{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/news-and-events/7","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2359-markdown","title":"Florida Tries to Block Access to Medical Marijuana","slug":"florida-tries-to-block-access-to-medical-marijuana","content":"### Florida: What’s Happened to Date\n\nIn November, 71% of Florida residents voted in favor of a constitutional amendment that approved the use of medical marijuana. Though the state had previously approved a medical marijuana law, state legislators have attempted to greatly limit who can access cannabis and what products may be produced in the state. \n\nUnder the previous medical marijuana law, seven companies held a monopoly for growing and marijuana production within the state, which led to extremely high prices. The amendment itself has limited instructions on how the  medical marijuana system should be implemented, so it required the state legislature to draft bills in order to outline the regulations that would apply to cannabis in the state. Six bills have been currently put forth in the legislature that range from strict to relaxed regulation. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Unnecessary Hurdles for Patients\n\nMany people are concerned, however, about high prices, unnecessary hurdles for patients to access medication, and fewer options in choices of medical cannabis products. The new medical industry, which is suppose to be up and running by September, was originally implemented in January. The amendment allowed for nine months for the rules to be decided on and established and to register new growers and patients before formally beginning. \n\nRELATED: [CANADIAN GOVERNMENT TO LEGALIZE MARIJUANA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58fe831e690a060c79371af4/canada-to-legalize-recreational-cannabis)\n\nThe Florida legislature conducted a large amount of debates and bill revisions to reflect what they believe should be apart of the new medical infrastructure. Though many people in the legislature argue that they are limiting access to medical marijuana in an attempt to prevent issues similar to the opioid epidemic, they are actually making the situation potentially worse by limiting access to a medication that could reduce the amount of necessary opioids for people in the state. \n\n### Government Creating Roadblocks\n\nLawmakers are also worried about the wrong people getting their hands on cannabis and have proposed a long list of roadblocks that could get in peoples way of accessing a viable medication. The possible restrictions include requiring a 90-day relationship with a doctor before they could recommend cannabis and not allowing administration methods like vaporizing and edibles. \n\nDifferent proposals also run the gambit on the amount of growers and distributers who could be issued licenses, ranging from twelve, which would only be five more than the current number allowed, to twenty. Even if the highest proposed number was approved, there are still concerns about monopolies in such a large state with a potentially very large market. \n\n### Lobbyists: A Big Problem\n\nMuch of the proposed legislation that puts very strict restrictions on medical marijuana availability comes from the lobbying arm of Drug Free America. Drug Free America, which is based in St. Petersburg, spent $1 million in the attempt to trounce the proposed amendment and, after their own defeat, they have now turned their efforts to restricting what is allowed under the amendment. Many of the strict proposals also come from problems with misinformation about cannabis and what it can do to help many people. Cannabis has an incredible ability to help people with a variety of medical conditions and greatly improve their quality of life. \n\nAfter a tumultuous period of debate, however, there may be hope for patients in Florida desiring to access medical marijuana. The legislative session for Florida ends on this coming Friday and last Friday House Bill 1397, which is about regulating the cannabis industry, was modified to be less strict. On the current bill there will be no 90-day doctor requirement or a ban of vaporizers and edibles. \n\n### Patient Testimony Matters\n\nThe changes to the bill, which also eased requirements on recertification from every three months to once a year, were made after the legislature heard patient testimony. Though there is still a continued division on how medical marijuana producers are to become certified dispensing organizations, the changes that have been made to the bill show great promise and finally, a response based on the needs of patients. The legislature could vote on the bill as early as Tuesday and, if passed, the bill could greatly improve the quality of life of many people. \n\nIf you are 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 100% online, private and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/14b42/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/f836f/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg 200w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/2244e/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg 400w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/14b42/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg 800w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/47498/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg 1200w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/54ac5/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/58556/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/61e93/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp 200w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/1f5c5/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp 400w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/58556/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp 800w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/99238/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp 1200w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/5e0b8/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2337-markdown","title":"Virtual Reality & Cannabis: A Match Made in Heaven","slug":"virtual-reality-and-cannabis-a-match-made-in-heaven","content":"### VR & Cannabis Sounds Like Fun...\r\n\r\nDan Braunstein is at it again, creating  another innovative cannabis consumption experience. Braustein, the founder of [Grassfed](www.grassfed.la ), a fine dining and private occasion company that incorporates cannabis into intimate gatherings, has recently hosted a [second virtual reality event in LA](http://www.laweekly.com/news/grassfed-cannabis-company-combines-los-angeles-marijuana-and-vr-industries-8097774). \r\n\r\nThe event took place in an undisclosed location in Los Angeles and provided people with gourmet eats, high quality edible samples, a variety of strains to vaporize, and virtual reality gaming with 150 different scenarios for gamers to choose from, ranging from roller coasters to killing zombies. \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### Taking it to a New Level\r\n\r\nCannabis and video games have long been connected in pop culture. The typical stoner persona that was created within pop culture often has portrayed a group of teenage boys eating snacks, smoking marijuana, and playing video games in their parents’ basement. Though we know these single-story narratives of cannabis consumers are a negative stereotype that perpetuate stigma, it is true cannabis and video games can be used as an outlet to promote stress relief and relaxation. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [TOP MARIJUANA INSPIRED TV SHOWS](https://www.hellomd.com/search/TELEVISION/articles)\r\n\r\nBraunstein’s recent event, however, took cannabis consumption and video game playing to a whole new level. Virtual Reality, or VR, has become increasingly more popular in recent years as more companies have made it accessible to the general public. The virtual reality industry itself is expected to be worth $34 billion dollars by 2022 and much of the industry is expected to be centered in Los Angeles, where Braunstein’s business is located. \r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58fea80103be6f370979f45e/embedded_images/58ffaee13242100013618061/Screen_Shot_2017-04-25_at_1.14.58_PM.png) \r\nImmersive experiences and cannabis seem to go together.