prescribe or refer cannabis products to solidify a smooth transition into continuous cannabis patient care. The general questions still have not been answered; how much information and product guidance will the patients need?
Washington State legalized marijuana in 2012 for recreational use but, each dispensary must have a state licensed Medicinal Marijuana Consultant on site whenever they are open. Washington State Consultants must attend a (20) hour course and pass an exam. The consultants assist with a myriad of duties at the dispensaries that include (Medical Marijuana Certified Consultant, 2018):
• Enter patient and designated provider information from the authorization
form into the medical marijuana database and create the medical
marijuana recognition card.
• Assist the patient with selecting products that may help with their
qualifying condition.
• Describe risks and benefits of methods for using products.
• Give advice on ways to properly store products and keep them safe from
children and pets.
• Show how to properly use products.
• Answer questions about the medical marijuana law.
Although Washington had laws in place prior to licensing its consultants, many states by-passed putting laws in place first (California Cannabis Law, 2018). California seems to be playing it-by-ear by currently allowing the laws to fall into place where they may. There is still some confusion as to where marijuana smokers can use the product, cannabis friendly residences & hotels, DUI, confusion over the caregiver role and confusion as to the new laws regarding smoking lounges for those that want to use cannabis products with friends like social drinkers (bendbulletin.com). Where do we begin?
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