{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/doctor/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3749-markdown","title":"In the News: New York Marijuana Legalization 2021","slug":"in-the-news-new-york-marijuana-legalization-2021","content":"In January, 2018, as part of New York’s state budget, then-New York Governor Andrew Cuomo commissioned a Public Health Study on cannabis. The report’s focus was to examine the potential impacts of expanding the medical marijuana program into recreational marijuana in New York. Cuomo made it very clear he, himself, was NOT an advocate of cannabis, too-often touting the outdated good-old-boy ‘[gateway drug](https://www.politico.com/states/new-york/albany/story/2017/02/cuomo-says-he-remains-opposed-to-recreational-marijuana-109436)’\n argument against the plant. \n \nBut he could see the writing on the wall and was sweating peer-pressure from the encroachers: from the east — Massachusetts, where adult-use cannabis passed in 2016; Vermont, from the far side of the Adirondacks — an early-adopter of medical weed (2004), where\n possession and cultivation were decriminalized en route to full legalization (which would pass in 2020); and from the north, weed-loving Canada. Even New Jersey was on the fast-track to full legalization. The very thought of New Yorkers breaking the law to\n bring Jersey weed into New York must have been, well, unthinkable. \n \n### Easing Weed Restrictions in New York is Better for the Empire State\n\nThe [impact assessment](https://perma.cc/DV57-8UKK), completed seven months later, concluded that potential benefits of legal weed in the Empire State outweighed any potential negative impacts. Easing research restrictions would allow for further study of the plant’s efficacy, and of course, there was the shit-ton of potential tax revenue for the state. The report also concluded that legalizing marijuana would give New York an opportunity to address the glaring racial disparity in marijuana convictions and reduce “disproportionate criminalization and incarceration of certain racial and ethnic minority communities.” \n \nLocal jurisdictions created task forces to identify goals and challenges for full legalization. By the end of the year, NYC Mayor Bill DeBlasio’s task force [released recommendations](http://criminaljustice.cityofnewyork.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/A-Fair-Approach-to-Marijuana.pdf)\n for legal weed in the Big Apple, the primary focus of which was safety, health, and equity.\n \n### The New York Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act\n\nIn 2019, adult-use legalization in New York stalled, but lawmakers passed a bill decriminalizing small amounts of marijuana and beginning the process of expunging previous convictions for cannabis possession. Finally, in March of 2021, as he was entering the fight against sexual misconduct allegations (that would end his tenure as governor), Cuomo signed the Legislature-passed Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act, legalizing cannabis in the state of New York. \n \nImmediately, New Yorkers 21+ were allowed to:\n\n- smoke cannabis anywhere tobacco smoking is\n allowed (not near schools, at the workplace, or in a car), \n- legally carry up to three ounces of cannabis\n or 24 grams of concentrate, and \n- store up to five pounds of weed at home. \n \nMRTA also set forth the automatic expungement of prior convictions for anyone possessing less than one pound or selling less than 25 grams (0.88 ounces) of cannabis, an action that will bring the cannabis expungement numbers in New York up into the 300,000 range. In addition, New York’s cannabis program includes a [social and economic equity plan](https://www.thsh.com/uploads/NYLJ-Social-Equity-The-Driver-Behind-New-Yorks-Cannabis-Program.pdf), whereby 50% of business licenses will be prioritized for applicants from socially- and economically-disadvantaged groups.\n \n### Cannabis Consumption Lounges in New York\n\nMRTA, unlike the defeated Cuomo-backed Cannabis and Taxation Act (CRTA), also allows for consumption lounges. This was great news to organizers of New York’s underground weed party scene. While the [Office of Cannabis Management](https://cannabis.ny.gov/)\n (OCM), and Cannabis Control Board (CCB), is slowly being staffed to get the rules of legalization ready by early next year, ‘speakeasy’ membership-only consumption lounges like are taking advantage of the in-between times.\nCannabis membership clubs like [The\n Bowery](https://bowerycannabisclub.com/pages/about-us),\n [Empire Cannabis Club](https://empirecannabisclubs.com/),\n The Astor Club and [SpleefNYC](https://www.spleefnyc.com/),\n have increased visibility beyond cryptic social\n media posts to take cater to weed-needs of the impatient. \n \nMeanwhile, on the medical side: Certified medical cannabis patients received immediate benefits in MRTA, including an [expanded list of qualifying conditions](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/patients/)\n and acceptable medical marijuana purchase amounts doubling from a 30-day to a 60-day supply.\n \n### Where to Buy Legal Medical Weed in New York\n\nCertified patients can purchase medicine tested for purity and potency today at New York Medical Marijuana dispensaries like: \n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-20 at 2.46.23 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_20_at_2_46_23_PM_6fcb259498.png)\n\nVerilife dispensaries are found throughout New York state.\n\n- [Curaleaf](https://curaleaf.com/) \n\n- [Verilife](https://www.verilife.com/ny),\n and \n\n- [FPWellness](https://fpwellnessny.com/) \n\n\n### Need Your Medical Marijuana Card?