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The article Medical Licensing in Colorado was originally published on Haze Nation.

By Mary Jon

Colorado was one of the leading states in the country for not only the recreational marijuana movement, but also was the innovator in medical marijuana care, grow and licensing. This post is a Quick Guide to getting your MMJ Red Card in Colorado.

Despite popular belief, getting a medical license in the Rocky Mountain state is not difficult if one has a legitimate ailment or affliction. I have written numerous blogs Medically Speaking about what diseases and health issues can be worsened and bettered with the use of medical grade cannabis. In the state of Colorado, conditions that warrant a medical marijuana license with a doctor's authorization include Cancer, Severe nausea & pain, Seizures, HIV/AIDS, Glaucoma and others deemed a medical need by a physician. Nonetheless, here are the steps to licensure.

Doctor Appointment
The first step to medical licensing, or the permission to use weed legally for medical use, is locating a doctor. Once a doctor has been acquired, the patient (MMJ-card applicant) must make an appointment. No matter what the affliction, it is recommended to bring along any and all medical paperwork associated. Then, it is appointment time. The patient, and or MMJ-card applicant, will meet with the doctor. After the assessment, the patient receives either an approval or denial for medical marijuana. If the MMJ-card applicant receives the authorization, it is time to become compliant with paperwork.

Paperwork
Like with any license, there is paperwork involved. The same goes for the MMJ license, often referred to as a Red Card. Some offices include the paperwork for a nominal fee, along with the appointment co-pay. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment then must receive the original authorization and a copy of the patient's driver's license. This paperwork must be certified mailed to ensure it was sent. A copy of all the paperwork is valid at most dispensaries for 35 days - until the medical marijuana card is received.

Caregiver & Dispensary
Once the patient becomes legal through a doctor's authorization, the MMJ-user may grow plants and designate caregivers. Many caregivers are also dispensaries that incentive patients to let them grow for the user. Caregiver status offers discounts and many incentives. A medical marijuana license makes it legal for the patient to enter any medical cannabis facility in the state.

Legalities
It is important to stay legal and compliant as a patient of medical marijuana. The MMJ patient's stash should remain with the patient. Marijuana is legal and legal experts would advise having others purchase legally, recreationally.

Medical marijuana isn't for everyone, but can be a major life-changer for patients with chronic illnesses. We hope this Quick Guide to getting your MMJ Red Card in the Mile High was a helpful read.