3 minute read
Obtaining a Medical Cannabis Card in the State of Utah
By Scott Allen, MD, Medical Director, Satori Health and Wellness
Medical cannabis has been available in Utah for several years and thousands of patients are now receiving safe, legal cannabis in this state. But the process of obtaining a card can be confusing for patients and caregivers. For those interested in medical cannabis therapy, here are some helpful tips. For a full walkthrough, go to medicalcannabis.utah.gov.
1. You must have a qualifying condition.
The most common conditions are chronic pain, cancer, PTSD, inflammatory bowel disease, and nausea.
2. Find a qualified medical provider.
A qualified medical provider (QMP) is a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant who has undergone specialized training in cannabis therapy. Hundreds of physicians in Utah are now able to recommend cannabis for their patients. You can search the state’s website or call Satori’s office, and we’ll help connect you with a provider near you. The first visit with a QMP must be conducted in person, but renewals can be done over telehealth.
3. Apply for a medical card.
Before your visit with your QMP, go to evs.utah.gov, create your profile, and pay the application fee. When that is done, your QMP will be able to approve your card once they have verified that you have a qualifying condition.
4. Go to a cannabis pharmacy.
Cannabis pharmacies are staffed by a pharmacist who will help educate you in choosing the right strain and dosage form. Common dosage forms include gummies, tinctures, or whole flower. Each patient is different, so start slow and go slow when initiating cannabis therapy! There are two pharmacies in southern Utah: Bloc in St. George and Zion Medicinal in Cedar City. For those who prefer home delivery, Wholesome Co delivers throughout Utah.
5. Renew your card.
To make sure you’re getting the most out of cannabis therapy, you need to renew your card with your QMP after six months and then yearly afterward. As a new cannabis patient, you’ll likely have many questions about cannabis use. Keep an eye out for cannabis events in the community so you can connect with people who have more personal experience with cannabis. Most QMPs aren’t cannabis patients themselves, so building camaraderie with other patients may be a way to learn more about the medicine. Usually the best teacher is experience.
If you have more questions about the cannabis process, please reach out to the staff at Satori Health. Call us at 435669-4403, or visit stgeorgeketamine.com.
About the Author
Dr. Scott Allen is a St. George-raised, boardcertified anesthesiologist. He has specialty training in transplant anesthesiology and currently practices with Mountain West Anesthesiology at St. George Regional Hospital. He is also the medical director of Satori Health, an integrated ketamine clinic (www.theketamineclinic.com). Dr. Allen is the current president of the Washington County Medical Association. With his deep roots in Utah, he has a special passion for improving the mental healthcare of his friends and neighbors in the community. Dr, Allen enjoys outdoor pursuits with his family and communing with nature. He’s doing his best to stay grounded in the moment!
