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How to Get a Medical MJ Card in Iowa ?
Medical marijuana has long been a source of contention among professionals from various fields. Few topics elicit more dispute from policymakers, scientists, researchers, doctors, and the general public.
Nonetheless, medical marijuana has been shown to consistently help relieve the symptoms of specific ailments as long as the dosage is controlled and the consumption schedule is monitored by a doctor. That being said, even though many patients have testified to the advantages of using medical marijuana, some Americans remain skeptical.
Many marijuana doctors in Iowa provide medical marijuana card evaluations. Here, we’ll debunk some medical marijuana myths and explain how to locate a dispensary near you. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions and detail how to find medical marijuana doctors in Iowa.
What is Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana is a type of cannabis that is used to treat medical conditions. It is different from recreational marijuana, which is the type of cannabis that is used for pleasure. It can come in the form of a plant, oil, topical cream, gel, or lotion, tincture, vape, or edible.
Medical marijuana is typically prescribed by a doctor to help treat conditions such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain.
Medical Marijuana Laws in Iowa
Possession and consumption of medical marijuana is legal in Iowa under the state’s Medical Cannabidiol Act. The Act allows patients with certain qualifying conditions to receive a registration card from the Iowa Department of Public Health, which allows them to possess up to 32 ounces of usable marijuana. Patients are also allowed to cultivate up to 12 marijuana plants for personal use.
Iowa Public Consumption Laws
In Iowa, promoting an event with the intent to sell marijuana is a misdemeanor. Doing so could get you a $1,875 fine and up to a year in jail.
You risk receiving a felony conviction if you sell marijuana close to a park or school, which carries a mandatory 10-year prison term and a fine of up to $100,000.
A controlled substance being consumed in public is referred to as “simulated intoxication.” Even though it is only a simple misdemeanor, possession can result in additional punishments. Furthermore, it is illegal to smoke medical marijuana in Iowa, whether you’re in a public or private area.
Iowa Public Consumption Laws
Even in states where the use of medical marijuana is permitted, like Iowa, it is still illegal to drive while intoxicated. In Iowa, taking a driver’s blood, breath, or urine for a chemical test is legal because every driver is subject to implied consent.
When stopped, a driver can request legal counsel and refuse to take the test. However, refusing a test can result in a minimum 90-day license suspension.
Iowa Medical Marijuana Program
To get an Iowa medical marijuana card, patients must first get a written certification from a licensed physician. The physician will need to certify that the patient has a qualifying condition that would benefit from the use of medical marijuana.
Once the physician has provided the written certification, patients can then complete an application with the Iowa Department of Public Health. Patients will need to submit a copy of their ID, proof of residency, and the application fee. Once the application has been approved, patients will receive their Iowa medical marijuana card.
If you are under 18 years of age or otherwise unable to submit an application on your own, you can appoint a designated caregiver to do so on your behalf.
Once you have obtained your medical marijuana card, you will be able to purchase medical cannabis, THC products, and CBD products from licensed dispensaries in Iowa. Dispensaries are required to verify your medical marijuana card before allowing you to make a purchase.
How to Find a Iowa Medical Marijuana Doctor
If you are a resident of Iowa and would like to obtain a medical cannabis card, you will need to find a healthcare provider who’s licensed to prescribe medical marijuana. You can search for a list of licensed doctors on the Iowa Department of Public Health website.
Once you have found a doctor that is licensed to prescribe medical marijuana, you will need to make an appointment for an evaluation. During the evaluation, the doctor will assess your medical condition and determine if medical marijuana would be an effective treatment option for you.
If the doctor determines that medical marijuana would be an effective treatment option for you, they will write a recommendation for you to receive a medical marijuana card. You will then need to submit an application to the Iowa Department of Public Health, along with the doctor’s recommendation, in order to obtain your medical marijuana card.
Iowa Medical Marijuana Dispensaries
The following are five of the best medical marijuana dispensaries in Iowa for qualified patients:
- Bud and Mary’s Dispensary-MedPharm in Sioux City
- Iowa Cannabis Company East in Iowa City
- Iowa Cannabis Company West in Council Bluffs
- Bud and Mary’s Dispensary-MedPharm in Windsor Heights
- Iowa Cannabis Company in Waterloo
Click here to learn more about finding and using dispensaries in Iowa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What information and forms are required to apply for a medical marijuana card?
To apply for an Iowa medical marijuana card, you will need to provide some basic information and submit the required forms. The information that you will need to provide includes your name, date of birth, address, and phone number. You will also need to provide proof of residency in Iowa with a document such as a driver’s license associated with the state of Iowa or another identification card.
The forms that you will need to submit include the application form, a medical release form, and a notarized statement from your physician, also known as a healthcare practitioner certification form. In some cases, Iowa’s medical cannabidiol program may request that you submit additional medical records relevant to your application
.What are some of the qualifying conditions?
Some of the qualifying conditions for an Iowa MMJ card include:
- Cancer
- Multiple sclerosis
- HIV/AIDS
- Glaucoma
- Tourette’s Syndrome
- Crohn’s Disease
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
- Cachexia
- Terminal illness
- Corticobasal degeneration
- Epilepsy
- Intractable autism with aggressive behaviors
- Persistent muscle spasms
- Severe wasting
- Untreatable pain
- Ulcerative colitis
If you have one of the above conditions, you may be eligible for a medical marijuana card in Iowa.
Which medical physicians can certify me for medical marijuana?
In order for a prospective Iowa medical marijuana patient to be certified, they would need to see a licensed medical marijuana physician. The physician would need to be able to certify that the patient has one of the qualifying conditions listed in Iowa’s Medical Cannabidiol Act.
How long is my card valid?
An Iowa medical marijuana card is valid for one year from the date of its issuance.
Can I apply if I live in another state?
No, you must reside in Iowa to apply for a medical marijuana card.
Where are dispensaries near me?
There are multiple dispensaries located throughout Iowa, so whether you live in Des Moines, Iowa City, or elsewhere, there’s probably at least one located near you. The best way to locate a dispensary near you is to ask your local doctor or search online for dispensaries in your area.
Where can I use medical marijuana in Iowa?
Iowa medical marijuana patients can only use medical marijuana at home. Possession and use of medical marijuana in any public place, including on public transportation, is strictly prohibited, even if you’re a qualifying patient.