ROBIN BURGESS DMP, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
What is medical marijuana?
Medical marijuana, or medical cannabis, is the unprocessed marijuana plant or extracts of the marijuana plant that have the ability to treat symptoms of illnesses or various types of conditions. Approximately 33 states have legalized medical marijuana use for certain disorders that have shown benefits to their patients. Medical marijuana can be administered in a variety of methods. Some of these methods include vaporized, lotions, ointments, liquid tinctures, transdermal patches, sprays and in edible forms.
What conditions can be treated with medical marijuana?
There are a variety of conditions such as fibromyalgia, anxiety, depression and severe insomnia can be successfully treated with the use of medical marijuana and has shown little to no side effects. It is important to understand that in order to be eligible to receive medical marijuana, you must be registered through MMCC and have written certification from a certifying provider, such as Ms. Burgess.
The State of Maryland has determined that the following conditions automatically qualify patients for medical marijuana use:
- Cachexia
- Anorexia
- Wasting syndrome
- Severe and chronic pain
- Severe nausea
- Seizures
- Severe or persistent muscle spasms
- Glaucoma
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Another chronic medical condition (severe) for which other treatments have been ineffective
How much does it cost to obtain medical marijuana in the State of Maryland?
The MMCC registration is free. The cost of the products is all determined based on a few factors. The factors that affect the price vary depending on the potency, the quality/amount and the dispensaries selling price. As a new patient at Integrative Family Medicine, at either our Columbia or Gaithersburg location, the cost of the initial certification is $250 and $150 for an annual follow up.
How do I register in the State of Maryland?
Step 1
You must register as a patient with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC). Registration is free and will only take a few minutes. Once patients complete the online registration, they will receive verification as well as their MMCC patient ID number. For more information, please visit https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/patients_regisadult.aspx .
Step 2
Obtain a written certification from a provider that is registered with MMCC. Once patients are registered, you must obtain a valid certification from a provider that is registered with the MMCC. After a complete and thorough evaluation, Ms. Burgess can approve medical cannabis as a treatment option if she determines that the patient’s medical condition qualifies.
Step 3
Visit a licensed Maryland dispensary. There are many dispensaries in the Columbia area as well as the Gaithersburg area. For more information, please contact us at 410-730-1074 or send an inquiry through our website.
