In recent years, the United States has seen a significant shift in the legal status of marijuana. As of my last update in September 2021, numerous states had legalized cannabis for recreational use. One might assume that if recreational cannabis is legal, there’s little to no point in obtaining a medical marijuana card. However, this assumption would be mistaken. Even in states where recreational cannabis is legal, there are numerous benefits to having a medical marijuana card. Learn more about these benefits in Benefits of a Medical Card in a Recreational State.
1. Cost Savings
Medical marijuana patients often enjoy significant discounts on their purchases. Taxes on recreational cannabis can be hefty. With a medical marijuana card, patients either pay reduced taxes or none at all, leading to considerable savings over time. For more on affordability, check out Is Medical Marijuana More Affordable Than Traditional Meds? and Discounts for Veterans or Low-Income Patients.
2. Higher Possession Limits
While recreational users have a set limit on how much cannabis they can purchase or possess at a given time, medical marijuana patients often have higher limits. This is especially beneficial for those who require larger quantities for their therapeutic needs. Understand state-specific laws at Cannabis Laws By State.
3. Access to a Wider Range of Products
Some states restrict the type and potency of products available for recreational sale. Medical dispensaries, on the other hand, often carry a wider range of products, including those with higher concentrations of THC or CBD. This means patients can access the specific products that work best for their conditions. Visit First-Time Patient Guide: What to Expect at a Dispensary for more on dispensary experiences.
4. Cultivation Rights
In some states, having a medical marijuana card gives you the right to cultivate more plants at home than what’s allowed for recreational users. Growing your own cannabis can lead to further savings and ensures you have access to the strains that are most effective for your condition. For guidance on strains, see How to Choose the Right Medical Marijuana Strain for Your Condition.
5. Professional Guidance
Medical dispensaries typically have knowledgeable staff who can offer guidance tailored to a patient’s specific needs. They can provide advice on strains, dosages, and methods of consumption that might be most beneficial for a particular condition. Learn about finding qualified professionals at MMJ Doc Online or Cheap Online Doctor.
6. Age Requirements
In states with recreational marijuana, the age limit is usually set at 21. However, younger patients with certain medical conditions can access cannabis for therapeutic purposes with a medical card, as long as they have a physician’s recommendation. Check eligibility at Qualifying Conditions For Medical Marijuana.
7. Priority in Product and Service
In the face of product shortages, which can happen due to supply chain issues or increased demand, medical patients often receive priority. Some dispensaries even reserve specific products exclusively for their medical customers. Find dispensaries near you at Find Oklahoma Marijuana Dispensaries Near You for an example in Oklahoma.
8. Legal Protections
Having a medical card might offer additional legal protections, especially in situations where the distinction between recreational and medical use becomes important, such as custody battles or employment disputes. Explore your rights at Employer Drug Testing and Your Rights as a Medical Marijuana Patient and How HIPAA Protects Your Medical Marijuana Status.
9. Reciprocity in Other States
While recreational marijuana laws don’t often carry over from state to state, many states with medical marijuana programs offer reciprocity. This means that a medical card from one state may be recognized in another, allowing patients to access their medicine while traveling. For travel guidelines, see Traveling with Medical Marijuana.
Conclusion
Even in states where recreational marijuana is legal, there are tangible benefits to maintaining or obtaining a medical marijuana card. From cost savings and access to specialized products to legal protections and expert guidance, having a medical card ensures that patients can access and use cannabis in the most effective, efficient, and safe manner possible. For a self-assessment, visit Is Medical Marijuana Right for You? A Self-Assessment Guide.
