMBAT8QTLj/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEP/aAAgBAgEBPxBQT//EAB4QAQACAAcBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExQVFhcaGx/9oACAEBAAE/EFIrp7Ga2Ggi51xLHEnpfkAoloI7FzzT/9k=","aspectRatio":1.9801980198019802,"src":"/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/14b42/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/f836f/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.jpg 200w,\n/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/2244e/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.jpg 400w,\n/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/14b42/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.jpg 800w,\n/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/47498/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/0e329/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.jpg 1600w,\n/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/58952/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.jpg 7597w","srcWebp":"/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/58556/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/61e93/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.webp 200w,\n/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/1f5c5/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.webp 400w,\n/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/58556/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.webp 800w,\n/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/99238/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.webp 1200w,\n/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/7c22d/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.webp 1600w,\n/static/0bb7a7dea7060a6e7905fefded242803/19905/dfda3edc1ff73cec79a292f07202edb9.webp 7597w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Question_12595-markdown","title":"Can you legally grow medical marijuana in Illinois?","slug":"can-you-legally-grow-medical-marijuana-in-illinois","content":"**“I’ve been using medical cannabis for a while in Springfield, Illinois. Even with the tax break over rec use, I’m still paying a lot. Is it possible to grow my own weed?”**\n\nJack M.\n\n-----------\nYes you can with certain limitations. If you are a medical user — with an Illinois state [government-supplied medical card](https://hellomd.com/get-started) — you are able to grow up to five plants over five inches tall at a time. \n\n![iStock-1294464085-min.jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/i_Stock_1294464085_min_3680505ca0.jpg)\n\nBut not so for recreational or adult-use weed, which has been legal in the state since 2020, You can be [fined $200](https://www.illinoispolicy.org/what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana-legalization-in-illinois/)  for growing five plants. And of course, if you grow more, you get more punishment by the law.\n\nEven as a medical marijuana user, you have other regulations you must observe. For example, you must be 21 years or older. You can only grow cannabis plants for personal use. The plants must be grown in a locked room, with no access to anyone under 21. \n\n![Untitled3.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Untitled3_f0cc38cfe6.png)\n\nThey must be kept out of public view and grown with permission of the owner of the property (if it’s not yourself). A landlord can ban renters from growing cannabis on the property if the lease includes the ban in it. And renters can’t grow cannabis in federally subsidized housing. \n\nGiven the high cost of legal marijuana in Illinois, it makes sense to save where you can — especially if you have a green thumb.\n\nArnis B.\n\n--------------\n\nWhile legal weed is available to medical users and rec users in Chicago, you still need to be careful that you don’t step over the line, because the state is ready to be quite heavy-handed for [any infractions](https://www.pjstar.com/story/news/drugs/marijuana/2021/09/15/rules-on-illinois-recreational-and-medical-marijuana-use/5742988001/). \n\nAs a [certified medical marijuana user](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois), you can obtain up to 2.5 ounces, or 71 grams, of cannabis within a two-week period. It’s possible to get more if you need it and get a waiver through the state.\n\n![Visiting a medical marijuana dispensary](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_01_at_3_30_27_PM_67f70ef3cd.png)\n\nFor rec users, those over 21 can legally have up to 30g of weed, or up to 500g of THC (the cannabis ingredient that makes people high) in a cannabis-infused product, or up to 5g of marijuana concentrate, such as oils or medicated creams.\n\nIf you are found carrying more than 30g of cannabis but less than 100g, the police can charge you with a [class A misdemeanor](https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=073000050K5-4.5-55). It's also illegal for anyone, whether they use recreationally or medically, to consume within a car while it is on the road. Violation of that is also a class A misdemeanor. \n\n![Medical marijuana is a therapeutic medicine for millions of people](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_01_at_12_11_23_PM_3385580d9a.png)\n\nPossession of 100 to 500 grams is a [Class 4 felony](https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=073000050K5-4.5-45), which could be punished by a minimum sentence of one year and a maximum sentence of  three years, as well as a maximum fine of $25,000.