New Patient Guide for a Medical Marijuana Certification

New Patient Guide

The laws and regulations regarding medical marijuana can seem overwhelming.  We have worked diligently to make the process as simple as possible.  Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will walk you through the process and answer all the questions you may have while determining if cannabis therapy is right for you.  We have outlined the process to simplify navigating medical marijuana use in Florida.

Step 1 – Contact Compassionate Care Clinics of Pinellas to discuss your eligibility and schedule an appointment.

Step 2 – Contact your primary care physician or diagnosing physician and request your medical records.  We can assist you with this but you must complete the “Records Release” found on the “Forms” page of this site and. Veterans who want assistance requesting records from the VA should complete the “VA Release” found on the “Forms” page. You can also come in to the office and complete these forms.  You must have medical records documenting your condition on your initial certification visit.

Step 3 – Download and complete the Patient Forms found on this website and bring them with you to your appointment.  You can fill out these forms during your visit, but you will save time during your appointment if they are filled out prior to your arrival.

Step 4 – Arrive at our office.  We recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to complete any additional supporting documents we will need to provide your certification. We will need to verify residency at this time through a valid Driver’s License or ID card issued by the state of Florida.  Seasonal residents will be required to present additional proof of residency.  Payment will be collected prior to seeing the physician.  If for any reason the doctor is unable to certify you to use medical cannabis, your fees will be refunded before you leave our office.

Step 5 – Meet with our licensed MMJ doctor.  We will collect your baseline vitals prior to seeing the physician.  The licensed MMJ physician will discuss your current symptoms, medications, and treatments regarding your condition.  The physician will review your medical records and conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if cannabis treatment is right for you.  You will be educated on cannabis therapy, types of medical marijuana, and routes of administration.  This will allow the doctor to create a treatment plan that works for you.   You will be able to ask all the questions you need to help you make an informed decision.

Step 6 – Once approved by the physician you will be entered into the Medical Marijuana Use Registry and a treatment plan will be created to include dosage, frequency, and route of administration. An e-mail will be sent to you from the state with an application link.   We will provide all the information needed to obtain your permanent certification card as well as where and how to obtain your medicine.

Step 7 – Schedule your recertification or follow up visits as directed by the physician to remain current with the Medical Marijuana Use Registry.