Beginning in June, individuals who can provide verification of a debilitating condition will have the opportunity to apply for registry identification cards for medical marijuana use in Mississippi. The application process will be conducted online through the Mississippi State Department of Health. “When a patient applicant is approved, an electronic medical cannabis patient identification card will be issued,” stated Kris Jones, director of the Medical Cannabis Program at the health department.
Eligibility and Required Certifications
To qualify for medical marijuana, applicants must be diagnosed with a debilitating condition by a registered practitioner, who must believe that cannabis could alleviate the patient’s symptoms. Conditions eligible for the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Program include:
- Cancer
- Parkinson’s disease
- Huntington’s disease
- Muscular dystrophy
- Glaucoma
- Spastic quadriplegia
- HIV positive status
- AIDS
- Hepatitis
- ALS
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Sickle-cell anemia
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Dementia agitation
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Autism
- Pain refractory to opioid management
- Diabetic/peripheral neuropathy
- Severe spinal cord disease or injury
Applicants with chronic terminal or debilitating diseases that cause symptoms such as cachexia, chronic pain, severe nausea, seizures, or persistent muscle spasms may also qualify. A written certification from the practitioner is required, lasting for 12 months, unless a shorter duration is specified. Follow-up check-ups are mandated six months after the commencement of medical cannabis usage.
Additional Considerations for Specific Demographics
Minors
Minors can receive written certification if accompanied by a parent or guardian who provides signed consent. Only physicians or osteopathic medicine doctors can issue these certifications for minors.
Individuals Aged 18 to 25
For those between 18 and 25 years old, diagnoses must come from two practitioners in separate medical practices, with at least one being a physician or osteopathic doctor. If the patient is homebound or previously obtained a card as a minor, this dual certification is not required.
Designated Caregivers
Designated caregivers must also obtain written certification to receive a registered card. They may assist up to five registered patients, unless employed by a healthcare facility. Caregivers must be at least 21 years old, barring cases where they are a parent or guardian of a minor. A clear background check is essential, and caregivers must have no felony convictions related to violent crimes or controlled substances.
Nonresidents
Nonresidents diagnosed with a debilitating condition, or those with a dependent who is diagnosed, may qualify for a registry card valid for their state or territory. Individuals who have resided in Mississippi for less than 45 days are considered nonresidents; their registration cards will remain valid for only 15 days post-issue. Nonresidents may apply for a card up to 30 days before arriving in Mississippi, limited to two 15-day periods per year.
