Question 1

Will “medical” cannabis be prescribed by a physician in Alabama?

Accepted Answer

No. “Medical” cannabis is not a prescription. Because cannabis remains federally illegal, it cannot be prescribed. In Alabama, a qualified physician may recommend or certify a patient for the program. Words matter—and accuracy is important.

Question 2

Will Medicare or my health insurance cover medical cannabis?

Accepted Answer

No. Medicare and private insurance do not cover physician visits related to medical cannabis or the purchase of medical cannabis products. All costs are out-of-pocket.

Question 3

How do I sign up for the Alabama medical cannabis program?

Accepted Answer

There are three general steps:
Create your patient portal account (no fee to register)
Schedule an appointment with a qualified physician
If approved, complete your registration and obtain your medical cannabis card

learn more:
www.alabamacannabiscoalition.org/medical

Question 4

How do I find a qualified physician?

Accepted Answer

Visit our website for a regularly updated list of qualified physicians, including names, phone numbers, and locations:

https://www.alabamacannabiscoalition.org/qualified-physicians
Note: This program is still developing. If you do not see a physician in your area, more are being added monthly.

Question 5

Can my primary care physician qualify me?

Accepted Answer

Only if they are registered and authorized through the appropriate state process. If your physician is not registered, they cannot qualify you. We encourage you to ask your physician to participate.

Question 6

How much does a physician appointment cost?

Accepted Answer

Each physician sets their own pricing. You will need to ask when scheduling your appointment.

Question 7

What happens after I am approved by a physician?

Accepted Answer

If approved, the physician enters your certification into the state system. You will then return to your patient portal to apply for your medical cannabis card.

Question 8

How much does the medical cannabis card cost?

Accepted Answer

The fee for a patient registration or renewal with access to a digital version of the medical cannabis card is $40.00.  The additional fee for a physical (hard) card (initial and renewal) is $10. The fee to replace a physical (hard) card is $25.00.

Question 9

How long is the card valid before it expires?

Accepted Answer

A patient registration (including the medical cannabis card) shall be valid from the date of issuance and expire one year later.

Question 10

Will I receive a physical card, digital card, or both?

Accepted Answer

Digital cards are given to all patients in the program, a physical hard copy card is available for a fee of $10

Question 11

What should I do if I lose my card?

Accepted Answer

Please contact the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission directly:

https://amcc.alabama.gov/contact/

Question 12

Is there a fee for a replacement card?

Accepted Answer

The fee to replace a physical (hard) card is $25.00.

Question 13

Where will I obtain medical cannabis?

Accepted Answer

Medical cannabis will be available through state-licensed dispensaries in Alabama. Access requires completion of the registration process and possession of a valid medical cannabis card.

Question 14

What are the qualifying medical conditions?

Accepted Answer

Current qualifying conditions include:
Autism
Cancer-related weight loss or chronic pain
Crohn’s disease
Depression, epilepsy, or conditions causing seizures
HIV/AIDS-related nausea or weight loss
Panic disorder
Parkinson’s disease
Persistent nausea not related to pregnancy
PTSD
Sickle cell disease
Spasticity associated with ALS, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries
Terminal illnesses
Tourette’s syndrome
Chronic pain where conventional treatments are ineffective or inappropriate

Question 15

Are there age restrictions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Patients 19 or older may qualify independently. Minors may participate through a registered caregiver such as a parent or guardian.

Question 16

I have a medical cannabis card from another state. Can I use it in Alabama?

Accepted Answer

No. Alabama does not offer reciprocity. You must complete the Alabama registration process from the beginning.

Question 17

Will I lose my rights to own a firearm in the state of Alabama if I am a medical cannabis patient?

Accepted Answer

This question involves the intersection of state and federal law, and legal interpretations may change. The Alabama Cannabis Coalition cannot provide legal advice or definitive guidance on firearm ownership.
For accurate, current information, please contact the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) directly:

https://amcc.alabama.gov/contact/
You may also wish to consult a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation.

Update: There has been a move to change ATF Form 4473, which would remove the cannabis restrictions for gun ownership. please see the link below for more information.

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/new-atf-gun-form-recognizes-medical-marijuanas-federally-legal-status-under-trumps-rescheduling-move/

F.A.Q

Frequently asked questions