{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-question-tags-template-js","path":"/question-tag/telehealth/","result":{"data":{"allQuestion":{"edges":[{"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_12590-markdown","title":"How do I find a medical marijuana doctor in New York?","slug":"how-do-i-find-a-medical-marijuana-doctor-in-new-york","content":"**“I want to buy medical weed in New York but hear that you need to be approved by a doctor first. Is this true? What’s involved in getting approved?”**\n\nKate G.\n\n------------\n\nIn New York, as in other states where medical cannabis is legalized, you need to [get a medical card](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) before you can buy marijuana from a licensed dispensary.\n\nHaving a medical marijuana card is currently the only way to buy marijuana from a legal, trusted source in the state. While New York voted to legalize adult-use or recreational weed in 2021, the slow, grinding wheels of bureaucracy may mean that [licensed dispensaries may not be up and running until later in 2022 or even in 2023.](https://www.thecity.nyc/2021/12/21/22848537/waiting-to-inhale-legal-weed-shops-may-not-hit-nyc-in-2022)\n\n![A New York Medical Card from HelloMD](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_9_19_46_AM_df5dd4ee5b.png)\n\nThe [New York State Depart of Health ](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/patients/) outlines a four-step process for obtaining medical marijuana certification:\n\n1. Contact a [practitioner registered](https://newyork.hellomd.com/start) with the DOH to see if medical marijuana may help with your health condition.\n2. Obtain patient certification from the registered practitioner.\n3. Register online with the state and a Registry ID card will be mailed to you.\n4. Purchase your medical cannabis from a legally registered dispensary.\n\n![The Botanist medical marijuana dispensary in NYC](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_9_28_52_AM_319716a042.png)\n\nWhile it might be a doctor who is your medical marijuana practitioner, the regulations are much broader than this, allowing a variety of differently qualified practitioners. In October 2021, the DOH expanded the definition of the type of [practitioner who could certify patients for the medical use of cannabis](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/) to include “anyone who is licensed, registered, or certified by New York State to prescribe controlled substances to humans within the State such as dentists, podiatrists, and midwives.”\n\nBefore they are certified, the practitioners must complete a two-hour course.\n\n![See a marijuana doctor online in New York](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_10_37_40_PM_0a581fcae4.png)\n\nSome of the best practitioners for [medical marijuana certification](https://hellomd.com/get-started/new-york) are those working for [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/). Helping New York residents to get their medical cannabis cards is their main focus and expertise, while some medical doctors may not be up to speed on the medical marijuana field, which is changing all the time.\n\nThe certification process is all done online and is fast, easy, and professional — allowing you to use your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or PC to go through the steps from the comfort of your home.\n\n![Medical marijuana has many health benefits](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_25_at_6_41_03_PM_1c31d55096.png)\n\nFirst, you register online and provide some basic information about yourself. You would [pay $129 for your consultation](https://newyork.hellomd.com/start), but only if you are approved for your medical marijuana card. You also used to have to pay a $50 registration fee with the state, but New York has now waived this.\n\nThen you would have a telehealth consultation with the HelloMD New York practitioner that lasts about 15 to 30 minutes. It is advised that you do the consultation in a private, well-lit space, away from distraction. The practitioner will ask you about your medical history, medications you are taking, and more.\n\n![Getting your medical marijuana card allows you to buy legal marijuana in New York](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_10_39_10_PM_f08ab2a575.png)\n\nThe consultation is also a chance for you to ask questions about anything related to using medical marijuana, whether it is possible side effects or addiction issues. It’s a good idea to write down any questions ahead of time, so you don’t forget anything during the live consultation.\n\nThe practitioner will determine if you have one of the conditions approved by New York for the use of medical marijuana:\n\n- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)\n- Cancer\n- Chronic pain\n- Damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity\n- Epilepsy\n- HIV /AIDS\n- Inflammatory bowel disease\n- Huntington's disease \n- Multiple sclerosis\n- Neuropathy\n- Opioid use disorder (only if enrolled in a treatment program pursuant to [article 32](https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/MHY/TEA32) of the mental hygiene law.)