\r\n\r\n### VR & Cannabis are a Natural Fit\r\n\r\nVirtual reality is not totally new to cannabis, and even the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) uses virtual reality to understand the effects of driving while under the influence of THC. Cannabis and virtual reality gaming events, however, are a new innovation and show the increasing desire for cannabis social gatherings across the country. Braunstein provides a variety of social events to groups that include cannabis, food, music, and other aspects that promote the enjoyment of people through the combination of various mediums. \r\n\r\nBraunstein’s events are currently all hosted with private groups of people who have medical marijuana cards in California, but that is soon to change with the implementation of recreational cannabis legalization in California in 2018. It is likely that Braunstein’s novel parties are just the first of a starting trend of high-end, private cannabis events that appeal to the growing number of people who desire to consume cannabis in interesting, stimulating environments. \r\n\r\nIf you are 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 100% online, private and efficient. \r\n\r\n[photo credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/jonastana/32806882423/in/photolist-Tyy6fr-8BPYM4-T4oGro-8Yto7z-RFWxRV-7icH96-qrZC-RZ2RaR-qrZy-T2pjc3-SYLFnW-RCCoFJ-T8XMaq-sc9pJK-4Aj3Md-TeAdi8-RX7LNs-T34KLC-SVn7Hw-T6YF8S-TaZ5Vb-S8nG4s-SYDFVX-qrnP1m-eHYZHh-RBxunG-T2mwLs-72SPhm-bhYhMa-rfcfSd-HDCAqf-5EAbSA-Rp8wDS-mUfLFY-TduQuV-SXerxo-sc9pR8-8Z5Eom-TeAdGe-7STkSN-bi5sXZ-QpqBoi-dwqvjy-8MFcw-aBiqnY-2ZvJsC-381FYh-TzfxMz-aBfJZH-TwNCjf)\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/14b42/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/f836f/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.jpg 200w,\n/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/2244e/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.jpg 400w,\n/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/14b42/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.jpg 800w,\n/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/47498/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.jpg 1200w,\n/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/0e329/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.jpg 1600w,\n/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/545e0/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.jpg 7360w","srcWebp":"/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/58556/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/61e93/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.webp 200w,\n/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/1f5c5/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.webp 400w,\n/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/58556/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.webp 800w,\n/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/99238/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.webp 1200w,\n/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/7c22d/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.webp 1600w,\n/static/7066b9c2c0c28008874a2cd2dde1682b/2565d/2e2786262cdd0ffcf0232dfb9ef85463.webp 7360w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2184-markdown","title":"Four Governors Stand Up For the Future of Cannabis","slug":"four-governors-stand-up-for-the-future-of-cannabis","content":"### The Governor's Letter\r\n \r\nThe Governors from Alaska, Colorado, Washington, and Oregon have sent a letter to Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin asking for the federal government to allow for the continuation of recreational cannabis industries in their respective states. The letter stated, “As Governors, we have committed to implementing the will of our citizens and have worked cooperatively with our legislatures to establish robust regulatory structures that prioritize public health and public safety, reduce inequitable incarceration and expand our economies.” The Governors’ letter reaffirms their strong stance the importance of the marijuana industries in their state, both as an act of upholding the will of their citizens, as well as providing their states with economic opportunity through additional tax revenue and job creation. \r\n\r\nThough the Trump Administration has not made any concrete moves against the cannabis industry, there is a constant air of unease by people in the industry who worry about the administration’s feelings towards cannabis. Trump himself has made it clear he sees the importance of medical marijuana, but has not looked too kindly upon recreational markets. Sessions, on the other hand, is a staunch anti-marijuana advocate, and his position as Attorney General has made many worry that he may attempt to revoke the Cole memos, which allow cannabis industries to continue unimpeded by the DEA in states where they have been legalized. \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### Possible Cannabis Crackdown\r\n\r\nSean Spicer, however, did hint to a possible crack down on legal recreational marijuana industries, which caused rising concern about the future of the industry. One of the few components that is believed to be protecting the cannabis industry is the Trump Administration’s strong commitment to the importance of states rights, which has shielded the industry from any federal action, in either direction, thus far. The Governors from Alaska, Colorado, Washington, and Oregon, however, want to get ahead of any possible national legislation.  \r\n\r\nIn the letter, the Governors highlighted the importance of the Cole Memos for allowing legal marijuana systems to be set up in states with a strong focus on public health and safety. They also warned of a possible increase in crime if the legal industries are disbanded and replaced by illegal vendors in the black market. The Governors included Treasury Secretary Mnuchin in the letter with the hope of providing cannabis companies access to the banking system. The Governors called for the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, which provides guidance to banks on such issues, to request that banks and investors provide services to companies in the marijuana industry in order to further grow the success of the flourishing industry. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [WILL CALFORNIA REGULATIONS BE READY FOR 2018?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/will-california-cannabis-regulations-be-ready-for-2018)\r\n\r\n### The Will of the People\r\n\r\nThe Governors even opened up about their understanding of the trepidation the administration may have in implementing new changes in regards to cannabis. All of the Governors admitted to being skeptical about marijuana legalization when it first occurred in their own states, but as Governors it is their duty to implement the will of their citizens. This echoes the words of Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson, who said he was willing to go head to head with the Trump Administration on the issue of cannabis, much like he did with the recent immigration order. Ferguson said that states were the labs of democracy and this now successful multi-state experiment should be embraced by the national government. He also made it clear that it would be very troubling if legal Washington grow operations were raided by the DEA. \r\n\r\nThe tone of the Governors’ letter was very non-confrontational and focused on creating a relationship with the Trump Administration regarding the issue of cannabis. The goal of the Governors was to engage in a conversation with the government and to open up a platform for future discussion. The Governors wrote, \"We look forward to working with you and your administration. We stand ready to have further discussion on how these important federal policies work in our states.” The letter has been widely praised by marijuana advocates for its straightforward but non-aggressive tone, which will hopefully serve to open up a dialogue about cannabis that will allow for input from the Governors in the future. \r\n\r\nIf you are 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 100% online, private and efficient. \r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/14b42/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/f836f/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg 200w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/2244e/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg 400w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/14b42/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg 800w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/47498/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/54ac5/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/58556/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/61e93/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp 200w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/1f5c5/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp 400w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/58556/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp 800w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/99238/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp 1200w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/5e0b8/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2300-markdown","title":"Will California Cannabis Regulations Be Ready for 2018?","slug":"will-california-cannabis-regulations-be-ready-for-2018","content":"### Lori Ajax Leads the Charge\n\nThe long process of crafting new cannabis regulations is already underway and moving forward quickly in California, despite concerns from the public that there may be delays in the roll out of the recreational cannabis market. Lori Ajax, the chief of California’s Bureau of Medical Cannabis Regulation, who used to work in the state’s alcohol control department, is leading the charge in crafting the new regulations for the state. She recently addressed a group of San Diego industry leaders at a forum, laying out what has been done so far, and what is still to be done in the process of establishing a recreational cannabis market in the state by the beginning of 2018. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Regulations Create Legitimacy\n\nAjax has stated that there has been a lot of positive momentum in the crafting of regulations for the recreational cannabis industry. She is optimistic that getting the market up and running in the state can help the medical marijuana industry gain legitimacy in the eyes of federal entities, such as banks. Ajax is also not worried about the Trump Administration getting in the way of their progress. The state of California is choosing to move forward despite any chance that the Trump Administration, namely Attorney General Jeff Sessions, will try to put up future roadblocks. \n\nShe also announced that the proposed new medical marijuana regulations are expected to be released by late April, followed in the late summer or early fall by new proposed recreational cannabis regulations. These proposed regulations will then each enter 45 day comment periods in which everyone from the general public to industry leaders can offer opinions on the proposals. