Benefits of a Medical Marijuana Card in a Recreational State like Michigan

Related

• Get Your Michigan Medical Marijuana Card
• Qualifying Conditions for a Medical Card in Michigan
• About the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program

Recreational Marijuana in Michigan

Marijuana is legal for both medical and recreational use in Michigan. The state legalized recreational weed in December 2019. As a result, adults aged 21 and older can now lawfully possess, grow, and consume it. 

Since recreational legalization, the industry has seen significant growth and development. Michigan’s recreational marijuana market recorded $258.8 million in sales in February 2024, showing that the industry is thriving. 

But it’s not just about sales numbers. Michigan has also held notable cannabis events, like CannaCon Midwest Detroit and the High Times Cannabis Cup Michigan.

Despite the freedom to buy, grow, and possess marijuana, Michiganders should be aware of the state’s marijuana laws. For instance, doing the following is still illegal:

• Consuming marijuana in public.
• Driving under the influence of cannabis.
• Crossing state lines with marijuana.

Difference Between Medical and Recreational Weed in Michigan

Here are the key differences between medical and recreational marijuana in Michigan.

Medical Marijuana in Michigan:

• Only the standard 6% Michigan sales tax applies.
• Maximum THC in edibles is 50 mg per dose.
• The patient must get a certification from a cannabis doctor in MI.
• Minimum age is 18*.

*Minors with qualifying conditions can also obtain cannabis with the help of a caregiver.

Recreational Weed in Michigan:

• Incurs a 10% excise tax plus the 6% sales tax.
• Maximum THC in edibles is limited to 10 mg per dose.
• Do not need a doctor’s approval.
• Minimum age is 21.

Reasons to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Michigan

1. Michigan Weed Prices

Medical marijuana is cheaper than recreational in Michigan. How much cheaper? Having a medical card saves you around $30 for every ounce of cannabis you buy.

The price difference between medical and recreational weed mainly comes from taxes. Recreational marijuana in Michigan is subject to a 10% excise tax and a 6% sales tax. Meanwhile, medical marijuana is only subject to a 6% sales tax. 

Besides lower taxes, Michigan dispensaries often offer special discounts to patients, making medical marijuana even cheaper.

The price gap between medical and recreational weed gives several benefits to cardholders. For instance:

• Patients can maintain a consistent cannabis regimen because the medicine is affordable.
• Lower medical weed prices make it available to more patients.
• Regular cannabis consumers save a lot of money over time.

So, if you’re looking to spend less for more marijuana, make sure to get yourself a Michigan medical card.

2. Medical vs Recreational Potency

A medical card gives patients access to more potent cannabis options. And potency is an important consideration when using marijuana medicinally. 

Medical marijuana is stronger and more effective than recreational weed. This is because medical cannabis is tailor-made to treat chronic conditions. So, medical users don’t have to worry about experimenting extensively to find a strain that fulfills their health needs. 

The edibles purchase limit in Michigan shows the potency difference between medical and recreational weed. Recreational users can only get edibles with a maximum of 10mg of THC per dose. Meanwhile, medical users can get marijuana edibles with a 50mg of THC cap per dose.

Why is having access to more potent cannabis beneficial for medical users?

• More effective symptom relief.
• Patients can access products tailored to their specific health needs.
• Patients can consume less of the product to achieve the desired effects, leading to cost savings. 

3. Age for Marijuana in Michigan

Another benefit of a Michigan medical marijuana card is that patients of all ages can access MMJ. And yes, that includes minors below 18 years old. Meanwhile, recreational weed is only available to adults aged 21 and above.

So, regardless of age, those who qualify for a medical card can receive the benefits that medical marijuana has to offer. To clarify, the parents or legal guardians of a qualifying minor must consent to cannabis treatment. Moreover, all minors with medical cards must have a caregiver assist them.

A lower age limit means younger patients can access medical marijuana legally and safely.

4. Guidance from Medical Marijuana Doctors

Perhaps the most impactful benefit of the Michigan medical marijuana card is the guidance and expertise patients receive from cannabis doctors.

Before you can get a medical card in Michigan, a licensed medical marijuana doctor must determine if you are eligible. However, the role of the doctor goes beyond writing their recommendation for cannabis.

Our doctors at Quick Med Cards provide personalized care and educate patients on safe usage and potential side effects.

This approach contrasts with recreational use, where the focus is more on the experience rather than on targeted health outcomes.

5. Access to Caregivers

Having a caregiver is another reason to get a medical marijuana card in Michigan. This is particularly true for patients with disabilities or debilitating conditions.

It may be difficult or impossible to access cannabis independently if you are a patient who is impaired or chronically ill. Thankfully, with a medical card, you can designate a caregiver to assist with your treatment. Caregivers in Michigan can buy, administer, and manage cannabis treatments for their patients.

Caregivers are also necessary for minors with medical cards. Children in Michigan cannot purchase medical marijuana from dispensaries. So, caregivers step in to ensure the patient receives their medication.

Another category of patients that may benefit from caregivers is those who have complex medical marijuana treatment plans. Caregivers can help manage and administer their treatment effectively.

Caregivers also help patients comply with the Michigan medical marijuana laws to ensure they stick to the set limits.

In these situations, a caregiver’s role is vital in the medical use of marijuana. A caregiver is more than just a convenience; they are essential.

6. Reciprocity

Getting a Michigan medical marijuana card can be beneficial if you travel to states that have MMJ reciprocity.

Reciprocity allows you access to medical cannabis while away from home. As a result, you can

• legally and conveniently access your medication,
• maintain your treatment plans,
• enjoy legal protection as an out-of-state patient.

Still, it’s important to note that reciprocity policies vary. So, checking the regulations of your destination state is essential.

Key Takeaways

• Medical marijuana is cheaper than recreational cannabis due to lower taxes.
• Cardholders have access to more potent cannabis products.
• Medical marijuana is available to patients of all ages, including minors.
• The guidance from licensed medical marijuana doctors is essential to ensure effective treatment.
• Cardholders can designate caregivers to assist them with cannabis treatment.
• Your Michigan medical marijuana card allows you to continue your treatment uninterrupted in states with MMJ reciprocity.

Conclusion

In Michigan, you have two options: get medical-grade or adult-use cannabis. Recreational marijuana makes it easy for individuals to consume marijuana without needing medical supervision. Yet, opting for a medical marijuana card offers several benefits you shouldn’t ignore, for example:

• Cost savings due to lower taxes
• Higher potency products 
• Patients of all ages can get medical marijuana
• Personalized treatment plans and support from medical marijuana doctors. 
• Caregivers add an extra layer of help and safety. 
• Access to medical cannabis when traveling to or residing in other states with reciprocal agreements.

How to Get a Medical Card in Michigan

Getting a medical marijuana card in Michigan is simple once you meet these two requirements.

1. You must be a resident of Michigan. 

2. A state-licensed cannabis doctor must certify you for medical marijuana.

The certification confirms that you have one of the qualifying conditions for a medical card.

Quick Med Cards is the cheapest and fastest way to get your medical marijuana card online in Michigan. Our doctors are compassionate and experts at cannabis treatment.

Questions about the Benefits of a Michigan Medical Marijuana Card

Do you have more questions about the benefits of a medical marijuana card in Michigan? You may find the answers below.