Are you thinking of exploring the benefits of medical marijuana? Now that medical marijuana has been legalized in the state of Maryland, it’s important for potential patients to know the limits and allowances of the law and how best to conduct yourself in this brave new frontier. Once patients and caregivers are approved through the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission website, it’s vital that they understand the rules and expectations that come with that acceptance. From access information to housing legalities, the patient and caregiver are responsible for understanding every aspect of using and distributing this form of alternative medicine. Here’s what new medical marijuana patients in Maryland need to know.
Access
Medical marijuana patients in Maryland that have obtained their state issued certification are only legally permitted to purchase and possess medical marijuana that is acquired through or from a state licensed medical marijuana dispensary, like Mary and Main. This goes for caregivers as well. Those that travel to Maryland from out of state to purchase medical marijuana are required by law to have been given their prescription through a Maryland based medical professional, and must meet all legal criteria before they are able to purchase or obtain the product.
Caregivers
It’s beyond understandable that there will be patients that require assistance acquiring and using their prescription. In these instances, Maryland has allowed the patient to name up to two legal caregivers to assist them with their medical marijuana needs. These caregivers are also required to have an application approved through the Commission’s website, and must be at least 21 years of age. Caregivers can legally assist up to 5 separate patients that qualify for medical marijuana assistance. However, if the patient is a minor, the caregiver is required by law to be the minor’s parent or legal guardian. At this time, the Commission is working on a patient and caregiver section on the website to allow for easier access to the Patient and Caregiver Registration Forms.
Civil Discrimination
At this time, the state of Maryland’s medical marijuana law does not protect patients and caregivers from civil discriminations. Such areas that are unprotected are employment, child custody, housing, and organ transplants. It is important to for medical marijuana patients in Maryland, and their caregivers, to know the rules and regulations within their places of employment and housing situations as they obtain to medical marijuana use and possession.
Confidentiality and Proof of Prescription
The Commission database not only contains records of every patient, caregiver, and medical professional that handles medical marijuana, but is required by HIPAA standards to ensure that such information stays secure and confidential. Still, it’s the patient’s and caregiver’s responsibility to keep their medical marijuana prescription cards on hand in the instance of law enforcement involvement. It is also wise to keep copies of any medical records and certificates of acceptance in regard to the prescription and diagnosis.
Mary & Main is an accredited and fully licensed medical marijuana dispensary in Maryland. If you’d like to reach out to Mary & Main with any question, concerns, or comments, please feel free to contact us at 855-922-6626. We would be more than happy to assist you with anything we can, and look forward to seeing you in the store!