\n[HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) can help you with online virtual medical consultation and get your medical card fast, easy and private. If you're NOT approved, the consultation is free!","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/14b42/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/f836f/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 200w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/2244e/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 400w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/14b42/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 800w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/47498/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/0e329/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/c128d/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 5760w","srcWebp":"/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/58556/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/61e93/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 200w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/1f5c5/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 400w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/58556/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 800w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/99238/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 1200w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/7c22d/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 1600w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/ec000/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 5760w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2717-markdown","title":"How to Talk to Your Nurse About Cannabis","slug":"how-to-talk-to-your-nurse-about-cannabis","content":"Awareness—and acceptance—of cannabis for a long and growing list of medical purposes is higher than ever. But many doctors remain reluctant to support patients who consume cannabis or are considering it. Now, though, nurses and nurse practitioners are stepping in to bridge that gap between hopeful patients and skeptical doctors.\n\nMany nurses’ associations are active in cannabis education and advocacy, and are committed to holistic patient care. It’s easy to find plenty of suggestions for how to talk to your doctor about cannabis—but [talking to your nurse might be more helpful](https://unitedpatientsgroup.com/blog/2016/10/20/why-nurses-are-vital-to-the-medical-cannabis-community).\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Doctors & Cannabis: An Uneasy Relationship\n\nA recent survey of practicing physicians found that 76% of the doctors surveyed said they favored the use of cannabis for therapeutic purposes, even though they weren’t really sure how to make it work. Many worried that it was too difficult to establish standardized marijuana dosing. They also felt that it would be inappropriate to advocate smoking as a way to take medicine.  Still others were concerned about harmful effects and the potential for addiction.  \n\nSome doctors, too, simply say that they don’t know enough about cannabis. Medical school students aren’t typically exposed to new research on the wide-ranging endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the many effects marijuana has on the ECS’s receptors. And a large number of doctors still take the government’s hardline position that cannabis is a dangerous drug with no medical benefits at all. \n\nRELATED: [WHY DOESN’T MY DOCTOR KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT MARIJUANA?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59ee3d06a95f40243a436cc4/why-doesnt-my-doctor-know-anything-about-marijuana)\n\nFor all of these reasons, it often falls to the patient to educate the doctor about the therapeutic applications of cannabis and open a discussion about how to consume it for a particular health issue. Still, doctors aren’t always willing to entertain the notion of marijuana as medicine. Many patients who want to add marijuana into their health plans end up switching to another doctor who supports medicinal cannabis. \n\nBut doctors aren’t the only members of the health-care team. In a typical office appointment, patients often spend more time with a nurse or nurse practitioner than with their doctor. That opens up more opportunities to talk about cannabis with your nurse in a less intimidating environment.  \n\nAnd now, a growing number of nurses and professional nursing organizations are actively committing to the cannabis cause. So, if your doctor isn’t receptive to talking about marijuana, your nurse might become the advocate and resource you’ve been looking for.\n\n### Nurses & Cannabis: An Emerging Partnership\n\nIn 2017, the American Nurses Association (ANA) released a position paper that [affirmed the organization’s support for medical marijuana](https://www.nursingworld.org/~49a8c8/globalassets/practiceandpolicy/ethics/therapeutic-use-of-marijuana-and-related-cannabinoids-position-statement.pdf). The paper reiterates the ANA’s support for removing cannabis from the highly restrictive Schedule 1 class of very dangerous and addictive drugs. It advocates for providing safe access to medical-grade cannabis for all patients.\n\nIn line with this stance, many nurses and nurse practitioners are working in their individual states to provide information about cannabis to officials and to potential patients—all in an effort to help people consume cannabis safely.\n\n### Cannabis Nursing: A New Frontier\n\nMany nurses are also taking their support for cannabis into a whole new career field: cannabis nursing. This new nursing profession is dedicated to helping people consume medical cannabis safely and effectively for a variety of often complex health issues. This includes providing education on how medical marijuana works in the body and helping patients get access to safe, high-quality cannabis in whatever form they want.\n\nTo help nurses navigate the complex world of medical cannabis and the shifting landscape of legalization, the American Cannabis Nurses Association offers education, certification and support for nurses interested in cannabis nursing. This [emerging new career option for nurses](https://nurse.org/articles/cannabis-nurse/) focuses on providing care that combines standard nursing practices with knowledge about:\n\n* The ECS\n* The safe use of cannabis products\n* The legal issues surrounding access to medical marijuana\n\nThe growth of cannabis nursing is beginning to shift the issue of medical cannabis away from doctors and into the hands of nursing professionals of all kinds. In some states, nurse practitioners can now prescribe cannabis. And as more and more states move to legalize medical marijuana in some form, nurses are now able to expertly discuss cannabis with patients and refer them to resources such as a reputable dispensary.\n\n### Tips on Talking to A Nurse About Cannabis\n\nFor many people, talking to a nurse about cannabis is less intimidating than bringing it up with their doctor. This can make it possible to be more open and direct about your interest in consuming cannabis. Nurses are a key part of your health-care team and can advocate for your decision to use cannabis. Here are our suggestions about starting the medical marijuana talk with your nurse:\n\n* Be clear about what you’re looking for. \n>* Do you want to integrate your cannabis use with your ongoing care? \n>* Are you concerned about cannabis reacting with existing medications?  \n>* Do you just want basic information about how to use medical cannabis? \n>* Would you like to hear how the different cannabis delivery methods affect the body and how one might be better for you than another? \n>* Are you curious about how much cannabis to consume for your condition?  \n\n* Just [as you might do when talking to your doctor](https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/patient/treatments/medications/how-talk-your-physician-about-medical-cannabis-10-points-guide-you), share information about the latest research on cannabis and your health issues. You may even want to print out and bring articles and research to your appointment to share with your nurse.  \n\nDoctors’ attitudes toward cannabis can vary widely. And that’s also true for nurses, so not all will view cannabis in a positive way. But with organizations like the ANA leading the way, nurses across the country are stepping up to learn the medical facts about cannabis and support the use of medical marijuana. If you’re consuming cannabis for a health condition, or want to try it, talking to a nurse about it just might be easier—and more productive—than a discussion with your doctor.\n\nPhoto credit: [rawpixel](https://unsplash.com/@rawpixel)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAOABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFgABAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAAC/8QAFgEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgAB/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAHZ0asNNkP/xAAbEAACAwADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgADEhETIv/aAAgBAQABBQK8enUSwcNc2lKzr2P/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEP/aAAgBAwEBPwEn/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARD/2gAIAQIBAT8BZ//EAB0QAAEDBQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEVECAxIhcoH/2gAIAQEABj8C5USTWXgxbWaRz//EABoQAAMAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESExQXH/2gAIAQEAAT8hZsFCpZI21Ks0WYi4U1Wl8EyFka6f/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABDcH//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQMf/aAAgBAwEBPxBGE//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQ/9oACAECAQE/EBP/xAAcEAEAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMWFx8KH/2gAIAQEAAT8QYMLBXjxBkwSCbHTKgAFpAur7wRqwJ2PXDFAvtloUfYo4wLZn/9k=","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/14b42/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/f836f/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.jpg 200w,\n/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/2244e/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.jpg 400w,\n/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/14b42/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.jpg 800w,\n/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/47498/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/0e329/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/a41d1/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.jpg 2000w","srcWebp":"/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/58556/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/61e93/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.webp 200w,\n/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/1f5c5/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.webp 400w,\n/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/58556/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.webp 800w,\n/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/99238/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.webp 1200w,\n/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/7c22d/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.webp 1600w,\n/static/4a8be33733f7739bb34d3071a32f8249/37117/650b9d9ac5adc0427aad3971612fcfa7.webp 2000w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2596-markdown","title":"Why We Still Need Cannabis Doctors in the Adult-Use Market","slug":"why-we-still-need-cannabis-doctors-in-the-adult-use-market","content":"With Western medicine’s propensity to view the human body as a schematic grid, marijuana has only been considered “medicine” when the appropriate symptoms are ticked. In California, obtaining a medical marijuana recommendation card has allowed patients access to cannabis as medicine since 1996. \r\n\r\nToday, California’s legal recreational market overlaps with the medical model, and we’re seeing how it’s influencing consumers’ relationships with cannabis and their doctors. While anyone over 21 can now purchase cannabis products designed to alleviate conditions like anxiety, insomnia and chronic pain, it’s challenging to define boundaries between cannabis for healing and cannabis for pleasure as well as define how each should be treated from a medical perspective.\r\n\r\nBut given that [over 60% of Americans support marijuana legalization](http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2018/01/05/americans-support-marijuana-legalization/), it seems that these ambiguous definitions don’t bother most of us. But should we all simply self-medicate and move on? Or is there still value in having a doctor oversee the use of marijuana for medical purposes? \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Will Prop 64 Have a Positive Affect on Medical Cannabis Patients?\r\n\r\nAs a country with the [worst-rated health care among high-income nations](http://www.newsweek.com/united-states-health-care-rated-worst-637114) and an [escalating opioid crisis](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a3c582c100a820006562f36/the-rise-of-opioids-and-cannabiss-role-in-their-downfall), the room for improvement is vast. In order to better understand marijuana legalization’s impact from a medical perspective, HelloMD spoke with two leading physicians based in California, [Dr. Jeffrey Hergenrather](https://www.drjeffhergenrather.com) and [Dr. Mark Wallace](https://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.source.php?sourceID=008050), both of whom treat patients with cannabis.\r\n\r\nBoth doctors stressed the polarity between a growing adult-use marketplace and a lag in cannabis knowledge due to the federal prohibition on medical research. While it’s widely accepted that cannabis is neither addictive nor life threatening, what risks might be posed by consuming without the guidance of a trusted doctor? \r\n\r\nRELATED: [CAN YOU BE ADDICTED TO MARIJUANA?