Parkinson's Disease and a Florida Medical Marijuana Card
Yes. Parkinson's disease is listed at § 381.986(2)(i) of Florida's medical marijuana law. A Florida qualified physician must examine you in person and confirm the diagnosis from neurology records. Essential tremor and other movement disorders are not named and are only considered case by case.
What does Florida law say about Parkinson's disease?
The statute lists "Parkinson's disease" at paragraph (i):
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 Parkinson's disease?
MedlinePlus describes Parkinson's disease as a type of movement disorder that happens when nerve cells in the brain don't produce enough of a brain chemical called dopamine.
Which records confirm Parkinson's?
- Notes from a neurologist or movement disorder specialist naming the diagnosis
- Any imaging reports, such as a DaTscan or brain MRI
- Records of deep brain stimulation or other procedures, if any
- A full medication list with doses and timing
- Physical, occupational or speech therapy notes, if helpful to show history
What about essential tremor or parkinsonism?
They are different diagnoses from Parkinson's disease and are not named in the statute. A condition not named in the law can qualify if the physician judges it to be of the same kind or class as, or comparable to, the listed conditions. The physician must send supporting documentation to the state medical board within 14 days. The physician decides case by case, and certification is not promised.
How should I prepare for the visit?
Bring your full medication schedule, including when you take each medicine, since Parkinson's medicines are often timed closely. Ask your neurologist's office for the latest visit note.
If tremor or stiffness makes writing hard, bring someone who can fill in forms with you. You will still sign the informed consent yourself.
What happens at the first visit?
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.
The physician reviews your neurology history and medicines, checks the state prescription monitoring database and the Registry, and explains the informed consent form. That form covers effects on coordination and balance, which matter for anyone with a movement disorder.
Can a spouse or adult child assist after certification?
Yes, as 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.
How do renewals work?
Re-evaluation schedule: at least once every 30 weeks. 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.
Common questions.
Do I need a DaTscan to qualify?
No specific test is required by Florida law. Parkinson's is usually diagnosed from a neurologist's exam and history, and those notes are what the physician most needs to see.
Can a family member come into the exam room with me?
Ask when you book. A family member can often fill in history and medication details, and they may plan to register as your caregiver.
Should I adjust my Parkinson's medicines?
No. Do not change prescribed medicines on your own. Tell your neurologist about the certification so your care stays coordinated.
Can renewals be done from home?
Yes, once you have been certified after an in-person exam. The same physician can do later re-evaluations by telehealth.
Does young-onset Parkinson's count?
It is still Parkinson's disease, which the statute lists without an age or type limit. The physician confirms the diagnosis from your neurology records.
Bring your neurology records
Book an in-person evaluation at our Temple Terrace office. Later re-evaluations can be by telehealth.
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