\n\n[At the upper end of the scale](https://norml.org/laws/illinois-penalties/#:~:text=Pritzker%20signed%20The%20Cannabis%20Regulation,a%20%2Cmaximum%20fine%20of%20%242500), possession of more than 5,000 grams of marijuana is a Class 1 felony, punishable by going to prison for a minimum of four years and a maximum of 15, as well as getting hit by a fine of $25,000. \n\nGreer T.\n\n---------------\nThere are a lot of reasons you should [get your medical marijuana card in Illinois](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois), including being able to grow your own plants, getting a substantial tax break, and having a preferred status for purchasing if there is a cannabist shortage in the state.\n\n![Remote work can be hard on people  - cannabis may help lessen the stress and anxiety associated with it](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_01_at_1_14_29_PM_8e6715df7b.png)\n\nWhen seeking to get your medical card, look for a Telehealth provider such as [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/), which has a lot of experience getting people certified for medical marijuana use in the state - and it's all online. Their telehealth process, including a live video consultation with a qualified Illinois healthcare practitioner, is fast, easy, and cost-effective, and it will have you up and running — or growing — in no time.\n\nHarriet E.\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/14b42/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/f836f/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.jpg 200w,\n/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/2244e/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.jpg 400w,\n/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/14b42/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.jpg 800w,\n/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/47498/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.jpg 1200w,\n/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/0e329/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.jpg 1600w,\n/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/21d0b/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.jpg 5184w","srcWebp":"/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/58556/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/61e93/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.webp 200w,\n/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/1f5c5/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.webp 400w,\n/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/58556/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.webp 800w,\n/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/99238/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.webp 1200w,\n/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/7c22d/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.webp 1600w,\n/static/bf3da559041c5e246ba885a3d134085f/5e947/ea68ca31135bc86fe45b104509107119.webp 5184w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Question_12594-markdown","title":"What are the qualifying conditions for medical marijuana in Illinois in 2022?","slug":"what-are-the-qualifying-conditions-for-medical-marijuana-in-illinois-in-2022","content":"**“I am a senior and have been coping with Rheumatoid arthritis more and more. I’m wondering if I can get medical cannabis to help with this? I live in Illinois.”**\n\nLois K.\n\n----------\n\n![Chronic pain interferes with life - cannabis can help](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_10_23_06_PM_f255f44257.png)\n\nYou most likely can. Under [the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program Act](https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=3503&ChapterID=35#:~:text=Hence%2C%20the%20purpose%20of%20this,the%20medical%20use%20of%20cannabis.), which was put in place by Illinois in 2013, there is a list of [“debilitating conditions”](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis/debilitating-conditions.html) that will probably qualify you for a medical weed card. These include:\n\n- Autism\n- Agitation of Alzheimer’s disease\n- HIV/AIDS\n- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)\n- Anorexia nervosa\n- Arnold-Chiari malformation\n- Cancer\n- Cachexia/wasting syndrome\n- Causalgia\n- Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy\n- Chronic pain\n- Crohn’s disease\n- CRPS (complex regional pain syndrome Type II)\n- Dystonia\n- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome\n- Fibrous Dysplasia\n- Glaucoma\n- Hepatitis C\n- Hydrocephalus\n- Hydromyelia\n- Interstitial cystitis\n- Irritable bowel syndrome\n- Lupus\n- Migraines\n- Multiple Sclerosis\n- Muscular Dystrophy\n- Myasthenia Gravis\n- Myoclonus\n- Nail-patella syndrome\n- Neuro-Bechet’s autoimmune disease\n- Neurofibromatosis\n- Neuropathy\n- Osteoarthritis\n- Parkinson’s disease\n- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)\n- Post-Concussion Syndrome\n- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)\n- Reflex sympathetic dystrophy\n- Residual limb pain\n- Rheumatoid arthritis\n- Seizures (including those characteristic of Epilepsy)\n- Severe fibromyalgia\n- Sjogren’s syndrome\n- Spinal cord disease (including but not limited to arachnoiditis)\n- Spinal cord injury is damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity\n- Spinocerebellar ataxia\n- Superior canal dehiscence syndrome\n- Syringomyelia\n- Tarlov cysts\n- Tourette syndrome\n- Traumatic brain injury\n- Ulcerative colitis\n\nIn order to [get a medical cannabis card](https://hellomd.com/get-started), you have to receive a certification from a healthcare practitioner, such as a physician or registered nurse, indicating that you have one of these conditions that might be helped by medical marijuana.