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59c298a24f508a4a9adead74/can-you-be-addicted-to-marijuana)\r\n\r\n### Emphasizing Proper Marijuana Dosing\r\n\r\nA pain management specialist at UC San Diego Health, Dr. Wallace started talking to his patients about cannabis shortly after Prop 215 established a medical marijuana model in California. As more research was conducted, cannabis became integral to the practice that Dr. Wallace runs with his colleague, Dr. Michelle Sexton, ND. As an anesthesiologist, Dr. Wallace says they “see all kinds of pain” at their clinic in San Diego. \r\n\r\nDr. Wallace’s new patients are always given a survey asking about their personal history with cannabis. He explains that patients commonly respond, “Yes, I tried it, and I hated it. I don’t want to do it ever again.” When he asks whether disaffected patients were given any medical guidance about dosing and delivery with their 215 recommendation card, most patients respond with a “no.” \r\n\r\n“They got ahold of some really potent marijuana in college or tried something from a family member,” adds Dr. Wallace. \r\n\r\nWhile Dr. Wallace agrees that bad experiences with marijuana don’t cause harm, he cautions against recreational marijuana’s power to skew a patient’s perception. “You have to guide them on the appropriate dose, starting with very low doses,” explains Dr. Wallace.\r\n\r\nUnpleasant psychological experiences or sleepiness can be attributed to what Dr. Wallace calls the “dichotomy of getting too much.” The paradox of cannabis causing paranoia, when intended to alleviate anxiety is a familiar and frustrating scenario for many. But Dr. Wallace explains that this scenario applies to the pain spectrum as well. He believes that appropriate dosing is critical in order for patients to successfully reduce, rather than increase, their pain.  \r\n\r\n“The same is true with cannabidiol (CBD),” adds Dr. Wallace. Though using CBD cannabis products is on the rise socially and medically, he warns that while low doses are associated with a stimulating affect, high doses are associated with a sedating effect. Patients who have bad experiences using cannabis might need a significantly different product in the morning than before going to bed. \r\n\r\nWhen a patient presents a condition that might positively respond to cannabis, Dr. Wallace stresses that a “knowledgeable health-care professional” is key for successful treatment. In addition to the complex topic of dosage, Dr. Wallace notes that delivery method is another complicating factor.\r\n\r\n“The best way to titrate consumption is with inhalation, but there are many risk factors associated with smoke,” says Dr. Wallace. He cites lab-tested cannabis products, such as tinctures, edibles and vape pens, as the major advantage to the regulated recreational market.\r\n\r\nOverall, Dr. Wallace believes that a medical doctor is essential for monitoring what works for a cannabis patient. But he highlights the tax revenue generated from Prop 64 as the greatest benefit to the recreational market—a large percentage of the funds are earmarked for medical research.\r\n\r\nHowever, as long as marijuana remains a Schedule 1 illegal drug at the federal level, medical research on cannabis is severely fettered. In the meantime, the legalization of recreational cannabis will continue to affect the consumer/patient experience, and increasingly, without the oversight of a doctor. \r\n\r\n### Using Cannabis Therapies to Treat Young People \r\n\r\nDr. Jeffrey Hergenrather went to medical school at Brown University before becoming affectionately known as “Doc” at the “[The Farm](http://thefarmcommunity.com)” in Tennessee in 1976. A working eco-village and sustainable education center today, The Farm was once the nation’s largest hippie commune. When his patients at The Farm started reporting how much marijuana was helping them feel better, Dr. Hergenrather says, “I began my education about its utility and began to extensively study the use of cannabis.” \r\n\r\nMaking his way west following the passage of Prop 215 in 1996, Dr. Hergenrather has treated patients at his practice in Sebastopol, CA ever since, including the plant in his protocols for more than 40 years. \r\n\r\n“I have found enlightening and valuable benefits to using cannabis in treating ADHD, autism, genetic disorders and serious childhood diseases such as cystic fibrosis and pediatric cancer,” says Dr. Hergenrather, who is widely known for his work with children and teens. \r\n\r\nWhen treating kids with “a dismal outlook,” Dr. Hergenrather usually encourages them to stay with conventional medicine and then switch over to marijuana therapies if the family chooses to pursue cannabis as a treatment. Dr. Hergenrather reports that he has seen incredibly positive results in controlling, and even reducing, tumor growth. \r\n\r\n“Natural cannabinoids have a role in reducing abnormal cells,” explains the Sonoma County doctor. Yet, like his colleague in San Diego, Dr. Hergenrather stresses that we “still don’t fully understand the mechanism,” and that federal prohibition is a huge barrier to much-needed medical research. \r\n\r\nGenerally favoring a balance of CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) similar to Dr. Wallace, Dr. Hergenrather emphasizes the need for a medical doctor to dose cannabis appropriately to each patient. “I have a patient who is using 1 mg of CBD per day for anxiety, and it’s changing her life,” the doctor explains. He adds that every treatment plan should be tailored to the needs of each individual. \r\n\r\nWith the passage of Prop 64, Dr. Hergenrather reports that he’s heard of other medical cannabis providers losing patients; assumedly these patients are now self-medicating in the recreational marketplace. But his practice is even busier in 2018, which Dr. Hergenrather attributes to patients who are uncomfortable “self-administering doses.” \r\n\r\n“We have an industry that needs science and laboratories,” concludes Dr. Hergenrather. \r\n\r\nThough many doctors are wary of using cannabis in their practice because of the dearth of scientific studies and research, there are physicians out there who are familiar with the plant and have studied the cannabis data that do exist. If you’re thinking of using cannabis as a medical treatment, it might be worth your while to seek out such a medical professional so they can guide you towards the types of cannabis, consumption method and dosing that will give you the effects you’re after. You wouldn’t plan your own medication protocols with traditional pharmaceuticals, so why do it with cannabis? \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [COM