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58ebb3b08aec23400b2312db/embedded_images/58ebb3b28aec23400b2312dc/Screen_Shot_2017-04-10_at_9.24.09_AM.png)\nLori Ajax is sometimes referred to as the Marijuana Czar of California\n \n### Regulations May Be Fluid\n\nOnce these proposals become law, however, it does not mean they are completely set in stone. Ajax made it clear that when the new industry rolls out in California there are expected to be some changes as real world applications either succeed or fall short of what is necessary for proper regulation. There is expected to be a transition period where the laws can be changed and shaped based on the industry’s needs. The way that local jurisdictions decide to regulate cannabis will also greatly effect how all of these new laws are implemented and how the industry moves forward. \n\nThere are still some unknowns in the formation of the industry that are expected to continue to unfold in the coming months. One of Ajax’s biggest concerns is having enough testing labs that are specifically certified to test cannabis products in time for the roll out of the recreational industry. There is also large scale consolidation of departments that still needs to be undertaken by the California government. \n\nRELATED: [DELAYS FOR RECREATIONAL ROLLOUT IN CALIFORNIA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58994aef76773d0008fada24/delays-for-recreational-marijuana-rollout-in-california\n\n### Responsibilities & The Unknown\n\nBesides the Bureau of Medical Cannabis Regulation, whose job is to oversee dispensaries, labs, transporters, and distributers, there are many other departments that will be involved in the regulation of cannabis in both medical and recreational fields. The Department of Food and Agriculture, and partially the Department of Fish and Wildlife, will oversee the cultivation of cannabis and the processes at marijuana farms. The Pesticide Control Department will also be partially responsible for looking at the use of pesticides in cannabis farming. The Department of Public Health will be responsible for overseeing the manufacturing of edibles. \n\nOne of the biggest unknowns going forward in the future of California’s cannabis industry is how it will be able to counter the illegal black market industry. Ajax has said that the state hopes to eliminate the illegal industry with the creation of the recreational cannabis industry. State law enforcement agencies are planning to conduct a large scale crack down on the illegal marijuana industry after the recreational industry is up and running. \n\nAjax believes the grassroots support of recreational and medical marijuana industries are crucial to ending illegal markets in the state, which could mean working with county and city jurisdictions to reduce the levying of additional large taxes on cannabis products. \n\nIf you are 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 100% online, private and efficient. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/14b42/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.jpg","srcSet":"/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/f836f/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.jpg 200w,\n/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/2244e/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.jpg 400w,\n/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/14b42/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.jpg 800w,\n/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/47498/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.jpg 1200w,\n/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/54ac5/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/58556/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/61e93/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.webp 200w,\n/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/1f5c5/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.webp 400w,\n/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/58556/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.webp 800w,\n/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/99238/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.webp 1200w,\n/static/adcbb01226a71ecc4ae827144d17c98d/5e0b8/929473bd53ea87bf7a9fb89dcb9ebf07.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2277-markdown","title":"Attorney General Sessions May Uphold States' Rights in Regards to Marijuana","slug":"attorney-general-sessions-may-uphold-states-rights-in-regards-to-marijuana","content":"### Imminent Cannabis Crackdown: Maybe Not\r\n\r\nJeff Sessions, vocal anti-marijuana advocate and current Attorney General of the United States, has recently reassured senators that there will be no imminent crack down on marijuana coming from the federal government. Press Secretary Sean Spicer recently hinted that the Trump Administration is planning to take down state-legalized recreational marijuana industries due to his unsubstantiated claims that recreational cannabis consumption leads to more people becoming addicted to opioids. Sessions, however, has privately reassured many different Republican Senators that his plan is to keep the Obama-era marijuana policies in place. \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\nThe Cole & Ogden memos were put into place by the Obama Administration to create a non-interference policy within state legalized cannabis markets. These memos protect recreational  and medical industries in states where they have been legalized from being prosecuted by the DEA. Sessions, despite his prior personal statements connecting cannabis with immorality, seemingly plans (for now) to keep these memos in place according to what he has been telling senators. \r\n\r\n### Private Conversations Confirmed by Senators\r\n\r\nSessions apparent conversations explaining he will keep the memos in place have been confirmed by two senators, Rand Paul and Cory Gardner. The senators, from Kentucky and Colorado respectively, have both tied the maintenance of these memos by Sessions to his staunch belief in states' rights and the importance he places on limiting federal governmental power. Gardner, who’s constituents in Colorado are currently benefiting greatly from medical and recreational marijuana legalization, has said he has gotten absolutely no impression from Sessions that there will be any policy changes. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA DOES NOT CAUSE OPIOID ADDICTION](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/marijuana-does-not-cause-opioid-addiction)\r\n\r\nOther senators, however, are being proactive in their approach to Sessions’ potential marijuana policy changes. A handful of senators, led by Senator Elizabeth Warren from Massachusetts and Senator Murkowski from Alaska, wrote a letter to Sessions pledging their support to the non-interference system set up by the Obama Administration, particularly in the recreational industries that appear to be the most vulnerable to change. \r\n\r\n### Upholding State's Rights\r\n\r\nIn the letter to Sessions, the senators stated, “We respectfully request that you uphold DOJ's existing policy regarding states that have implemented strong and effective regulations for recreational use. It is critical that states continue to implement these laws.” Most of the senators involved in writing the letter are from the eight states that have voted to legalize recreational marijuana and all of the senators, except for Murkowski, are Democrats. \r\n\r\nPotential changes are not only an issue for Senators with states which have legalized recreational or medical marijuana in their state, but also for Republican senators who believe staunchly in the importance of states’ rights. If Sessions changes his mind and decides to interfere in states that have legalized internal cannabis industries, it could greatly go against the core Republican ideals that Sessions, and other members of the administration, constantly aim to stay consistent with. \r\n\r\nSome crack downs against marijuana could still occur, however, in the form of more work by the DEA against illegal drug cartels. Only time will tell if attorney general Sessions will choose to stick to his word and allow for the continuation of medical and recreational markets without federal government interference, or if he will decide to change his approach.\r\n\r\nIf you are 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 100% online, private and efficient. \r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.342281879194631,"src":"/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/14b42/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/f836f/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg 200w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/2244e/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg 400w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/14b42/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg 800w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/47498/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/3a12e/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.jpg 1375w","srcWebp":"/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/58556/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/61e93/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp 200w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/1f5c5/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp 400w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/58556/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp 800w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/99238/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp 1200w,\n/static/4e0193b938611f091d45e60ba0db3fcf/b5697/650c617aeeff3f95a8660d39b55abdde.webp 1375w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2435-markdown","title":"Will California's Innovation Slow: Ask Colorado","slug":"will-californias-innovation-slow-ask-colorado","content":"As far as the cannabis world is concerned, I have front row seats. I live in Colorado, but for the last 2 years have operated (in my capacity at HelloMD) mostly in California. I get to live - and play -  in the evolution of Colorado’s legalization experiment; yet work in and observe Californian’s massive transition from a medical cannabis-only market, to a full-fledged legal marketplace.