Medical cannabis is available to patients who have certain health conditions recognized by their state as eligible for certification. These “qualifying conditions” vary slightly between Massachusetts and New Hampshire but are designed to ensure patients with chronic, debilitating, or life-limiting conditions can access cannabis legally and safely.
At Far Out Alternative Care, we help patients determine whether their condition qualifies and guide them through the certification process. With professional support from our provider, Emily, you’ll understand what documentation is required and how to move forward confidently.
Massachusetts Qualifying Conditions
The Massachusetts medical cannabis program recognizes a broad list of conditions. Patients may qualify if they are living with:
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
- Cancer
- Crohn’s disease
- Glaucoma
- Hepatitis C
- HIV or AIDS
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Seizure disorders or severe muscle spasms
In addition to these conditions, patients with other chronic or debilitating illnesses that significantly impair quality of life may also be eligible. This includes conditions like anxiety, depression, insomnia, or chronic pain.
New Hampshire Qualifying Conditions
New Hampshire law outlines a list of both “qualifying medical conditions” and “qualifying symptoms.” Patients must have at least one from each category. Common conditions include:
- Cancer
- ALS
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- Crohn’s disease
Qualifying symptoms may include:
- Severe or chronic pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizures
- Wasting syndrome or significant weight loss
- Persistent muscle spasms
During your first in-person consultation at our Bedford office, Emily will review your symptoms and medical history to determine eligibility.
Common Debilitating Conditions That May Qualify
Even if your condition is not specifically listed, many patients still qualify due to the impact symptoms have on their daily life. Examples include:
- Anxiety and depression
- Insomnia or other sleep disorders
- PTSD
- Chronic migraines
- Fibromyalgia
- Back and neck pain
If you’re unsure whether your condition qualifies, the best way to find out is to schedule a consultation. Our team will carefully review your situation and provide clear next steps.
What If My Condition Isn’t Listed?
Both Massachusetts and New Hampshire allow flexibility when a condition causes significant hardship or prevents normal function. At Far Out Alternative Care, we work with patients on a case-by-case basis to determine whether cannabis may be an option. Even without extensive medical records, some conditions can be assessed directly during your visit.
Why Choose Far Out Alternative Care?
Patients choose us because we provide more than just paperwork:
- State-specific expertise for both MA and NH laws
- Compassionate care from a Family Nurse Practitioner with nearly 15 years of experience
- Telehealth access for Massachusetts patients
- In-person appointments at our Bedford office for New Hampshire patients
- A patient-first approach that looks at the whole person, not just a diagnosis
Start Your Certification Journey
If you’re living with a chronic or debilitating condition, medical cannabis may provide the relief you need. At Far Out Alternative Care, we make it simple to determine eligibility and move forward with certification.
Head to our client portal today to schedule a consultation. Serving Massachusetts patients through telehealth and welcoming New Hampshire residents in person at our Bedford office.