Initial evaluation
Maryland medical cannabis
Maryland medical cannabis certification & renewals
Virtual clinical evaluations with Lisa Johnson, PMHNP-BC, for eligible Maryland adults seeking initial medical cannabis certification or renewal.
A careful clinical review
Certification begins with eligibility—not an assumption.
Anxiety and insomnia may be considered when symptoms are associated with a qualifying condition or meet Maryland’s criteria for another chronic, severe medical condition for which other treatments have been ineffective. Eligibility and certification are determined individually following a clinical evaluation and are not guaranteed.
Choose your appointment
Initial evaluation or certification renewal?
Initial certification evaluation
If you are seeking your first certification, the visit reviews your condition, relevant medical history, prior treatment, and whether medical cannabis is clinically appropriate. Register with the Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) and have your MCA Patient ID Number ready for certification to be issued.
Renewal evaluation
A renewal reviews your current health, response to treatment, concerns, and continued suitability. It is a clinical reassessment rather than automatic approval. Check your certification expiration date and contact the practice about the appropriate appointment, especially if your previous certification came from another provider.
MCA patient registration and a provider’s written certification are separate. A written certification may be valid for up to one year; check your own dates rather than assuming your registration means your certification is current.
MCA: steps to obtain medical cannabis · MCA patient questions
Before your telehealth visit
Prepare your information and questions.
- Have your MCA Patient ID Number and registration status available.
- Prepare your medication and supplement list, relevant medical records, and information about previous treatments.
- For renewal, note your certification expiration date and describe benefits, side effects, or changes in health.
- Choose a private place in Maryland with a stable internet connection for the appointment.
Ask the practice which records it needs before your visit. Learn about Lisa Johnson, PMHNP-BC, MPH, and contact Thrivewell with scheduling questions.
Certification fees
Returning patients
Renewal Certification
$75Schedule Certification Renewal — $75These services are for eligible Maryland patients. Payment covers the clinical evaluation and does not guarantee certification.
What to expect
Professional judgment guides every decision.
Eligibility is determined after reviewing your medical history, symptoms, available documentation, and applicable Maryland requirements.
Certification is not guaranteed. All certifications are issued according to the clinician’s professional judgment and clinical discretion.
Maryland residents must also register with the Maryland Cannabis Administration and receive certification from a registered provider.
View Maryland OneStop provider profile →Common questions
Maryland certification appointments
Do you serve my county?
Eligible adults can seek this virtual service throughout Maryland, including all 23 counties and Baltimore City. This service page represents statewide telehealth care, not local offices.
Does payment guarantee approval?
No. The fee covers the clinical evaluation. Certification depends on eligibility, clinical judgment, and whether the service is appropriate for you.
Is this the same as receiving cannabis?
No. Thrivewell provides clinical certification evaluations. Cannabis purchases are separate and made through Maryland-licensed dispensaries under applicable requirements.
Can I use my psychiatric care booking for certification?
Select the cannabis certification appointment that matches your needs. If you are unsure which appointment to book, contact the practice first.