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Welcome to the OMMA page for MERCY.  An index to Information on the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act (OMMA) and resulting Program (The OMMP).   About this page ... How To Get Your Card in Oregon, USA. How To Get Your Card elsewhere in the USA, and around the World, coming soon. Our guide to How To Qualify for Medical Cannabis as we know it.   This info is specific to situations within the State of Oregon, United States of America.   References to/for other situations will be made available as we identify and organize them.   In the meantimes, just end cannabis prohibition! Click here for some history and links.   Coming Soon! We are working on developing Individual sections for - Facts FAQs Issues all resulting in a Problem/Solution (dB) system which will have an interactive component.   We hope.  Keep yer fingers crossed. PLEASE! Give Us FeedBack via tools on this page: Our Information. What yours? Use the ... the NotePad is for posting to the public. Or give us ... FeedBack via e-mail.    How To HOW TO - a Guideline for Completing the Application for Registration in the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program. You must have a qualifying debilitating medical condition as listed on the Attending Physician's Statement. Debilitating Medical Condition: your physician Checks the appropriate boxes on the ATTENDING PHYSICIAN’S STATEMENT (see form )   1. Malignant neoplasm (Cancer)   2. Glaucoma   3. Positive status for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)   4. Agitation due to Alzheimer’s Disease   5. A medical condition or treatment for a medical condition that produces for a specific patient one or more of the following: (check all that apply)     a. Cachexia     b. Severe pain     c. Severe nausea     d. Seizures, including but not limited to seizures caused by epilepsy     e. Persistent muscle spasms, including but not limited to spasms caused by multiple sclerosis (1) Get Forms from the OHD (among other sources) and begin the process of Applying. The OMMP sometimes has packets at the front desk (Oregon Health Division, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland, OR 97232) and there are numerous organizations that also provide copies of the forms in print as well as thru their websites. Get and fill out the Application for Registration in the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act Program. If possible, go right to the source and call (971) 673-1226 and ask a representative of the Oregon Health Division for an OMMA application packet - or - write to OHD, P.O. Box 14450, Portland, OR 97293-0450 and they'll send you one. Or visit their website: http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/ommp/index.cfm … and download forms from there. MERCY also attempts to maintain a packet of Forms and Instructions in PDF format at: mercycenters.org/libry/OMMA Complete Packet.PDF NOTE: This file is 2 Megabytes in size, so allow time (1+ hours) if you only have dial-up internet service, as opposed to DSL or cable. Form Instruction NOTES: (a) Please complete Part A of the Application Form. Please provide a copy of a photo identification card as requested. If information on the front of the card is not current (for example, if your address has changed) please also photocopy the back of the id. (b) If a person over the age of 18 provides assistance to you, and you would like for that person to also receive a registration card, please complete Part B of the form, and provide a copy of photo i.d. of the primary caregiver. [Note: there is no additional fee for a primary caregiver registration card.] (c) Completion of Part C is optional. Please be sure to sign your name in Part D. (d) If you are a minor (under the age of 18), your parent or guardian must complete the Declaration of Person with Primary Custody of a Minor form. The form must also be notarized. (2) Set an appointment & have your doctor sign the Oregon Health Dept. form - or - get a copy of your chart notations showing medical marijuana "may help alleviate symptoms". Your physician must be an MD or a DO licensed to practice in Oregon under ORS 677. He or she must provide signed, valid, written documentation stating that you are his/her patient, that you have been diagnosed with a debilitating medical condition covered by the Act, and that the medical use of marijuana may mitigate the symptoms or effects of your condition. This documentation may be in the form of a copy of your chart notes, a letter, or the attached Attending Physician's Statement form. [Note: chart notes or a letter must include all elements of the Attending Physician's Statement form.] (3) Send in your application with registration fee. In order for your application to be complete, a fee of must be paid by check or money order. The fee is determined by the following: * $100 for new applications; * $100 for renewal applications; * $20 for applicants who are enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan or who receive federal Supplementary Social Security Income; this fee was formerly $50 per year. To qualify for the $20 fee, applicants must submit documentation that verifies they are on the Oregon Health Plan or are receiving Supplemental Social Security income Please make payable to: Oregon Health Division and send payment with your application forms and/or other materials. All information will be verified. (4) Wait. All information will be verified. Upon receipt of a complete application, you will be issued a medical marijuana registration card by the Oregon Health Division. Please call (971) 673-1226 if you have any questions. Some Basic Facts The role of the Oregon Department of Human Services, Health Services is simply to administer the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act as approved by the voters of this State. The Department did not write the law and does not have any authority to change it or to disregard its provisions. The principal goal of the OMMP is to make the registration process work smoothly and efficiently for qualified patients. You must be an Oregon resident to be a registered patient in the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program (OMMP). Your physician must be a Medical Doctor (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) licensed to practice medicine in Oregon. You must have an established patient/physician relationship with your "attending physician." Naturopaths, chiropractors, and nurse practitioners cannot sign the documentation. The OMMP cannot refer you to a physician. The OMMP does not have a physician referral list. You must list a grow site address on your application. You, or your designated primary caregiver, may grow your own medication. There is no place in the State of Oregon to legally purchase medical marijuana. The OMMP cannot find a designated primary caregiver for you. The OMMP does not keep a referral list of persons who want to be caregivers for patients. (You are not required to list a caregiver, unless you are less than 18 years old.) Your caregiver cannot be your physician. The OMMP cannot supply you with seeds or starter plants, or give you advice on how to grow medical marijuana. The application fee cannot be waived. Partial payments cannot be accepted.

