Using Telemedicine to Get Your Child a Medical Marijuana Card
Article written by
Ruth LemonVP of Operations
Content reviewed by
Dr. Lewis JasseyMedical Director - Pediatric Medicine
In many states, Leafwell physicians can see minors with their parents or legal guardians to certify them for a medical marijuana card via our telemedicine software. This means that children whose medical conditions qualify them for medical marijuana, can see a compassionate physician in the comfort of their own home. Our physicians also speak directly with parents and guardians to help everyone understand the value of medical marijuana and how it can be used by children of all ages.
For some people, telemedicine is the difference between seeing a doctor or not. This could be due to illness or disabilities that prevent travel, or in recent times, because of being at high risk for contracting other illnesses. As we combat the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine has become more integrated into our lives than ever. Many places that didn’t allow telemedicine previously, do now, to help protect those at a higher risk. But can you get your child a medical marijuana card using telemedicine?
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Can You Get Your Child Their MMJ Card Using Telemedicine?
The answer depends on where you live, and your state’s specific laws governing telemedicine and medical marijuana.Wherever possible, we have physicians ready to see patients of all ages online. We have several pediatricians on our team to help deliver optimized care to our younger patients. A telemedicine appointment for a minor is quick and easy, avoids car journey and busy waiting rooms, and allows parents and guardians to discuss sensitive subjects with a compassionate and experienced physician.
Your child’s initial appointment will take about 15 minutes and Leafwell is here to help you every step of the way. Plus, once you’ve been approved for a medical marijuana card, telemedicine is often the easiest way for patients to renew their recommendation.
What States Currently Allow Telemedicine for Medical Marijuana?
Technology has improved and COVID has put us in state-wide lockdowns. In order to accommodate patients who are at a higher risk, more states than ever are allowing telemedicine for medical marijuana.
States where you can get your child’s medical marijuana recommendation online with Leafwell:
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado – coming soon!
- Florida
- Illinois
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Montana
- New York
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Utah
- Virginia
What Should You Have Prepared for Your Child’s First Appointment?
You should prepare for your child’s telemedicine visit like you would any other first appointment. It is recommended that you talk to your child’s regular physician weeks in advance to obtain any necessary documentation. This could include x-rays, MRI or CT scans and other test results. Having these documents ahead of time will ensure that you don’t hit any snags in showing a Leafwell doctor why you’re looking for a medical marijuana recommendation for your child.
Outside of your medical records, you will also need a valid ID. Leafwell requires ID for the child and the parent or legal guardian attending the telemedicine appointment.
When applying to the state, each program requires slightly different documentation. Generally, when it comes to children, a guardian or caregiver provides their identification along with the application. In most cases, a valid driver’s license, state ID, military ID or passport is required. However, sometimes documents like power and water bills or bank statements that prove residency are allowed instead or asked for in addition to your ID.
What to Expect from your Child’s Telemedicine Appointment?
A visit with a Leafwell physician online is not much different than a visit in person. For your child’s first visit, you shouldn’t expect it to take long. Most cannabis evaluations take 15-30 minutes, especially if you provided all documentation ahead of the appointment.
Your doctor will want to discuss your child’s condition beyond your documentation. They will ask questions to get a better understanding of your child’s unique position. Be as descriptive and up front as you can with your doctor not only about any symptoms your child experiences, but about any previous treatments, medications, etc. Often, what we think is irrelevant, can be important to healthcare professionals.
Once our physician has reviewed your documentation and discussed your child’s condition, there will be a chance to ask any questions you have. This is your opportunity to clarify anything you’re uncertain of, or to ask any questions and talk about concerns that may come up during your visit. If your child is old enough, encourage them to ask any questions they may have too. Remember, they are the ones who are going to be taking the medical mariuana so they should be as informed as possible.
How Long Will It Take for your Child to be Approved?
While how long it takes to be approved varies by state, in most cases, you should get initial approval via email within days. Some states require that two physicians sign off on a marijuana recommendation for patients under 18-years-old. And some states consider minors anyone under the age of 21. Be sure to check for specific requirements, because especially for children, they vary drastically state by state. We have more information available our individual state pages
In a time when staying home is more important than ever, especially for millions who rely on medical marijuana, telemedicine is an invaluable service. It makes healthcare possible for those who are either unable to leave their homes or who in times like these simply shouldn’t. If you would like to book a telemedicine appointment for your child with Leafwell today, you can get started now and be speaking to a friendly and understanding medical marijuana physician in minutes.
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