How to obtain a medical marijuana card

There are a growing number of medical marijuana dispensaries in the St. Louis area, and you may be wondering, “How do I get involved?”.” involved?”.” involved?”.” It’s really quite simple: The first step is to obtain your $20 medical card online for marijuana. You can then enter any dispensary in the state and purchase your state-allotted amount, which is 4 ounces of cannabis, or 32 Missouri Marijuana Equivalency (MME) units per month. (A MME is equivalent to one gram of THC concentrate or 100 milligrams of infused product.)

Those who wish to purchase medical marijuana or grow their own must have a qualifying medical condition. Some of these conditions, including cancer, glaucoma, and intractable migraines, are listed on the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) website. However, marijuana is also recommended for those with chronic, debilitating, or terminal conditions. After a physician certifies that you have a qualifying condition, you can request a physician certification form from DHSS.

With locations in The Grove, St. Peters, Ellisville, and others coming soon on Delmar Boulevard and Cherokee Street, they work with partner clinics that certify medical marijuana referrals: Marijuana Card Clinic, Elevate Holistic, NuggMD, Midwest Cannabinoid Clinic, and MOCannaMD.

“If you arrive at our location without a medical card, we will suggest that you go next door to Marijuana Card Clinic,” said Swade St. Peters general manager Shannon Thompson. “They walk you through the process from beginning to end.”

You can also apply for a card through virtual telemedicine appointments, making it easier than ever to get a card. Once the process is complete, the documents are sent to the state through an online patient portal, Thompson said. Documents that must be submitted include a clear photograph of your face taken within the last three months, proof of Missouri residency, and proof of birth date.

A photo ID and a completed physician referral are required. Minors also need parental authorization. If your application is approved, you will receive an email from the state informing you that your card can be downloaded from the same portal where you submitted your documents.

Swade’s partner clinics are happy to set up an appointment with you if you’re not sure if your medical condition qualifies. “The beauty of having a great card clinic is Thompson explained that they will look at your information first to see if you are eligible, and they won’t take payment until you have what they need. Physician referrals typically cost $75 to $125; renewals vary but are usually less. The state currently charges about $25 for a patient or caregiver, and about $100 for a cultivation license. All licenses and referrals must be renewed annually, and fees may be adjusted.