\r\n\r\n### Colorado Cannabis: Regulation or Innovation?\r\n\r\nUntil recently, my view into the Colorado market was only one of a local consumer. And frankly my experience had been somewhat unremarkable. By this I imply that legalization in Colorado has not felt terribly abnormal, and by many accounts, been quite successful. The numbers support this ($1.2B in 2016 sales; $200M+ in taxes). Furthermore, thousands of jobs were added, entire towns have been rebooted, the state has registered huge upticks in tourism, and on the global stage, Colorado finally has a real home.\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\nThe consumer experience though, particularly in the first 2 years of implementation, felt unimpressive when compared to what I expected and to what I experienced in California. Retail was mostly uninspiring, the product choice and packaging struck me as stale in spots, and for an industry moving through such uncharted waters, innovation just felt lacking.\r\n\r\nBut recently, as HelloMD has turned its attention to national and global markets, I began scratching below the surface in Colorado. All is not what it seems here. To better understand this, I met with the leaders and founders of three highly reputed dispensary groups in Colorado - Groundswell, GoodChem and Lightshade. And while I started by intimating they look to California to benchmark future innovation (spoken like a true Californian of course), I quickly understood that in this case, the tables are squarely turned the other way. It’s California, and its slew of green-rush entrepreneurs, that must understand Colorado’s journey to be prepare for the future.\r\n\r\n### California vs. Colorado: Similar but Different\r\n\r\nThe sheer determination of these Colorado cannabis entrepreneurs is what struck me the most. To be clear, in each case, that determination is paying off. All have survived the highs and lows of the legalization tornado and are looking optimistically ahead. Yet, perhaps like 3-4 years from now in California, the battle that is running a cannabis company in Colorado never really seems to cease.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [3 MARIJUANA MYTHS BUSTED](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/3-marijuana-myths-busted)\r\n\r\nIt was also fascinating to hear how similarly the Colorado and California markets have acted at various stages of legalization. And, as I listened to stories of how these companies grew up, it also became clear why the consumer experience was less inspiring than I hoped for (and perhaps why it paled in comparison to California's). Ultimately, what I heard painted a picture of what could happen to California going forward.\r\n\r\n### Pre-Legalization Colorado: A Lot Like California Today. \r\n\r\n>Colorado was for some time a medical-only but very fast growing market\r\n\r\n>Growth capital was hard to come by\r\n>Innovation at the product and retail level felt pervasice; entrepreneurs felt free to push the boundaries and respond to consumer demand\r\n\r\n>New talent and entrepreneurial spirit flowed rapidly into the market including from outside Colorado\r\n\r\n### Post-Legalization: What California Can Learn from Colorado\r\n\r\n>Packaging decisions became more those of government rather than operators (more than once, product companies have had to unload inventory and start all over to comply to new packaging laws)\r\n\r\n>No longer could entrepreneurs speed new products the market\r\n\r\n>Marketing channels continued to be restrictive, even as capital costs - because of regulation - grew\r\n\r\n>Different regulations for medical and recreational outlets made economies of scale difficult to realize\r\n\r\n>Hiring/training product consultants (bud tenders) continues to be a sore spot yet increasingly a differentiator as maturing consumers demand better service\r\n\r\n>Because of the surge in demand for recreational cannabis, the medical side was left with less identity, forcing entrepreneurs to re-imaging how to serve both sides of the market. \r\n\r\n>The social stigma around cannabis, while much improved, is far from gone\r\n\r\n### What's Next for California?\r\n\r\nIn a nutshell, regulatory constraints choked innovation in ways not always obvious to the consumer. Yet with 3 years of legalization under their belts, I was encouraged to hear from all that innovation is returning. And I can clearly see this in the stores today. Even the recreational versus medical dilemma seems to be stabilizing at the retail level. All reported a very loyal following for their medical businesses; medical outlets seem increasingly frequented by the very sick seeking alternative solutions, while those looking to address chronic conditions are happy visiting recreational outlets.\r\n \r\nThe last few years have been heady times in the California cannabis industry. A new generation of entrepreneurs has powered the flow of new brands, novel consumptions methods, micro-dosed offerings and have normalized retail experiences. What’s coming next though is unclear. So even if the landscape and market sizes are different, California best do what it can to learn from Colorado’s journey.\r\n\r\nIf you are 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 100% online, private and efficient. \r\n\r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.342281879194631,"src":"/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/14b42/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg","srcSet":"/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/f836f/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg 200w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/2244e/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg 400w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/14b42/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg 800w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/47498/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg 1200w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/3a12e/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.jpg 1375w","srcWebp":"/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/58556/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/61e93/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp 200w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/1f5c5/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp 400w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/58556/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp 800w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/99238/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp 1200w,\n/static/87752baba7463225b47bc18e2c4e6199/b5697/053e6df59853d62af888595d30eb5300.webp 1375w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2397-markdown","title":"Video: Autistic Girl's Aggressive Seizures Calmed with Cannabis","slug":"video-autistic-girls-aggressive-seizures-calmed-with-cannabis","content":"### Cannabis Calms Severely Autistic Girl\n\nRecently, a viral video viewed by over 1 million people, shows an autistic seventeen year old girl from Texas during one of her bouts of intense autism induced self-harm. The substance that calms her in the middle of the video is vaporized cannabis, which is administered by her father through a medical facial mask. \n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BcuZ3C9Q3Jg`\n\nThe video was created and posted by her father Mark Zartler, who would like people to know that high THC marijuana is what has saved his daughter so that Texas laws will change in his family's favor. In his own words, \"They stop Kara's acute behaviors 100% of the time. It stabilizes her mood within minutes. Her good mood usually lasts all day.\"\n \nSeventeen year old Kara was born, along with her twin sister, at just twenty-six weeks old. Only ten hours after she was born, Kara suffered her first seizure and brain hemorrhage. Kara was diagnosed with autism and cerebral palsy early in her childhood.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Cannabis Reduced Pharma Medication\n\nKara currently takes eight prescription medications to control her autism symptoms and her related medical problems. Some of the prescriptions that Kara has had to take to control her symptoms have changed her behavior radically. Her father noticed that on high doses of one medication, Risperidone, his daughter was no longer able to use the restroom on her own or make eye contact with him or any other people. Her father felt like the medications had completely taken over his daughter. \n\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58be2808eac426000ff851df/embedded_images/58be280aeac426000ff851e0/Screen_Shot_2017-03-06_at_7.20.05_PM.png)\nMark holding his daughter as the vaporized marijuana takes effect.