\n\n![Remote work can be hard on people  - cannabis may help lessen the stress and anxiety associated with it](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_01_at_1_14_29_PM_8e6715df7b.png)\n\nProviding this consultation is with a qualified healthcare practitioner is the forte of [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/). We have been helping patients understand and access the benefit of medical cannabis since 2015, throughout the United States and Canada. We have been rated #1 on Trustpilot. Our Customer Service team is always with you through every step of the process, making sure you can obtain the cannabis products you need to help with your health condition.\n\nYvonne W.\n\n--------------------\n![Medical marijuana in Illinois](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_02_at_3_18_47_PM_047f094d11.png)\n\nIt’s worth noting that the list of qualifications to obtain your medical card in Illinois is a work in process. In 2019, the Illinois [General Assembly passed SB 2023](https://abc7chicago.com/medical-marijuana-illinois-card-dispensary/5373720/#:~:text=The%2011%20new%20qualifying%20conditions,and%20superior%20canal%20dehiscence%20syndrome),  which updated the list of conditions, and, as well, made [the state's medical cannabis program](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis.html) permanent (it was set to expire in July 2020).\n\nThe 11 new qualifying conditions for medical weed patients were: autism, chronic pain, irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, osteoarthritis, anorexia nervosa, Ehler-Danlos Syndrome, Neuro-Behcet's Autoimmune Disease, neuropathy, polycystic kidney disease, and superior canal dehiscence syndrome.\n\nBy keeping the medical marijuana program separate from adult-use cannabis laws, the state government sought to ensure that it wouldn’t be affected by any changes to the regulations governing recreational cannabis, such as a repeal of the act.\n\nJanet K.\n\n-----------------\n\nYou won’t be alone in using medical weed for your arthritis. [A survey conducted by Verilife](https://www.verilife.com/blog/millennials-vs-boomers)—which runs a series of dispensaries in Illinois selling medical and recreational marijuana—reveals that people in your age group are much more likely than millennials to use cannabis for health conditions, such as arthritis, chronic pain, and cancer. Millennials are more prone to consuming weed for recreational purposes.\n\n![Screen Shot 2022-01-26 at 10.51.03 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_10_51_03_PM_85e8c0e8a2.png)\n\n[There’s some research done](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-cannabis-can-help-ease-arthritis-pain-and-inflammation) showing that cannabis can help with the pain, inflammation, and damage done by arthritis. And it can provide a safer alternative to opioids with their addiction issues.\n\nSo it makes a lot of sense for Illinois residents to [get a medical marijuana card](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois), and explore the health benefits of cannabis.\n\nChuck Ng\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/14b42/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/f836f/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.jpg 200w,\n/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/2244e/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.jpg 400w,\n/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/14b42/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.jpg 800w,\n/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/47498/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/0e329/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.jpg 1600w,\n/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/4c51e/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.jpg 6800w","srcWebp":"/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/58556/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/61e93/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.webp 200w,\n/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/1f5c5/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.webp 400w,\n/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/58556/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.webp 800w,\n/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/99238/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.webp 1200w,\n/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/7c22d/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.webp 1600w,\n/static/15a10578b475dc87a117b21644201542/90e64/e0c990e32e669fbf7343e16a00f6b20f.webp 6800w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Question_12593-markdown","title":"How do I find a medical marijuana doctor in Chicago?","slug":"how-do-i-find-a-medical-marijuana-doctor-in-chicago","content":"**“I’ve suffered from Crohn’s disease for a long time and want to try medical weed to treat its symptoms. How do I find a doctor who can prescribe cannabis for this condition in Chicago?”