Utah Medical Marijuana Frequently Asked Questions

General
Card Related
Legal

General

Where are Medical Marijuana dispensaries in Utah?

There are 14 dispensaries (technically called pharmacies) open in Utah.

Beehive Farmacy | Salt Lake City | Brigham City
Bloom Medicinals | Cedar City
Cannabist | Springville
Curaleaf | Lehi
Deseret Wellness | Park City | Provo
Bloc Pharmacy | South Jordan | St. George
Pure UT | Payson
Perfect Earth Modern Apothecary | Logan | Ogden
WholesomeCo Cannabis | Bountiful

Learn more about Utah Medical Cannabis pharmacies.

How old do I have to be to get a Medical Cannabis Card?

The legal age for approval is 21 years old.

That being said, UDOH has appointed seven medical providers to the Compassionate Use Board, which meets once a month to approve younger patients in need for Medical Cannabis use. Not many clinics in the state will present their young patients to the Compassionate Use Board. It’s recommended to find out if a patient’s desired QMP is willing and able to put in the extra work required for these cases before booking an appointment.

The process for minor patients is different than those 21 or older. After the minor patient is seen, their medical provider will build a case to present to the Compassionate Use Board. This will include documentation of the visit, medical records provided by the patient, and research to support the minor patient’s use of Medical Cannabis. After submitting the patient’s case to the board, it is up to the members of the Compassionate Use Board to decide whether or not Medical Cannabis is necessary for the patient and condition in question. Note: KindlyMD does not currently provide Compassionate Use Board services.
Find out more about the Compassionate Use Board here.

When will more dispensaries open?

There are 14 Medical Cannabis pharmacies are open and operating. For more information, check out our dispensary page.

A 15th pharmacy license has been awarded to Dragonfly Wellness, but that pharmacy is not yet operating. We will provide updates as they become available.

Will my insurance company pay for this visit?

We do not take insurance. This is mostly due to the fact that cannabis use is not legal across the country. Insurance companies follow federal guidelines, so they will not cover the clinic visit or the marijuana itself. You can usually pay for your consultation with your FSA or HSA card, cash, or any major credit or debit card, but you must buy your Medical Marijuana at the dispensary with cash or with the mobile pay app, Hypur.

I don’t have a Utah ID. Can I still be a Medical Cannabis patient?

Yes, you are able to use a passport or out-of-state ID to apply for your Medical Cannabis Card on the Utah EVS website.

How do I get started?

Our team of dedicated healthcare professionals and Utah Medical Marijuana Card experts can guide you through every step of the process. First, you’ll need to schedule a consultation with the Reserve Now button above. You can also give us a call at 801-851-5554 if you have any questions about qualifying conditions, or to schedule your consultation over the phone.

What are the common side effects of Medical Marijuana?

Marijuana is remarkably safe. Based on thousands of years of use and extensive research, we know it’s impossible to fatally overdose on cannabis. However, some common side effects that people experience are:

Euphoria/giddiness
Dry eyes/mouth
Drowsiness
Hunger/thirst
Uneasiness/paranoia

What some patients consider side effects, others may need for a therapeutic reason. Appetite stimulation can be a useful tool for chemotherapy patients. Those suffering from insomnia may use an Indica strain with high CBD content to help them sleep. Some patients find that a high THC dose will cause them to feel impaired or “high” and do not like it. The correct dosage, strain, and THC to CBD ratio make all the difference.

You can use our patient guide and find your "just right" dose to minimize unwanted side-effects.

To see if you qualify for a Medical Marijuana Card in Utah, schedule a consultation with the Reserve Now button above or give us a call at (801) 851-5554.

What types of Medical Marijuana are Utah patients legally allowed to use?

Medical Marijuana is available in the following forms under the Utah Medical Cannabis Act:
A tablet or capsule
Concentrated oil, like cartridges for vaping
A liquid suspension
Topical or transdermal lotion or cream
Sublingual preparation or tincture
A gelatinous cube (gummy)
Unprocessed cannabis flower
Wax or resin

Smoking marijuana is not allowed in Utah, but patients may purchase a Medical Marijuana device that warms marijuana into a vapor without the use of a flame, delivering marijuana to an individual’s respiratory system (such as a vaporizer or an electric dabbing rig). Although smoking Medical Marijuana is prohibited in Utah, vaping it is legal.

The law prohibits purchasing candies, cookies, brownies, and other edible products.

To see if you qualify for a Medical Marijuana Card in Utah, schedule a consultation using the Reserve Now button above or give us a call at (801) 851-5554.
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What are the most common qualifying conditions for a Medical Marijuana Card in Utah?

