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Illinois Medical Marijuana Card
Medical marijuana has long been a source of contention among professionals from various fields. Few topics elicit more attention from policymakers, scientists, researchers, doctors, and the general public than medical marijuana.
Medical marijuana treatment has been shown to help relieve the symptoms of specific ailments as long as the dosage is kept under control and the consumption schedule is guided by a doctor. Many patients have testified about the numerous advantages of using medical marijuana, yet some Americans still remain skeptical.
Many marijuana doctors in Illinois provide medical marijuana card evaluations. Here, we’ll debunk some medical marijuana myths and explain how to track down a dispensary near you.
We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions and provide a guide to finding Illinois medical marijuana doctors.
What is Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana is the use of the cannabis plant as a physician-recommended form of medicine or herbal therapy. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, cancer, and anxiety. Medical marijuana is available in many forms, including dried flowers and buds, extracts, tinctures, and edibles.
Medical Marijuana Laws in Illinois
In Illinois, medical marijuana is legal under the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program. To qualify for medical marijuana, a patient must have a qualifying condition such as cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, ALS, multiple sclerosis, Tourette’s syndrome, Parkinson’s Disease, Crohn’s Disease, or a condition that causes cachexia or chronic pain.
Possession limits for medical marijuana patients in Illinois depend on the amount of cannabis that has been prescribed by each patient’s physician. In general, patients are allowed to possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis per 14-day period. However, if a patient’s physician has recommended a higher amount, they may possess up to that amount at a time.
Patients are not allowed to smoke cannabis in public places–they may only consume it within private residences. Employers are not required to accommodate medical cannabis use, and patients may be subject to workplace drug testing.
Illinois Public Consumption Laws
If you own marijuana, you are permitted to use it inside your residence. The conditions of the lease must be followed by renters. Using marijuana while driving is prohibited.
In Illinois, any area where you can be seen by other people is considered a “public place.” You are not allowed to use cannabis in public, around anyone younger than 21, on school property, or anywhere else that Illinois law forbids smoking tobacco.
Illinois Public Consumption Laws
The state has strict laws against driving while intoxicated. Illinois, specifically, does not distinguish between patients and recreational users. Anyone who exceeds the legal limit and is found to have 5 nanograms or more of THC in their blood can be charged with DUI.
When stopping a vehicle on suspicion of DUI, police watch for slow reaction times and bloodshot eyes.
Illinois Medical Marijuana Program
If you are an Illinois resident and you would like to obtain an Illinois medical marijuana card and join the state’s Medical Cannabis Patient Program patient registry (MCPP), you will need to follow the government’s prescribed application process.
1. The first step is to visit the website of the Illinois Department of Public Health and find the Medical Cannabis Pilot Program application. You can find the application by clicking on this link: http://www.idph.state.il.us/cannabis/mcppapplication.htm
2. The second step is to fill out the application form in its entirety. Be sure to include your full name, date of birth, social security number, and current address. You will also need to provide a copy of your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card. You will need to provide a doctor’s certificate with the application, so be sure that your physician is willing and able to certify you as a patient.
3. The third step is to submit your online application on the web, by mail, or in person at the Department of Public Health. If you are mailing it, make sure that it is postmarked by no later than the 30th day of the month. When you submit your application, make sure that it is complete and accurate. You will need to pay an application fee of $100 for a new patient application or $50 for a renewal application.
If you are unable to apply for a medical cannabis card on your own or if you’re a minor (under 18 years of age), a designated caregiver can do so for you.
If you are approved for a medical marijuana card, it will be valid for one year from the date that it is approved. This card allows you to possess, use, and purchase medical marijuana from a licensed dispensary.
How to Find an Illinois Medical Marijuana Doctor
If you are an Illinois resident and would like to apply for a medical marijuana card, you will need to find a doctor who can certify your eligibility. The state of Illinois maintains a list of approved physicians who can provide medical marijuana certifications.
To find an Illinois medical marijuana doctor, you can visit the state’s website and search for doctors by location. You can also ask your primary care physician if they are able to provide you with a referral.
Once you have found a doctor who can certify your eligibility, you will need to schedule an appointment and bring along your medical records. The doctor will then review your records and determine whether you qualify for a medical marijuana card. If you are approved, you will be given a certification that you will need to submit with your application.
Where Can You Buy Illinois Medical Marijuana?