**\n\nAlexa H.\n\n-----------------------\n\nGood question. But first, you need to understand that doctors don’t prescribe medical cannabis. Instead, [they are asked to certify](https://www.verilife.com/il/patients-and-caregivers/talking-to-your-doctor) that you have one of the qualifying medical conditions to get your [medical marijuana card](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois/).\n\n![Untitled2.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Untitled2_361fa2fe25.png)\n\nIn Chicago and elsewhere in the state, the Medical Cannabis Registry Program is administered by the [Illinois Department of Public Health (IDHP)](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis.html). The list of practitioners who can certify you is pretty broad. So you can go to your own physician to get certified, if they are up to date on the benefits of medical marijuana and willing to do this.\n\n[Health practitioners who can certify you](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis/physician-information.html#:~:text=All%20qualifying%20patients%20who%20apply,doctor%20of%20medicine%20(MD)%20or) for a medical marijuana card include advanced practice registered nurses, advanced practice nurses, physician assistants, doctors of medicine (MDs), and doctors of osteopathic medicine (DO).\n\n![Talk to a HelloMD practitioner online](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_01_at_2_25_14_PM_00d7303ec2.png)\n\nThere needs to be a bonafide healthcare provider-patient relationship between the two of you. The healthcare practitioner also has “responsibility for the ongoing care and treatment of the qualifying patient's debilitating condition.”\n\nTed B.\n\n--------------------\n\n![You need to get certified by a doctor to get your medical marijuana card](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_04_at_4_09_20_PM_d316f42934.png)\n\nAs stated, the process of [getting your medical marijuana card](https://hellomd.com/get-started)  in Chicago starts with obtaining your patient certificate from your healthcare practitioner, if you have one of the qualifying conditions.\n\nOnce certified, you need to complete the [patient portion of your medical marijuana application in Illinois](https://www.verilife.com/il/how-to-get-a-medical-cannabis-card-illinois). To do this you’ll also need:\n\n- A passport-style photo taken within the last 30 days by a smartphone or a professional photographer \n- A color copy of a current driver's license, state ID, or the photo page of a U.S. passport \n- A credit card to pay the online application fee\n\nAfter you’ve submitted your application you will receive a provisional letter that you can print out and use to buy medical cannabis from a state-licensed dispensary such as [Verilife](https://www.verilife.com/). The letter is valid for up to 90 days.\n\nOnce you have been approved to be part of the medical marijuana program in Chicago, you’ll receive a digital copy of your medical card that you can print out and use. Illinois no longer provides physical medical marijuana cards.\n\nIain J.\n\n--------------\n\nYou might also wonder why you need to get a medical marijuana card since it became possible to buy legal recreational weed in Chicago and all of Illinois in 2020. While that is true, before this, in 2013, Illinois became the 20th state to authorize a program for the cultivation and dispensing of cannabis for medical purposes—and this has some specific advantages for you.\n\nWith a medical cannabis card, you’ll be able to grow your own cannabis at home, and, if there’s a marijuana shortage, you’ll receive priority purchases. Also—and this is a big benefit—you won’t be charged the 34.75% adult-use tax. \n\n![Untitled3.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Untitled3_f0cc38cfe6.png)\n\nI should also mention that while there is a wide range of healthcare professionals you can go to for medical marijuana certification, not all of them will be up to date on weed’s health benefits, or supportive of your decision to use it medically.\n\nThat’s why it’s a good idea to use a [certification process such as HelloMD’s](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois). Their practitioners are well-versed in cannabis benefits for all qualifying conditions in the state and will take the time needed to answer your questions and review your medical history. Another bonus is the process, including the live consultation, is done completely online, so you can get certified without leaving your home.\n\nRoy A.