1. Isn't marijuana illegal?

In 1996, California voters put into law Proposition 215 “The Compassionate Use Act” [California Health and Safety Code §11362.5], which amended state law to allow legal access to marijuana when recommended by a physician .

*This is only a California state law; the federal government does not recognize medical marijuana

2. What is medical marijuana used for?

Any licensed physician may approve or recommend the use of marijuana to provide relief in the treatment of cancer, anorexia, aids, chronic pain, spasticity, glaucoma, arthritis, migraine, and any other condition or illness .

3. What if I do not suffer from any of those illnesses, am I still eligible?

In order to be eligible for a recommendation of medical marijuana by a physician, the patient must suffer from any of conditions listed in question 2. The physician determines through their knowledge and expertise what “any other condition or illness” defines during the evaluation.

4. What is a “recommendation”?

A recommendation from a physician recommends or approves the patient's therapeutic use of marijuana. The “recommendation” is a document that shows the patient may legally use marijuana and can be verified 24hrs/7days by calling (888) 4•DOC•420.

*Patients sometimes refer to a recommendation as a “prescription” or “cannabis card” .*

5. How do I set up an appointment to get a recommendation?

A free evaluation can be scheduled by calling (888) 4•DOC•420.

6. Will it cost me anything if I am denied a recommendation after an evaluation?

No, there is no consultation or evaluation fee.   You only pay if you qualify for a recommendation and you choose to accept it.

7. What if I do not have any documentation?

Documentation is needed to help us evaluate if medical marijuana would be beneficial to the patient. Medical records can be obtained from prior physicians by contacting their office. If medical records cannot be obtained, the physician will evaluate each patient on an individual basis to see if additional documentation is needed.

8. Will my insurance cover the cost of the evaluation?

Unfortunately, insurance does not cover the cost of the evaluation and recommendation.

9. What happens at the evaluation?

All evaluations are performed tailored to the individual's specific needs. Dr. Patel offers a completely free evaluation to see if you qualify for a recommendation.  During the evaluation Dr. Patel will discuss with you your medical history and symptoms to determine if medical marijuana is for you.  You pay nothing until you know if you qualify.  Call us today to schedule your free evaluation at (888) 4•DOC•420

10. Can I still get an evaluation if I am under 18 years old?

You must be over the age of 18 to qualify for a recommendation.  No exceptions.

11. How much does the recommendation cost?

The fee for a physician's recommendation of medical marijuana is $95 for a full year. If y  A recommendation renewal is $75. 

12. How long can I use my recommendation before I need a renewal?

Recommendations are given in durations of 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. A renewal is needed upon expiration of the recommendation.

13. Where do I take my recommendation to get medical marijuana?

California law prohibits physicians to help the patient to obtain medical marijuana. A patient can choose any dispensary in California for medical marijuana after receiving a physician recommendation.