How to Find the Right Medical Marijuana Doctor

Finding a trustworthy doctor to help you get a medical marijuana card is an important process that requires time, effort, and research. Medical marijuana laws vary from state to state, and not all doctors are trained to help you navigate the process. This blog will take you through the steps to finding the right doctor who can help you obtain a medical marijuana card while making sure medical marijuana is safe and beneficial for your health condition.

What is a Medical Marijuana Doctor?

A medical marijuana doctor is a fully licensed physician who can recommend marijuana as a form of medical treatment. You can see a medical marijuana doctor to discuss whether marijuana might help with your specific health condition. If a medical marijuana doctor thinks you would benefit from marijuana treatment, they can recommend that you receive a medical marijuana card, which will allow you to access low-THC oil products in Georgia. 

Understanding the Role of a Medical Marijuana Doctor

Doctors who specialize in medical marijuana are responsible for helping you determine if marijuana is the right option for your health condition.

• Evaluating Eligibility: One of the first things a medical marijuana doctor will do is assess whether your condition qualifies for medical marijuana treatment. States that allow medical marijuana have lists of qualifying conditions. Doctors are responsible for reviewing your medical records and determining if your condition is eligible. Common conditions that may qualify include chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and other chronic or debilitating illnesses. However, this will vary depending on where you live. 
• Submitting an Application: Once your eligibility has been confirmed, a medical marijuana doctor may be responsible for submitting a medical marijuana card application to your state’s health department on your behalf. Some states require that a doctor fill out your application, while others allow applicants to fill out their own application.

How to Find the Right Medical Marijuana Doctor

Georgia has strict rules about who can and can’t use medical marijuana. If you want to use low-THC oil products, you will need approval from a certified medical marijuana doctor. Here’s how to find and choose the right doctor to evaluate your condition:

Research State-Specific Requirements

First, take the time to familiarize yourself with your state’s medical marijuana laws. Every state has different rules regarding which conditions qualify for medical marijuana, how to apply for a card, and what your doctor’s role is in the application process. We recommend researching your state’s requirements to understand what you need to do before meeting with a doctor. State health department websites are a good resource for accurate, up-to-date information. 

Check Your State’s Registry of Licensed Doctors

Once you have done your research on the laws regulating medical marijuana use in your state, check your state’s official registry of licensed doctors. Most states maintain a list of qualified doctors, making it easier to find licensed professionals who can help with your application. These doctors are authorized to recommend medical marijuana under state law, meaning you won’t have to worry about their legitimacy. Checking your state’s registry can help you avoid being tricked by fraudulent healthcare providers.

Seek Recommendations 

A great way to find a reliable medical marijuana doctor is by seeking recommendations from friends or family members who have already gone through the application process. If you don’t know anyone personally, you can turn to online reviews. Many platforms allow patients to leave reviews about their experience with medical marijuana doctors. These reviews can give you useful insight into a doctor’s professionalism, approach to care, and overall treatment philosophy. 

Additionally, many medical marijuana doctors work within professional networks of healthcare providers. Your current physician may be able to connect you with a colleague who specializes in medical marijuana treatment recommendations.

Patient Reviews and Testimonials

Online reviews can give you insight into other patients’ experiences with a medical marijuana doctor. Testimonials can help you know what to expect in terms of appointment wait times and bedside manner. This information can help you choose a medical marijuana doctor who will meet your needs.

We recommend looking for patterns in reviews. If multiple patients mention that a doctor took time to listen to their concerns, offered personalized advice, and was transparent about pricing, that’s a good sign. On the other hand, a doctor who has consistent negative reviews or complaints about their treatment should be avoided. 

Online Directories and Distributor Websites

You can use an online directory to find a marijuana doctor near you. In addition, websites that sell medical marijuana in Georgia will often provide recommendations for licensed marijuana doctors.

Consider Telemedicine 

Telemedicine has become a popular option for those seeking a medical marijuana card. If you live in a rural area or have mobility issues, telemedicine can make the application process much easier. Many states now allow online consultations for medical marijuana patients, which can save you time and money. 

Before you schedule a telemedicine consultation, check if your state allows it. Some states have specific regulations regarding telemedicine for medical marijuana, so it’s important to make sure that the service is valid in your location. Once you confirm that telemedicine is an option, choose a licensed provider who offers secure, private consultations. 

Verify Licensing

Only a licensed doctor can recommend a medical marijuana card. To verify a doctor’s credentials, you can use the search tool on the Georgia Composite Medical Board’s website. 

What to Look for in a Medical Marijuana Doctor

Now that you know the basics of how to find a doctor, it’s important to understand what to look for in a provider. Here are key factors to consider when choosing a doctor:

A Valid License

Before anything else, make sure that your doctor is licensed to recommend medical marijuana in your state. You can usually confirm their license through your state’s health department or online registry. When you choose a licensed doctor, you can rest assured that they have received the training necessary to provide an informed recommendation on whether or not medical marijuana is right for you. 

Experience 

A doctor’s level of experience is important when it comes to recommending medical marijuana. The more experience a doctor has, the better they will be at understanding how marijuana works and tailoring their recommendations to your needs. 

Clear Communication

It’s important to work with a doctor who communicates effectively and listens to your concerns. A doctor who takes the time to explain their recommendations and answer any questions you have will help you make an informed decision about medical marijuana use. A good doctor will also be available to provide ongoing support if you have any concerns or need help renewing your medical marijuana card. 