\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/14b42/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/f836f/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.jpg 200w,\n/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/2244e/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.jpg 400w,\n/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/14b42/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.jpg 800w,\n/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/47498/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.jpg 1200w,\n/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/0e329/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.jpg 1600w,\n/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/a4951/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.jpg 6066w","srcWebp":"/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/58556/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/61e93/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.webp 200w,\n/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/1f5c5/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.webp 400w,\n/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/58556/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.webp 800w,\n/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/99238/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.webp 1200w,\n/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/7c22d/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.webp 1600w,\n/static/7df9808225a408c180b66b0378f061e7/99486/b135453cfffccbe4e7d462f2fa3990bf.webp 6066w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Question_12592-markdown","title":"What are the best medical marijuana edibles in Illinois?","slug":"what-are-the-best-medical-marijuana-edibles-in-illinois","content":"**“With Covid, my depression, anxiety, and stress levels are through the roof. Thought I might have some weed edibles to help, which are legal here. What should I try?”**\n\nMartin G.\n\n---------------\n\n![Cannabis edibles are a great option for consuming cannabis](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_28_at_9_38_39_AM_158a72377f.png)\n\nMedical marijuana edibles are a great way to help with mood disorders. But first things first. Are you registered as a medical cannabis user in Illinois? If not, you need to get a medical card. You can [do this all through HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started) as a resident of Illinois.\n\nYou can consult online with a [qualified Illinois practitioner](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois), for only $159. Once you have been approved by the practitioner, you will register your certification with Illinois’ online [Medical Cannabis Patient Program](https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis.html), providing proof of residency as well as identification. After you’ve registered, you will receive your medical card in the mail. Then you can go to an approved dispensary to pick up the edibles you desire.\n\nIf you haven’t had edibles before, be aware that their effects take longer to kick in than smoking or vaping, so don’t keep eating them or the effects might hit you hard if they have a lot of THC in them.\n\nAlan G.\n\n-------------------------\n\nOne dispensary with a great footprint in Illinois is [Verilife](https://www.verilife.com/il), which has eight locations in the state so far. Its [Romeoville dispensary](https://www.verilife.com/il/location/verilife-romeoville-il), for example, caters to both medical weed and recreational users.\n\n![Matter Acai Pomegranate Sour Gummy Bites](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_04_at_3_56_50_PM_1ea6e3d592.png)\n\nThe [Matter Acai Pomegranate Sour Gummy Bites](https://www.verilife.com/il/menu/romeoville-medical) for sale there is a favorite—and a good choice if you are looking for a balanced 1:1 THC-CBD ratio (each package of 20 pieces has about 100mg of each of the cannabinoids).\n\nThere’s a mounting pile of evidence that [CBD can help with the symptoms of depression](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-cbd-can-relieve-symptoms-of-depression), and can often avoid the side effects of powerful traditional pharmaceuticals. Some people will even use CBD alongside their regular prescriptions, to reduce their use of them and to mitigate their side effects.\n\nCannabis can also help to boost your mood and calm fears and anxieties.\n\nHowe K.\n\n----------------\n![Kiva Confections Chocolate Terra Bites](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_04_at_3_57_43_PM_4bf6d3c6b6.png)\n\nI really like the delicious [Kiva Confections line of Chocolate Terra Bites](https://www.verilife.com/il/menu/Verilife-north-aurora-illinois-marijuana-dispensary).  They are made from micro-roasted Tanzanian coffee beans and coated in dark chocolate and have 5mg of THC per bite. That’s not a lot if you are worried about getting high, and want to microdose. Or you can take a few bites for a heavier hit.\n\n![Kiva’s Indica Midnight Blueberry Camino Gummies](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_04_at_3_58_45_PM_f389565c9e.png)\n\nAlso worth trying are [Kiva’s Indica Midnight Blueberry Camino Gummies](https://www.verilife.com/il/menu/Verilife-north-aurora-illinois-marijuana-dispensary), with a 5:1 THC-CBD ratio. The sweet treat also includes terpenes, chamomile, and lavender oils to promote restful sleep, which is great if you are being kept up by your depression and anxiety. User reviews also praise these weed edibles for their pain relief and mood-enhancing capabilities.