Medical Cannabis FAQ For Lynnwood WA
Washington State supported medical cannabis access long before the state passed legislation for recreational use. Today, the Department of Health in WA still recognizes the need for medical patients to access medical marijuana and added regulatory guidelines to ensure quality standards and ethical practices.
For that reason, retail cannabis stores must possess a “medical endorsement” to sell cannabis to respective patients. Also, producers must adhere to stricter guidelines in the production of their products. Those standards cover everything from nutrients and pesticides through facility maintenance.
White Rabbit Cannabis in Lynnwood WA is one of the few medically endorsed stores in the area. The store has a long history of serving patients in WA since the original medical access era in the state. This medical cannabis FAQ hopes to answer basic questions related to medical marijuana access in WA.
What is Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana refers to the use of cannabis plants or compounds (like CBD and THC) to treat various medical conditions. In Washington State, it is legal for patients with qualifying conditions to use marijuana for therapeutic purposes.
What are the Benefits of Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana may provide relief for a range of conditions, including but not limited to:
- Chronic pain
- Cancer symptoms (e.g., nausea, pain)
- Multiple sclerosis
- Epilepsy
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Crohn’s disease
- Glaucoma
Patients often report benefits such as reduced pain, improved sleep, increased appetite, and relief from anxiety or depression. However, not all conditions are accepted as qualifying conditions.
How Do I Know If A Product Is Medically Compliant With The Department Of Health Guidelines?
Products that meet or exceed Department of Health Guidelines include the following labeling:
For THC products
This label marks CBD Products
On General Use products
Ailments That Do Not Qualify for Medical Marijuana in Washington State
While Washington State allows medical marijuana for various qualifying conditions, certain ailments and conditions do not qualify for authorization. Here are some examples:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder: While anxiety may qualify, it must be severe and chronic.
- Insomnia: Sleep disorders alone typically do not qualify unless associated with a qualifying condition.
- Social Anxiety: Like generalized anxiety, it usually does not qualify unless part of a broader, more severe condition.
- Mild or Intermittent Pain: Conditions causing minor pain that does not significantly impact daily life may not qualify.
- Cosmetic or Non-Medical Conditions: Issues like acne or hair loss do not qualify.
- Behavioral Issues: General behavioral problems without an associated qualifying condition generally do not qualify.
- Substance Use Disorders: Active substance use issues without an underlying qualifying medical condition are not eligible.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Conditions such as vitamin deficiencies without a severe underlying illness typically do not qualify.
It’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to understand your specific situation and whether your condition may qualify for medical marijuana use. For a complete list of qualifying conditions, check the Washington State Department of Health’s website.
Who is Eligible for Medical Marijuana in Washington State?
To qualify for medical marijuana, you must:
- Be a Washington State resident.
- Have a written recommendation from a healthcare provider who is licensed in Washington and familiar with your medical history.
- Have a qualifying condition, which may include severe, chronic, or terminal illnesses. The full list of conditions can be found on the Washington State Department of Health website.
How Do I Obtain a Medical Marijuana Authorization?
- Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Schedule an appointment with a doctor or qualified healthcare provider who understands medical marijuana.
- Get a Written Recommendation: If deemed appropriate, your provider will give you a written recommendation.
- Apply for a Medical Marijuana Authorization: You can apply online through the Washington State Department of Health’s Medical Marijuana Authorization Program. You’ll need to provide your recommendation and pay a fee.
- Receive Your Authorization Card: Once approved, you’ll receive a medical marijuana authorization card, which allows you to purchase medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries.
What Types of Health Practitioners Can Authorize Medical Cannabis Use?
In Washington State, the following licensed healthcare providers can authorize medical cannabis use:
- Medical doctors (MDs)
- Osteopathic physicians (DOs)
- Osteopathic physicians assistant (DOA)
- Nurse practitioners (ARNPs)
- Physician assistants (PAs) working under a supervising physician
- Naturopathic doctors (NA
These practitioners must be familiar with your medical history and the potential benefits and risks of medical cannabis.
Where Can I Find A Health Practitioner?
Visit this page to find a practitioner in WA
How Do I Renew My Current Patient Authorization?
Use this resource to renew your current patient authorization information online.
Where Can I Find Department of Health Compliant Products?
Medical marijuana products must come from licensed dispensaries. To find compliant products:
- In the Lynnwood / North Seattle Area, visit White Rabbit Cannabis
- Visit the Washington State Department of Health’s website for a list of licensed medical marijuana retailers.
- Use online dispensary directories to see which stores offer products that meet state regulations.
- Ensure the products are labeled with information regarding their potency and ingredients.
How Much Medical Marijuana Can I Purchase?
As a medical marijuana patient in Washington, you can possess up to:
- 3 ounces of usable marijuana
- 48 ounces of usable marijuana-infused products
- 216 ounces of marijuana-infused liquids
What taxes are medical marijuana patients exempt from?
In Washington State, medical marijuana patients are exempt from certain taxes that typically apply to recreational marijuana sales. Here’s a breakdown:
Tax Exemptions for Medical Marijuana Patients
- Retail Sales Tax: Medical marijuana patients are exempt from the state’s retail sales tax (currently 6.5%) when purchasing medical marijuana products from licensed dispensaries.
- Excise Tax: Medical marijuana purchases are also exempt from the 37% excise tax that applies to recreational marijuana.
This means authorized medical patients potentially receive up to 43.5% off on their purchase!
Important Notes
- Registration Required: To benefit from these tax exemptions, patients must have a valid medical marijuana authorization card.
- Purchases from Licensed Dispensaries: The tax exemptions only apply when buying from licensed medical marijuana retailers. Recreational purchases do not qualify for these exemptions.
Always check with your dispensary and the Washington State Department of Health for the latest information and any changes to tax regulations.
Can I Grow My Own Medical Marijuana?
Yes, if you are a medical marijuana patient in Washington, you are allowed to grow your own cannabis. You may cultivate up to 6 plants for personal use, provided you are registered in the Medical Marijuana Authorization database.
Medical Cannabis FAQ About Using Marijuana Products
- Dosage and Consumption: Start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find what works for you. Methods of consumption include smoking, edibles, tinctures, and oils.
- Legal Use: Use medical marijuana in private settings only, as public use is prohibited.
- Transportation: Keep your medical marijuana in its original packaging, and ensure it is not visible in your vehicle.
Can I Use Medical Marijuana While Taking Other Medications?
Consult with your healthcare provider before using medical marijuana, especially if you are on other medications. They can help you understand potential interactions and side effects.
Where Can I Find More Information?
For more detailed information, visit the Washington State Department of Health’s website or contact local healthcare providers who specialize in medical marijuana.
Feel free to reach out with any additional questions or concerns! At White Rabbit Cannabis, a medically endorsed bud tender is always on staff to answer questions. (425) 745-4242
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