SALUD](https://www.flickr.com/photos/com_salud/)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/14b42/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/f836f/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 200w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/2244e/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 400w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/14b42/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 800w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/47498/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 1200w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/0e329/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 1600w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/77d93/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 3600w","srcWebp":"/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/58556/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/61e93/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 200w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/1f5c5/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 400w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/58556/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 800w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/99238/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 1200w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/7c22d/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 1600w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/d4378/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 3600w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2340-markdown","title":"How to Talk to Your General Practitioner about Cannabis","slug":"how-to-talk-to-your-general-practitioner-about-cannabis","content":"If you’re just [starting out with medical cannabis](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59b1f46a1a5caf4406dd750f/is-marijuana-right-for-you), you might be wondering about how to talk to your doctor about your decision to use this beneficial, but still controversial, herbal medicine. While it can be intimidating to talk about medical marijuana with your doctor, it’s also incredibly important that anyone treating you medically has a complete picture of your health, including knowledge of all the medications you’re taking. Over the years, I’ve had both good and bad experiences talking to my general practitioners and have found that the way you approach the discussion can make a big impact on the result.\n\nIn this article, which is part of a series geared towards folks new to cannabis, I’ll share some tips on how to make your own conversations with general practitioners an easier and more successful experience. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Start with a Rec from a Cannabis Specialist\n\nI wish I’d known to seek out a cannabis specialist when I first decided to use medical cannabis. I started my attempts at getting a cannabis recommendation by going to my general practitioner and asking him for a recommendation. The response wasn’t what I was hoping for. Instead of helping me, my doctor glared at me and rolled his eyes, quickly shutting the conversation down. What I later learned is that doctors can face the risk of losing their medical license—and sometimes even risk imprisonment—when they recommend cannabis. For this reason, many of them are unwilling to recommend cannabis, even if they believe it might help improve their patient’s condition. \n\nLuckily, there are cannabis specialists who dedicate their time and careers to treating cannabis patients specifically. Finding a doctor in your area who specializes in medical marijuana should be your first step when trying to get a recommendation. These doctors are educated in cannabinoid medicine and willing to give out recommendations for its use. If you’re in California or New York, you can talk to a cannabis doctor here on HelloMD, and get all of your questions answered by someone with the credentials and education to give you the information you need.\n\nRELATED: [GETTING YOUR MEDICAL MARIJUANA RECOMMENDATION](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59bc2bb7077a4d000d4b3ffb/getting-your-medical-marijuana-recommendation)\n\n### Do Your Research & Bring it with You\n\nOnce you have a recommendation to use cannabis from a specialist, you’ll want to update any other doctors who treat you—letting them know you’ve started using cannabis. In preparing for these talks, it can help to gather a little bit of research on using cannabis for your specific conditions or symptoms. HelloMD is a great place to start, as it has a wealth of articles on different medical uses of cannabis. You can also find helpful resources on websites like [Norml](www.norml.org), which lists medical research by condition or symptom, so you can easily find studies that support cannabis’s use for your particular needs. \n\nI find that printing out a relevant study or two to bring with me to my doctor’s appointment can help aid the discussion. Most doctors haven’t been trained in cannabinoid medicine, so they might not know whether cannabis is right for your situation. Showing them peer-reviewed studies can help doctors understand that you have sound reasoning behind your decision, helping put them more at ease. \n\n### Talk about How Cannabis Helps You\n\nWhen you get to the appointment with your doctor and need to have the long-awaited cannabis conversation, it can help to begin by sharing how cannabis helps you. I usually bring this up when doctors are going over my list of medications, saying something like, “I have a recommendation to use medical cannabis for my chronic pain and anxiety conditions. It’s been the only thing that helps me with my intense nausea and chronic muscle tension.” By jumping straight to the results of my use, the doctor understands that this is something that’s actively helping me. \n\nI’ve found most doctors are fine with my cannabis use when they know that it’s having positive results. Some are curious and will follow up by asking for more details about what types of cannabis I’m using. Others ask about whether I’ve tried more conventional treatments, and why I chose cannabis instead.\n\nWith these follow-up questions, I try to answer honestly and reference the studies I brought with me. I talk about the negative effects I experienced with other treatments, and the benefits I’m now experiencing. Most doctors I’ve talked to have been incredibly understanding when I use this approach. \n\n### If Your Doctor Is Anti-Cannabis, Find a New Doctor \n\nIn rare cases, you may find that your general practitioner—or the medical group they work for—has anti-cannabis views or policies. For example, if your doctor is part of a large practice with branches in multiple states, they may have company-wide policies against marijuana use.