Qualifying Conditions

• Chronic Pain
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Panic Attacks
• PTSD
• Ulcerative colitis
• Crohn’s Disease
• IBS
• Opioid Use Disorder
• Neuropathy
• Epilepsy
• Cancer
• HIV or AIDS
• Severe or Persistent Muscle Spasms
• ALS
• Nausea
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Huntington’s Disease

What documentations do I need to bring to my appointment?

• Medical Record: State law requires that a physician to obtain medical records showing the diagnosis for the conditions you have. If you don’t have the records in your possession, please complete our medical records release form and we will obtain the records for you.
• New York Driver’s License or state issued ID card
• Payment

Will my insurance cover the fees?

Unfortunately, at the current time, insurance companies do not cover the medical marijuana certification.

Can patients under 18 years of age be certified for medical cannabis?

YES! Children under 18 with qualified medical condition can be certified but the patient must have a parent/guardian that serves as the caregiver.

Where will I get my medical marijuana card?

The patient’s certification will contain a registry ID and can be used immediately in conjunction with a government issued photo ID to buy medical cannabis from a licensed medical dispensary in New York State.

Do you provide marijuana after certification?

No, we are just the doctors that evaluate your condition for certification of the card. Once you are approved as a qualifying patient, you can obtain medical marijuana from a dispensary or qualifying designated caregiver.

Will I qualify if I'm not a New York resident?

No. Only certified patients with a New York State registry identification card may purchase approved medical cannabis products in New York State.

Are the dispensaries open?

Yes, several dispensaries across the state have products and operating.

Can I obtain cannabis outside New York once I'm certified?

A New York patient can only obtain legal medical cannabis from New York-licensed dispensaries. The dispensaries can only obtain their cannabis from New York-licensed growers, and their extracts from New York-licensed processors.

How to legally obtain cannabis?

Where can I legally travel with medical cannabis?

A legal patient may travel to any location in the state of New York (other than federal government property when in possession of medical cannabis). Possession of cannabis is a violation of federal law and New York residents should carefully read the current state statutes regarding the use of medical cannabis and be aware that taking cannabis across State lines is a federal offense. Cannabis is also illegal on federal government property. The State of New York laws cannot authorize you to travel to other states, jurisdictions or countries with this medicine in your possession.

How much medical cannabis can a certified patient possess at one time?

​No more than 120 grams — or approximately four ounces, unless a provider makes a special determination that a patient needs more.

What is the cost for my New York medical marijuana certification?

The cost for the evaluation along with the certification is $149.

Can you request medical records on my behalf?

Definitely, we can have you sign a medical records release for and we will take care of the rest.

What are the payment forms?

We accept debit and credit cards.

What should I expect during the appointment?

When you come in for your appointment, we will review your records, discuss your condition and history, and describe the proper use of medical marijuana and answer any questions you have.

Do I need to pay to register to OCM ?

It’s absolutely free.

How Do I Renew My New York Medical Marijuana Card Online?

The process for renewing your New York State medical marijuana certification online is simple. Ahead of their renewal date, patients set up a telehealth appointment with one of the state’s approved providers. These are typically done via video chat and consist of a few minutes of questions and discussion with your doctor about your current health situation, your experience with cannabis since your last appointment, and any other relevant factors. It’s helpful to provide any new medical records or other relevant data ahead of time, which can allow your provider to approve you the same day. 

How to Get Medical Marijuana in New York: A Step-by-Step GuideIf you’re a resident of New York and interested in obtaining medical marijuana legally, you’re in the right place. The state has a structured program designed to help patients access cannabis safely and legally for medicinal purposes. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to navigate the process:

1. Check if You Qualify

New York’s Medical Marijuana Program is available for patients with qualifying conditions such as:

• Chronic pain
• Cancer
• HIV/AIDS
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Epilepsy
• Other serious or debilitating conditions approved by the state

Note: The list of qualifying conditions may expand over time, so check the official NY State Department of Health website for the latest updates.

2. Consult with a Certified Healthcare Practitioner

To qualify, you need a healthcare provider registered with the program:

• Schedule an appointment with a doctor who is registered with the New York State Medical Marijuana Program.
• During your consultation, discuss your medical condition and determine if medical cannabis could benefit you.

3. Obtain a Certification

If your doctor deems medical marijuana appropriate, they will provide a certification confirming your qualifying condition and support your enrollment in the program.

4. Register with the NY Medical Marijuana Program

Once certified:

• Create an account on the Medical Marijuana Data Management System (MMDMS) portal via the NY State Department of Health website.
• Complete your registration by submitting your personal information, certification details, and pay any applicable fees.

5. Receive Your Medical Marijuana Card

After your registration is approved, you’ll receive a Medical Marijuana Patient Registry ID card, which allows you to purchase cannabis products legally from authorized dispensaries.

6. Visit a Registered Dispensary

• Use your ID card at any authorized dispensary to buy medical marijuana products.
• Discuss product options with dispensary staff to find the best form for your treatment needs (flower, oils, tinctures, etc.).

