Roger A. Barnes MD Pasadena medical marijuana cards

What should I bring to my medical marijuana evaluation?

We recommend that you make every effort to bring some kind of medical documentation to the appointment. This could include X-rays, MRI’s, prescriptions, physician letters, medications, or any other documentation showing that you have been to a doctor and have been diagnosed with your condition. You will also need a valid California ID card or a driver’s license proving your age and residency.

How do I get my physician to send me my records?

You can follow these easy steps to get your medical records. Contact your physician or hospital where you received treatment. Inform them that you will be requesting your medical records. They will inform you on what steps you need to follow. Typically, you will need to provide your physician with a written authorization to release your records. Ask for your physician’s fax number and fax your physician a release of medical records form.

What if I’ve never seen a doctor, but I know that marijuana helps me with my condition? Should I still make an appointment for a Pasadena medical marijuana evaluation?

It is understandable that some patients have no medical history or just can’t find their medical records. In this situation the doctor can still conduct the evaluation. Based on the physician’s discretion, the physician may give you a temporary recommendation or ask you to fulfill certain requirements before one can be issued to you. The physician may refer patients that haven’t been to a doctor in a long time to free or low-cost local clinics, local holistic practitioners and other specialists. By getting evaluated you take the first step towards alternative treatments and a path to better health.

Once I’m a legal Prop. 215 medical marijuana patient, what new rights do I have?

After obtaining your recommendation, you are legally entitled to grow, possess, consume, and transport cannabis under state law.

How do I become a legal medical marijuana patient in California?

Under California law, you must have a medical marijuana recommendation or approval from a California licensed medical doctor for the medical use of cannabis for any condition for which cannabis provides relief. Most patients have symptoms associated with AIDS, cancer, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, and many other serious illnesses.

I get drug tested at my job. Can I use medical marijuana?

Not necessarily. The California Supreme Court ruled that employers can discriminate against medical marijuana users. The legislature passed a bill to change that in 2008, but Gov. Schwarzenegger vetoed it. It is recommended to make an anonymous call to your human resources department to inquire about their medical marijuana policies.

 I heard about some patients being denied access to a dispensary or collective because their doctor was not open to verify their recommendation? What hours are you available to verify your patients?

We know how important it is for you to be able to get your medicine when needed. We are available for 24/7 telephone and internet verification to verify you as a legitimate medical marijuana patient.

What types of conditions is marijuana recommended for?

There are many conditions that marijuana is beneficial in helping, including Cancer, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s Disease, Alzheimer’s, Multiple Sclerosis, AIDs, chronic pain, glaucoma, hepatitis C, rheumatoid arthritis, HIV, epilepsy, Crohn’s disease, anorexia, nail patella, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease), chronic nervous system disorders, cachexia or wasting syndrome, chronic or intractable pain, severe nausea, seizures, severe or persistent muscle spasms, diabetes mellitus, dystonia, fibromyalgia, gastrointestinal disorders, gliomas, hypertension, incontinence, MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphyloccus aureus), osteoporosis, pruritus, sleep apnea, Tourette’s syndrome, migraine headaches, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit disorder, bipolar disorder, menstrual cramps and excessive bleeding, diarrhea, tuberculosis, elephantiasis, asthma, hemorrhoids, anemia, rabies, insomnia and many other conditions.

I am 17 years old, can I come in for an evaluation for medical marijuana?

Unfortunately, you must be 21 years of age or older to have an evaluation with Dr. Roger Barnes for medical marijuana. At the time of your evaluation you will need to provide a valid California identification to prove your age and identity along with any supporting medical records and prescription medication related to your condition.

If I get a medical marijuana recommendation will my name be on a state or government list?

No, we use a HIPAA compliant medical record keeping system and all paper records are shredded the same day of your visit. You will receive an original letter of recommendation.  Your information remains safe and confidential with us.  Your patient status can only be released with your written consent.  We DO NOT report patients to any state or federal agencies.

Once I get my recommendation from a physician, what do I do with it?

Keep the original copy of your physician’s letter of recommendation in a safe place. You may need it to prove your legal status following any encounter with law enforcement. You may also need it to obtain membership or to enter one of California’s many medical cannabis dispensaries. You should carry a photocopy of your recommendation whenever you carry your medicine.

What should I bring to my medical marijuana evaluation?

We recommend that you  bring some kind of medical documentation to support your medical condition. This could include X-rays, MRI’s, prescriptions, physician letters, medications, or any other documentation showing that you have been to a doctor and have been diagnosed with your condition. You will also need a valid California ID card or a driver’s license proving your age and residency.