New medical cannabis patients in Utah face a pretty steep learning curve. For example, how many of them know that there are different types of medical cannabis cards and separate fee schedules attached to each one? It is not a big deal once you learn how the system works. But for a new patient, just understanding the different cards can be confusing.
Below, we list the four types of medical cannabis cards, along with a description and the fees for each. You can always check out the FAQs on the state’s medical cannabis website for more details on obtaining a card. Having an active card gives you access to the Beehive Farmacy locations in Brigham City and Salt Lake City, where you can find high-quality cannabis medicines.
1. Patient Card
The Patient card is the most commonly issued card in Utah. Most medical cannabis patients have it. It is issued to adults, 21 years of age and older, who have been diagnosed with a qualifying condition. The most common qualifying conditions in Utah are pain (both persistent and acute), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), persistent nausea, and cancer.
The initial fee when applying for a standard Patient card is $8, and the card itself is good for one year. Near the end of the year, a patient wishing to renew must visit with a medical care provider and submit a renewal form. The renewal fee is also $8.
2. Guardian Card
A guardian card is intended for the adult guardian of a minor patient. For the purposes of medical cannabis, minors are patients under the age of 21 who would normally be prohibited from using a cannabis medicine. But with permission from the Compassionate Use Board, they can obtain Patient cards. Their guardians are given Guardian cards.
A Guardian card allows a minor’s adult guardian to purchase medical cannabis on his behalf. The guardian cannot use medical cannabis themself without a separate Patient card. The initial fee for the Guardian card is $67, while the renewal fee is $10. Guardian cards must be renewed every six months.
3. Caregiver Card
Some Utah medical cannabis patients are not well enough to handle the task of purchasing and transporting medical cannabis. They may be bedridden, unable to drive or take public transport, or simply unable to take care of themselves. Fortunately, the Caregiver card makes it possible for someone else to help them out.
A caregiver with a state-issued card can purchase medical cannabis on behalf of an eligible patient with an active Patient card. Just as with the Guardian card, a caregiver cannot use the patient’s medical cannabis. They must obtain a separate Patient card to use cannabis medicines legally. Caregivers pay $67 for their initial cards and $10 to renew when the patient’s medical card is renewed.
4. Non-Utah Resident Card
Last but not least is the Non-Utah Resident card. This card is intended for out-of-state visitors who will need access to medical cannabis while in the Beehive State. A Non-Utah Resident card is good for 21 consecutive days. Out-of-state guests can apply for up to two non-resident cards per calendar year. The fee is $8.
So there you have it. This list of medical cannabis cards and the associated fees should be enough to get you started on your journey with medical cannabis. If you already have an active card and are looking for a reputable pharmacy in Salt Lake City or Brigham City, we invite you to visit Beehive Farmacy. You will find that our friendly staff and high-quality products are just what you need.
