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As South Dakota embraces the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, navigating the process of obtaining a Medical Marijuana Card (MMJ) is crucial for eligible residents and non-residents. This guide provides step-by-step instructions, ensuring a smooth and informed journey towards legal medical cannabis use.
An MMJ card in South Dakota serves as a legal form of identification for registered patients or designated caregivers, authorizing them to purchase, possess, and use medical marijuana legally. This program started on July 1, 2021, with patient and caregiver enrollments beginning on November 8, 2021.
Both residents and non-residents can apply for the card. It's available to adults and minors, provided they have a physician’s certification and are diagnosed with a qualifying condition.
South Dakota's law recognizes various debilitating medical conditions as qualifiers for medical cannabis use. These include cachexia, severe pain, nausea, seizures, and severe muscle spasms. Specific conditions like AIDS/HIV, ALS, Multiple Sclerosis, cancer, Crohn’s disease, epilepsy, glaucoma, and PTSD are also eligible.
Applications are accepted online via the South Dakota Medical Cannabis Program's registration portal. Patients must first obtain a certification from a state-enrolled physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse. This certification is then used to initiate the patient's registration online. Applicants must provide identification details and necessary documents during the application process, after which they wait for approval from the Department of Health.
Caregivers register similarly to patients. They receive an invitation to apply upon being named in a patient’s application. The caregiver application process mirrors that of the patient.
The processing time for applications can take up to 15 days. Approved applicants typically receive their MMIC within five days of approval.
The card costs $75, with a possible reduction for low-income applicants. It is valid for one year and must be renewed annually at the same fee. An additional $20 fee is required for those who intend to cultivate their cannabis supply. Renewal involves logging into the state’s portal and following the renewal process.
Applicants need to provide a photocopy of a valid ID and a passport-sized photo. Medical certifications are submitted on behalf of the patients by their certifying physicians.
All personal information collected during registration is kept confidential in accordance with South Dakota law and HIPAA, ensuring the protection of sensitive health care information.
The card includes the holder's full legal name, an identifier, expiration and issuance dates, a unique identification number, the cardholder's photograph, a verification method, and an indicator for marijuana cultivation registration.
Obtaining a medical marijuana card in South Dakota is a straightforward process for those who qualify. By following these guidelines and understanding the state's regulations, eligible individuals can responsibly access medical cannabis for their health needs.