\n\nAt one point, I changed health insurance companies and found myself trying to get healthcare at a practice with policies against cannabis use. I was told I’d be tested for cannabis every few months and if I came up positive, they’d take me off all of my other medications. Since I was still withdrawing from medications that were fairly dangerous to stop suddenly, I knew I only had one good option: to change practices.\n\nIt took some time and effort, but I was able to find another medical provider who respected my choices and had no problems with my medical marijuana use. If you find your doctor or practice has an unfavorable view towards cannabis, switching doctors may be your best bet.\n\nTalking to your doctor about cannabis can be an uncomfortable and potentially nerve-wracking experience, or it can be easy and empowering. It all depends on your approach.\n\nYou can greatly increase your chances of a positive reception by:\n\n>* preparing ahead of time by getting your cannabis recommendation\n>* bringing some research, and\n>* planning a brief explanation to introduce the ways cannabis helps you.\n\nMost doctors just want to help; make it easier for them, and they’ll usually make it easier for you. \n\nStay tuned for the next installment of our Cannabis for Newbies guide covering tips on finding cannabis products in your area. Need a medical marijuana recommendation? [Consult with one of HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://www.hellomd.com/); it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/14b42/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/f836f/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.jpg 200w,\n/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/2244e/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.jpg 400w,\n/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/14b42/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.jpg 800w,\n/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/47498/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.jpg 1200w,\n/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/54ac5/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/58556/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/61e93/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.webp 200w,\n/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/1f5c5/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.webp 400w,\n/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/58556/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.webp 800w,\n/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/99238/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.webp 1200w,\n/static/e6235d6a6454160876e37acb8d6fe59a/5e0b8/e327b6ce48212d7994cf2b76de1aeca2.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2420-markdown","title":"Getting Your Medical Marijuana Recommendation","slug":"getting-your-medical-marijuana-recommendation","content":"If you’re [new to cannabis](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59b1f46a1a5caf4406dd750f/is-marijuana-right-for-you) and have learned that [you can consume it legally where you are](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59b9b2fdc0563f003c24f6dc/understanding-marijuana-laws-in-your-area), getting a recommendation from a doctor or other certified healthcare professional to use marijuana medicinally is often one of the first and most crucial steps in getting started. In most states that allow for the use of medical marijuana, this recommendation gives you the legal protection to use your medicine.\n\nWhile asking a doctor to recommend cannabis can seem intimidating for some, it can also be incredibly easy if you know how to approach the situation. In our third article of a multi-part series geared towards folks new to cannabis, we provide the tools to help you make your first recommendation experience smooth, easy and worry-free. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Your GP & Marijuana Recommendations\n\nWhen I first decided to try out cannabis for my chronic pain, my first step was talking to my general practitioner. I had just moved to California for graduate school and thought that because medical cannabis was legal in the state, it was something that any doctor would recommend to me. I went in to talk to the general practitioner at my university’s health center; he’d been prescribing the pharmaceutical options I was taking at that time. I had done my research beforehand and knew that cannabis had worked well for others with my condition, but when I broached the subject, I was immediately shut down.\n\n“We don’t do that here,” the doctor said brusquely and shot me a look of annoyance and disapproval. “I thought it was legal for medical use here in California?” I replied. He waved off my question without a verbal response and quickly exited the room, ending our consultation. \n\nThat was the first, but certainly not the last, unpleasant conversation about cannabis I went through with other general practitioners. I wish someone had been there to tell me what I know now: Always go to a cannabis specialist when trying to obtain a cannabis recommendation. \n\nYour doctor may not be as opposed to cannabis as mine was. In fact, some studies suggest that the majority of doctors don’t see cannabis use as something to be concerned about. Still, it’s incredibly rare to find a GP who’s willing to actually recommend cannabis to their patients. \n\nRELATED: [MEDICAL MARIJUANA DOCTORS: WHERE ARE THEY?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5806c02b5bcbef00076268ad/medical-marijuana-doctors-where-are-they)\n\nDoctors are worried about their own liability when it comes to recommending cannabis to patients. Cannabis is still classified as a federally illegal Schedule 1 substance. Meanwhile, [medical licenses are federally regulated](http://healthaffairs.org/blog/2014/02/18/doctors-without-state-borders-practicing-across-state-lines/). What this means is that [doctors aren’t legally allowed to prescribe cannabis](https://www.managedcaremag.com/archives/1997/2/drug-dealing-doctors-office-or-whos-criminal-whos-victim) to their patients without risking their medical license, and potentially their freedom. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/59bc2bb7077a4d000d4b3ffb/embedded_images/59bc2bb9077a4d000d4b3ffc/drsolomon.jpg)\nDr. Perry Solomon, HelloMD's Chief Medical Officer.