West Virginia of the United States has emerged as a famous state for legalizing marijuana for medical purposes. As soon as the Medical Cannabis Act was passed by the West Virginia government, the state proposed the legal framework, regulating the distribution, cultivation, and use for medical purposes. This document is aiming to provide a bird eye view of the West Virginia marijuana program for medical purposes. Moreover, this article will reflect the main features such as eligibility for attaining the medical card, getting a license, regulatory procedures, etc.
Legislative Background of the Initiative
Before finalizing any act, it is legally very important to convert it into law for proper implementation at the state or national level. On 19th of April 2017 the West Virginia Cannabis Act was signed into law, which make West Virginia the 29th state in legalizing marijuana to achieve medical purposes. This law was made to facilitate the qualified suffering patients with treatments with the marijuana incorporated medicine. Moreover, it also aimed to provide access to treatments for certified patients. With passing of the Law, it gives rise to the West Virginia Office of Medical Cannabis, which was responsible for the implementation of the program.
Qualifying Medical Conditions
This program is not for every patient to get Cannabis treatment. Under the medical marijuana program, patients have to get certification from registered or certified physicians. After getting approval from the physician, the patients are eligible to get medical marijuana treatment. The conditions for the patients include but are not restricted to chronic diseases. Some of the chronic diseases are HIV, AIDS, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and post-traumatic stress disorder. So, go now and seize the opportunity to access medical marijuana.
Patient Registration and Identification Cards
Patients who are seeking medical attention for the medical marijuana program should register themselves with the Office of Medical Cannabis. After that the patients can obtain a Medical Cannabis Patient ID card.
There are some points to keep in mind for qualifying for the medical marijuana program, viz:
- The patients must be 18 years of age
- Provide basic proof showing his residency in West Virginia
- Minors may also be eligible for the program. But they may require a guarantee from the caregiver.
- All the documents (passport, national ID card, driving license, and certificate from physician) should be prepared and submitted at the time of application submission.
Licensed Medical Marijuana Organizations
The Office of the Medical Cannabis of the West Virginia State is responsible for regulating and licensing various chains involved in the supply cycle. This cycle includes cultivation quality, cultivators, processing mechanism of the marijuana, and the laboratory’s responsibility for testing the quality and safety of the marijuana and associated products. Additionally, the license-giving process includes strict procedures such as background checks, financial details and requirements, and fulfillment of compliance with the security protocols.
Product Availability and Forms
The certified and qualified patients have access to the products with eth medical marijuana. They are available in the market in various forms, such as tinctures, oils, beverages, biscuits, gums, pills, topical, etc. The Office of Medical Cannabis is responsible for framing the guidelines for every product. It includes labeling, quality testing, ensuring safety standards, and packaging of Medical Marijuana.
Physician Involvement and Certification
The physicians have to undergo the designed training and register themselves with the Office of Medical Cannabis. After this, the physicians can recommend medical marijuana to the patients. It is reflected in the law to establish an advisory board in getting guidance on medical marijuana-related issues and for making necessary changes for refining and improving the program.
Regulatory Oversight and Compliance
The Office of Medical Cannabis assures that the marijuana program is following the regulations. Compliance is ensured by tracking the cultivation procedures of marijuana, quality production, and proper and legal distribution of medical marijuana. Moreover, conducting regular inspections, internal and external audits.