7. Follow State Regulations

• Keep within the allowed possession limits.
• Only purchase from authorized dispensaries.
• Use medical marijuana responsibly and in accordance with your healthcare provider’s guidance.

Additional Tips:

• Keep Documentation Handy: Always carry your ID card when purchasing or using medical marijuana.
• Stay Informed: Regulations may change; stay updated through the NY State Department of Health website.
• Seek Support: Many dispensaries have knowledgeable staff and resources to help you navigate your treatment plan.

Facts About Medical Marijuana in New York

Legalization and Program Launch

• New York officially legalized medical marijuana in 2014 through the Compassionate Care Act.
• The program officially launched in January 2016, allowing patients with qualifying conditions to access cannabis legally.

Qualifying Conditions

• Patients must have a qualifying serious or debilitating condition such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, and other approved conditions.

Authorized Dispensaries

• Medical marijuana can only be purchased from state-licensed dispensaries.
• As of now, there are multiple licensed dispensaries across the state, including in New York City and other major regions.

Product Types and Forms

• Patients can access various forms, including oils, capsules, tinctures, vaporizers, and topical applications.
• Raw plant material is generally not available for patient purchase (unless in specific circumstances).

Patient Registry and Certification

• Patients must register with the NY Department of Health’s Medical Marijuana Data Management System.
• A certified healthcare provider must confirm the patient’s qualifying condition and issue a certification.

Legality and Restrictions

• Medical use only; recreational use remains illegal in New York.
• Possession limits are regulated, and patients must carry their Medical Marijuana ID card.

Expansion of Access

• The program has expanded over time, including increasing approved qualifying conditions and enhancing product availability.

Protection and Confidentiality

• Patient information is protected under privacy laws, and the program emphasizes confidentiality.

Legal Protections

• Registered patients are protected from arrest or prosecution for possessing medical cannabis within the guidelines of the program.

Future Developments

• • Discussions about expanding access, adding new products, or legalizing recreational use are ongoing in New York.

Interesting trivia facts about New York:

The Empire State

• New York is famously known as the “Empire State,” a nickname reflecting its wealth, diversity, and importance.

Statue of Liberty

• The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, was a gift from France in 1886 and is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor.

First Capital of the United States

• New York City served as the first capital of the United States in 1789 before Washington, D.C., was established.

Central Park’s Size

• Central Park in New York City covers approximately 843 acres, making it one of the most famous urban parks worldwide.

Diverse Languages

• Over 200 languages are spoken in New York City alone, making it one of the most linguistically diverse places on Earth.

Home to the First US Subway

• The New York City subway system, opened in 1904, was the first underground rapid transit system in the world.

Broadway

• Broadway in Manhattan is considered the theater capital of the world, hosting some of the most famous plays and musicals.

World’s Busiest Port

• The Port of New York and New Jersey is one of the busiest ports in the United States, handling millions of containers annually.

Niagara Falls

• Located on the border between New York and Canada, Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls globally, attracting millions of visitors each year.

University of the People

• • New York is home to numerous prestigious universities, including Columbia University, one of the Ivy League schools founded in 1754.

Exploring Medical Marijuana in New York: A Gateway to Relief and Healing

Since the legalization of medical marijuana in New York State in 2014, the city and state have witnessed a transformative shift in how patients access alternative treatments for various health conditions. With its bustling metropolis and progressive approach, New York stands at the forefront of medical cannabis acceptance.

A Brief History of Medical Marijuana in NY
New York officially approved medical marijuana through the Compassionate Care Act in 2014, making it one of the early adopters in the United States. The law initially permitted use for a limited list of qualifying conditions such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and chronic pain. Over the years, the program has expanded to include more conditions and a broader range of alternative consumption methods.

How Medical Marijuana is Regulated in NY
The New York State Department of Health oversees the Medical Marijuana Program, ensuring safe and controlled access for qualified patients. Patients with a certified healthcare provider can register online, receive an ID card, and obtain medical cannabis from authorized dispensaries across the state.

Dispensaries and Access in New York
New York boasts a growing network of licensed dispensaries in New York City and throughout the state, providing patients with various forms of medical cannabis, including oils, tinctures, capsules, and topical applications. This accessibility has significantly improved the quality of life for many suffering from debilitating conditions.

Benefits and Controversies
Many patients report significant relief from symptoms like pain, nausea, and anxiety through medical marijuana. However, the program continues to evolve, balancing medicinal benefits with regulatory concerns and debates around recreational legalization.

Looking Ahead
With ongoing legalization efforts and research into cannabis’s medicinal potential, New York is poised to become a leader in comprehensive cannabis policy. As legislation develops, patients, healthcare providers, and advocates remain hopeful for broader access and innovative treatment options.

Medical marijuana has become an integral part of New York’s healthcare landscape, offering hope and relief to countless residents. Whether you’re a patient considering treatment or simply interested in the evolving landscape of cannabis laws, New York’s journey reflects a broader shift toward acceptance and understanding of medicinal cannabis.