As a marijuana patient with health conditions like rare disorders, epilepsy, mental conditions, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, etc, taking marijuana treatments is beneficial, and we all know that. But taking a medical marijuana card is as beneficial if you are a regular cannabis user.
But, before accessing medical cannabis, patients need approval from a licensed healthcare provider. Nowadays, with virtual evaluation, people are now leaning to telemedicine. Now, some people might get confused if they take online approval from doctors or go for an in-person visit to take medical approval.
Let’s find out their benefits and drawbacks and which is better for you. Stay tuned!
What is Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana refers to using the cannabis plant or its chemicals as medicine to treat various health conditions. It’s the same plant as recreational marijuana, but it’s used specifically for medical purposes under a doctor’s supervision.
Cannabis has multiple compounds, including the most useful ones: THC & CBD. It has therapeutic effects that treat health conditions and offer relief to patients. That’s why it’s called medical marijuana.
What is Medical Marijuana Approval?
Medical marijuana approval is a legal process where a licensed doctor evaluates your health condition and determines if you qualify for medical cannabis use. Common conditions that qualify include:
To get your medical marijuana approval, you will need some documents like
- A doctor’s certification
- Proof of your residency
- Submission of an application (and sometimes a fee)
Once approved, patients receive a med card or certificate, and it allows them to legally purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries.
What is Telemedicine Approval?
Telemedicine allows you to get your medical marijuana approval from home. It allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely using a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
How Does It Work?
- Schedule an online appointment.
- Complete a simple online questionnaire.
- Have a 10-minute video chat with a licensed doctor.
- Receive your digital approval instantly.
- Get a physical copy mailed to you within 3-5 days.
Benefits of Telemedicine Approvals
- No need to travel.
- Faster and more convenient process.
- Minimal Cost.
- Private and discreet consultation.
- Accessible for patients in remote areas.
- Instant digital copy + mailed physical copy
Drawbacks of Telemedicine
- Limited physical examination.
- Technical issues could happen like (poor internet connection).
- Not available in all states or regions.
What is In-Person Medicine Approval?
On the other hand, traditional in-person approval requires visiting a doctor’s office. For years, the only way to get approved for medical cannabis was through an in-person doctor’s visit.
How Does It Work?
- Find a local doctor or clinic.
- Book an appointment.
- Travel to the doctor’s office.
- Attend a face-to-face consultation.
- The doctor conducts a physical evaluation.
- Receive approval and physical documentation, if eligible.
Benefits of In-Person Approvals
- Direct doctor-patient interaction.
- Thorough physical evaluation.
- Stronger Doctor-Patient Relationship
- Immediate paperwork or card issuance.
- All legal states allow in-person approvals.
Drawbacks of In-Person Visits
- Time-consuming process.
- Travel and waiting times.
- Less privacy compared to virtual consultations.
- Expensive, more than virtual approvals.
Key Differences Between Telemedicine & In-Person Approvals
Let’s make a chart to compare them both. It will help you to decide which is more convenient for you.
If you are staying in a state where marijuana is legal, you can get medical marijuana approval like a marijuana card or recommendation letter easily with a 10-minute appointment with a cannabis doctor in MedCardNow.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both telemedicine and in-person medical marijuana approvals have their advantages. Here’s what to consider when deciding:
Choose Telemedicine If:
- You want fast, convenient approval.
- You live far from clinics.
- Are comfortable with video calls.
- Need same-day approval.
- Prefer lower costs.
- You prefer privacy.
Choose In-Person If:
- You prefer face-to-face consultation.
- You require a physical examination.
- Have complex medical questions.
- Need detailed guidance.
- Aren’t comfortable with technology.
- Want immediate physical documentation.
- Telemedicine is not available in your area.
What You Need to Know?
- Both methods are 100% legal in California.
- Both provide valid medical marijuana recommendations.
- All documentation is accepted at dispensaries.
- 24/7 online verification available.
- HIPAA-compliant privacy protection.
Ready to Get Your Medical Marijuana Card the Easy Way?
Whether you prefer the comfort of telemedicine or the reassurance of in-person visits, getting approved for medical marijuana shouldn’t be stressful.
With Medcardnow, you can skip the hassle, long waits, and complicated processes. Our licensed doctors are ready to guide you through a fast, secure, and fully online approval — all from the comfort of your home.
→ Safe. Simple. Stress-free.
Why wait? Join thousands of satisfied patients who’ve trusted Medcardnow for quick and confidential medical marijuana approvals.