More than 90% of people will say pain is their primary complaint when seeking relief with Medical Marijuana. According to Utah law, pain is a qualifying condition if it lasts longer than two weeks and is not controlled with typical medication, like Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Aspirin, or physical therapy.

In 2022, lawmakers added acute pain as a qualifying condition. This is pain that is expected to last for two weeks or longer for an acute condition or surgical procedure in which a medical professional may generally prescribe opioids for a limited duration.

The next most common qualifying condition is PTSD, a condition that requires a formal PTSD diagnosis from the VA, a psychiatrist, a masters-level psychologist, a psychiatric APRN, or a masters-level LCSW aswell as concurrent treatment by a licensed health therapist. Our Canna-Therapy program offers integrated treatment for PTSD patients.

Persistent nasuea is also a qualifying condition, qualified medical providers will often prescribe Medical Marijuana to cancer patients to help them manage persistent nausea after chemotherapy. However, nausea related to pregnancy does not currently qualify a patient for a Medical Marijuana Card in Utah. As a medical community, we do not yet have enough information about how marijuana could possibly adversely affect the baby during gestation and beyond.

To get your Medical Marijuana Card evaluation, schedule an appointment with one of our experts today.
Read more about qualifying conditions in Utah here.

How do I find a provider who recommends Medical Marijuana in Utah?

If you feel comfortable, we recommend contacting your primary care provider or existing pain specialist first to see if they are qualified to recommend Medical Marijuana for you. If your providers are unwilling, don’t know enough about it, or feel uncomfortable prescribing Medical Cannabis as part of your treatment plan, there are qualified medical providers who can help.

Even though it is legal, some providers might not be willing or able to recommend Medical Marijuana as a treatment option. You should look for a provider with in-depth knowledge about Medical Marijuana safety, benefits, delivery methods, and dosing to help with your particular condition.

Our team of Medical Marijuana experts can help you through every step of the process, from your initial consultation to finding relief through precise dosages, strains, and CBD to THC ratio. We will even speak to your primary care providers about drug interactions if needed. Our mission is to help patients reach their wellness goals. Let us know if we can help you reach yours.

Schedule a consultation using the Reserve Now button above or give us a call at (801) 851-5554.

What does a typical Medical Marijuana patient visit look like?

First, you’ll need to reserve an appointment. Make sure to choose a qualified medical provider (QMP) in Utah willing to recommend Medical Marijuana, who carries the appropriate malpractice insurance, like KindlyMD.
Pro tip: ask if your clinic of choice accepts your insurance or if they require you to pay for your visit out of pocket. Most pain clinics, primary care providers, and Medical Marijuana specialists require you to pay out of pocket. Your first clinic visit allows the practitioner to establish a relationship, assess your condition and treatment goals, and write your recommendation.

Then, you will usually need to fill out an intake form. Depending on your qualifying condition, many providers require you to provide documentation showing that you have received, or are receiving, treatment for your condition.

Our team of Medical Marijuana experts makes it quick and easy. We are happy to walk you through every step of the process, from your initial visit to registering with the Utah Department of Health, through each of your renewals and beyond.

Schedule a consultation using the Reserve Now button above or give us a call at (801) 851-5554 to start taking control of your health today.

What if my medical condition does not qualify for a Medical Cannabis Card in Utah, such as anxiety, depression, or migraine headaches?

Many people use CBD-dominant marijuana strains that include a small amount of THC to help manage their anxiety and depression, but these medical conditions are not currently included in the Utah law as qualifying conditions. In these cases, you and your medical provider can petition the Compassionate Use Board for a Medical Marijuana Card.

Some patients who use Medical Cannabis to treat pain or persistent nausea find that their anxiety, depression, and insomnia improve as a side effect of their treatment.

See if you qualify for Medical Cannabis in Utah and start your wellness journey today.

How much Medical Marijuana can I buy at a dispensary in Utah?

Based on the dosing recommendations of your medical provider or a dispensary pharmacist, you can buy up to a 30-day supply. For example, if your maximum daily dose is 40 mg, you can purchase up to 1200 mg of THC at the dispensary every 30 days.

No person will be allowed to purchase more than 4oz of raw flower or more than 20g of THC in one 30-day period.

To get your Utah Medical Marijuana Card and recommendations for dosage, strain, and forms, schedule a consultation with the Reserve Now button above, or give us a call/text at (801) 851-5554.

Where can I go for updates about the Utah Medical Marijuana program?

Our website is a great place to find information and education about the Utah Medical Marijuana program. You can also find updates at medicalcannabis.utah.gov, which is run by the Department of Health.

Who can recommend Medical Marijuana to a patient in Utah?

Before January 2020, any Utah-licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Osteopathy (DO), or Physician Assistant (PA) who holds a controlled substance license can recommend Medical Marijuana treatment to a patient with a qualifying condition. After March 1, 2020, these providers need to have completed four hours of continuing medical education approved by the Department of Health and pay a $300 fee to be allowed to recommend Medical Marijuana.

See if you qualify for Medical Cannabis in Utah and start your wellness journey today.

Where can I find a medical provider willing to recommend Medical Marijuana?

We have been contacted by a lot of patients who can’t find a qualified medical provider willing to write them a recommendation for Medical Marijuana. If your provider is unable to recommend a card, they might not have the proper qualifications outlined in Utah law. Some providers may have limited knowledge of Medical Marijuana and its therapeutic benefits, or even not feel comfortable helping patients find their just-right dosage, strain, or CBD to THC ratio.

Our team of qualified medical providers can recommend a Medical Marijuana Card to qualified patients. See if you qualify for Medical Cannabis in Utah and start your wellness journey today.

Can I buy CBD without a Medical Marijuana Card?

Yes. CBD is legal for anyone to purchase and possess as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. These plants are considered hemp because they have almost no THC in them. Marijuana plants are plants that contain more than 0.3% THC and those products require you to have a Medical Marijuana Card in order to buy them in Utah dispensaries.

See if you qualify for Medical Cannabis in Utah and start your wellness journey today.

As a medical provider, where can I find education on Medical Cannabis?

There are many resources for provider-defined education, such as the Society of Cannabis Clinicians, Healer.com, and even here at UtahMarijuana.org.

The Utah Department of Health also has resources for continuing education, including the four-hour continued-education requirement to become a qualified medical provider in Utah at the Department of Health’s website for Medical Cannabis.

Card-Related

I’m not a Utah resident. Can I get a Utah Medical Cannabis Card?

A nonresident patients may now register in the EVS in order to purchase Medical Cannabis or a Medical Cannabis device from a Medical Cannabis pharmacy while the individual is visiting the state. A nonresident patient may receive a nonresident card for no more than two visitation periods per calendar year of up to 21 calendar days per visitation period. For more information, visit medicalcannabis.utah.gov.

My card expired. What do I do now?

Getting back into Active status is a breeze.

First, log in to your account on the state EVS website. Then, you’ll click Tracking Inbox > Your Name > Save & Submit (this is way down at the bottom of the page.) Your registration status should now say Awaiting Certification. All you’ve got to do now is reach out to your QMP, explain the situation, and have them certify you again. Note: if it’s been a few months since you’ve seen your QMP, they may require a visit before they’ll re-certify your application.

Don’t worry — you’ll be legal again in no time!

I have my letter. What is the benefit of applying for my state-issued Medical Cannabis Card?

All Medical Cannabis recommendation letters are expired as of January 1, 2021. This means you’ll no longer be able to legally use, possess, or buy cannabis in the state of Utah without your state-issued card.
If you need assistance turning your recommendation letter into a card, we can help!

I paid for my card with the state but it was never sent to me. What do I do?

First, login to your EVS account and check your status. If your registration status says “Active,” then you can print or save your card directly from that screen. You’ll do this by selecting the following, in order:

Tracking Inbox
Your First Name
Blue “Print Card” button
Your card will download as a PDF. From there, you can choose to print it or save it to your phone.

Note: Some Medical Cannabis pharmacies will accept a digital copy of your card, while others require a physical copy. To be prepared, we recommend calling ahead to your preferred pharmacy to see what they require to purchase.

I have my Medical Cannabis Card in another state. Is it legal for me to use cannabis in Utah?

Non-resident patients who have a currently active Medical Cannabis Card or the equivalent of a Medical Cannabis Card under the laws of another state and have been diagnosed with a qualifying condition may register online with the Department of Health in order to purchase from a Medical Cannabis pharmacy while the individual is visiting Utah. This registration process is only available for no more than two visitation periods per calendar year of up to 21 calendar days per visitation period.
For more information, visit UDOH's Medical Cannabis program site here.

I applied for my card on EVS.utah.gov and my status is “Awaiting Certification.” What happens now?

At this point, your Qualified Medical Provider will need to add a certification and recommendation in for you. You’ll need to let them know that you are ready for this to be completed.

If you are a patient of KindlyMD / UtahMarijuana.org, please text or call (801) 851-5554 to let us know that you are ready for us! We’ll get you certified in 3-5 business days.

