Getting a doctor's recommendation to use medical marijuana can feel like a daunting task, but it is a lot easier than most people think. Depending on where you live, you might be able to do it from the comfort of your own home! Here is a short step-by-step guide on how to talk to a doctor about getting a cannabis recommendation.

Step 1) Check the Laws

The first step is to check the laws in your state to see whether medical cannabis is even an option. If you aren’t sure about the laws in your state norml.org gives detailed information about the laws in each state, so check and see whether medical cannabis recommendations for your condition are available where you live.

If your state doesn’t offer any cannabis options, don’t despair! Many states (California for one) offer recommendations to those who live out-of-state, so if you are able to travel, you may still be able to get a recommendation.

Step 2) Get a Recommendation from a Cannabis Doctor

If you want to maximize your chances of getting a recommendation, looking for a doctor who specializes in cannabinoid medicine is crucial. Education about cannabis is sorely lacking in medical schools and few doctors have enough knowledge about cannabis to feel comfortable recommending cannabis themselves.

When I first started exploring cannabis as an option, I talked to my general practitioner about it. Even though I was in California, where medical use of cannabis has been legal for decades, my doctor seemed scandalized that I would even mention it. He told me “We don’t do that here” and brusquely ignored my questions about whether it might help. I was so taken aback by the experience that it took me a little while to work up the courage to ask another doctor. Other doctors were more compassionate with me, understanding that I might benefit from it’s use, but explaining that they couldn’t personally recommend it.

As it turns out, federal law prohibits doctors from prescribing medical cannabis because of it’s status as a schedule 1 drug. Doctors can recommend cannabis to their patients, but those interested as prescribing it can face harsh penalties from losing their license to practice, to jail time. Because of this few doctors are willing to recommend cannabis for their patients, even in states where it is legal, and in cases where it might help.

Luckily, there are doctors who have decided to dedicate their lives to treating patients with cannabis, and they are usually the most qualified people to talk to. You can find them on websites like weedmaps.com or leafly.com These sites list doctors in areas where cannabis is legal, so you can just type in your zip code and find the doctor closest to you. You can call to make an appointment but most offices also allow walk ins. If you live in California, you can get your recommendation online at hellomd.com and never have to leave your house!

Have your medical records and forms of ID with you for the appointment and be sure to let your recommending physician know about any other medications you are taking, as cannabis can interact with some medications. This is also the best time to ask any questions you might have about how cannabis may help or interact with any of your pre-existing medical conditions.

Step 3) Talk to your General Practitioner

Once you have your recommendation in hand, you are legally covered for your cannabis use. Still, it is important that your general practitioner knows you are using cannabis since it can interact with medications and treatments your doctor may prescribe. For this reason, it is important to find one who respects your choice to take cannabis and is willing to work with you on your wellness goals. Sometimes it takes actually going to the doctor and talking to him about your situation before you know what kind of doctor he or she is going to be. It is easier to have this conversation when you have already had cannabis recommended by another doctor. Still, it is worth it to do some digging and find a doctor who respects your choices. Small practices that embrace alternative or complementary medicine are often good places to look. Large healthcare organizations that exist in multiple states are usually more likely to have company wide policies against the use of cannabis. Still there are good MD’s in all types of medical contexts who are willing to look at the research and respect their patients decisions. You just have find them.

Want to know more about me? I am a cannabis writer and educator who writes for the SF Chronicle, Cannabis Now Magazine, and Kush Smokers. Check out my intro post at @kushsmokers !