\n- Opioid replacement\n- Parkinson's disease\n- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)\n\n![Verilife dispensary in NYC](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_9_21_57_AM_37b21d7743.png)\n\nAlso, it would include any of the following conditions where it is clinically associated with, or a complication of, a condition under this paragraph or its treatment: \n\n- Cachexia/Wasting syndrome \n- Post-traumatic stress disorder\n- Severe or chronic pain\n- Severe nausea\n- Severe or persistent muscle spasm\n- Seizures\n- Opioid use disorder (only if enrolled in a treatment program pursuant to article 32 of the mental hygiene law)\n\nOnce you receive an approval certification for medical cannabis from your HelloMD practitioner, you have to register your certification at [my.ny.gov](https://www.ny.gov/) and apply to the [NY State Medical Marijuana Program.](https://cannabis.ny.gov/medical-cannabis) \n\nAfter this, you would receive your medical marijuana card through the mail within 10 business days, and can now purchase cannabis from an authorized dispensary, either in the brick-and-mortar store or online.\n\nIf you want to buy medical marijuana before receiving the card, you can, if you are approved by the state and get a temporary card number. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/) will help you any step along the way if you have questions or problems with the certification process.\n\nPatricia G.\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAANABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFgABAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAwQA/8QAFQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAZUGwPX5P//EABsQAQEAAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIBEQADBBIT/9oACAEBAAEFAlfMQ9xNg4ZtnCuDMPX/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAEDAQE/AT//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEf/aAAgBAgEBPwFH/8QAHRAAAgIBBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIBEVESIjFBcf/aAAgBAQAGPwKcsUnRvuy9XA3pMtk//8QAGhABAAMBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARMSFBUf/aAAgBAQABPyGhX4iGTcGkIeck/Jwr7LNtghpCojZ//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABAA/wD/xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIYH/2gAIAQMBAT8QrX//xAAXEQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABFR/9oACAECAQE/EELHL//EABsQAQEAAwEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExUWGh/9oACAEBAAE/EGAaWkIGL+4brCK1bPcFHJw2T5jQUNSuriJbeBwxQ5q0QHRn/9k=","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/14b42/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.jpg","srcSet":"/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/f836f/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.jpg 200w,\n/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/2244e/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.jpg 400w,\n/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/14b42/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.jpg 800w,\n/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/47498/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.jpg 1200w,\n/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/0e329/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.jpg 1600w,\n/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/208d9/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.jpg 6720w","srcWebp":"/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/58556/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/61e93/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.webp 200w,\n/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/1f5c5/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.webp 400w,\n/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/58556/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.webp 800w,\n/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/99238/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.webp 1200w,\n/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/7c22d/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.webp 1600w,\n/static/037ffd59c87c407b9fb7d5fc9cf4fa2e/d4b3d/aab3d845b43ae160255ea6b0a4b4cfb5.webp 6720w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Question_12589-markdown","title":"What are the qualifying conditions for getting a medical marijuana card in New York in 2022?","slug":"what-are-the-qualifying-conditions-for-getting-a-medical-marijuana-card-in-new-york-in-2022","content":"**“I’m dealing with chronic pain from an old motocross accident and I’m scared of taking opioids. I live in New York. Would I qualify for a medical marijuana card to buy weed here in New York?”**\n\nRoy A.\n\n-------------\n![Anxiety can be crippling - but medical marijuana may help](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_19_at_2_58_44_PM_d9687fad18.png)\n\nThe list of qualifying conditions to get your medical marijuana card in New York are as follows:\n\n- Chronic Pain (Arthritis, Migraine, Fibromyalgia, Back Pain, Neck Pain, Severe Dysmenorrhea, Endometriosis, Uterine Fibroids, etc) \n- P.T.S.D. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Panic Attacks, etc)\n- I.B.D. Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s Disease, I.B.S.  Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Abdominal pain, gas, bloating, cramps, etc)\n- Pain that degrades health and functional capacity where the use of medical marijuana is an alternative to opioid use.\n- Opioid Use Disorder/Substance Use Disorder, you must be enrolled in an [Article 32 Treatment program](https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/MHY/TEA32)\n- Neuropathy, Radiculopathy, sciatica, pinched nerve, numbness, tingling\n- Epilepsy, Seizure Disorder\n- Cancer\n- HIV or AIDS\n- A.L.S. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (A.K.A. Lou Gehrig’s Disease)\n- Parkinson’s Disease\n- Multiple Sclerosis\n- Damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity\n- Huntington’s Disease\n\n​Associated or complicating conditions include:\n\n- PTSD\n- Opioid Use Disorder (must be in an Article 32 Treatment program)\n- Seizures\n- Severe Nausea\n- Severe or Persistent Muscle Spasms\n- Severe or Chronic pain resulting in substantial limitation of function\n- Cachexia/Wasting Syndrom\n\nIt's always good to check back to the [cannabis regulations page in the state of New York](https://cannabis.ny.gov/), as things change over time.\n\nHope this helps!\n\nAnne.Y\n\n-----------------------\n![Back pain is a common reason people seek medical marijuana](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_10_18_24_PM_240f9632cf.png)\n\nYes, you would. Sorry to hear about your accident and discomfort. Your condition, chronic pain, is exactly the type that New York’s medical cannabis laws were designed to address. According to the [New York State Department of Health](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/patients/):\n\n“You may be eligible for medical marijuana if you have been diagnosed with one or more of the following severe debilitating or life-threatening conditions: cancer, HIV infection or AIDS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury with spasticity, epilepsy, inflammatory bowel disease, neuropathy, Huntington's disease, post-traumatic stress disorder, chronic pain, pain that degrades health and functional capability as an alternative to opioid use or substance use disorder.”\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\nTo [obtain the medical marijuana card](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-to-get-your-medical-marijuana-card-in-new-york-state) you need to to purchase medical marijuana from a legal dispensary, you must: \n\n- Contact a [registered practitioner](https://newyork.hellomd.com/start) to see if medical cannabis may be able to help with your condition.\n- Obtain patient certification from a registered practitioner.\n- Register online—a registry ID card will be mailed after the application is approved.\n- Buy your medical cannabis from a licensed dispensary.\n\n![cdc-BbP7rqIGB3c-unsplash.jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/cdc_Bb_P7rq_IGB_3c_unsplash_d6d0cb8f19.jpg)\n\nThe easiest way to get your medical marijuana card is to have an online consultation with [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/new-york). Meet with a doctor or nurse online and get expert cannabis advice. Assuming you are approved, you get your medical card in days - it's super easy and discreet too.\n\nCarl.S\n\n------------\n![New York has had medical marijuana since 2016](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_10_20_07_PM_3682bf63bd.png)\n\nThe good news is, since New York made medical cannabis legal in 2016, it has been [expanding the list of conditions covered](https://hellomd.com/articles/new-york-expands-condition-list-for-medical-marijuana) and making other improvements in terms of access and the range of weed products available.\n\nIn October 2021, the New York State Office of Cannabis Management announced [several enhancements to its Medical Marijuana Program](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/). It advanced regulations for public comment that would allow medical weed patients to grow their own cannabis plants, saving the higher dispensary costs.\n\n![Pineapple Silver Haze cannabis strain](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_25_at_6_56_01_PM_48e9cbeffc.png)\n\nIt also added whole flower weed to be used for vaporization; made permanent the temporary waiver of the $50 patient and caregiver registration fee; and allowed registered organizations to dispense up to a 60-day supply of medical marijuana to a registered patient, following the recommendations of their medical practitioner.\n\nAs well, the state expanded the types of practitioners who can certify patients for the medical use of marijuana to “anyone who is licensed, registered, or certified by New York State to prescribe controlled substances to humans within the State such as dentists, podiatrists, and midwives.” \n\nPractitioners must complete at least a two-hour course and register with the New York Department of Health before they can begin certifying patients for medical cannabis.\n\nJody H.\n\n---------\n\nA good reason to get your medical marijuana card is that even though adult-use weed has been legalized in New York, it may be a long time before you can actually buy it in a legal dispensary. Some sources even predict we [might not see any legal recreational dispensaries operating at all in 2022](https://www.thecity.nyc/2021/12/21/22848537/waiting-to-inhale-legal-weed-shops-may-not-hit-nyc-in-2022). \n\n![A New York Medical Card from HelloMD](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_26_at_9_19_46_AM_df5dd4ee5b.png)\n\nBy the end of 2021, every city and town in the state was supposed to decide whether or not they should allow cannabis dispensaries and/or consumption spots to operate within their borders.