\n\nWhat doctors are permitted to do is “recommend” cannabis to patients, but the line between prescribing and recommending can be blurry. Unfortunately, [doctors have been imprisoned and had their license to practice medicine taken away](http://www.sacbee.com/news/state/california/california-weed/article2573276.html) when recommending cannabis in unsanctioned ways. When you understand the potentially precarious position doctors could find themselves in, it’s easy to see why some of them might be unwilling to even consider recommending medical marijuana. \n\n### Look for a Cannabis Specialist  \n\nNot all doctors are opposed to recommending cannabis. In fact, a growing number have made it their life’s work to help qualified patients get access to medical marijuana. These practitioners, who often work for cannabis-specific practices, are not only willing to put themselves out there as cannabis doctors, they also tend to have more specialized knowledge on the latest research and legal landscape surrounding medical marijuana.\n\nSince most medical schools still don’t teach their students about cannabis or the endocannabinoid system (the system in the human body that interacts with cannabis), many doctors don’t know much about treating conditions with marijuana. Cannabis specialists are more likely to be able to answer your cannabis questions than your general practitioner can.\n\nIf you live in California or New York, HelloMD is a great place to find qualified cannabis doctors who can:\n\n>* review your situation.\n>* answer your questions.\n>* give you medical advice about using medical marijuana.\n\nBecause we work through telemedicine (live video), you can have your consultation done without leaving your house. \n\nIf you live in another state with medical cannabis laws, look for cannabis-specific practices in your area. Many states have registries of the local doctors that are licensed to recommend in cannabis. Take New Jersey for example; [the NJ Department of health offers on online portal where patients can search for doctors nearby.](http://www.nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/patients/find-doctor/) This can vary by state but is often available through the state’s medical marijuana program.\n\nAt your appointment, be sure to bring your medical records, and let your doctor know about any medications you’re on or health conditions you have. Cannabis is an incredibly safe medicine, but there are [certain conditions for which marijuana is contraindicated and a few medications that it shouldn’t be mixed with](http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-947-marijuana.aspx?activeingredientid=947&activeingredientname=marijuana). Make sure your doctor knows about your individual situation so she can give you the best advice possible. \n\n### Integrating Your Health Care\n\nOnce you’ve received a medical cannabis recommendation from a specialist, that’s when you’ll want to let your general practitioner—or any other doctors who treats you—know about your cannabis use. I’ve found GPs to be much more accepting of cannabis when you aren’t asking them to recommend it.\n\nRegardless of their stance, it’s important for all of your doctors to know that you’re using cannabis because they’ll need to take it into account when prescribing new medications. Not knowing about it could affect their ability to accurately evaluate and support your health. \n\nStay tuned for the next installment of our Cannabis for Newbies guide covering tips on how to talk to your general practitioner about cannabis, once you have your recommendation in hand. Need a medical marijuana recommendation? [Consult with one of HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://www.hellomd.com/); it's 100% online, private and easy.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/14b42/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.jpg","srcSet":"/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/f836f/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.jpg 200w,\n/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/2244e/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.jpg 400w,\n/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/14b42/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.jpg 800w,\n/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/47498/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.jpg 1200w,\n/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/54ac5/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/58556/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/61e93/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.webp 200w,\n/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/1f5c5/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.webp 400w,\n/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/58556/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.webp 800w,\n/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/99238/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.webp 1200w,\n/static/70a102aecba950116e0e499ad20ef199/5e0b8/7997cced472079ca44ede309a9cd95bd.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1913-markdown","title":"Survey Reveals 76% of Doctors Would Approve Medical Marijuana Use","slug":"survey-reveals-76-of-doctors-would-approve-medical-marijuana-use","content":"A majority of doctors would approve medical marijuana use, according to\r\na\r\n[survey](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/survey-76-percent-of-doctors-approve-of-medical-marijuana-use/)\r\npublished in the [New England Journal of\r\nMedicine](http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMclde1305159# t=article)\r\nin May 2013. In an interactive feature in which readers were given a\r\nhypothetical\r\n[case](http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMclde1300970# t=cldeOpt1)\r\nstudy about a 68-year-old woman with metastatic breast cancer and asked\r\nto vote on the use of marijuana as a treatment for her symptoms, 76\r\npercent of doctors voted in favor of medical marijuana use, even though\r\nit is illegal in most countries.\r\n\r\nExperts Speak Out On Medical Marijuana\r\n--------------------------------------\r\n\r\nTo frame the issue, researchers invited experts to present opposing\r\nviewpoints about the use of marijuana, or cannabis, as medicine. J.\r\nMichael Bostwick, M.D., a professor of psychiatry at Mayo Clinic,\r\nMinnesota, recommended the medicinal use of marijuana while Gary M.