Medical marijuana recommendation renewals were temporary allowed from the comfort of home during specific situations and state emergencies; however, these were temporary allowances.

Telehealth for re-evaluations were a safe and convenient option available to Florida patients during the Covid-19 epidemic, and after severe hurricanes hit the state. The state of Florida allowed existing marijuana card holders to complete their re-certifications via telehealth by physicians who previously have seen them in person. These allowances were suspended after the hardships to patients passed.

On May 4, 2023, the Florida Legislature passed HB 387 expanding the use of telehealth for medical marijuana recertifications permanently. The Bill was signed and presented to the Governor on June, 6th, 2023 who approved the Bill. The new rules allowing Telehealth Recertifications for established patients went into effect on July 1st, 2023.

Medical Marijuana Telemedicine

Telemedicine can spare medical marijuana patients from making inconvenient trips to the doctor’s office to renew their medical marijuana recommendations and is a great option for many types of medicine.

Florida’s adoption of House Bill 387 into its medical marijuana program will transform the landscape of medical marijuana care in the state. Telehealth for recertifications of existing patients increases accessibility, improves patient privacy and safety, enhances efficiency, and will make it easier for patients to obtain medical marijuana revaluations.