Medical Marijuana

The Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act of 2014 provides that medical marijuana can only be ordered by physicians who have completed an 8-hour course offered by either the Florida Medical Association or the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association. The physician must successfully pass an examination upon completion of the course.

The doctors at Sarasota Medical Center have completed the examination and are qualified to order medical marijuana.

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Bee Ridge: (941) 927-1234

Venice: (941) 412-3800

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The process of applying and obtaining medical cannabis in Florida hasn’t changed much since it was legalized. Florida allows both permanent and seasonal residents to access the MMJ program. The first step to find out if you are eligible for a marijuana card under Florida's law is to be evaluated by a qualified doctor to see if your symptoms, pain or health condition fall within those accepted by the law.

what you need to bring with you to the consultation

Proof of Florida residency and photo I.D.
Medical records

If you qualify:

You will receive a patient registry I.D. number. You will use this I.D. number to complete an online application on the state's website. This application is how you register for a medical marijuana card. At the same time, our doctors will add you to the Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry. This listing will include your patient I.D. number, your name, your treatment recommendation and other identifying data.

After you've completed your online application all that's left to do is wait for the state to authorize and activate your application. This can take 2-3 weeks. You will receive an email from the state when the listing is activated. Once you receive this email, you can purchase marijuana from an authorized dispensary.

Purchasing Marijuana at a Dispensary

Florida dispensaries are known as Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs). Under Florida law, MMTCs are allowed to grow, cultivate, manufacture and sell their own marijuana and marijuana products. Therefore, each dispensary has its own brand and array of products. You will see different items depending on the MMTC you choose.