Can I add or become a caregiver for a patient in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, patients are allowed to designate a caregiver to assist them with their medical marijuana needs, and all minors are required to have a caregiver. Here’s what you need to know to become a caregiver:

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Age Requirement: Caregivers must be at least 21 years old, unless special authorization is provided by the Department of Health.

2. Identification: You must hold a valid Pennsylvania driver's license or state-issued ID.

3. Background Check: All caregivers must undergo a background check. You will not be approved if you have been convicted of a criminal offense related to the sale or possession of drugs in the past 5 years.

Steps to Become a Caregiver:

1. Application: Complete a patient and caregiver application form via the Pennsylvania Department of Health's website. If the patient is already registered, you will need their name, date of birth, and patient ID number.

2. Physician Certification: Submit a medical marijuana certificate from a registered physician stating the patient's qualifying medical condition.

3. Receipt of ID Cards: Both the patient and the caregiver will receive medical marijuana cards upon approval, enabling the caregiver to purchase, possess, and administer medical marijuana on behalf of the patient.

These steps ensure that caregivers are thoroughly vetted and legally authorized to manage medical marijuana for patients, particularly those who are unable to do so themselves.