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( skip to End )  |   ( next )  |   How To   |     ( prev )  |   ( go to Top )  More on Joining the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program (OMMP). Caregiver/Patient Guidelines The Oregon Medical Marijuana Act (OMMA) allows a qualified patient to designate any person to be their caregiver for the purposes of producing or using medical marijuana. This designated caregiver is then exempted from Oregon marijuana laws just as the patient is. There are various issues that need to be considered in this relationship. The Law Both patient and caregiver should be familiar with the provisions of OMMA. The full text of the law and related documents are provided by the Oregon Health Division with their applicants packet for patients and interested parties. Either write to the OHD at P.O. Box 14450, Portland, OR 97293-0450 -or- Call (971) 673-1226 and ask a representative to send you this information. If the garden is at the caregiver's residence, the caregiver can possess up to three dried ounces and the patient can possess up to one ounce at their residence. Either the patient or the caregiver can transport up to one ounce away from their residence. The garden can contain seven marijuana plants (3 mature). The garden must not be visible from a public place. Patients who exceed the explicit limits of the state law may also be protected by an affirmative defense or choice of evils defense. There are many cases where strict compliance with the limits will cause patients to suffer because they are not using enough medicine. In such cases, patients should get a statement from their doctor stating that they require greater amounts. All participants should be aware that federal law still prohibits marijuana possession although it is unlikely that an OMMP cardholder would be prosecuted. OMMA does not allow sale of marijuana under any circumstances. Costs There are costs associated with producing medical marijuana. Indoor gardens require lights, timers, fans, other equipment, and paying an electric bill. Outdoor gardens require soil, fertilizer, water, and other expenses. Costs vary greatly depending on individual circumstances and the size of the garden. OMMA does not allow the sale of marijuana under any circumstances but a patient paying the costs associated with a garden producing their medicine is not likely to be considered a sale. Patients and caregivers should agree on what, if any, contribution a patient will make towards expenses. Medical Issues The patient, in consultation with their physician, must ultimately be responsible for their own medical marijuana use. Caregivers can strive to provide a supply of high quality marijuana for patients to use; but they cannot take responsibility for the medical effects. Patients must inform themselves about the risks and benefits of using medical marijuana. Supply Shortfalls The grow-your-own system OMMA allows is much less dependable than a system allowing patients to buy medicine at a pharmacy or buyers club. It will take a caregiver 4-6 months to grow the first crop. Outdoor gardens will only produce one harvest each year. Indoor gardens can be subject to crop failures for a variety of reasons. Spider mites, over fertilizing, under fertilizing, and light cycle problems all can ruin a crop. The limit of three mature plants means there is no margin for error. Patients and caregivers should expect periods when they will have no medicine and should discuss some contingency plans. It can be helpful to be connected to a network of other patients and caregivers who might be able to help each other by providing a safety net. OMMA does allow any cardholder to give up to an ounce of marijuana to another cardholder. Some caregivers may purchase black market marijuana for patients, although this purchase is not fully protected by OMMA. Transportation Patients and caregivers should agree on who will transport the marijuana to the patient's residence. It is helpful if both parties have the same expectation about how this will occur. Disputes Patients and their caregivers should attempt to work out any disagreements themselves. The MCRC can provide advice and information about the law, but we are not trained mediators and have no legal standing to intervene. The relationship is between two individuals. The most common reason for problems is the caregiver being unable to supply an adequate amount of medical marijuana for the patient's needs. Patients should try to estimate their needs and agree that a caregiver will make a good faith effort to produce this much. Both parties should be aware that patients often use more medicine once they have a steady affordable supply. Planning for this may help avoid problems. Terminating the Relationship Either party can terminate the relationship at any time. However, termination puts the caregiver in a problematic situation because their garden ceases to be exempted from laws prohibiting marijuana. Changes in the relationship should be thoroughly considered, and, where possible, a written agreement drawn up beforehand. To get full advantage, be fully informed. Read the text of (OMMA) the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act, and the other documentation available, to understand the legal conditions and restrictions which govern medical growing and use of cannabis in Oregon. This info was from a number of sources, mostly the OMMP website. To make sure you are acting on the latest & greatest info, check with the OMMP before relying totally on data from this or any other source. When in doubt, they are the final arbiters and judges of the rules & regulations, so you might as well check with them first.   Contacting the Program   Contacting the OHD/OMMP: Oregon (Dept. of Human Resources) Health Division * Oregon Medical Marijuana Program * 800 NE Oregon Street, #21 * Portland, OR 97232-2162 Mail: DHS/OMMP * PO Box 14450 * Portland, OR 97293-0450 * Phone: 971-673-1226 Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM * Fax: 971-673-1278 * e-mail: OMMP.QA@state.or.us * WEBSITE: http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/ommp/