\n\nThree years ago, after almost no relief from her symptoms and in an act of semi-desperateness, Mark gave his daughter a cannabis brownie made by a neighbor. He decided to try medicating his daughter with marijuana based on the suggestion of a friend. After much trepidation, he found that the cannabis was extremely successful and provided almost immediate relief. Mark had never seen such a quick decrease of his daughter’s symptoms as when he first gave her marijuana. Kara, who is now administered marijuana through a vaporizer, is calmed within three minutes of receiving a dose, something that no prescription had ever been able to achieve. \n\n### Raising Awareness About Medical Marijuana\n\nMark Zartler posted the video of his daughter to spread awareness of the benefits that marijuana has had on his daughter’s condition. Consuming cannabis, Kara has been able to decrease the doses of all of her pharmaceutical medications, though she still maintains small doses of eight of her prescriptions. Her father said the decreased doses have brought life back to Kara and has drastically reduced her suffering from self-abusive behaviors. \n\nMark is now advocating for the legalization of medical marijuana in their home state of Texas. Though Zartler is mainly advocating for the use of marijuana for people with autism, like his daughter, he also believes that it could be greatly beneficial for people with PTSD and other conditions. Mark believes it is worth it to risk jail time to obtain marijuana for his daughter’s treatment and hopes that the traction the video has gotten will provide people with insight into all the good that medical marijuana can do. \n\nIf you are 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 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/14b42/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/f836f/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.jpg 200w,\n/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/2244e/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.jpg 400w,\n/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/14b42/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.jpg 800w,\n/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/47498/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.jpg 1200w,\n/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/54ac5/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/58556/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/61e93/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.webp 200w,\n/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/1f5c5/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.webp 400w,\n/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/58556/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.webp 800w,\n/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/99238/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.webp 1200w,\n/static/9e786389fdc22a0b1f651e275a218600/5e0b8/809746ac42efd32bc9a823d8608ca810.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2241-markdown","title":"Marijuana Does Not Cause Opioid Addiction","slug":"marijuana-does-not-cause-opioid-addiction","content":"###  Opioid Addiction Is Not Caused by Cannabis\n\nThe White House has been vocal regarding cannabis in the last couple of weeks. White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer recently tied the use of recreational marijuana with opioid addiction in a completely false and unfounded statement. Spicer accompanied this statement with a call for the greater enforcement of federal marijuana laws, especially in relation to states that have legalized recreational cannabis. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nSpicer is right, opioid addiction is currently one of the largest problems in the United States. In 2015, nearly 33,000 people died from opioid related overdoses, be that prescription opioids or heroine-like opioid substances. However, Spicer’s connection between recreational cannabis legalization and opioid addiction is unfounded and careless. It also obfuscates takes the real problem at hand. The reality is that increased opioid consumption and overdoses are due to improper prescription writing and shady pharmacies that dole out extremely high numbers of opioid pain killers. Spicer’s misinformation could lead to more widespread misunderstandings about opioid addiction as well as cannabis consumption, which make the opioid epidemic even harder to combat. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58be10c1f1b0a500150a6a5e/embedded_images/58be10c3f1b0a500150a6a5f/Screen_Shot_2017-03-06_at_5.42.09_PM.png)\nThere is no research that ties marijuana use to the opioid addiction.\n \n###  Marijuana Is Not a Gateway Drug\n\nSpicer believes that not “enforcing” marijuana laws is encouraging people to use illicit drugs, which is far from the truth. His outlandish statements connecting cannabis and opioids appear to be linked to the widely disproved gateway theory that many anti-marijuana advocates, including current attorney general Jeff Sessions, use to support their crusades. Marijuana, however, is far different than opioids, it has been disproven to be a gateway drug and there is no scientific backing for the connection that Sean Spicer has implied. \n\nRELATED: [KEEP YOUR MEDICINE LEGAL & PREVENT A CRACKDOWN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58b36f8e54073f000ff5aee8/keep-your-medicine-legal-and-prevent-a-crackdown-on-rec)\n\n### Lawmakers Speak Out\n\nLuckily, many other law markers have spoken out against the words of Spicer. Washington’s Attorney General, Bob Ferguson, wrote a letter to the Department of Justice stating that the opioid crisis, “will not be helped by a renewed law enforcement focus on marijuana.” Ferguson also mentioned that he hopes the federal government will work more closely with states to help alleviate the opioid problem, rather than working independently or leaving it up to the states alone. \n\nFerguson isn't the only law maker that has spoken out against Spicer. California Lieutenant Governor, Gavin Newsom, has said that Spicer is largely misinformed on cannabis as well as the opioid epidemic. Newsom stated that legal marijuana operations keep cannabis out of the hands of drug cartels and under the control of government supervision, which will reduce crime overall. He also mentioned that the new recreational market in California will include a plethora of protections, including lab testing and seed to sale tracking, in order to better protect people. He also stated that the federal government should not remove its support from laws that has been voted in by citizens of a state. \n\n### Opioid Use Goes Down In Legal States\n\nDespite Spicer’s misinformation, opioid use is actually going down in states with access to medical marijuana. HelloMD recently conducted a study with UC Berkeley on opioids, cannabis and pain and found that over 90% of people on pain medication decreased their consumption of opioids when cannabis was added into their treatment protocol (results to be published soon). Another [study from Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health](https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/287489) found that 18 states with medical marijuana laws saw a decreased involvement of opioids in fatal car crashes since legalization. Another study published in 2014, from the [Journal of American Medical Association](http://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/1898878), found a 25% lower opioid overdose rate in states with medical cannabis laws. Some states, like Maine, are even working on laws specific for the use of medical marijuana rot help people come down from opioid addiction. \n\nRELATED: [WHY MY PATIENTS PREFER CANNABIS OVER OPIOIDS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58b4d1f8afae7a000f75a4ba/why-my-surgical-patients-prefer-cannabis-over-opioids)\n\n### Trump Historically Supports Medical Marijuana\n\nOne notable spot in all of the misinformation by Spicer, however, was his clarification on President Donald Trump’s support for medical marijuana. Spicer made it clear that medical marijuana and recreational marijuana were two different subject matters and that these new enforcements would not relate to medical marijuana use, which we know is extremely important to bettering the lives of so many people. None the less, Spicer’s comments only serve to enforce the agenda of anti-marijuana advocates who advertise false information to support their cause. \n\nIf you are 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 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.408450704225352,"src":"/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/ee604/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.png","srcSet":"/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/69585/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.png 200w,\n/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/497c6/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.png 400w,\n/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/ee604/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.png 800w,\n/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/f3583/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.png 1200w,\n/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/3e14d/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.png 1442w","srcWebp":"/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/58556/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/61e93/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.webp 200w,\n/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/1f5c5/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.webp 400w,\n/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/58556/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.webp 800w,\n/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/99238/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.webp 1200w,\n/static/e6eb559441d6c6bc78dc961678d48b4d/df9dc/363d460adaf5adee8927351bf6cbc155.webp 1442w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2274-markdown","title":"Keep Your Medicine Legal & Prevent a Crackdown on REC","slug":"keep-your-medicine-legal-and-prevent-a-crackdown-on-rec","content":"### A Looming Crackdown on REC?