Why do I need an Iowa medical marijuana card?

An Iowa medical marijuana card shows that your name has been added to the Iowa medical marijuana registry by a licensed Iowa physician and that the patient is a legal Iowa registered medical marijuana patient. With this card, you can: 1. Buy marijuana from dispensaries in the state of Iowa 2. Possess marijuana and marijuana products in the state of Iowa 3. Consume marijuana and marijuana products in the state of Iowa

Do I qualify for medical marijuana in the state of Iowa?

Iowa's Department of Health has approved a number of qualifying conditions that allow patients to access medical marijuana in Iowa. The qualifying conditions identified by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services include: Cancer (if the illness or its treatment produces severe or chronic pain, nausea or severe vomiting, cachexia or severe wasting), Seizures, Crohn's disease, Chronic pain, Multiple Sclerosis with severe and persistent muscle spasms, AIDS or HIV, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Any terminal illness with a probable life expectancy of under one year, Ulcerative colitis, Severe intractable pediatric autism with self-injurious or aggressive behaviors, Severe intractable autism with self-injurious or aggressive behaviors, and Corticobasal Degeneration.

Am I guaranteed to get approved for medical marijuana after my appointment?

We can't guarantee approval for anyone, as the doctor is the only person that makes the determination whether or not a patient qualifies. To make it more likely that you receive approval from the doctor, we recommend that you bring as much information as possible to your appointment regarding your medical condition and past treatments. However, you do not have to worry as the entire cost of an appointment will be a nominal flat fee if you, for whatever reason, are not approved by the doctor.

When will I receive my identification card?

Patients will receive their identification card within 1 week of application, if their application is approved.

What is the cost of an Iowa medical marijuana card?

We believe cost shouldn't be a barrier. We offer payment options, including monthly plans and discounts for veterans and referrals. After your first appointment, follow-ups are free for 12 months.

Will my insurance or Medicaid cover the cost of medical marijuana?

Right now, insurance and Medicaid don't cover medical marijuana costs. It's always a good idea to check with your provider for the latest updates.

Can minors get a medical marijuana card?

Yes, minors are allowed to get a medical card but they must have a designated caregiver. The parent or legal guardian will apply for the card on behalf of the patient, and once the card is issued, the parent or legal guardian will then apply to be the designated caregiver. The minor will not be issued a card, only the caregiver will.

How long does an Iowa medical marijuana card last?

An Iowa medical marijuana card is valid for one year from the date of issuance. You will need to renew your card annually by scheduling a follow-up appointment with a licensed Iowa physician before your card expires. It's recommended to start the renewal process at least 30 days before your expiration date to ensure continuous access to medical marijuana.

Can I use my Iowa medical marijuana card in other states?

Iowa does not currently have reciprocity agreements with other states, which means your Iowa medical marijuana card is only valid within Iowa. However, some states do recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards. If you're traveling, it's important to research the specific laws of the state you're visiting, as medical marijuana laws vary significantly from state to state.

What forms of medical marijuana are available in Iowa?

Iowa allows several forms of medical marijuana products including oils, tinctures, capsules, topicals, and other manufactured forms. The state does not permit smoking or vaping of raw plant material. All products must be purchased from state-licensed dispensaries and contain no more than 4.5 grams of THC per 90-day supply. Products are available in various CBD to THC ratios to meet different patient needs.

Medical Marijuana Legalization and Alcohol Consumption: What Could It Mean for Iowa?

Isabella Romo
Aug 8
3 min read

Updated: Oct 20

Sign up for our newsletter for the chance to win a FREE appointment and be the first to know when we start seeing patients!

As Iowa’s medical marijuana program expands, researchers and public health professionals are beginning to explore how access to marijuana for medical use might influence other behaviors, especially alcohol consumption.

While much of the national conversation centers on recreational use, recent studies suggest that even medical marijuana access may be associated with reduced alcohol use. This could have important implications for patients and public health in Iowa.

Medical Marijuana and Alcohol Use: What the Research Suggests

A recent analysis out of California found that marijuana legalization was associated with a decrease in alcohol consumption among adults. Although the study focused on broader legalization, it raises a critical point for states like Iowa: even medical-only access could lead to some individuals choosing marijuana over alcohol for symptom relief or relaxation.

Many medical marijuana patients across the country report turning to marijuana as an alternative to alcohol to manage chronic medical conditions.

Medical marijuana can offer a safer and more targeted approach to symptom relief, compared to alcohol use, which can worsen symptoms or lead to dependency over time.

Emerging Evidence: Marijuana-Infused Beverages and Alcohol Reduction

Recent research is showing a clear trend, people who drink THC-infused marijuana beverages often reduce their alcohol use. According to a national survey of over 1,000 adults by Crescent Canna, 77 % of participants said they cut back on alcohol after using THC beverages, and 21 % said they stopped drinking alcohol altogether.

Another poll highlighted by NORML found that over 56 % of respondents reported drinking “slightly less” or “much less” alcohol once they began consuming THC-infused beverages.

Laboratory studies support these findings as well. In one controlled experiment, participants who used marijuana before drinking alcohol consumed about 25 % less alcohol overall.

Why This Matters for Iowa Patients

In Iowa, alcohol remains a major public health concern, contributing to thousands of hospital visits, accidents, and chronic health conditions every year. If patients are finding relief with medical marijuana and choosing to drink less as a result, it could signal a positive shift in health behaviors across the state.

While Iowa’s medical marijuana program is still growing, it still gives more patients the ability to manage their symptoms without turning to alcohol. In particular, individuals with conditions like PTSD or chronic pain, who might otherwise self-medicate with alcohol, now have a new option for relief.

A Safer Option for Symptom Management

Alcohol is a known contributor to liver disease, heart issues, and mental health disorders. For patients dealing with ongoing medical conditions, using alcohol as a coping tool often does more harm than good.

Medical marijuana, when used responsibly and under the guidance of a qualified doctor, offers a targeted and potentially safer alternative. This is especially important for patients in Iowa seeking to break harmful habits and achieve long-term relief.

Looking Ahead in Iowa

As more Iowans gain access to medical marijuana, it's worth continuing to study how it affects other lifestyle choices, especially alcohol use. The goal is not to encourage one substance over another, but to provide better options for those in need of relief.

For now, medical marijuana offers Iowa patients a chance to manage their health without relying on alcohol, an important step toward safer, more effective care.

Get Ready for Medical Marijuana

We are currently not seeing medical marijuana patients in Iowa, but we will be soon!

Don’t delay! Reserve an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate marijuana doctors and the chance to win a FREE evaluation! We’ll set up an appointment for you just as soon as we start seeing patients.

Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

Helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

If you have any questions, simply reserve a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!

Don’t miss important updates about Iowa’s marijuana program. Subscribe to our newsletter and get the latest straight to your email!