When it comes to obtaining a medical marijuana card, one thing is for certain: you want to make sure the process is legitimate. With the growing popularity of cannabis for medicinal purposes, many people are turning to online services to get their medical marijuana cards quickly and easily. However, some providers are offering incredibly low prices—like $20—for a consultation or a recommendation. If you’ve come across one of these offers, it’s important to be cautious. These are likely scams, and you should avoid them at all costs.
Here’s why a $20 medical marijuana card is a red flag, and how to ensure you’re going through the proper channels to get the care and legal access you deserve.
1. A Legitimate Medical Marijuana Consultation Costs More Than $20
When you visit a licensed healthcare professional to discuss your medical marijuana needs, they need to conduct a thorough evaluation of your health history, symptoms, and needs. A legitimate consultation requires time, expertise, and resources, and medical professionals charge fees accordingly.
For just $20, there’s simply no way a licensed doctor can spend the time necessary to properly evaluate your condition. Even if some services offer incredibly cheap or even “free” consultations, be wary. A real, qualified physician would never offer a comprehensive consultation or recommendation for such a low price. Cannabis is a controlled substance, and doctors need to follow state-specific medical guidelines and regulations, which requires expertise and professionalism.
What should you expect to pay? Typically, a legitimate consultation for a medical marijuana card can range from $100 to $250, depending on your state. This covers not only the doctor’s time but also the necessary administrative work involved in submitting your application to the state.
2. Scammers Use Low Prices to Lure You in
Scammers often lure people in with ridiculously low prices—like the infamous $20 “deal” for a medical marijuana card. Once they have your payment, they might either:
Take your money and run, providing no consultation or medical evaluation at all.
Provide a “recommendation” that is not legally valid, leaving you with a worthless document that won’t actually help you obtain cannabis legally.
In some cases, these scammers will also collect your personal and financial information, using it for identity theft or fraud. It’s important to remember that these providers have no intention of helping you—they’re only interested in taking advantage of people who are looking for affordable access to medical marijuana.
3. The Risks of Using a Fake Recommendation
If you happen to receive a recommendation from a scam provider, it’s important to realize that it may not be legally recognized. A valid medical marijuana recommendation must come from a licensed doctor who follows the correct medical procedures and complies with state regulations. A fake card or recommendation can get you into legal trouble and leave you without access to the medication you need.
If you get caught using a fraudulent recommendation, you could face:
Legal consequences, including fines or criminal charges for possessing marijuana without a valid prescription.
Difficulty accessing legitimate dispensaries, which require proof of your medical condition and legal eligibility to purchase cannabis.
Loss of personal information, if scammers have stolen your details.
4. How to Find a Legitimate Provider
To avoid falling for scams, follow these tips for finding a reputable, licensed provider:
Research providers thoroughly: Look for reviews, check their medical credentials, and confirm that they are licensed to practice in your state.
Ask about costs upfront: A legitimate consultation will typically cost between $100 and $250. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Check the process: Legitimate providers will offer a comprehensive medical evaluation and will guide you through the entire process of obtaining your card. This includes submitting your application to your state’s medical marijuana program and receiving guidance on how to legally access cannabis.
Look for state-licensed professionals: Ensure the provider is registered with your state’s health department. If they aren’t, don’t proceed.
5. Trust the Process—Not the Price
Getting a medical marijuana card is an important step toward improving your health and well-being. It’s crucial that you go through the proper channels to ensure that the process is legitimate, secure, and legally binding. While it might be tempting to opt for a “quick and cheap” solution, remember that your health and legal standing are worth more than a bargain price.
In the long run, working with a reputable doctor and following the correct procedure will give you peace of mind and access to the medication you need, safely and legally.
Conclusion
A $20 medical marijuana card offer is almost certainly a scam, and falling for it could put your health, your personal information, and your legal standing at risk. Don’t let the allure of a cheap deal fool you. Take your time, research your options, and make sure you’re working with a licensed provider who follows the law.
Remember, in healthcare, you get what you pay for—especially when it comes to something as serious as a medical marijuana card. Stick to legitimate, licensed providers to ensure you’re getting the quality care and legal protection you deserve.
