How do I get a medical cannabis card in Massachusetts?

To obtain a medical cannabis card in MA, you must be evaluated by a licensed healthcare provider like Sharon Reif, NP-C. If you have a qualifying condition, you will receive a certification to register with the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission.

What conditions qualify for medical marijuana in MA?

Qualifying conditions in Massachusetts include cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, ALS, Crohn's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Multiple Sclerosis, as well as other conditions determined in writing by a healthcare provider, such as chronic pain, PTSD, anxiety, and insomnia.

Do you offer online telehealth appointments for medical cards?

Yes. ElevateCareNP provides 100% online telehealth evaluations via secure video or phone. This allows Massachusetts residents to get certified from the comfort and privacy of their own home.

How much does a medical marijuana certification cost?

At ElevateCareNP, we offer transparent pricing with a flat fee of $99 for your evaluation. We are committed to providing the best value in Massachusetts and will happily price match to ensure you receive the lowest price available. Furthermore, your visit is risk-free: if for any reason you are not certified, you will receive a 100% refund.

How often do I need to get recertified?

You must see your certifying clinician (physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant) at least once a year to confirm you still meet the criteria for medical cannabis use. The provider’s certification can be valid for up to 365 days, but if they issue a shorter period you’ll need to return sooner.

What are the benefits of a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts?

Medical marijuana patients in Massachusetts benefit from a 17% to 20% tax savings. Benefits also include: access to higher-potency edibles (over 5mg); higher purchase/carry limits (10 oz); dispensary discounts and rewards; medical reciprocity in states like Maine; and increased home cultivation limits (up to 12 plants in veg and 12 in flower).

Medical Cannabis Dosing: Essential Guidelines for Beginners

Understanding Cannabis

Sep 22

Written By Sharon Reif, NP-C

What is a safe starting dose for medical cannabis?

For beginners, the safest starting dose is 2.5mg to 5mg of THC. This is known as a "microdose" and helps you find relief while avoiding side effects like anxiety or dizziness. If you are using edibles, wait a full two hours to feel the effects before considering another dose. Choosing a product with a 1:1 CBD to THC ratio can also help create a calmer, more balanced experience.

The Golden Rule: Start Low and Go Slow

Starting medical cannabis is different from taking a standard Tylenol. Because everyone’s body has a unique "balancing system" (the endocannabinoid system), a dose that works for one person might feel too strong for another. The best way to find your "Sweet Spot"—where you feel relief without feeling overwhelmed—is to start with a tiny amount and slowly increase it over several days.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is taking a second dose too soon because they don't feel anything yet. This is called "stacking," and it can lead to an uncomfortable experience.

Inhaling (Vaping/Smoking): You feel it almost instantly (2–10 minutes). It’s the easiest way to control your dose because you can take one small puff and wait.
Tinctures (Under the Tongue): These take about 15–45 minutes to kick in.
Edibles (Gummies/Capsules): These are the most misunderstood. It can take up to 2 hours to feel the full effect. Always wait at least two hours before taking more.

Understanding Your Product Labels

When looking at a label, focus on the ratio of THC to CBD:

High-CBD (10:1 or 20:1): Great for daytime use. You get the medical benefits with very little to no "high."
Balanced (1:1): Often the best starting point for pain or sleep. It offers a gentle, manageable effect.
High-THC: Best for severe symptoms or nighttime use, but should be approached with caution by beginners.

The "Microdosing" Strategy

Many patients at ElevateCareNP find success with microdosing. This means taking very small amounts (about 2.5mg of THC) throughout the day. This keeps a steady level of medicine in your system so you feel better without ever feeling "impaired" or foggy.

Ready to start your journey safely?

Determining your dose shouldn't be guesswork. At ElevateCareNP, we provide the professional guidance you need to use medical cannabis with confidence.

Book Your $99 Medical Cannabis Consultation with Sharon Reif, NP-C Fast, secure, and 100% online for Massachusetts residents.

Sources

National Library of Medicine (PMC). Practical considerations in medical cannabis administration and dosing. 2018. Link
National Library of Medicine (PMC). Climbing the evidence pyramid: Dosing considerations for medical cannabis. 2023. Link
National Library of Medicine (PMC). Consensus-based recommendations for titrating cannabinoids in patients with chronic pain. 2022. Link
National Library of Medicine (PMC). A systematic review of cannabidiol dosing in clinical populations. 2019. Link

The information in this post is intended for educational purposes only. This information neither substitutes for nor replaces professional legal or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. No content on this site should ever be regarded as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Reviewed: September 2025Beginner Guide to Dosing MarijuanaBeginner Guide to EdiblesSafe Dosing GuidelinesCape Cod Medical Marijuana Clinic

Sharon Reif, NP-C

About the Author Sharon Reif, NP-C, is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner and the founder of ElevateCareNP. With 30+ years of clinical experience in Cardiology and Acute Care, Sharon specializes in evidence-based medical cannabis certification in Massachusetts. She is dedicated to providing safe, compassionate, and expert guidance to patients navigating alternative medicine.