Education on Medical Marijuana

Education on Medical Marijuana services offered in Little Saigon, Philadelphia, PA

If you have a condition, like inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, or epilepsy, you may qualify for medical marijuana treatment. At Penn’s Rock Primary Care in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the caring family medicine specialist, Monika Vansant, DO, and the team strongly supports research & evidence-based therapies on new medications, and approves of the Commonwealth's efforts to broaden the scope of medical marijuana and other novel therapeutics. For patients who have qualifying conditions, as defined by the Commonwealth's registry, please go to the registry and register, as this must be done before you meet with your preferred physician. The registry contains a list of licensed prescribers in your area.

Medical Marijuana Q&A

What is medical marijuana?

Medical marijuana can help relieve uncomfortable symptoms associated with certain medical conditions. At Penn’s Rock Primary Care, the team supports the state's efforts to legalize medical marijuana to treat unique health problems. They understand that many individuals begin using marijuana after they’ve exhausted other traditional treatment options.

What conditions can medical marijuana treat?

To receive a prescription for medical marijuana in the state of Pennsylvania, you must have a qualifying condition. In Pennsylvania, qualifying conditions include:

Addiction substitute therapy (opioid reduction)
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Autism
Cancer
Dyskinetic and spastic movement disorders
Crohn’s disease
Epilepsy
Glaucoma
HIV/AIDS
Huntington’s disease
Neuropathies
Parkinson’s disease
Sickle cell anemia

You may also benefit from medical marijuana treatment if you have a behavioral condition, like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

How do I get a prescription for medical marijuana?

Getting a prescription for medical marijuana in Pennsylvania requires several steps:

Step one: Register

First, you have to register for the medical marijuana program at the Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Registry operated by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

Step two: Undergo a physical exam

First, your provider reviews your health records and asks about the symptoms you’re experiencing. Next, they conduct a physical exam and order lab tests, including blood work and urinalysis.

Step three: Submit paperwork

If your provider determines that you have a qualifying condition, they fill out paperwork that you can then submit to the marijuana registry. After submitting your paperwork and the required fee, the registry sends you a medical marijuana card in the mail. Once you receive the card, you can use it at any licensed medical dispensary in Pennsylvania.

How is medical marijuana consumed?

There are several ways to consume medical marijuana, including:

Inhalation
Oral ingestion
Topicals
Suppositories

At first, you may need to consume medical marijuana in several different ways to determine what effects you find most beneficial. Some people enjoy inhalation, while others enjoy consuming edibles. Don’t be afraid to try different things. With a little bit of experimentation, you’re sure to find something that best works for you.

Is medical marijuana safe?

Medical marijuana is a safe treatment and usually well-tolerated, but it does present side effects. As a result, it’s important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery when you’re under the influence. Common side effects of medical marijuana include: