What Conditions Qualify for Medical Marijuana Card in Massachusetts (2024)

How Many Medical Conditions Qualify for Medical Marijuana Treatment in Massachusetts?

The Cannabis Control Commission of Massachusetts lists eight qualifying medical conditions for medical marijuana access. In addition to these, it also allows certified physicians to recommend medical cannabis treatment for other debilitating conditions.

Qualifying Conditions for Medical Card in Massachusetts 2024

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts only issues medical marijuana cards to individuals diagnosed with the following debilitating medical conditions:

• Cancer
• Glaucoma
• HIV/AIDS
• Hepatitis C
• Lou Gehrig’s disease or Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Crohn’s disease
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

However, the state also allows certified physicians to recommend medical cannabis for other debilitating conditions. These include those causing weakness, cachexia, wasting syndrome, intractable pain, or nausea. Other qualifying debilitating outcomes include symptoms impairing strength or ability and progressing so far as to substantially limit the patient’s major life activities.

Does Massachusetts Add New Qualifying Conditions to its Medical Marijuana Program?

There are currently no provisions for expanding Massachusetts’ list of qualifying medical conditions. The state has not added to this list since the inception of its medical marijuana program and does not have a petition system in place to propose the addition of new medical conditions.

Does Massachusetts Allow Physicians to Recommend Medical Cannabis for Non-Qualifying Conditions?

No. Massachusetts clearly defines qualifying diseases and conditions and requires certified medical providers to only recommend medical cannabis for conditions mentioned on this list.

Do You Need a Doctor’s Recommendation for Medical Marijuana in Massachusetts?

Yes. A written recommendation from a certifying healthcare provider is a compulsory requirement for any patient applying to join the Massachusetts medical cannabis program. The state’s Cannabis Control Commission accepts qualifying patient certifications from Massachusetts-licensed:

• Physicians (Medical Doctors and Doctors of Osteopathy)
• Nurse practitioners, and
• Physician assistants

Who Qualifies for a Medical Marijuana Card in Massachusetts?

In addition to getting a qualifying patient certification from an eligible healthcare provider, anyone applying for a medical marijuana program registration card in Massachusetts must also be:

• A resident of the state
• Aged 18 years or older

A minor may qualify for a Massachusetts medical marijuana card if diagnosed of a debilitating life-limiting illness by two state-licensed certifying healthcare providers, one of whom must be a board-certified pediatrician or board-certified pediatric subspecialist.