Medical Marijuana
In New York State, medical cannabis may be recommended for certain medical conditions, including chronic pain. Contact us to learn whether a medical cannabis evaluation may be appropriate for you.
Medical Marijuana in Garden City and Hauppauge, Long Island
Dr. Matthew Kalter supports the responsible therapeutic use of medical cannabis when it is clinically appropriate. Dr. Kalter values each patient’s privacy and provides compassionate, confidential care at our Garden City office and Hauppauge office.
Dr. Kalter informs patients about the potential risks and benefits of medical cannabis as an alternative or complementary treatment for chronic pain and other medical conditions. The evaluation includes a review of your symptoms, medical history, current medications and treatments you have already tried.
Medical cannabis is not appropriate for every patient and results vary. When appropriate, it may be incorporated into a personalized pain management plan along with other treatments intended to improve comfort and daily function.
Requirements for Medical Cannabis Certification in Long Island, NY
Patients must be evaluated and certified by a healthcare provider who is authorized to participate in New York’s Medical Cannabis Program. The provider must determine that medical cannabis is clinically appropriate for the patient’s condition. Important requirements and application details include:
- Patients must receive an evaluation from a New York State-authorized medical cannabis practitioner who can document the patient’s condition and determine whether certification is appropriate.
- Patients must be New York residents or receive treatment in New York State and may be asked to provide acceptable identification or residency documentation.
- New York no longer limits medical cannabis certification to a short, fixed list of qualifying conditions. An authorized practitioner may certify a patient when medical cannabis is considered clinically appropriate.
Once certified, the patient is automatically registered with the New York Medical Cannabis Program. The certification includes a registry identification number that may be used with a government-issued photo ID at a licensed medical cannabis dispensary.
- Patients should purchase medical cannabis only from dispensaries licensed by New York State and follow the dosing and product recommendations provided by the practitioner and dispensary pharmacist.
- Medical cannabis may cause side effects and may interact with prescription medications, over-the-counter products, alcohol or other substances. Discuss everything you take with your provider.
- Insurance coverage varies. Patients should contact their insurer regarding coverage for the medical evaluation, while cannabis products themselves are generally purchased directly from the dispensary.
Apply and learn more:
New York State Office of Cannabis Management
Website: New York Medical Cannabis Program for Patients
You may also review our patient resources before your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Cannabis
What is medical cannabis?
Medical cannabis refers to regulated cannabis products used by a certified patient under New York State’s Medical Cannabis Program. A participating healthcare provider must determine that medical cannabis is clinically appropriate for the patient.
Who may qualify for medical cannabis in New York?
An authorized New York healthcare provider may certify a patient when medical cannabis is considered clinically appropriate. Eligibility is determined through an individualized medical evaluation rather than a limited list of qualifying diagnoses.
Can medical cannabis be used for chronic pain?
Medical cannabis may be considered for some patients with chronic pain. The provider will review the cause and severity of the pain, previous treatments, current medications, medical history and potential safety concerns before making a recommendation.
How do I apply for the New York Medical Cannabis Program?
The process begins with an evaluation by an authorized practitioner. When the practitioner issues a certification, the patient is automatically registered. Current instructions are available through the New York Medical Cannabis Program for Patients.
Do New York patients still receive a medical marijuana card?
Certified patients receive a certification containing a registry identification number. Patients can generally use the certification with a government-issued photo ID at a licensed medical cannabis dispensary. Requirements may change, so patients should review current state guidance.
What happens during a medical cannabis evaluation?
The provider reviews your symptoms, medical history, current medications, previous treatments and treatment goals. The consultation also covers possible benefits, side effects, medication interactions, safety precautions and other available treatment options.
Does medical cannabis have to be smoked?
No. Licensed New York medical cannabis dispensaries may offer several regulated product types and methods of administration. A dispensary pharmacist can explain available products and help the patient follow the practitioner’s recommendations.
Can medical cannabis interact with other medications?
Yes. Medical cannabis may interact with prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, alcohol and other substances. Patients should provide a complete medication list and discuss possible impairment and other safety concerns with their provider.
Does insurance cover medical cannabis treatment?
Insurance coverage for the medical evaluation depends on the patient’s plan and the services provided. Medical cannabis products purchased from a dispensary are generally not covered. Patients should verify their benefits directly with their insurer.
Where can I get a medical cannabis evaluation on Long Island?
MK Spine & Joint Rehab provides confidential medical cannabis evaluations through our Garden City office, serving Nassau County, and our Hauppauge office, serving Suffolk County.