Transparency

When searching for a doctor, be sure to ask about the fees upfront. A reputable doctor will provide a clear breakdown of all the costs involved, including consultation fees and any other applicable charges. If a doctor is vague or evasive about their pricing, you should consider it a red flag and opt for a different healthcare provider.

Things to Avoid When Looking for a Medical Marijuana Doctor

While there are many good doctors out there, it’s important to avoid establishing a relationship with any who shows signs of unprofessional behavior. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

• Unlicensed Providers: If a doctor can’t prove that they are licensed, do not engage their services. An unlicensed provider may not have the proper training to safely and legally recommend medical marijuana.
• Unsupported Claims: A doctor who promises you a medical marijuana card is not being truthful. No doctor can guarantee approval for a medical marijuana card. Approval depends on your condition, state laws, and your state health department, not on your doctor’s assurances.
• Unexplained Surcharges: Avoid doctors who charge additional fees without explaining them. Reputable doctors will be upfront about all costs, and their fees should be reasonable for the services they provide.

The Role of Medical Marijuana Doctors

Medical marijuana doctors have extensive knowledge of how marijuana products can be used in the treatment of various medical conditions. Here is what they do to ensure patients get the best possible care:

• Assess Patient Eligibility: Medical marijuana doctors first need to determine if you qualify for a medical marijuana card. To do this, they will review your medical history and ask about current health issues to gain a full understanding of your treatment needs. If they decide medical marijuana could benefit you, then they will fill out an application for a medical marijuana card and send it to the Georgia Department of Public Health for processing. They can also respond to any concerns or questions you may have about the use of medical marijuana.
• Diagnose Qualifying Conditions: Medical marijuana doctors need to confirm that their patients have health conditions that legally qualify for medical marijuana treatment. Conditions that qualify include AIDS, cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, and PTSD. A medical marijuana doctor will assess the severity of your condition and ask which other treatments you have tried. Based on this information, they will decide whether or not you are eligible for a medical marijuana card.
• Stay Updated on Medical Marijuana Research and Innovations: The world of medical marijuana is always changing as new research comes out. Medical marijuana doctors regularly study new findings about how marijuana can potentially benefit different medical conditions. By keeping up with the latest research, they can offer better guidance to their patients.

When Should I Consult a Medical Marijuana Doctor?

If you’re struggling with a medical condition and traditional treatments aren’t giving you enough relief, we recommend you consult a medical marijuana doctor. Conditions that are eligible for medical marijuana treatment include sickle cell disease, Alzheimer’s disease, autism, cancer, Crohn’s disease, HIV/AIDs, multiple sclerosis, and PTSD. A medical marijuana doctor will review your medical history, age requirement, and symptoms to determine if medical marijuana could be right for you. 

Let Elevated Health Help You Get an MMJ Card

At Elevated Health, we prioritize patient care and transparency. Our experienced medical marijuana doctors can verify your eligibility and guide you through the process of obtaining your medical marijuana card. We have experienced doctors across Atlanta, Chamblee, Marietta, and Stockbridge who can help you get your medical marijuana card approved as quickly as possible. Schedule a telehealth consultation today and take the first step toward achieving better health with the help of qualified professionals.

For more information on the current legal status of medical marijuana in Georgia, check out our detailed guide on Is Medical Marijuana Legal in Georgia in 2025?

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a medical marijuana consultation usually take?

A consultation usually takes 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the complexity of your medical history. Our licensed doctors will complete an application on your behalf and do all they can to get your card approved.

Can I switch doctors after getting my medical marijuana card?

Yes, you can switch doctors after obtaining your medical marijuana card. However, you may need to transfer your medical records to the new doctor and make sure they are certified to recommend medical marijuana in your state.

How much does a consultation with a medical marijuana doctor cost?

At Elevated Health, we charge $150 for a consultation. However, we offer special promos all the time, so stay on the lookout for discounted rates.

Will my consultation with a medical marijuana doctor be covered by insurance?

Medical marijuana consultations are generally not covered by insurance because marijuana remains federally illegal in the U.S. You will likely need to pay out of pocket for the appointment.

Are follow-up services included in the initial application fee?

Follow-up services are not included in the initial application fee. If you need to submit an application for card renewal, the cost will be the same as your first application.

What should I expect during my first consultation with a medical marijuana doctor?

At Elevated Health MD, an initial consultation typically lasts 10 to 15 minutes. One of our licensed doctors will review your medical history and current symptoms to determine whether or not you are eligible for a medical marijuana card. If you qualify, your doctor will apply to the Georgia Department of Public Health so that the card can be processed.

What information will a medical marijuana doctor need to recommend medical marijuana?

During the application process, the state of Georgia does not require you to provide medical records, but during the evaluation process, the doctor may need proof that you have a qualifying medical condition. In addition, you must be 18 or older to receive a recommendation for a medical marijuana card.

How often do I need to see a medical marijuana doctor?

Your medical marijuana card is valid for five years, requiring renewal with a doctor every five years. You’ll receive an email reminder after six months for an optional follow-up, which we offer for free.

Do medical marijuana doctors in Georgia prescribe marijuana to patients with non-qualifying conditions?

No, medical marijuana doctors in Georgia are not able to prescribe marijuana for medical conditions that are not on the state’s list of qualifying conditions. They can only certify patients for the low-THC Oil Registry if they suffer from an eligible condition.