( skip to End )  |   ( next )  |   Cannabis is Medicine   |     ( prev )  |   ( go to Top )  Cannabis is medicine and has been so since mans ancestors first encountered it.   Archeology tells us more about the history of this fascinating and versatile plant every day.   Educate yourself and others on the issues surrounding it and its utilization. The IOM (Institute of Medicine) Report of 1999 is the most recent proof of this.   Visit:   www.nap.edu/catalog/6376.html The Oregon Medical Marijuana Act (OMMA), a ballot initiative approved by voters in 1998, allows patients to possess and grow small amounts of medial marijuana.  The law required DHS to create a registry system for persons authorized to use marijuana for medicinal purposes.  Applicants must provide a statement from their physician that they have a qualifying medical condition and that medical marijuana might alleviate their symptoms or disease.  Once their application is approved they are issued a registration card that is renewable annually.  For those who understand the utilization of cannabis as medicine, this is an invaluable option in therapy. Coming attractions! sections under construction: > Conditions | Symptoms | Medication | Strain of cannabis best suited.

   Right for You?

Cannabis is medicine. Is it the right one for you? In this section we talk about some of the conditions and symptoms where others have experienced relief through the application of cannabis.   We will try to list ailments involved and medications used along with the theraputic benefits and recommended titration (dosage) levels. Not only that, we want a real, honest assessment of the risks as well.   We want to build this into a reference for not only the healing properties of this plant but all the medical marijuana myths and facts. List Pros & Cons.  What is your condition?  Your current medication? Your doctors involvement is integral to the process.  We may be able to help educate your physician. Updated NORML Report Highlights Marijuana's Role In Moderating Disease Progression; 'Emerging Clinical Applications' Booklet Reviews Nearly 200 Studies On The Therapeutic Use Of Cannabis January 15, 2009 - Washington, DC, USA: Clinical and preclinical research on the therapeutic use of cannabis indicates that cannabinoids may curb the progression of various life-threatening diseases – including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and brain cancer, according to an updated report published today by the NORML Foundation. Now in it's third edition, NORML's revised report, "Emerging Clinical Applications for Cannabis & Cannabinoids: A Review of the Recent Scientific Literature, 2000 – 2009," reviews nearly 200 scientific trials assessing the therapeutic utility of cannabinoids for the treatment of nineteen clinical indications: Alzheimer's disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), chronic pain, diabetes mellitus, dystonia, fibromyalgia, gastrointestinal disorders, gliomas, hepatitis C, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hypertension, incontinence, methicillin-resistant Staphyloccus aureus (MRSA), multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, pruritus, rheumatoid arthritis, sleep apnea, and Tourette's syndrome. NORML Deputy Director Paul Armentano, who authored the report, said: "The conditions profiled in this report were chosen because patients frequently ask me about the use of cannabis to treat these disorders. Ideally, with this report in their hands, patients can now begin talking openly with their physicians about whether cannabis therapy is appropriate for them." For more information, Full text of the report is now available online at: norml.org. Hard copies will be available for purchase shortly. --- more Sources of Information --- Scientific Articles Online: The International Association of Cannabis as Medicine (IACM) Database on Clinical Studies and Case Reports   www.acmed.org/english/nav/home-science.htm GW Pharmaceuticals Research and Development (Cannabinoid Research Institute)   www.gwpharm.com/research_cri.asp O'Shaughnessy's Journal of the California Cannabis Research Medical Group (CCRMG)   www.ccrmg.org/journal.html 1999 Institute of Medicine/National Academy of Sciences Report   "Marijuana And Medicine: Assessing The Science Base"   By Janet E. Joy, Stanley J. Watson, Jr. And John Benson Jr., Editors  > www.nap.edu/catalog/6376.html For more Web sites to visit see Oregon Medical Marijuana Act (OMMA) & Oregonians for Medical Rights (OMR) Home Page:   http://www.omma1998.org/ and/or the MERCY Links page. Books to get and read: Is Marijuana the Right Medicine for You?  