Can I be a Medical Cannabis patient and own a gun?

For information about your rights as a Medical Cannabis patient, check out a presentation about cardholder rights with our founder, Tim Pickett, PA-C and canna-lawyer JD Lauritzen. The short answer, however, is that guns and cannabis don't mix.

What are the qualifying conditions for obtaining a Utah Medical Marijuana Card?

There are 15 Qualifying Conditions ( 26-61a-104) in the current Utah law that will allow you to keep and use Medical Marijuana:

What’s the difference between a letter and an actual Utah Marijuana Card?

Note that all Medical Cannabis recommendation letters are EXPIRED as of January 1, 2021. To stay in the program and continue to legally use, possess, and buy cannabis in Utah, you’ll need to apply for your card.

To begin the card process and get legal again, reserve an appointment with one of our experts and start your wellness journey today.

How much does it cost to get a Medical Marijuana Card in Utah?

The initial clinic visit for a Medical Marijuana Card in Utah can cost anywhere from $150 – $350 out of pocket. Currently, insurance companies do not cover this visit because Medical Marijuana is still illegal at the federal level. Some providers will accept FSA and HSA cards to cover the costs of your initial visit.

The card itself costs $15, paid to the state of Utah.

Depending on your provider, you may be required to complete a visit for each of your card renewals. Take this cost into account when making your first appointment, and be sure to ask your provider how often you’ll need to be seen and how much those visits will cost.

We set our initial office consultation at $249. Six-month and 12-month renewal consultations are $189.

Important Note: Utah’s Medical Cannabis patients are no longer required to renew their cards after 90 days. This regulation from the Department of Health is in effect as of January 3, 2022. Although our complimentary 90-day visit is no longer mandatory, KindlyMD still recommends one for new patients as it helps them dial in their cannabis therapy.

Give us a call at (801) 851-5554 or schedule your Medical Marijuana Card consultation today.

Are there different types of Utah Medical Marijuana Cards?

There are four different types of Medical Marijuana Cards in Utah. Adults (21 years of age and older) will get Patient Cards.

Patients between the ages of 18 and 21 also get a patient card but need approval from the Compassionate Use Board before it is issued.

Anybody under the age of 18 who uses Medical Marijuana will receive a Provisional Patient Card. These are issued along with a Guardian Card for the parent or guardian of that patient.

The last type of card is a Caregiver Card, given to adults (21 years or older) who care for someone unable to use or buy Medical Marijuana on their own.

To see if you qualify for a Medical Marijuana Card in Utah, schedule a consultation or give us a call at (801) 851-5554.

How often do I need to renew my Utah Medical Marijuana Card?

Medical Marijuana Cards in Utah expire on a 6-month or 1-year basis. Every first-time cardholder will need to schedule a follow-up appointment in order to renew the card after six months. This can seem inconvenient, but checking in again gives your provider the opportunity to adjust your dosages, strains, and even recommend different delivery methods if needed.

At KindlyMD, we walk you through every step, from the initial visit through each renewal.

Important Note: Utah’s Medical Cannabis patients are no longer required to renew their cards after 90 days. This new regulation from the Department of Health is in effect as of January 3, 2022. Although our complimentary 90-day visit is no longer mandatory, KindlyMd still recommends one for new patients as it helps them dial in their cannabis therapy.

Call (801) 851-5554 with any questions about your Medical Cannabis treatment plan.

Legal

I’m not a Utah resident. Can I get a Utah Medical Cannabis Card?

A nonresident patients may now register in the EVS in order to purchase Medical Cannabis or a Medical Cannabis device from a Medical Cannabis pharmacy while the individual is visiting the state. A nonresident patient may receive a nonresident card for no more than two visitation periods per calendar year of up to 21 calendar days per visitation period.

For more information, visit UDOH's Medical Cannabis program site here.

I have my Medical Cannabis Card in another state. Can I use it at the pharmacies in Utah?

A nonresident patients may now register in the EVS in order to purchase Medical Cannabis or a Medical Cannabis device from a Medical Cannabis pharmacy while the individual is visiting the state. A nonresident patient may receive a nonresident card for no more than two visitation periods per calendar year of up to 21 calendar days per visitation period.

For more information, visit UDOH's Medical Cannabis program site here.

Where can I vape or ingest Medical Cannabis products?

The laws surrounding Medical Marijuana in public almost directly mirror the laws surrounding drinking alcohol in public. If at all possible, avoid using Medical Cannabis in public places.