\n\nAny town that didn’t submit a decision would automatically opt in. In the run-up to Dec. 31, 2021, far more municipalities were opting out of at least one of the two possible forms of cannabis access in their districts. Some estimates had [642 dispensary opt-outs and 733 consumption site opt-outs at the beginning of 2022](https://www.marijuanamoment.net/hundreds-of-new-york-municipalities-will-allow-marijuana-businesses-as-opt-out-deadline-passes/).\n\n![Medical marijuana has many health benefits](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_25_at_6_41_03_PM_1c31d55096.png)\n\nApparently, New York State hasn’t yet issued any licenses to the companies that will supply, ship, and sell legal cannabis to customers, so it’s going to be a while before legal recreational sales are underway.\n\nBut the good news is, if you have a qualifying medical condition, you can get a medical marijuana card to access cannabis right now from legal, quality-controlled sources. It’s fast, easy, and cost-effective to [get your medical cannabis card in New York through HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/new-york). \n\nRegister online, pay a $129 consulting fee, have a telehealth consultation with an approved medical practitioner, receive your medical authorization, and then make your first purchase from a medical marijuana dispensary.\n\nAldus Paige \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.550387596899225,"src":"/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/14b42/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/f836f/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.jpg 200w,\n/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/2244e/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.jpg 400w,\n/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/14b42/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.jpg 800w,\n/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/47498/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.jpg 1200w,\n/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/0e329/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.jpg 1600w,\n/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/e99ba/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.jpg 4506w","srcWebp":"/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/58556/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/61e93/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.webp 200w,\n/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/1f5c5/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.webp 400w,\n/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/58556/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.webp 800w,\n/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/99238/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.webp 1200w,\n/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/7c22d/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.webp 1600w,\n/static/e8705dd5edf5d68fde58b22620440293/349a2/aef83f369c0483c28789c81000a54109.webp 4506w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Question_12579-markdown","title":"How do I get a medical marijuana card in New York?","slug":"how-do-i-get-a-medical-marijuana-card-in-new-york","content":"![Inside a medical marijuana dispensary](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_05_at_10_50_58_AM_4ce1bd4562.png)\n\nGetting your medical marijuana card in New York, so you can buy legal weed, is [a straightforward process](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-to-get-your-legal-weed-card-in-the-state-of-new-york). The three steps begin by consulting with a qualified healthcare practitioner to see if you have an applicable health condition, picked from a long state-approved list, ranging from autism to rheumatoid arthritis, and many things in between.\n\nYou can see a doctor in person, but run the risk of finding a physician who hasn’t kept up with developments in the medical cannabis field, and so may not be able to give you the best advice. Many people are opting for a [telehealth service like HelloMD’s](https://hellomd.com/get-started), in which you can talk to a qualified practitioner online, who will answer your questions and help determine if medical marijuana is a good fit for your health condition.\n\nThe second step involves [registering for your New York Medical Marijuana ID card](https://my.ny.gov/) online, having your Medical Marijuana Program Certification Form, proof of New York residency, and valid New York State-issued ID handy.\n\nIf the patient is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must also submit a government-issued ID and a copy of the patient’s birth certificate. You can also appoint a certified caregiver who can buy medical cannabis on your behalf, but they will also need to register separately.\n\nNext, you can buy your medical cannabis from an [approved list of dispensaries](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/application/selected_applicants.htm), either in person or online. If you go in person, be sure to bring your Medical Marijuana Certification Form and your Registry ID.\n\nCertified medical patients are now potentially able to buy a 60-day supply of cannabis — up from 30-day supply before. How much you can exactly buy is determined by your medical practitioner.