\r\nReisfield, M.D., an assistant professor and chief of pain management\r\nservices in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Florida\r\nCollege of Medicine, and Robert L. DuPont, M.D., a clinical professor of\r\npsychiatry at Georgetown University School of Medicine, provided a\r\ncounterpoint.\r\n\r\nDoctors Support Medical Marijuana Use\r\n-------------------------------------\r\n\r\nA total of 1446 doctors from 72 countries cast their votes in the poll.\r\nDespite the global participation, most votes (1063) came from within\r\nNorth America, with doctors from 56 states and provinces expressing\r\ntheir opinions. In addition, 118 doctors posted comments on the issue.\r\nDoctors who said they would prescribe marijuana emphasized the\r\nresponsibility of healthcare providers to help minimize their patients'\r\nsuffering, the importance of considering patients' personal preferences\r\nand the dangers of prescription painkillers and narcotics. They also\r\ncited cases where marijuana was able to help patients.\r\n\r\nMarijuana Shows Promise As a Medicine\r\n-------------------------------------\r\n\r\nMany of the chemical compounds, or cannabinoids, found in the marijuana plant\r\nare believed to contribute to marijuana's health benefits. However,\r\ntetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are of the greatest\r\ninterest to researchers. THC increases appetite and reduces nausea. [Two\r\nTHC-based\r\nmedications](http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/marijuana/what-are-marijuanas-effects-general-physical-health)\r\nhave received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for the\r\ntreatment of nausea in people undergoing cancer chemotherapy and loss of\r\nappetite in people with wasting syndrome due to acquired immune\r\ndeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It may also decrease pain and inflammation,\r\nand control muscle spasms. CBD may be useful in reducing pain and\r\ninflammation, reducing epileptic seizures, and treating mental\r\nillnesses.\r\n\r\nSupport Grows For Medical Marijuana Legalization\r\n------------------------------------------------\r\n\r\nThe FDA has yet to approve marijuana as a medicine, citing insufficient\r\nevidence of its benefits. In spite of this, [23\r\nstates](http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=000881)\r\nand Washington, D.C., have passed laws allowing people to obtain and use\r\nmarijuana with a doctor's prescription. If medical marijuana were to be\r\nlegalized nationally, it could deliver real benefits to patients whose\r\nneeds are not being met by current treatments.\r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/isafmedia/4517662990/in/photolist-7TdcPd-9jsuHw-8ZDrF5-db17rc-5q1FVn-rXxntr-rk4Mxg-4uMK8D-7zZMNv-dnbW6N-aGGLHc-fEy1Yo-9aRGDU-e8CE5Z-2ogktn-5q1B6r-9V6owe-hgaVKV-9hXzbP-9SfavZ-9Si3xf-9Si3us-8Y8Nwz-8Y8LPX-8Y8L1g-8YbMF3-2KWRJx-dnbGL6-pEYe9s-8DeWhH-dnbPoq-dnbM8G-ob61yZ-89hQAP-dnbRUX-dnbUKw-dnbRCv-dnbHda-63ytJM-mWt2jF-8Y8NXz-aiGAFx-8aAdLy-rjScLG-7ZE8XZ-rZh6ko-6ggnNd-716VJM-ojKxpZ-ojKxmH)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/14b42/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/f836f/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.jpg 200w,\n/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/2244e/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.jpg 400w,\n/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/14b42/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.jpg 800w,\n/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/47498/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.jpg 1200w,\n/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/99213/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.jpg 1542w","srcWebp":"/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/58556/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/61e93/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.webp 200w,\n/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/1f5c5/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.webp 400w,\n/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/58556/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.webp 800w,\n/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/99238/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.webp 1200w,\n/static/dd264d40c96249411f00ecfe19411ed9/587c8/8b8eaa7dbaf11c78ef708dabc44ae403.webp 1542w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1950-markdown","title":"Dr. Perry Solomon, CMO, Featured on HIStalk Practice","slug":"dr-perry-solomon-cmo-featured-on-histalk-practice","content":"Chief Medical Officer of HelloMD, Dr. Perry Solomon, was featured on HIStalk Practice, a website dedicated to the latest in medical news through the eyes of medical professionals. Dr. Solomon describes what it is like to be a part of a Telehealth company and how HelloMD is bridging the gap for so many people who cannot easily access a medical marijuana recommendation. \r\n\r\nCheck out the interview [here](http://www.histalkpractice.com/2015/08/27/histalk-practice-interviews-perry-solomon-md-cmo-hellomd/)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5151515151515151,"src":"/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/14b42/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/f836f/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.jpg 200w,\n/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/2244e/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.jpg 400w,\n/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/14b42/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.jpg 800w,\n/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/47498/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/dbe7b/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.jpg 1546w","srcWebp":"/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/58556/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/61e93/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.webp 200w,\n/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/1f5c5/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.webp 400w,\n/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/58556/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.webp 800w,\n/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/99238/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.webp 1200w,\n/static/f8d060ae997de69c101b598ff5e5fff4/eac78/e489b8f75d2badd1517f231c8810114d.webp 1546w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5200,"name":"Doctor","slug":"doctor","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}