If you’re a Texas resident seeking relief through medical cannabis, understanding the process is crucial. The medical cannabis program in Texas (and how cannabis products are sold to patients) is very different in the Lone Star State compared to other jurisdictions.
Unlike many states, Texas doesn’t issue physical medical cannabis cards. Instead, the entire process is handled online by a cannabis healthcare provider like DocMJ Texas, and prescriptions are entered into a state-managed system. On the plus side, you have no chance of misplacing your card.
Because the Texas medical cannabis program is restrictive, you won’t see hundreds of licensed dispensaries popping up all over the state. Delivery of medical cannabis is more like filling a prescription and picking it up than shopping at a retail dispensary.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps and requirements, ensuring you know exactly what to expect at each stage of becoming a registered patient with the Compassionate Use Program of Texas (CURT).
Eligibility Requirements For Texas Medical Marijuana Prescription
Can anyone get a medical card in Texas? No. You must meet eligibility requirements to be approved for a cannabis prescription. Some requirements are age restrictions, while others are related to state residency and diagnosed health conditions.
Residency Requirements
People living permanently in Texas may be qualified for a medical cannabis prescription. You must show proof that you have a residence in the state.
To qualify for medical cannabis in Texas, you must prove your residency. Acceptable forms of proof (that you live here) include:
- Texas Driver’s License
- State-Issued ID
- Utility Bills
- Voter Registration Card
- Lease or Mortgage Documents
Unlike other states, there is no way to get a temporary or visitor medical cannabis prescription in Texas. If you are not a permanent Texas resident, it is illegal to purchase, possess, or use medical marijuana. Texas does not offer reciprocity or permit patients who have a medical card in another state to buy or possess cannabis for medicinal use.
Age Requirements
Patients under 18 require a parent or legal guardian to manage their medical cannabis treatment. The guardian must be involved in the certification process and will be responsible for purchasing, handling, and administering the medication according to the doctor’s recommendations.
Texas residents who are 18 and older can apply independently (without parental consent) if they wish to try medical cannabis for symptom management. They must provide proof of age with a valid government-issued photo ID.
Qualifying Medical Conditions For A Texas Medical Marijuana Prescription
In order to get a prescription for medical cannabis in Texas, you must have at least one of the qualifying health conditions required by law. The good news is that Texas’s list of qualifying conditions is expansive and includes many different types of neurological disorders.
The most common qualifying medical conditions in Texas are:
- Epilepsy
- Seizure disorders
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Spasticity
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Autism
- Terminal cancer
- Incurable neurodegenerative diseases
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Other conditions approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services
During your medical cannabis certification appointment, the doctor will ensure that you have been diagnosed with at least one of the qualifying conditions.
The Online Prescription Method
Texas’s system for medical cannabis is unique. Unlike other states that issue physical cards, Texas operates through an online prescription system managed by the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT). This system simplifies the process and ensures streamlined access to medical cannabis for qualifying patients.
It operates the same way as a conventional prescription. Once you have seen your doctor and become certified for medical cannabis in Texas, you can order products from any dispensary you choose. All licensed dispensaries can verify that you have an active prescription with CURT, and the quantity of cannabis that you purchase is also tracked in accordance with state laws.
Steps To Get A Medical Cannabis Prescription In Texas
If you have decided you would like to try medical cannabis to help with moderate to severe symptoms, here is a detailed breakdown of the steps involved in obtaining a medical cannabis prescription in Texas:
Find A Doctor
Start by finding a doctor who is registered with the Texas Department of Public Safety to prescribe medical cannabis. Not all doctors in Texas can prescribe medical cannabis, so this step is crucial. Many clinics specialize in medical cannabis consultations, and these can be a good place to start your search.
You can schedule an appointment with the chosen doctor online by following the instructions provided by email. You will then receive a link to attend your telemedicine appointment.
Prepare For Your Certification Appointment
Collect any relevant medical records, including previous diagnoses, treatment histories, and any documentation of your qualifying condition. You may be asked to submit those records before your appointment so the physician can review them.
Have a list of all medications and treatments you are currently using or have used in the past, including any side effects or issues you’ve encountered.
Attend Your Medical Cannabis Certification Appointment
During your appointment, the doctor will perform a thorough medical evaluation. This involves discussing your medical history, current symptoms, and the impact of your condition on your daily life.
The doctor will also discuss various treatment options with you, including the potential benefits and risks of using medical cannabis. This conversation will help you understand how medical cannabis may help your condition and how to use it safely.
The doctor will review the list of qualifying conditions for medical cannabis in Texas (see the list below). They will determine if your condition meets the criteria for a prescription. If the doctor determines that you qualify, they will enter your prescription into the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT). This includes specific details about the dosage, type of medical cannabis, and duration of treatment.
The physician may provide additional information, such as instructions on dosage, methods of administration (such as oils, tinctures, or inhalation), and potential side effects. Patients who are not able to receive a prescription for medical cannabis are often provided with a full refund.
Entering The Prescription Into The CURT System
Once the doctor determines that you qualify, they will enter your prescription into the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT). The doctor will specify the type and dosage of medical cannabis as well as the duration of the prescription.
Some people with chronic health conditions may continue to be prescribed medical cannabis. However, other patients with temporary or short-term symptoms may be certified for a shorter duration.
Licensed dispensaries can access the CURT system to verify your prescription and provide you with the appropriate medical cannabis products. You can check the status of your prescription anytime by logging into the Compassionate Use Registry.
Getting Your Medical Cannabis
Once your prescription is entered into the CURT system, you can visit a licensed dispensary to obtain your medical cannabis. Here’s how to proceed:
Finding A Dispensary
Use the CURT system or other resources to find a licensed dispensary near you. These dispensaries are authorized to provide medical cannabis based on the prescriptions entered into the CURT system.
Look for reviews and ratings of dispensaries to ensure you choose one with a good reputation for quality products and customer service. This is also an excellent opportunity to learn about any discounts and loyalty rewards programs offered.
Visiting The Dispensary
Make sure to bring a valid form of identification to verify your prescription. Speak with the dispensary staff about your prescription. They can access the CURT system to verify your prescription and provide guidance on the products available.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the products, dosages, and administration methods. The staff are there to help you understand how to use medical cannabis effectively.
Using Medical Cannabis
Adhere to the dosage and administration instructions provided by your doctor. This ensures you use medical cannabis safely and effectively. Pay attention to how your body responds to the treatment. Note any improvements in your symptoms as well as any side effects.
Schedule follow-up appointments with your doctor to discuss your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. In Texas, you are required to recertify your medical cannabis prescription every twelve (12) months.
It can take up to fifteen (15) days after your doctor approves (or recertifies) your prescription in Texas. Remember to schedule your appointment early so your prescription is updated on the CURT system before it expires.
Remember, you will not receive a medical card by mail. Texas uses an online prescription system through the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT), ensuring a streamlined and secure process. By following our step-by-step guide and working closely with your doctor, you can access the medical cannabis you need to manage your qualifying condition effectively.