\n\n![Incredibles Black Cherry Chocolate Bar](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_04_at_3_59_52_PM_f3be5e5dc9.png)\n\nIn Chicago, you can, as well, get the [Incredibles Black Cherry Chocolate Bar](https://store.dispenseapp.com/c211c583a13cf427?w-route=product&w-params=%7B%22id%22%3A%221-1-black-cherry-chocolate-bar-10-pack%22%2C%22type%22%3A%22edibles%22%2C%22brand%22%3A%22incredibles%22%7D). Each of its 10 squares has 10mg each of CBD and THC. The manufacturer asks: “Who needs fondue when you have this decadent treat? Tart cherries and milky, dark chocolatey goodness.”\n\nThe bar is rated high for its calming, relaxing, and sleepy effects. Who could say no?\n\nJonathan L.\n\n\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/14b42/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.jpg","srcSet":"/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/f836f/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.jpg 200w,\n/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/2244e/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.jpg 400w,\n/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/14b42/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.jpg 800w,\n/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/47498/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.jpg 1200w,\n/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/0e329/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.jpg 1600w,\n/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/c128d/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.jpg 5760w","srcWebp":"/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/58556/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/61e93/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.webp 200w,\n/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/1f5c5/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.webp 400w,\n/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/58556/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.webp 800w,\n/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/99238/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.webp 1200w,\n/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/7c22d/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.webp 1600w,\n/static/92861ef17475bd3f7c997463cfdbbb04/ec000/f89aa17ea09ed8c8a571acec2e5629ac.webp 5760w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Question_12578-markdown","title":"What is legal weed?","slug":"what-is-legal-weed","content":"**\"What exactly does it mean when we say 'legal weed'? Isn't weed legal everywhere now?\"**\n\nMichael L.\n\n--------------------\n\n![Cannabis flower can help some people sleep better.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_12_26_at_6_56_42_PM_69a74251ba.png)\n\n\nLegal weed in this country refers to cannabis that has been deemed legal to use for medical or recreational purposes.  It’s legal in some states but not federally in the United States. And some states allow the use of cannabis for medical purposes, and others have also opened the gates to recreational or adult use.\n\nWith the growing use of weed for both medical and recreational purposes, there seems to be strong momentum for legalization in this country, though perhaps not fast enough for marijuana advocates pushing for its acceptance.\n\nMedical use of weed is [legal with a doctor's or approved medical practioner’s OK](https://hellomd.com/get-started) in 36 states, four out of five permanently inhabited U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia. Recreational use of cannabis is [legal in 19 states,](https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/articles/where-is-marijuana-legal-a-guide-to-marijuana-legalization) Washington, D.C., and Guam.\n\nThe states include:\n\n- Colorado\n- Washington\n- Alaska\n- Oregon\n- California\n- Maine\n- Massachusetts\n- Nevada\n- Michigan\n- Vermont\n- Illinois\n- Arizona\n- Montana\n- New Jersey\n- South Dakota \n- New York\n- Virginia\n- New Mexico\n- Connecticut\n\nWeed retail sales are offered through government-approved dispensaries in the states where cannabis is legalized for purchase.\n\nTo purchase medical cannabis each state has its own rules for obtaining a medical marijuana card. In New York, for example, you have the option [get your card through HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/new-york) and our telehealth services. It costs only $129 to have an online consultation with a New York practitioner, who will answer any questions you may have and help you determine if your health condition could be helped by medical marijuana (chosen from an state-approved list of conditions).\n\nThe state of New York then charges $50 to issue the medical marijuana card.\n\nDan D.\n\n--------------------\n\n![The dose pen by Dosist.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_12_25_at_11_37_25_AM_cc06e19f25.png)\n\n[Illinois]( https://hellomd.com/articles/illinois-weed-map-your-guide-to-getting-safe-and-legal-weed) is one of the states where you can buy both recreational and medical marijuana. You can still break the law for possession or not following the rules, but on the other hand, you can buy legal, quality-controlled, safe cannabis from authorized dispensaries.