Medical marijuana is one of the most popular prescription medications in America. The plant can help you manage anything from chemo symptoms to anxiety, making it an invaluable tool to have in your arsenal.
Fortunately, medical marijuana is becoming incredibly easy to access and is typically only an appointment away. Massachusetts legalized the medical use of cannabis in 2012, which means that the industry has been expanding in the state for nearly 14 years.
Although this is a good thing, it means that Massachusetts is flooded with doctors (both, good and bad). So, how do you weed through the weed doctors and find one that meets your needs?
Keep reading to learn how to find a marijuana doctor in Massachusetts.
Look Online
When looking for any bit of information, the internet is typically a good place to start.
Hop onto the computer and search for marijuana doctors in your area. You will likely be presented with a long list of physicians ranging in background, certification, and location. The first step of picking a few to add to your list of potential candidates is using the process of elimination. Count out any doctors that aren’t in your area, don’t meet your certification requirements, etc.
You can also visit online search engines like this one, to find medical marijuana doctors that have been pre-vetted and seen virtually.
The internet can be a great tool when looking for recommendations because you can easily find reviews, but be careful of where you look because not all reviews and comments can be trusted. The fake review scam is an oldy but goody for not-so-honest entrepreneurs trying to build a reputation.
Speak With Your Local Dispensary
Dispensary employees hear it all, the good, the bad, and the ugly about everything marijuana-related and that includes information about the local doctors.
Next time you are near the dispensary and have a few minutes to spare, stop in and ask them if they know of any good marijuana doctors. They might not be able to remember the names of good ones on the spot, but there’s a good chance they have heard a great deal of complaints about the ones to avoid. This at least helps you cross some candidates off the list.
If the budtenders don’t have any input, that’s OK because you are in a facility filled with people who may be marijuana patients. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with strangers and ask them how they like their doctor. If they like their doctor, jot the physician’s name down.
Ask a Local Facebook Group
Most cities have multiple community Facebook groups that you can join. The camaraderie in these groups can be mind-blowing. There are always tons of people who go above and beyond to help you find the answer to your questions.
Naturally, these groups are a great place to ask for doctor recommendations because as much as people love to help, they all also love to complain. Don’t be surprised if your post turns into a seemingly never-ending thread of comments ranting and raving about the doctors in the area.
Ask the People in Your Life
Most people know at least a few individuals with a medical marijuana card. If you do, ask them for their recommendations.
When talking to your friends and family, you have more time and are more comfortable going into detail about the pros and cons of each provider so, you should take advantage of it. Ask them what they liked or disliked about the doctors they have visited, and start adding names to your list.
Consult Your Doctor
If you have been seeing your doctor for a while, they will have a great understanding of what you need on a medical and personal level.
Just let your doctor know that you are seeking a medical card and are looking for recommendations. If you’re lucky, you might find out that they have been certified to prescribe marijuana all along, and your search could be over. If not, they can definitely steer you in the right direction.
Primary care providers (especially in Massachusetts) have a large number of patients with cannabis prescriptions. This means that they hear tons of information about the local doctors. Sometimes, your physician can even get you in to see one quicker than if you were to find one yourself, which is a nice bonus.
Investigate the Options
Once you have a list of marijuana doctor candidates, start investigating them individually.
Look into each doctor’s certifications, their (honest) reviews, location, availability, and any other factor that will help you decide.
Then, narrow down your list and pick a few of your favorites. If you find multiple doctors that seem to be a good fit, you may want to choose the one that can see you the soonest depending on the reason for your inquiry.