\r\n\r\nThe [Associate Press](http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/sean-spicer-feds-expand-enforcement-marijuana-laws-article-1.2980814) reported on comments by White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer this week:\r\n\r\n>The Justice Department will step up enforcement of federal laws against recreational marijuana, White House spokesman Sean Spicer said Thursday.\r\n\r\n>This is the Trump administration’s strongest indication to date of a looming crackdown on the drug, even as a solid majority of Americans believe it should be legal.\r\n\r\n>“I do believe you’ll see greater enforcement of it,” Spicer said in response to a question during a news conference.\r\n\r\nYet we have no idea what that enforcement might be.\r\n\r\n### Steps You Can Take to Keep Your Medicine Legal\r\n\r\nUnfortunately, the line between recreational use and medical use is not as a black and white as everyone in government seems to think it is. If the federal government chooses to have \"greater enforcement\", this could be the demise of not only the entire industry but would most likely greatly impede your access to medicine and reengage and fuel the black markets.\r\n\r\nHere are some steps you can take:\r\n\r\n### 1. Write to Your Congressperson\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b36f8e54073f000ff5aee8/embedded_images/58b36f9054073f000ff5aee9/Screen_Shot_2017-02-26_at_4.12.53_PM.png) \r\n[DPA](http://www.drugpolicy.org/?_ga=1.197700587.538648698.1488152403) helps fight against the renewal of a War on Drugs\r\n\r\nDrug Policy Alliance makes it simple to [write to your Congressperson](https://engage.drugpolicy.org/secure/end-federal-war-marijuana-2017). Just fill in the form and press send. \r\n\r\nIf you disagree with the War on Drugs, then also follow up and [fill in this form that speaks out against Attorney General Jeff Sessions](https://engage.drugpolicy.org/secure/end-federal-war-marijuana-2017) and his desire to reinvigorate the War on Drugs.\r\n\r\n### 2. Sign a White House Petition to Respect State's Laws on Marijuana\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b36f8e54073f000ff5aee8/embedded_images/58b36f9154073f000ff5aeea/Screen_Shot_2017-02-26_at_4.14.48_PM.png)\r\nThe [White House petition](https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/keep-your-campaign-pledge-respect-state-marijuana-legalization-laws) is a good way for your voice to be heard. \r\n \r\n[Sign the petition to keep the DOJ out of states](https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/keep-your-campaign-pledge-respect-state-marijuana-legalization-laws) where citizens lawfully abide by those state's laws. As stated on the petition:\r\n\r\n>On February 23, Press Secretary Sean Spicer indicated the Department of Justice might begin \"greater enforcement\" of federal law in states that have legalized marijuana. But during the campaign President Trump repeatedly pledged that if elected the federal government would respect the rights of states to enact their own cannabis laws. That is a wise policy supported by a growing super-majority of voters. They know that state marijuana legalization laws hurt the cartels, fund our schools and roads, and protect public health and safety. Studies in the Journal of the American Medical Association and others have shown that states with legal and accessible medical and recreational marijuana see a significant reduction in opioid death rates. Please keep your promise to the American people.\r\n\r\n### 3. Stay Informed\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b36f8e54073f000ff5aee8/embedded_images/58b3701f57cbb8000707590a/Screen_Shot_2017-02-26_at_4.15.21_PM.png)\r\nSubscribe to [Weedweek](https://www.weedweek.net/), the comprehensive news source on cannabis.\r\n\r\nDo you want to know what is happening week to week? Subscribe to [HelloMD's newsletter Advisor](https://www.hellomd.com/) by registering on our site. Also, receive [Alex Halperin's WeedWeek](https://www.weedweek.net/) which is the most comprehensive cannabis news source - anywhere. It comes every Saturday at 8am and is the highlight of my weekend.\r\n\r\n### 4. Stay Legal\r\n\r\nFollow the laws of your state. If your state offers a medical card, I would highly recommend continuing with this practice until we know exactly what is going on. This goes for personal consumption, but also on the flip side. If you run a business and medical cards are legally required, continue to require them until a REC law goes into full effect. Follow the law to the letter.\r\n\r\n[HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\r\n\r\n ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/14b42/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/f836f/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg 200w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/2244e/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg 400w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/14b42/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg 800w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/47498/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg 1200w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/54ac5/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/58556/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/61e93/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp 200w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/1f5c5/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp 400w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/58556/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp 800w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/99238/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp 1200w,\n/static/8440e316fa73dee5e3f868a8b1d999fb/5e0b8/09206f756e140916679ede986b162500.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2286-markdown","title":"The Top 5 Health Trends in Cannabis","slug":"the-top-5-health-trends-in-cannabis","content":"The cannabis industry is always changing and at a rapid pace. Because HelloMD sits at the center of a cannabis community, I see the lifecycle of the industry all around me from many different perspectives. New patterns emerge quickly, and this often signals the birth of a new trend.\nIn many ways, this past year has felt like a roller coaster from the rapid sweep of legalization to the changes made by the new Trump administration, and through it all the marijuana industry continues to grow and prosper as anticipated. Based on my observations from the past year, I give you the top five health trends emerging within the cannabis industry today.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\n### Trend: Cannabis Effectively Replaces Opioids for Chronic Pain Management\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58abd12e005f8b00176972fd/embedded_images/58abd131005f8b00176972fe/Screen_Shot_2017-02-20_at_9.04.19_PM.png)\nOpioids are killing 44 Americans a day. \n\nDuring 1990s, the US federal government removed many of the barriers to prescribing opioids for chronic pain. This has been one of the main contributing factors to the opioid epidemic that’s raging across the country and in particular the east coast of the United States. It’s estimated that 44 Americans die every day from opioid overdose.\n\n[A 2014 study](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/1898878) indicated that, in states where marijuana is legal, there was a 24.8% lower rate of opioid deaths. In addition, The [National Bureau of Economic Research](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/1898872?resultClick=3&redirect=true) (NBER) mimics these findings and concluded that “broader access to medical marijuana may have the potential benefit of reducing abuse of highly addictive painkillers.\"\n\nHelloMD recently concluded a study with UC Berkeley entitled “Cannabis as a Substitute for Opiate and Non-Opiate Based Pain Medication.” Dr. Perry Solomon, HelloMD’s chief medical officer, says, “The results of this study, which are to be published shortly, show that 97% of respondents indicated that they reduced opioid pain medication when using cannabis.”\n\nWhat’s missing here is widespread acceptance from the medical community and the education of the general public that cannabis is a viable option that can replace opioids.\n\nRELATED: [HELLOMD & UC BERKELEY CONDUCT STUDY ON CANNABIS, PAIN, & OPIOID ABUSE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57d82d523b39eb000b732ea8/hellomd-and-uc-berkeley-to-conduct-largest-study-on-cannabis-pain-and-opioid-abuse)\n\n### Trend: Microdosing Marijuana\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58abd12e005f8b00176972fd/embedded_images/58abd134005f8b0017697300/Screen_Shot_2017-02-20_at_9.07.17_PM.png)[Microdosing](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5874285019303000083745bc/microdosing-the-big-new-trend) is an effective way to consume cannabis without getting high.