\n\nAfter permitting medical marijuana sales for more than five years, Illinois became the 11th state to legalize recreational cannabis in June 2019. Under the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act, recreational cannabis sales to adults aged 21 and older officially began in the beginning of 2020.\n\nIf you're 21 or older and a legal resident of Illinois, you can buy recreational weed from any of the licensed adult-use dispensaries. You can purchase up to 30 grams of dry flower, five grams of concentrate, and edibles with up to 500 mg of THC.\n\nTo be able to buy legal medical cannabis, you need a licensed medical professional to certify you have a debilitating condition. You can book your appointment with a licensed pro in person or through an online platform, such as [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/illinois). \n\nIt’s fast, easy, private and 100% online to get your Illinois medical cannabis card through us, book a consultation with a medical professional, and then receive your authorization to purchase medical marijuana through a state-licensed dispensary.\n\nCarla S.\n\n---------------------\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-12-10 at 5.19.35 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_12_10_at_5_19_35_PM_78e64fd582.png)\n\nI should also point out that legal weed will help with the Catch-22 that has plagued its use for medical reasons or recreational purposes. The medical and legal establishment resisted its legalization because there wasn’t enough proof of its benefits and that cannabis was safe to use. But it was hard to get that research proof because cannabis was an illegal drug, making it hard to access for studies.\n\nBut growing legalization in this country will help [spur the kind of research](https://hellomd.ca/articles/will-adult-use-legalization-help-cannabis-research) needed to prove (or disprove) its efficacy, beyond the usual anecdotal testimonials. \n\nThe research would not only cover the well-known cannabinoids THC and CBD but dozens of other active ingredients, each one having potential uses that could reveal new ways that cannabis can benefit us.\n\nLaurie Tawada\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/14b42/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/f836f/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.jpg 200w,\n/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/2244e/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.jpg 400w,\n/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/14b42/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.jpg 800w,\n/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/47498/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/0e329/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/947df/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.jpg 5472w","srcWebp":"/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/58556/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/61e93/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.webp 200w,\n/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/1f5c5/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.webp 400w,\n/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/58556/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.webp 800w,\n/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/99238/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.webp 1200w,\n/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/7c22d/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.webp 1600w,\n/static/b1b765b4a1eb4938536d8b2b90ba5e52/f8fd9/ccd8d8f2368806cc4db5717a484e5019.webp 5472w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Question_12134-markdown","title":"My doctor's affiliation doesn't allow him to approve of Illinois Certification form.  What can I do?","slug":"my-doctors-affiliation-doesnt-allow-him-to-approve-of-illinois-certification-form-what-can-i-do","content":"\n_____________________\nHi there! \n\nI am afraid our doctors consultations are only available to patients in California, New York, and Ontario, Canada at this time. \n\nIf you are interested in obtaining a medical marijuana card for the state of Illinois, please click here for more information:  \nhttp://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis/medical-cannabis-registry-application  \n\nThe Illinois Department of Public Health website will have all the information you need including the medical cannabis patient application, application help, and finding a physician in your area to assist you. \n\nI hope this information helps! :-) \n\nVeronicaB","image":null}},{"node":{"id":"Question_12029-markdown","title":"How do I find a reputable doctor in Illinois to speak with about the medical marijuana program?","slug":"how-do-i-find-a-reputable-doctor-in-illinois-to-speak-with-about-the-medical-marijuana-program","content":"\"I live in Illinois, and I have been taking 60 mg of oxycodone every 4 hours for the past 6 years to handle 4 dibilitating pain issues all of which are inoperable. My regular doctor has been handling my pain medication because I have not been able to find a specialist who's wanted to deal with my medication. My regular doctor is going to be retiring shortly. He has suggested the medical