Requirements & qualifying conditions
West Virginia's Medical Cannabis Act lists specific serious medical conditions. Here's what you need to qualify.
Qualifying medical conditions
You must have a documented diagnosis of at least one of these conditions:
- Cancer
- HIV or AIDS
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Parkinson's disease
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Spinal cord nerve tissue damage with intractable spasticity
- Epilepsy
- Neuropathies
- Huntington's disease
- Crohn's disease
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Intractable seizures
- Sickle cell anemia
- Severe chronic or intractable pain
- Terminal illness
Terminal illness means a prognosis of about one year or less. The final decision on eligibility is made by a licensed physician. See the WV Office of Medical Cannabis for official program rules.
What you'll need
Medical records
Records documenting your qualifying diagnosis. MedCardMD requires a prior diagnosis. If you don't have records yet, complete the intake and we'll guide you.
West Virginia residency
Proof of WV residency, such as a valid driver's license or state ID, for state registration.
Fees
$150 certification ($100 renewal), paid only if approved, plus the $50 state registration fee.
Patients under 18 must have a registered caregiver.
How certification works
A West Virginia medical cannabis card is a two-part process. First, a registered physician certifies that you have a qualifying condition. Second, you register with the West Virginia Office of Medical Cannabis through your online patient profile and pay the state’s $50 registration fee. MedCardMD handles the first part and helps you understand the second.
- Check your condition. Make sure your diagnosis is on the state’s list of qualifying conditions.
- Gather your records. We require records showing a prior qualifying diagnosis.
- Meet by video. Dr. Robin Arora, MD reviews your history in a private telehealth visit.
- Finish with the state. If approved, complete your OMC profile and pay the state fee. Cards typically arrive in 10 to 15 days.
The certification is $150 and you only pay if you are approved. See the full cost breakdown for details.
Common questions about requirements
Do I need medical records?
Yes. MedCardMD requires records documenting a prior diagnosis of a qualifying condition, such as office notes, specialist letters, imaging reports or discharge summaries. Patient portals are often the quickest place to find them.
Which conditions qualify?
Only the conditions listed in West Virginia law: cancer, HIV or AIDS, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord nerve tissue damage with intractable spasticity, epilepsy, neuropathies, Huntington’s disease, Crohn’s disease, PTSD, intractable seizures, sickle cell anemia, severe chronic or intractable pain, and terminal illness. Anxiety on its own is not a qualifying condition. Learn more about chronic pain and PTSD.
Can a minor get a card?
Patients under 18 need a registered caregiver, usually a parent or legal guardian, who registers with the state through the OMC.
Do I have to be a West Virginia resident?
The state program is for West Virginia residents, and you will provide proof of residency when you register with the OMC.
How long does the process take?
Many patients finish their video visit within days of booking. After your certification is entered and you pay the state fee, cards typically arrive in 10 to 15 days. Having complete records ready before your visit helps avoid delays.
Is approval guaranteed?
No. Certification is a medical decision based on your records and evaluation. If you are not approved, you are not charged the certification fee. State rules can change, so check the OMC website for current requirements.
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