\n\nMalu M. \n\n------------------\n\n![A marijuana advocate in New York](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_05_at_11_07_45_AM_55d80481bd.png)\n\nA marijuana advocate featured in [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/alonzomartinez/2021/04/06/a-new-york-state-of-mind--what-legalized-weed-in-the-workplace-means-for-employers/?sh=5fd35e6428d6)\n\nIf you are a recreational  user in New York, don’t light up and celebrate yet. Yes, former Governor Mario Cuomo did pave the way to legalization, and in September 2021 current Governor Kathy Hochul kept true to her promise to expedite sales of legal marijuana in New York. She followed the protocol of nominating candidates for the top positions with the newly established Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), and Cannabis Control Board (CCB).\n\nHowever, legal cannabis dispensaries [may not open at all in 2022](https://www.thecity.nyc/2021/12/21/22848537/waiting-to-inhale-legal-weed-shops-may-not-hit-nyc-in-2022). \n\nEvery city, town, and village in New York State has had to decide whether they will allow marijuana dispensaries and consumption spots in their locales. While the Big Apple is prepared to embrace adult-use cannabis in a big way, many of the smaller municipalities have been hesitant to do the same, and many have said no outright.\n\nPart of the hesitation has been some uncertainty in how legal cannabis sales would work with the recreational market. However, the medical marijuana market has been well established and accepted since 2016, with an expanding list of health conditions that can be treated with cannabis.\n\n![Indica strains are better for a good night's sleep.](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_12_26_at_7_14_23_PM_2f2ea5bcfb.png)\n\n\n[Getting your New Your medical marijuana certification](https://newyork.hellomd.com/start) is a safe and easy process working through HelloMD. Since 2015, we have helped more than 100,000 patients connect with practitioners and get the sound advice they need — all online from the comfort and privacy of home.\n\nYou can quickly register online and speak to the practitioner from your residence through your computer, smartphone, or tablet. They’ll answer any of your questions and determine if medical cannabis is right for your condition. If it is, they can provide you with medical marijuana certification.\n\nThe HelloMD consult costs only $129, and there is a one-time $50 charge from the state of New York.\n\nRonald B.\n\n\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/14b42/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/f836f/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.jpg 200w,\n/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/2244e/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.jpg 400w,\n/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/14b42/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.jpg 800w,\n/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/47498/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/0e329/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/b702b/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.jpg 4660w","srcWebp":"/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/58556/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/61e93/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.webp 200w,\n/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/1f5c5/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.webp 400w,\n/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/58556/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.webp 800w,\n/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/99238/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.webp 1200w,\n/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/7c22d/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.webp 1600w,\n/static/b5d2109b6e96c7b6effc0ecb4d1b6981/61f17/f8c5b797b24500e391f819ae6e01f399.webp 4660w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Question_10633-markdown","title":"How do I renew my card with HelloMD?","slug":"how-do-i-renew-my-card-with-hellomd","content":"**“After a year, my medical weed certification for New York is about to expire. I’m interested in renewing it with HelloMD. How do I go about this?”**\n\nRobert V.\n\n_____________________\n\nThe good news is, we can definitely help you with this. New York is one of a growing number of states where we can help people [get their medical cannabis certifications](https://www.hellomd.com/get-started) and cards. Other covered states include Illinois, Louisiana, Missouri, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.\n\nWe can’t simply renew your other qualified medical practitioner’s original recommendation, but we can treat you as a new patient and help you get your medical card in a process that is fast, easy, affordable and all done online. And the fact that you’ve already gone through the process before means that it should be even smoother for you this time around.\n\nThe truth is, most states require you to get another recommendation from your original doctor or qualified medical practitioner to get a renewal, so you’re not much further ahead staying with your original source.\n\n![Telehealth with HelloMD is easy](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_15_at_12_42_46_PM_321a0ce075.png)\n\nAll the states HelloMD serves would follow the same procedure. You click on [your state](https://www.hellomd.com/get-started/new-york/) on the get started page, and then select [“Get Your Medical Card”](https://newyork.hellomd.com/register?next=%2Fget-started), and follow the easy registration instructions.