\n\nA year ago, not many people were talking about microdosing and even fewer products were available to support this method of consumption. Microdosing is the practice of taking smaller, measured amounts of cannabis to produce a particular effect. Microdosing dosages vary from person to person, but a typical microdose might be between 2.5–5 mg of THC and may go as high as 10 mg.\n\nThe benefit of microdosing is the ability to titrate medication in such a way that you might alleviate a condition, such as anxiety or pain, without feeling high. Recent studies indicate that [microdosing may be more beneficial than macrodosing](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3566631/). This is due to the biphasic effect, which means that at lower doses cannabis may be more effective and produce a pleasant experience. At larger doses however, the scale tips and the benefits go away whereby the experience may become negative.\n\nSome of my favorite new microdose products are [Kiva’s Petra Mints (2.5 mg)](https://www.hellomd.com/products/5859dafeeafa6f000868509e/petra-mints-moroccan-mint), [Satori’s Wild Chocolate Strawberries (3 mg)](https://www.hellomd.com/products/586593fb159af1000c6d05fc/wild-strawberries-in-organic-milk-chocolate) and Flora’s Probiotic Dark Mint Chocolates (5 mg).\n\n### Trend: Cannabis Genetics & Synthetics\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58abd12e005f8b00176972fd/embedded_images/58abd132005f8b00176972ff/Screen_Shot_2017-02-20_at_9.12.05_PM.png) \nDNA color sequencing.\n\nPeople are getting serious about understanding the genetic makeup of cannabis and how to bio-engineer synthetic cannabis and cannabinoids from substances other than cannabis itself. Scientists from a variety of life science backgrounds (and large well-funded companies) are jumping into the game to better understand the plant and how to harness its power from many different angles.\n\nOn the genetics side, [Medicinal Genomics (MG)](https://www.medicinalgenomics.com/) is at the forefront using DNA technology to better understand cannabis genetics. MG is initially serving growers, dispensaries and test labs, but they have a much bigger vision in mind.\n\nMG's Chief Scientist Kevin McKernan worked on the Human Genome Project and was the first scientist to sequence the cannabis genome. Regarding the history of the company and why MG is sequencing cannabis, he says:\n\n* “We can now sequence (the DNA) of patients and know exactly what disease a patient has and target it in a very personalized manner. As opposed to a one size fits all medicine system via the FDA…Everyone is different we really need targeted therapies and the ability to read people’s DNA opened this up. Most of these rare diseases that we were running into were endocannabinoid driven and it made us realize we needed an arm that understood the cannabis plants and to bridge the compounds from this plant.\n\n* The wonderful thing about the cannabis plant is that the compounds are safe and has more chemical diversity than all of Pfizer and Merc and is about to be over the counter and open source. If we can combine this with personalized medicine we see these as two economic tsunamis that are colliding that is going to have a real impact within healthcare and DNA sequencing is the thread through the whole story.”\n\nIf that sounds impressive, that's because it is.\n\nThe world of synthetic cannabinoids is also on fire as biotech companies move to make derivatives of cannabis primed for FDA trials—this is becoming very big business. Whether it’s synthetic tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD), there are many drugs on the market today, like Marinol, helping patients with a variety of conditions.\n\nFor instance, [Kalytera Therapeutics](https://kalytera.co/) makes CBD drugs and formulations that try to overcome limitations in natural CBD such as poor bio availability. Another company, [Zynerba Pharmaceuticals](http://zynerba.com/), creates a synthetic gel and patch that delivers CBD transdermally for adults with refractory epilepsy.\n\nLast, and what I find the most interesting, are an array of companies looking to extract cannabinoids not from cannabis, but from substances such as yeast. The cannabinoids are the same on a molecular level as those derived from cannabis and in theory would be more quickly reproduced and stable than those derived from the cannabis plant.\n\n\n### Trend: The Powerhouse Cannabinoid THCA\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58abd12e005f8b00176972fd/embedded_images/58abd62f005f8b0013ecd76d/Screen_Shot_2017-02-20_at_9.49.01_PM.png)\nTHCA is found in abundance within raw cannabis.\n \nTetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is the star of raw cannabis. Non-psychoactive THCA changes into the more well-known psychoactive compound THC when heated. THCA also happens to hold the most COX-1 and COX-2 inhibition, which allows it to demonstrate immense therapeutic potential as an anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, neuroprotectant, anti-emetic and antispasmodic.\n\nThere are few studies that definitively prove the medicinal benefit of THCA, but those who consume it swear by its efficacy. THCA can be metabolized in much larger quantities than THC and is most often consumed directly from the raw plant. Perhaps this explains why cannabis juicing is gaining in popularity and anecdotally seems to help with neurodegenerative disorders, chronic immune disorders and conditions such as arthritis. THCA is also commonly consumed via [THCA tinctures](https://www.getsava.com/shop/thca-tincture/).\n\n### Trend: The Marijuana Herbal Supplement\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58abd12e005f8b00176972fd/embedded_images/58abd796005f8b0007a9c7e0/Screen_Shot_2017-02-20_at_9.51.24_PM.png)\nSwerve Confections has been ahead of the curve combining herbs and cannabis.\n \nIt used to be that storefront dispensaries made 100% of their sales from raw flower aka “bud.” Now about 50–60% of dispensary sales come from selling flower and the rest comes from the numerous products available on the market: edibles, tinctures, drinks, capsules, vape cartridges and more. In the recent past, when sourcing products other than flower, the ingredient list has been fairly uniform across the board, a percentage or ratio of THC and/or CBD in some sort of carrier liquid. Not anymore.\n\nIn the next year, you’ll start to see the merging of herbal supplements you commonly may see in Whole Foods with your cannabis products. When talking to various brands, it seems that many see this as the obvious evolution to effectively treating a variety of conditions while harnessing and propelling the efficacy and power of the plant itself.\n\nWhat are some examples of combinations you might see? Products that are purported to treat inflammation will incorporate turmeric; products for stress may use the Ayurvedic herb Ashwaganda; and products for insomnia may start mixing in the root of the tall flowering plant called valerian or the calming passionflower. It’s a clear next step in the merging of two separate marketplaces, which in my mind ultimately leads to the rise of the cannabis-based nutraceutical.\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our Cannabis 101 post. HelloMD 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":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/14b42/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/f836f/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.jpg 200w,\n/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/2244e/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.jpg 400w,\n/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/14b42/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.jpg 800w,\n/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/47498/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/54ac5/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/58556/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/61e93/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.webp 200w,\n/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/1f5c5/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.webp 400w,\n/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/58556/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.webp 800w,\n/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/99238/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.webp 1200w,\n/static/0e440bad4d1c2646b7fd304eb6b7aaa1/5e0b8/71d3e33c8c2d27b20becbe3102c41333.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2385-markdown","title":"UC Davis to Teach Physiology of Cannabis Course","slug":"uc-davis-to-teach-physiology-of-cannabis-course","content":"### Cannabis Education at UC Davis\n\nUniversity of California at Davis is offering a new Physiology of Cannabis class that allows students to learn about cannabis, becoming one of the first universities in the state of California as well as the nation to offer formal education in this area. The new class offering is comes on the heels of the recent passage of Prop 64 which makes recreational marijuana legal in California. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nThe instructor of the course, Yu-Fung Lin is an associate professor of physiology and membrane biology at the UC Davis School of Medicine. Lin expressed the importance of the new course saying, “We feel it is important at this moment to educate students about the physiology and medical indications of cannabis and cannabinoids.” The class will be offered to undergraduate students across UC Davis, fulfilling a general education requirement for science and engineering. \n\nThe course will cover the biology of cannabis and cannabinoids, as well as how they effect different systems in the body. The course will also delve into the potential medical benefits of cannabis and the history of cannabis use as a medication. A more advanced version of the class is being formulated for medical students to be also offered next year. UC Davis is also hoping to expand public knowledge of cannabis through a similar course offered to the general public.