Currently, Illinois is home to more than 50 dispensary locations. An exhaustive list of these authorized dispensaries is kept on file by the Cannabis Regulation Oversight Office. Since not all dispensaries carry pharmaceuticals, be sure to call before going.
The following are a few of the top Illinois dispensaries for qualified patients with medical cannabis cards:
- EarthMed in Addison
- Verilife in Arlington Heights
- Sunnyside in Buffalo Grove
- Rise Medical and Recreational in Canton
- Sunnyside in Champaign
- Maribis in Chicago
- Mission Dispensary in Chicago
- 3C Compassionate Care Center in Joliet
- Trinity MMJ in Peoria
- Ascend in Springfield
With an MMJ card, you can buy medical marijuana in Illinois from any authorized dispensary in the state. You are permitted to buy and possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana every 14 days with your medical marijuana card.
Frequently Asked Questions
What information and forms are required to apply for a medical marijuana card?
To apply for an Illinois medical marijuana card, you will need to provide the following information:
- Your full name
- Your date of birth
- The last four digits of your Social Security number
- Your current address
- Proof of residency (e.g. a copy of your driver’s license, state identification card, bank statement, healthcare statement, or utility bill)
- A recent photograph
- The name, address, and phone number of your recommending physician
- Proof of identity (e.g. a copy of your driver’s license or state ID card)
You will also need to complete the following forms:
- Patient Registration Form
- Physician Certification Form
- Release of Information Form
Depending on your individual circumstances, you may also need to provide additional supporting documentation or information, such as proof of income or military status. It is important to carefully review the requirements and prepare all required documents before submitting your application.
What are some of the qualifying conditions?
In order to qualify for an Illinois medical cannabis card, patients must suffer from one of the state’s numerous qualifying conditions. Those medical conditions include:
- Cancer
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Hepatitis C
- Crohn’s Disease
- Arnold-Chiari Malformation
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Cachexia or Wasting Syndrome,
- Muscular dystrophy
- Severe fibromyalgia
- Spinal cord injury with spasticity
- Autism
- Chronic pain
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Migraines
- Osteoarthritis
- Anorexia nervosa
- Ehler-Danlos Syndrome
- Neuro-Behcet’s Autoimmune Disease
- Neuropathy
- Post-concussion syndrome
- Lupus
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Superior canal dehiscence syndrome
- Epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Tourette’s syndrome
- Spinocerebellar ataxia
Other terminal illness
Which medical physicians can certify me for medical marijuana?
To get certified for Illinois medical cannabis, patients must visit a physician who has been approved by the state to certify people for medical marijuana. These physicians are known as Medical Marijuana Registered Practitioners (MMRP). MMRP must have a license to practice medicine in Illinois and complete a training program offered by the state Department of Public Health.
How long is my card valid?
Your Illinois MMJ registry card will be valid for one year from the date of its issuance.
Can I apply if I live in another state?
Yes, you can apply for an Illinois MMJ card from another state. You will need to provide proof of residency in Illinois and meet all other eligibility requirements, though.
Where are dispensaries near me?
If you’re looking for a cannabis dispensary in Illinois, you’re in luck – there are plenty of them! Here are some of the best dispensaries in the state:
1. The Healing Center in Urbana is a great choice for anyone in the Central Illinois area. They have a large selection of strains and products, and they’re always willing to help you find exactly what you need.
2. Greenleaf Center in Champaign is another excellent choice for anyone living in the Central Illinois area. They have a knowledgeable staff and a wide assortment of strains and products, so it’s easy to find something that suits your needs perfectly.
3. Weed-Star Dispensary in Peoria is a great option for anyone living in the southern portion of Illinois. They have an excellent selection of strains and products, and they’re always ready to offer friendly, helpful advice about what you should buy.
4. Nature’s Care & Wellness Center in Willowbrook is one of the best options for anyone living north of the Chicago area. They have a well-trained staff, and they’re always willing to help you find exactly what you need.
5. GreenLeaf in Schaumburg is another excellent choice for anyone living north of the Chicago area. They have an incredible selection of strains and products, and their prices are unbeatable – so be sure to check them out if you’re in the area.
If you’re looking for a dispensary in Illinois, then look no further – these are some of the best options in the state. Whether you live in Chicago or somewhere else entirely, one of these dispensaries is sure to have what you need.
Where can I use medical marijuana in Illinois?
Medical marijuana can be consumed in Illinois in a number of ways, including smoking, vaping, and consuming edibles. However, qualified patients must consume their medical marijuana in private–not in public.