marijuana program, but he doesn't know how to deal with that. If I have 15 to 20 years worth of valid medical records showing my conditions, and all four of my issues are listed as being issues that make me eligible for the medical marijuana program in Illinois, how do I find a doctor who will help me sign up for the program, and without looking like I am doctor searching? is there a list somewhere that says what doctors will help you sign up for the program? Everyone I've talked to, thinks that going the medical marijuana route is considerably better then taking the oxycodone I have been taking. I don't want to deal with the oxycodone anymore specifically due to the stigma related to it, but I don't know how to find a doctor to help me sign up for the medical marijuana program here in Illinois. If anyone can help steer me to a qualified doctor or has any information on how I can find a qualified doctor to help me sign up for the medical marijuana program, and assist me in then hopefully eliminating the oxycodone, I would very much appreciate it! Thank you!\"\n_____________________\nI assume your own docs are either unwilling to certify you have a legally qualifying condition for your application, or the hospital system to which they belong doesn't let its physicians do so. Google \"medical marijuana dispensary near me\" and contact one of those coming up in the search results. They can suggest the names of physicians who are willing to assist you--BUT you still have to prove you have a qualifying condition. These doctors charge reasonable non-trivial fees, but no insurer will cover them (nor the state application/issuance fees nor the products once you're approved). Bear in mind you must register with ONE dispensary and can use ONLY that one--if traveling elsewhere in IL, you can't use that town's dispensary. And your card is useless in any other state. It's good only in your home state. Also, weed bought legally in a recreational-weed state cannot be brought across state lines even if you hold a valid permit.  Good luck!\n\nfolkiefoodie\n_____________________\nMeanwhile, have you tried hemp-derived CBD oil or tinctures? They are legal in IL and can be bought from vape shops, health food stores, or from some sympathetic doctors--with no need for a permit. If you don't want to get high, it's a good alternative. Go to a highly-rated shop (Yelp is good for that) with a knowldegeable staff. CBD has been shown to be useful in helping with opioid withdrawal, increasing your pain threshhold, and when combined with over-the-counter painkillers, as or nearly as effective for pain relief.\n\nI can understand your doctor's reluctance--the paperwork is a minefield, especially for old-school docs. As I said in my other post, the best way to get recommendations for docs who can help you apply is to contact your local dispensary via phone or e-mail. That's how I found the doc handling my application.\n\nfolkiefoodie\n_____________________\nThanks for sharing your history.  I agree that medical marijuana might be a useful treatment modality for your chronic pain as well as a possible means to decrease your chronic opiate usage.  Here are two websites that I think may help you out.  The first is a link to the IL state website for the  MCPP (medical cannabis pilot program):  https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/mcpp/Pages/default.aspx    The 2nd link is to find medical marijuana physicians in IL:  https://www.marijuanadoctors.com/medical-marijuana/il/\nI hope that these help out!\n\ndrpark","image":null}},{"node":{"id":"Question_11999-markdown","title":"Is there any chance of HelloMD serving the Illinois community? ","slug":"is-there-any-chance-of-hellomd-serving-the-illinois-community","content":"\n_____________________\nHi there! \n\nUnfortunately HelloMD has not expanded to Illinois as of yet, however we hope to continue to expand throughout the country. \n\nPlease check out the link below to learn more about obtaining a medical marijuana recommendation for the state of Illinois. \n\nIf you are having trouble with the application or registration process, please click here to view a list of local health departments providing free assistance specifcally for the medical cannabis registry: http://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis/application-help \n\nI hope this information helps! :-) \n\nVeronicaB","image":null}},{"node":{"id":"Question_9254-markdown","title":"Since this has no THC can I order the product?  I live in Illinois.","slug":"since-this-has-no-thc-can-i-order-the-product-i-live-in-illinois","content":"\n_____________________\nLooking at their website, seems like they only work with state-licensed dispensaries in California. https://www.abx.org/find-abx\n\nWe just published a state-by-state guide of cannabis laws and you might want to click on the links we have for Illinois. Looks like your state has a medical marijuana program for certain conditions. Hope this helps! https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a85fbfcf24d1300077ccb4e/cannabis-in-america-a-state-by-state-guide\n\ngabriella","image":null}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":2,"currentPage":1,"id":5374,"name":"Illinois","slug":"illinois","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}