You will hear me say this all the time but it is true, "every state is different and every state changes".

As much as we would all like to have the same rules for everyone in every state, the world of medical marijuana is evolving every single day. Given that, we must each do our due intelligence to ensure we have the most up-to-date and accurate information. Missouri is the only state for which 2 Leaf Nurses is posting the rules and guidelines but we are happy to help you with your state if you simply ask. We are here for you.

I know I have a qualifying condition in Missouri, but now what?.

This is probably the 2nd most common question we get. We also understand that while the official DHSS website has the best information, it can be overwhelming. So, our goal is to give you the nuts and bolts (so to speak) along with links to the detailed site for Missouri. Together, we can get you to the right places to get your application in.

Steps to Obtaining a Missouri MMP Card

STEP 1 - for everyone, you must determine if you have, or think you have a qualifying condition. Check out my article on Qualifying Conditions for that list. If you are still not sure, shoot me an email, or call and we can talk through it before you go any further. Once we are relatively certain you have a qualifying condition, you can proceed to step 2.

STEP 2 - The Qualifying Physician visit. These physician may or may not physically be in the state of Missouri. Since Missouri allows "televisits" it is possible you may have an appointment with a physician in another state, BUT they must still be board certified in the State of Missouri. Of course you can always go to a pop-up or permanent clinic in the state too. You will want to check a few things before committing to any of the physicians. #1 check their prices. They can vary. At present, most are running $75-125 for the visit and to get the "Physician Certification Form". Others may also handle your MMP card process for you. If they do, they will gather that information from you and collect the state fees in addition to their visit cost. I cannot recommend strongly enough that you make sure you understand exactly what you are paying for before you commit. #2 gather pertinent medical (or psychiatric) records that will help the physician in the determination process. Remember, this is not your regular PCP you are seeing. These physicians have never seen you before so you need to provide them as much relevant information as possible. #3 Find out how long it will take them to get the Physician Certification Form to you. You only have 30 days from the date on that form to apply for your Missouri MMP - after that, the form is no good and you have to repeat the process. Again, some will process everything for you so you don't have to worry, others will email it to you, but others may mail it (be careful of that).

STEP 3 - Complete the Missouri MMP application process. This is all done online through a portal so I always recommend you use a computer/laptop instead of your smartphone. I'm not saying you can't using a phone (some have done it), but it could be more difficult-just sayin. Instead of me typing out step by step on this, here is a great PDF document from MO DHSS to follow along with their checklist to ensure you have everything you need before starting. IF your qualifying physician offers this service, you might want to take them up on it if reading all of this is already stressing you out :) . The cost for a patient is $25/year, cultivation is an additional $100/year and both are good for one (1) year from the date of issue. Caregivers are the same cost and I have included a section below just for them.

STEP 4 - Printing and Storing your MoMMP Card. Once the application process is complete and you receive the email stating you have been approved, you will need to print off your MMP card. Missouri DOES NOT mail out patient cards. Again, because DHSS has done a great job of providing step by step instruction, I am simply sharing their information.

I strongly recommend that you do the following with your card for safe keeping and easy access if/when you need it. FIRST-print 2 copies of the card. 1 will stay in your wallet/billfold (whatever you call that thing) and the other should be put in a safe place in your home (safe, lock box, file cabinet). SECOND-take a picture of both portion of the card to keep on your phone. That way, if for any reason you are separated from your wallet/billfold and you need proof of your status, you have it. THIRD-if you have a smart phone, or at least a phone that has contacts in it, safe your link to the portal on there. Again, it is for such an occasion that you need your card and any information immediately. Hopefully, you will only need your information for dispensary runs that you can plan for...but better safe than sorry.

STEP 5 - Last but not least, you need to know that your card is only good for one (1) year from the date of issue. There will be an expiration date on it. It is your responsibility to keep track of that date because 30 days before the card expires, you will need to repeat Steps 1-4. Otherwise, the card expires. No one is going to be sending you a reminder card or letter, so maybe put the 30 day mark in your calendar.

What if I Need A Caregiver?

If you need/want a caregiver, whether to obtain products on your behalf or to cultivate (grow) for you, they will have to follow steps 3 - 5. The current cost for a caregiver is the same as for a patient - $25. If they are going to cultivate, there is an additional $100 charge.

The information provided on the 2 Leaf Nurses website and blog is for educational purposes ONLY. If you have questions about what a cannabis nurse can do for you, please click here to contact 2 Leaf Nurses or call 417-812-7676 today.

Do you qualify for a Medical Marijuana card? Read this article .If you do qualify - Get a Medical Card.