You are prohibited to consume cannabis in any of the following scenarios, except in emergency & life-threatening circumstances:

in or on the grounds of a house of worship
in or on the grounds of a library
in or on the grounds of any place of business
in a public park, amusement park, arcade, or recreation center
in or on the grounds of a private or public elementary or secondary school, preschool, vocational school, post-secondary institution, or childcare facility
in an area within 100 feet of the above facilities or grounds
in the presence of a person younger than 18, regardless of where you are

How old do I have to be to get a Medical Cannabis Card?

The legal age for approval is 21 years old.

That being said, UDOH has appointed seven medical providers to the Compassionate Use Board, which meets once a month to approve younger patients in need for Medical Cannabis use. Not many clinics in the state will present their young patients to the Compassionate Use Board. It’s recommended to find out if a patient’s desired QMP is willing and able to put in the extra work required for these cases before booking an appointment.

The process for minor patients is different than those 21 or older. After the minor patient is seen, their medical provider will build a case to present to the Compassionate Use Board. This will include documentation of the visit, medical records provided by the patient, and research to support the minor patient’s use of Medical Cannabis. After submitting the patient’s case to the board, it is up to the members of the Compassionate Use Board to decide whether or not Medical Cannabis is necessary for the patient and condition in question. Note: KindlyMD does not currently provide Compassionate Use Board services.
Find out more about the Compassionate Use Board here.

As a Medical Cannabis patient, can I purchase marijuana products out of state and bring them home?

Medical Cannabis Cardholders may legally possess under Utah law Medical Cannabis products purchased out of state until June 30, 2021 if the products comply with Utah’s standards for Medical Cannabis dosage form and amounts. Previously, this deadline was December 30, 2020 but it has been extended to June 30, 2021.

That being said, there are now operating Medical Cannabis pharmacies in Utah where you can get your medication. Find out more information about Utah Medical Cannabis pharmacies here.

Can I be a Medical Cannabis patient and own a gun?

For information about your rights as a Medical Cannabis patient, check out a presentation about cardholder rights with our founder, Tim Pickett, PA-C and canna-lawyer JD Lauritzen. The short answer, however, is that guns and cannabis don't mix.

Will I lose my job if I test positive for THC?

Based on updates to the Utah Medical Marijuana Act in 2019, there are limited protections for state and local government employees that make Medical Marijuana use the same as an opioid or other prescription medication. This protects those employees from being fired but does not protect them if they come to work high or perform poorly at the job because of their marijuana use.

Private employers can still discipline or fire someone for using Medical Marijuana if they have such a policy.

There are also no protections for renters who get evicted from their apartments because of Medical Marijuana use.

Alternatively, using marijuana without a Medical Card in Utah is always illegal and you risk losing your job.

Which medical providers can legally prescribe Medical Marijuana to patients?

Before January 2021, any Utah-licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Osteopathy (DO), or Physician Assistant (PA) who holds a controlled substance license can recommend Medical Cannabis treatment to a patient with a qualifying condition. Qualified medical providers (QMP) in Utah are required to take a continued-education course and register with the Utah Department of Health.

To meet with one of our experts, schedule an appointment for a free consultation today. If you don't qualify, you don't pay!

How much Medical Marijuana is a qualified patient allowed to possess at one time?

You may NOT possess more than 113 grams of unprocessed cannabis (raw bud or flower in blister packs. You may also NOT possess more than 20 grams of total composite THC in all other dosage forms.

Will I lose my job or be kicked out of my apartment for having Medical Marijuana?

Based on updates to the Utah Medical Marijuana Act in 2019, there are limited protections for state and local government employees that make Medical Marijuana use the same as an opioid or other prescription medication. This protects those employees from being fired but does not protect them if they come to work high or perform poorly at the job because of their marijuana use.

Private employers can still discipline or fire someone for using Medical Marijuana if they have such a policy.

There are also no protections for renters who get evicted from their apartments because of Medical Marijuana use.

Alternatively, using marijuana without a Medical Card in Utah is always illegal and you risk losing your job.

How am I protected as a Medical Marijuana Card provider?

As long as the medical provider is a licensed PA, NP, or physician and meets the requirements of the state to be a qualified medical provider to recommend Medical Marijuana, they are not subject to civil or criminal liability or sanctions under the medical practice acts that would otherwise prohibit them from recommending, prescribing, or dispensing Medical Marijuana, a Medical Marijuana product or marijuana-based drug that the U.S. FDA has not approved.

That being said, medical providers should have specific malpractice insurance that covers the recommendation of Medical Marijuana to their patients.

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