If you’re considering medical marijuana to manage a qualifying condition, your first appointment with a certified physician can feel overwhelming. Knowing what to expect can ease any concerns and help you prepare for a smooth experience. Here’s a guide to what happens at your first medical marijuana appointment in Florida.
Understanding the Florida Medical Marijuana Program
Florida’s Medical Marijuana Use Registry allows patients with qualifying conditions to legally access cannabis products for therapeutic use. The state requires certification from a licensed physician who has completed the necessary training in medical marijuana treatment.
Common qualifying conditions include:
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Chronic nonmalignant pain
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
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Parkinson’s Disease
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Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
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Cancer
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Epilepsy
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Crohn’s Disease
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HIV/AIDS
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Terminal conditions and other comparable debilitating illnesses
Preparing for Your Appointment
Before your appointment:
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Gather relevant medical records showing diagnosis or treatment history.
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Bring a valid Florida state ID or proof of residency.
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Prepare a list of current medications and any prior treatments.
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Be ready to discuss your symptoms and how they impact your daily life.
If you don’t have medical records readily available, some clinics — like us — offer a pain exam for an additional fee to help establish your eligibility.
What Happens During the Appointment
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Medical Evaluation
The physician will review your medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments. They will assess whether your condition meets Florida’s qualifying criteria. -
Discussion of Medical Marijuana
Expect a conversation about how medical marijuana works, including the different products (e.g., tinctures, edibles, flower, topicals) and recommended dosages. The physician will explain potential benefits and risks. -
Certification and Registry Entry
If approved, the physician will enter your information into the Medical Marijuana Use Registry. You’ll receive an email to complete your application and pay the $75 annual state registration fee. -
Next Steps
Once your application is approved (typically within 5–10 business days), you’ll receive a digital medical marijuana card. You can then visit a licensed dispensary and begin your treatment.
What You’ll Need After the Appointment
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State Fee Payment: $75 paid online to the Florida Department of Health.
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Physician Renewal: Patients must see their physician for recertification every 210 days.
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Annual Card Renewal: Your medical marijuana card must be renewed yearly.
Costs to Expect
At Green Dream Cards in Jacksonville:
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$99 Special Certification Fee
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$25 Pain Exam if you don’t have medical records
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$75 Annual Florida State Registration Fee
📍 Location:
5913 Normandy Blvd Ste 4, Jacksonville, FL
📞 Phone:
(904) 999-4765
🌐 Website:
greendreamcards.com
Final Tips for a Successful Visit
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Be honest about your medical history and symptoms.
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Ask questions about strains, dosing, and side effects.
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Be patient — the approval process takes a few days, but it’s worth it for legal access to high-quality medical cannabis.
Conclusion
Your first medical marijuana appointment in Florida is an important step toward better health and wellness. With the right preparation, you can approach the process with confidence and start exploring cannabis as a legitimate option for managing your condition.
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact us 904 999 4765 to schedule your first appointment today.
