ALS and a Florida Medical Marijuana Card
Yes. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is listed at § 381.986(2)(g) of Florida's medical marijuana law. The first certification visit must be in person with a Florida qualified physician who confirms the diagnosis from neurology records. After that, re-evaluations with the same physician can be done by telehealth.
What does Florida law say about ALS?
The statute names "Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis" at paragraph (g):
Florida law lists: cancer; epilepsy; glaucoma; positive HIV status; AIDS; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); ALS; Crohn's disease; Parkinson's disease; multiple sclerosis; conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to those; a terminal condition diagnosed by a physician other than the certifying physician; and chronic nonmalignant pain.
What is ALS?
MedlinePlus describes ALS as a nervous system disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that send messages to the muscles you control, such as those in your arms and legs.
Which records confirm an ALS diagnosis?
- Neurologist or ALS clinic notes naming the diagnosis
- EMG and nerve conduction study reports
- MRI or other imaging reports
- Pulmonary function or breathing-support records, if any
- A current medication and equipment list
How does the in-person visit work with limited mobility?
Before an initial certification, the physician must do an in-person physical exam, meaning the physician is physically in the same room as the patient. There is no exception for mobility, so plan the trip with a family member or caregiver. Tell the office about any equipment you use when you book.
Every later visit can be easier. Telehealth is allowed only for renewals: a physician who already certified the patient after an in-person physical exam may do that patient's later exams and re-evaluations by telehealth.
What should I bring if speech or writing is affected?
Bring a family member who knows your history, or a written summary of your symptoms and when they started. Your ALS clinic's most recent note is the most useful single record.
List any equipment you use, such as a wheelchair or breathing support, so the visit can be planned around it.
Can a family member handle purchases for me?
Yes, through a registered caregiver. A caregiver must be a Florida resident age 21 or older, agree in writing to help, complete a state caregiver course (renewed every two years), pass a background screening unless a close relative of the patient, hold a caregiver ID card, and generally assist only one patient. A caregiver cannot be a qualified physician or have ties to a dispensary, and may not be paid beyond actual expenses.
What if the ALS is considered terminal?
A terminal condition is its own category, § 381.986(2)(l), and the terminal diagnosis must come from a physician other than the certifying physician. It also changes some documentation rules. The terminal conditions page explains them.
How often is re-evaluation?
Re-evaluation schedule: at least once every 30 weeks, before each new certification. The state ID card is renewed separately each year.
Common questions.
Can the first visit be at home or by video?
Florida law requires the initial exam to be in person with the physician in the same room. Re-evaluations after that can be by telehealth with the same physician.
Who signs the forms if I can't write?
Ask about this when you book. The informed consent must be signed by the patient, or by a parent or legal guardian for a minor, so the office can discuss what accommodations are possible.
Does my caregiver need their own card?
Yes. A caregiver must meet the state requirements, complete the caregiver course and hold a caregiver ID card before buying or handling marijuana for you.
Should my neurologist know?
Yes. Tell your neurologist or ALS clinic team about the certification so your care stays coordinated.
Does early-stage ALS qualify?
The statute lists ALS without a stage requirement. The physician confirms the diagnosis from your neurology records and completes the rest of the evaluation Florida law requires.
Plan your first visit
Book an in-person evaluation in Temple Terrace, and let us know about any mobility needs ahead of time.
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