\n\nIf you were already registered with us, you’d take the “Already register?” option, and the process would be even faster because your relevant information would be stored with us. You’d just need to provide your email and password to access it.\n\nAnna X.\n\n--------------------\n\nSimplicity and convenience are paramount in the HelloMD medical marijuana certification process. The telehealth service is all provided online, allowing you to complete it from the comfort of your home.\n\nAfter you’ve registered, and paid a reasonable fee, you would have an online consultation with the HelloMD medical practitioner. (If you don’t qualify for a card, the fee is waived.) They’d ask you about your medical history and the medications you take, so it’s good to have this information ready for the consult.\n\n![Telehealth is easy with HelloMD](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_15_at_12_43_43_PM_0316ed2042.png)\n\nAlso, it’s a good idea to prepare any questions or concerns you may have, so they can be addressed in the consultation, which usually takes between 15 to 30 minutes.\n\nThe medical practitioner will determine if you have a condition that qualifies in your state for medical marijuana certification. If it does, you would get our recommendation, and then register with the state, paying another fee. In your case you’d pay $50 to register with the [NY State Medical Marijuana Program](https://cannabis.ny.gov/medical-marijuana-program-applications). \n\nAfter you have received your card or authorization, you would be able to go to a licensed dispensary to buy your medical weed.\n\nI am just describing the process generally — how it works most of the time. But how you get your medical marijuana card can vary from state to state, depending on their laws governing this.\n\nEach of the state pages on HelloMD has instructions on how to get your certification there. And in each case, we will guide you through the process so you can get the medical weed you need for your health condition.\n\nDamien S.\n\n----------------\n\n![Telehealth is a great way to get a medical marijuana card](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_15_at_2_14_35_PM_8c50bbe1b8.png)\n\n\n\nIf you do live in a state that allows both recreational and medical marijuana use, it’s still a good idea to get your medical cannabis card. While the benefits vary from state to state, they often include price savings (usually on taxes), access to high-quality, medical-grade weed, and first access to products if there happen to be shortages.\n\nAlso, an increasing number of insurance plans are covering medical marijuana. And finally, since you are consulting with a medical practitioner about what you need for your health condition, you would usually get recommendations for the type of cannabis product you need with dosages — which is much better than simply doing your diagnosis and self-medicating.\n\nGeorgio K.\n\n### Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online\nIt's easy to get your medical marijuana document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and purchase medical cannabis today. You don't pay unless you're approved!","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABQAAAANCAIAAAAmMtkJAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAADJElEQVQozwEZA+b8AGNCJ2JINlo4KHFDK6txSr6FXJuMe1RMS2xhUZ2UeZySfMvIvt7e1tva0dXUzMbFu8nHwKyrkJCQaL25ogBgPyVEMzJWRUSEXkufdmGIb2GIgW5wZll2bFeMg2iOhW3KyL3d3tbY2M/V1Mu0sqawrKK5uq2KlHx+iGgAZEUqhXpmh4F4f3h+cW+AKS5PbGdhfXRic2lYd25WgXliwb604uHayMfBo6Ccvbqxu7ixn6SFVm46OlIwAG5XQJSNd5qQeaigk7ezs4N+iFtSSU9CO0Y8NndmUZNqTqSWh9rXzdDMxZCMiZmWla+qq5GcgYGPb1lmQQBnWU6Ri3aQiHWUjXy8ubTIxsWknpOtp6C5s66le1+ibU7Ou6ze3dSlp6ObkYmvknyjlYiTj5KnoaNMQ0MAb2NXh4FtgnpolIx+sq6pz83M3t3cztLR6ebfnmpKnG5Q29bQ8PPyua6fgmFTkW9okIaCk42Hj5GTWFNbAHVnWoR9bXZsXoZ6bbOuqd3Z19HOzcnJx7y8uamPgL2eiMvIwbW3tX9rXHxZR3FXXIVvZ4uHgcnHv+ro3gB+b12Kg3V7cmd8b2KWioLt6ufY1dPY1NPY0s/09PLKt65uVExnX11EP0Y8NkV8XUqqf1KZkIfh39rc2dEAioBsh39xe3JnfXNngHJksqie7Onm39va6ubj8/DqlIyMWlJQdW9mUktOPTQ/NC89PSwqraCV/v786+jkAIh+aY+HeIF5a3pxZ3FnXYJ0adfQy97a2O3p5fTw6tvW0JWRjHJsZmxnYF5YWW5nZnl1d8bFxOTi3NrY0wCIfmqTjH2FfXCFfXOGfndzaWHBu7bc1tHY083k4Nvi3dfPysOdl5GoopzBu7XZ1M3f2tHGw7zX083r5uAAjoV0nZOFioNzioN3pqKfiYJ+o5yVvbi13drV4t3Y3tnS5d/Z7Off6+bg6+fg6OPc5+Lb5N/Zy8jCysbAAIh/cJ6WhpGJeYuGe6KfnrW1tnJra1lRVsTAvPPu6Ork3unj3efi2+bi2+Xh2ebi2ufi3Orl3u7p49vX0nXd10eWY2MkAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/2f426767767fa148b3ccc43a967285df/ee604/7a458f362682c21b05ff1927acc94551.png","srcSet":"/static/2f426767767fa148b3ccc43a967285df/69585/7a458f362682c21b05ff1927acc94551.png 200w,\n/static/2f426767767fa148b3ccc43a967285df/497c6/7a458f362682c21b05ff1927acc94551.png 400w,\n/static/2f426767767fa148b3ccc43a967285df/ee604/7a458f362682c21b05ff1927acc94551.png 800w,\n/static/2f426767767fa148b3ccc43a967285df/f3583/7a458f362682c21b05ff1927acc94551.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/2f426767767fa148b3ccc43a967285df/58556/7a458f362682c21b05ff1927acc94551.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2f426767767fa148b3ccc43a967285df/61e93/7a458f362682c21b05ff1927acc94551.webp 200w,\n/static/2f426767767fa148b3ccc43a967285df/1f5c5/7a458f362682c21b05ff1927acc94551.webp 400w,\n/static/2f426767767fa148b3ccc43a967285df/58556/7a458f362682c21b05ff1927acc94551.webp 800w,\n/static/2f426767767fa148b3ccc43a967285df/99238/7a458f362682c21b05ff1927acc94551.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5823,"name":"Telehealth","slug":"telehealth","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}