Marijuana continues to gain traction in many states. This sudden but important recognition of marijuana stems from the potential benefits brought about by the product. To put this into perspective, medical marijuana, also known as medical cannabis, has been established as an important substance that may help patients suffering from chronic pain. In other words, it has the potential to support relief for patients suffering from chronic pain.

That said, the state of Louisiana has been at the forefront when it comes to the use of medical marijuana. This means that residents of Baton Rouge have the opportunity to benefit from Louisiana’s medical marijuana program. However, before you proceed to use medical marijuana in Baton Rouge, here are certain facts you need to know.

Is Medical Marijuana Legal in Baton Rouge, LA?

Simply put, medical marijuana is legal in Louisiana. However, not everyone is eligible to use medical marijuana. This is based on the fact that the law governing the use and distribution of medical marijuana provides that only qualified patients are eligible to use medical marijuana.

Who is Eligible?

Anyone with a qualifying medical condition and, at the same time, is approved by a licensed medical marijuana physician is eligible for medical marijuana in Baton Rouge.

However, in order to use medical marijuana in Baton Rouge, you must first get approval from a licensed Louisiana medical marijuana doctor. Put briefly, you need to consult your doctor who will assess your medical records and identify whether you have a qualifying condition. After the consultation, your medical marijuana doctor will fill out a recommendation form for medical marijuana if you are approved.

The purpose of the recommendation is to provide sufficient proof that you are an eligible patient for the medical marijuana program in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It is imperative to note that the state requires applicants to prove Louisiana residency in order to be considered eligible for the medical marijuana program.

Do You Need a Medical Marijuana Card in Baton Rouge, LA?

The simple answer is no. Following the amendment of the laws governing medical marijuana, patients are not required to register or receive a medical marijuana card. Instead, the recommendation they receive from a certified medical marijuana physician is sufficient proof that you are eligible for medical marijuana.

As such, you are only required to provide a recommendation to the dispensary in order to receive medical marijuana.

Forms of Medical Marijuana Sold 

There are multiple forms of medical marijuana sold in Baton Rouge’s medical marijuana dispensaries. The common forms of medical marijuana sold include: 

  • Cannabis in liquids
  • Topical applications
  • Inhalers
  • Edible gummies

However, currently, there are efforts in place to expand the forms of medical marijuana in Louisiana. Current efforts are underway via a bill that aims at introducing raw marijuana in smokable form. The rationale for introducing smokable marijuana is based on the fact that the smokable marijuana plant is cheaper to sell and produce as compared to other forms.

Who Can Provide Medical Marijuana in Baton Rouge, LA?

There are stringent measures meant to regulate persons or institutions that can provide medical marijuana in Louisiana. First and foremost, not everyone can grow cannabis in Louisiana. Only certain agricultural centers and institutions are authorized to grow marijuana. In addition, only a few dispensaries can provide medical marijuana to patients. As such, it is imperative to ensure you do a background check at a dispensary before you proceed to buy medical marijuana.

Need Help? 

Although medical marijuana is important, there are certain fundamental facts you need to consider before you ingest it. Contact Transformative Health today to learn more.