Medical cannabis refers to the use of cannabis and its compounds under the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider to help manage specific health conditions. Unlike recreational cannabis, medical cannabis is focused on symptom relief and improving quality of life. Patients with a qualifying condition can work with a certified provider to receive the documentation needed for a medical card, granting them legal access to dispensaries and regulated products.
At Far Out Alternative Care, we guide patients across Massachusetts and New Hampshire through this process, ensuring you understand both the medical benefits and the state-specific requirements.
Benefits of Medical Cannabis
Patients certified for medical cannabis may find relief for a wide range of symptoms and conditions. Benefits often include:
- Reduced chronic pain and inflammation
- Improved sleep quality for those with insomnia
- Relief from anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms
- Decreased nausea and appetite loss related to cancer treatments
- Support for seizure disorders and muscle spasms
Beyond health improvements, a medical card also provides practical advantages such as tax savings, higher possession limits, and access to stronger, higher-quality products.
Who Can Qualify?
Massachusetts and New Hampshire maintain lists of qualifying conditions for medical cannabis use, but certification may extend to any debilitating or chronic health concern. Common qualifying conditions include:
- ALS, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease
- HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C
- Crohn’s disease and multiple sclerosis
- Seizure disorders and glaucoma
- Anxiety, depression, and insomnia
- Chronic pain and PTSD
Not sure if your condition qualifies? Our provider Emily reviews your health history and works with you to determine eligibility. Learn more on our Qualifying Conditions page.
How the Process Works
Getting certified for medical cannabis is straightforward with professional guidance:
- Book a consultation with our provider—telehealth is available for Massachusetts patients; New Hampshire requires the first visit in person.
- Submit medical records if you have them, such as summaries or doctor’s notes. If not, Emily may assess your qualifying condition during your appointment.
- Receive your certification after the visit and complete your state’s registration process.
- Obtain your medical card—Massachusetts patients get immediate temporary access, while New Hampshire patients receive a card by mail.
Why Choose Far Out Alternative Care?
Patients trust Far Out Alternative Care because we combine convenience with compassionate care. Emily, our Family Nurse Practitioner, has nearly 15 years of healthcare experience across multiple specialties and brings a patient-first approach to every appointment. We provide:
- Telehealth access for Massachusetts patients
- In-person appointments in Bedford for New Hampshire residents
- Clear, supportive guidance through every step of the process
- A focus on education and safe, effective cannabis use
The Process
Step 1
Book an appointment with us online.
If you have supporting documents like a problem list, after visit summary, or note from your primary doctor or specialist, email them to us ahead of time at support@faroutalternativecare.com
If you do not have supporting documents, no worries! If you have a condition our provider can assess for during the visit, they will do so! Some examples include anxiety, depression, and
insomnia.
Step 2
Register with your state. You will receive an email with these instructions based on which state you live in.
MA residents, you will need:
- The medical certification we provide after your telehealth visit
- Proof of identity: Driver’s License/State ID, US Military ID, or US Passport
- Proof of residence: utility bills, bank statements, property tax statements, voter registration cards are good examples
NH residents, you will need:
Proof of residence: utility bills, bank statements, property tax statements, voter registration cards are good examples If you do not have supporting documents, no worries! If you have a condition our provider can assess for during the visit, they will do so! Some examples include anxiety, depression, and
insomnia.
The written certification we provide. Your first visit is required to be in-person per NH Law. We have an office in Bedford to use for your convenience.
A completed patient application
$50 fee to the State of NH
Step 3
Receive your medical cannabis card!
MA residents have access to immediate use with a temporary card that is sent to you the same day.
NH residents will have a card mailed to your home.If you do not have supporting documents, no worries! If you have a condition our provider can assess for during the visit, they will do so! Some examples include anxiety, depression, and
insomnia.
Medical Cannabis Certification in Massachusetts
Massachusetts patients have the flexibility to complete their certification process entirely online through telehealth. This makes the process especially convenient for those with mobility challenges or busy schedules. After your telehealth appointment, you’ll receive a temporary medical cannabis card the same day, giving you immediate access to dispensaries.
Medical Cannabis Certification in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, the state requires your first appointment to be in person. To make this simple, Far Out Alternative Care provides a welcoming office in Bedford, NH. After your visit and certification, you’ll complete your patient application with the state and receive your card by mail.
Take Control of Your Health
Medical cannabis is more than a treatment—it’s a pathway to improved comfort and daily well-being. With the guidance of Far Out Alternative Care, the process of getting certified is simple, professional, and stress-free.
Head to our client portal today to begin your certification journey. We proudly serve Massachusetts patients via telehealth and welcome New Hampshire residents at our Bedford office.