To obtain a medical cannabis card in Iowa, you’ll need to follow a specific process outlined by the state’s Medical Cannabidiol Program. Iowa has strict regulations for medical cannabis use, but with a qualifying condition and the appropriate steps, you can access medical marijuana products. Here’s a detailed guide on the rules and processes for getting your medical cannabis card in Iowa.
1. Eligibility: Qualifying Conditions
First, you must have a qualifying medical condition to be eligible for Iowa’s Medical Cannabidiol Program. Some of the conditions approved for medical marijuana use include:
- Cancer (if it causes severe pain, nausea, or severe wasting)
- Chronic pain
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) with severe or persistent muscle spasms
- HIV/AIDS
- Epilepsy
- Crohn’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
- PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
- Ulcerative colitis
- Severe or terminal illness with a life expectancy of less than one year
You must be diagnosed with one of these conditions to begin the application process.
2. Obtain Certification from a Licensed Physician
- Step 1: You will need to visit a licensed physician who is authorized to certify patients for medical cannabis. Natural Green Healing is a licensed physician who can get your medical card in minutes. We are located in De Moines for Telehealth appointments.
- Step 2: Your physician must complete the Iowa Medical Cannabidiol Program Patient Certification Form. This document will verify your eligibility based on your medical condition. Make sure your doctor is familiar with the process and willing to participate, as not all physicians are.
3. Apply for Your Medical Cannabis Card
Once you have the certification from your physician, you’ll need to complete the application process through the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH).
- Step 1: Go to the Iowa Department of Public Health Medical Cannabidiol Program website and create an account to apply.
- Step 2: Fill out the Medical Cannabidiol Program Application and upload your physician’s certification along with proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license or state ID).
- Step 3: Pay the application fee:
- The fee is $100 for most applicants.
- A reduced fee of $25 is available for those on Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability (SSD), or certain other assistance programs. You must provide proof of eligibility for the reduced fee.
4. Wait for Approval
After submitting your application, the Iowa Department of Public Health will review your documents and either approve or deny your application.
- Approval Time: Once approved, you will receive a temporary card via email, which you can use immediately. Your physical medical cannabis card will be mailed to you within 5-15 business days.
5. Visit a Licensed Dispensary
Once you receive your card, you can legally purchase medical marijuana products from licensed medical cannabidiol dispensaries in Iowa. Iowa dispensaries sell various forms of medical cannabis, including:
- Capsules
- Tinctures
- Creams
- Vaporizable products
- Oral tablets
Iowa’s law prohibits the sale of cannabis flower and smoking medical marijuana, so products are limited to non-smokable forms.
6. Rules and Restrictions
- THC Limits: Iowa law limits the amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, that can be in medical marijuana products. The cap is currently at 5 grams of THC per 90-day supply unless a healthcare provider certifies a higher need due to specific medical conditions like terminal illness.
- Designated Caregiver: If a patient is unable to purchase or administer medical cannabis on their own, they can designate a caregiver. Caregivers must also register with the state and undergo a background check. They can then assist with purchasing and administering the medical cannabis.
- Renewal: Medical cannabis cards in Iowa are valid for one year. To renew your card, you’ll need to submit an updated certification from your doctor and reapply with the state.
7. Cost of Medical Cannabis Products
The cost of medical cannabis products can vary, and since medical cannabis is not covered by insurance, patients will need to pay out-of-pocket for their purchases at dispensaries. Pricing will depend on the type and formulation of the product you choose.
Conclusion
To get a medical cannabis card in Iowa, you must have a qualifying condition, obtain a certification from a licensed physician, and apply through the Iowa Department of Public Health. Once you have your card, you can purchase medical cannabis products at licensed dispensaries across the state. While Iowa’s program has restrictions, including THC limits and the prohibition of smokable forms of cannabis, patients with chronic conditions can still access a variety of medical cannabis products to help manage their symptoms. Practices like Natural Green Healing can provide comprehensive care, offering patients a balanced approach to managing conditions, which may include exploring options like medical cannabis.