\n\n### Other Types of Cannabis Education\n\nThe course is the first of its kind to be offered in the UC system, making it an important step in the expansion of education on the benefits of marijuana. As many people involved in or interested in the marijuana industry know, the current lack of reputable education on the subject of cannabis is major problem. Only a handful of universities in the country offer classes on marijuana. The University of Vermont medical school and the Massachusetts Medical Society both offer limited courses on marijuana, as well as three different law schools in the country, including Harvard. \n\nThe United States does have one cannabis education dedicated campus, which is Oaksterdam University located in Oakland, California. Founded in 2007, Oaksterdam University was founded by Richard Lee as a trade school for people in the cannabis industry. The school was modeled on the Cannabis College in Amsterdam, though it has a far extended curriculum from the horticulture focused school in Europe. Oaksterdam University offers courses in business, culinary arts, history, horticulture, law, and sciences, all based around marijuana. \n\nThere are also a few online training programs for doctors that allow them to get more information on cannabis, including how to properly prescribe it for different conditions. Certain states require doctors to complete various online training programs before being authorized to prescribe medical marijuana.\n\nThe Medical Cannabis Institute is an online resources that provides courses ranging from Clinical Applications of Cannabis for Cancer Patients to Core Knowledge of the Endocannabinoid System. There are also a variety of patient resources, like HelloMD, that provide patients with information to help them understand the way cannabis can be used to aid a variety of medical conditions.\n\n### Doctor Education is Missing\n\nDespite the expanding amount of cannabis-oriented resources for doctors, patients, and curious public alike, there is still a lack of formal educational resources available to the general public. Doctors are possibly the most effected by the lack of educational opportunities, as they do not receive any formal training on cannabis in medical school like other pharmaceuticals they prescribe. Perry Solomon, the Chief Medical Officer at HelloMD, said this of the lack of available education for doctors;\n\n>“One the biggest obstacles in patients obtaining medicinal cannabis in legal states is the inability to find physicians who are familiar with cannabis. There is only one medical school in the country that actually teaches a course on cannabis and only 13% of the others mention it in various details. This, of course, results in an uninformed graduating physician population. \n\n>When a patient then goes to a doctor and wants to discuss cannabis as an alternative to traditional medication, the physician is unable to do so. What I have seen happen occasionally as well is, due to their ignorance and pre-determined bias regarding cannabis, the physician “fires” the patient who has been using cannabis!\n\n>As more and more states legalize medicinal cannabis, I have seen more physicians attending educational events all across the country. It is vital for more physicians to become educated about cannabis since they will be seeing more of their patients using it in the future, including states where “adult use” is permitted. What we have seen most at HelloMD is patients who had used cannabis to help with chronic pain, the number one reason that patients use cannabis. An educated physician population can encourage this use and hopefully decrease the 33,091 people who overdosed from opioids in 2015.\"\n\nAs cannabis is becoming more recognized as a viable medication, hopefully the educational opportunities will continue to expand for doctors. It is important that doctors are educated on how to prescribe cannabis, so patients can use cannabis more effectively and safely. \n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.492537313432836,"src":"/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/ee604/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png","srcSet":"/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/69585/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png 200w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/497c6/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png 400w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/ee604/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png 800w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/f3583/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png 1200w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/90ce3/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png 1428w","srcWebp":"/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/58556/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/61e93/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp 200w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/1f5c5/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp 400w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/58556/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp 800w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/99238/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp 1200w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/cad8b/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp 1428w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2361-markdown","title":"Telehealth: The Future of Medicine","slug":"telehealth-the-future-of-medicine","content":"### Telehealth: The Future of Medicine\r\n\r\nTelemedicine has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years as more people have access to smart phones and a consistent internet connection. Patients love the convenience of being able to connect with a doctor quickly from the comfort of home. \r\n\r\n[ARE YOU A DOCTOR? JOIN US & BECOME A HELLOMD TELEHEALTH DOCTOR.](https://www.hellomd.com/our-doctors)\r\n\r\n###  Demand for Digital Medicine\r\n\r\nLast year, 15 million Americans received some kind of remote medical care, and the American Telemedicine Association expects the number of remote doctors visits to increase by 30% in the coming year. Only 15% of physicians surveyed currently use telemedicine, but according to an American Academy of Family Physicians survey, 78% of patients believe that telemedicine would improve their access to care, as well as the quality of the care.\r\n\r\n[![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58a247031e9cce000fb47c5f/embedded_images/58a247051e9cce000fb47c60/Screen_Shot_2017-02-13_at_2.35.39_PM.png)](https://www.hellomd.com/our-doctors)\r\n[Join the HelloMD team of doctors and see patients from anywhere.](https://www.hellomd.com/our-doctors)\r\n\r\nTo respond to this patient demand, an increasing number of companies are adding telemedicine access to their list of employee benefits. In 2015, 48% of employers provided telemedicine benefits; in 2016 this increased to 74%. Hospitals are also investing in telemedicine technology; currently 72% of of them incorporate telemedicine into their practice in some form.\r\n\r\n### Becoming a Telehealth Doctor & Patient\r\n\r\nTelemedicine carries many of the same benefits for doctors as it does for patients. Because physical proximity to patients is no longer a concern, doctors gain the flexibility to work from home and to tailor their hours to best suit their lifestyles. For many, this can eliminate the need to maintain a separate office and result in significant financial savings. Have a private space and a reliable internet connection? You're ready to join the telemedicine revolution!\r\n\r\n[ARE YOU A DOCTOR? FIND OUT HOW TO JOIN OUR TEAM.](https://www.hellomd.com/our-doctors)\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/14b42/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/f836f/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.jpg 200w,\n/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/2244e/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.jpg 400w,\n/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/14b42/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.jpg 800w,\n/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/47498/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.jpg 1200w,\n/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/54ac5/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/58556/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/61e93/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.webp 200w,\n/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/1f5c5/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.webp 400w,\n/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/58556/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.webp 800w,\n/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/99238/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.webp 1200w,\n/static/cbd72d5013ff8365defb3c00d6716ac0/5e0b8/c1b72f2ef587ddaacbbfef5faf17aed0.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":72,"numPages":13,"currentPage":7,"id":5567,"name":"News & Events","slug":"news-and-events","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}