A Factual Guide to Medical Uses of Marijuana   by Bill Zimmerman, PhD with Rick Bayer, MD and Nancy Crumpacker, MD,  ISBN#0-87983-906-6   (Keats 1998). Chapter 3:  Why All the Controversy?  What Does The Research Actually Show?  is online at:   www.medmjscience.org/Media/pdf/chap3.pdf Cannabis and Cannabinoids: Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Therapeutic Potential  edited by Franjo Grotenhermen, MD and Ethan Russo, MD (Haworth Press 2002) The Oregon Medical Marijuana Guide: A Resource for Patients & Health Care Providers  by Ed Glick, RN   (Contigo-Conmigo 2001).  This is the most comprehensive guide to the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act.  It is available online at  www.or-coast.net/contigo/  and for purchase on CD - ROM or paper. Marijuana Medical Handbook by Rosenthal, Gieringer and Dr. Mikuriya,   "A Guide to Therapeutic Use".  ISBN#0-932551-16-5   $16.95 The Emperor Wears No Clothes By Jack Herer, The Original Hemp Bible.   ISBN#1-878125-02-8   $24.95 see more at the OMMA1998 website Medical Cannabis (Marijuana) Bibliography page:   http://www.omma1998.org/omr_mmj_bibliography.html

( skip to End )  |   ( next )  |   Procedure   |     ( prev )  |   ( go to Top )  OHD Procedure in detail, with pointers to Forms. Do's and Don'ts - FAQS from the OMMP. How to apply to have your condition added to the list. HOW TO - a Guideline for Completing the Application for Registration in the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program. (1) Get Forms from the OHD (among other sources) and begin the process of Applying. The OMMP sometimes has packets at the front desk (Oregon Health Division, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland, OR 97232) and there are numerous organizations that also provide copies of the forms in print as well as thru their websites. Get and fill out the Application for Registration in the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act Program. If possible, go right to the source and call (971) 673-1226 and ask a representative of the Oregon Health Division for an OMMA application packet - or - write to OHD, P.O. Box 14450, Portland, OR 97293-0450 and they'll send you one. Or visit their website: http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/ommp/index.cfm … and download forms from there. MERCY also attempts to maintain a packet of Forms and Instructions in PDF format at: mercycenters.org/libry/OMMA Complete Packet.PDF NOTE: This file is 2 Megabytes in size, so allow time (1+ hours) if you only have dial-up internet service, as opposed to DSL or cable. Form Instruction NOTES: (a) Please complete Part A of the Application Form. Please provide a copy of a photo identification card as requested. If information on the front of the card is not current (for example, if your address has changed) please also photocopy the back of the id. (b) If a person over the age of 18 provides assistance to you, and you would like for that person to also receive a registration card, please complete Part B of the form, and provide a copy of photo i.d. of the primary caregiver. [Note: there is no additional fee for a primary caregiver registration card.] (c) Completion of Part C is optional. Please be sure to sign your name in Part D. (d) If you are a minor (under the age of 18), your parent or guardian must complete the Declaration of Person with Primary Custody of a Minor form. The form must also be notarized. (2) Set an appointment & have your doctor sign the Oregon Health Dept. form - or - get a copy of your chart notations showing medical marijuana "may help alleviate symptoms". Your physician must be an MD or a DO licensed to practice in Oregon under ORS 677. He or she must provide signed, valid, written documentation stating that you are his/her patient, that you have been diagnosed with a debilitating medical condition covered by the Act, and that the medical use of marijuana may mitigate the symptoms or effects of your condition. This documentation may be in the form of a copy of your chart notes, a letter, or the attached Attending Physician's Statement form. [Note: chart notes or a letter must include all elements of the Attending Physician's Statement form.] (3) Send in your application with registration fee. In order for your application to be complete, a fee of must be paid by check or money order. The fee is determined by the following: * $100 for new applications; * $100 for renewal applications; * $20 for applicants who are enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan or who receive federal Supplementary Social Security Income; this fee was formerly $50 per year. To qualify for the $20 fee, applicants must submit documentation that verifies they are on the Oregon Health Plan or are receiving Supplemental Social Security income Please make payable to: Oregon Health Division and send payment with your application forms and/or other materials. All information will be verified. (4) Wait. All information will be verified. Upon receipt of a complete application, you will be issued a medical marijuana registration card by the Oregon Health Division. Please call (971) 673-1226 if you have any questions.

( skip to End )  |   ( next )  |   Policy   |     ( prev )  |   ( go to Top )  Policy, laws, etc.  Legal references; For legal info - State laws, rules, statues, legal decisions, etc. - click > here <. Patient rights!  Ie- NO Reciprocity - you are only legal in Oregon.   NOTE: You have a medical necessity defense even if you don't have your card yet. FAQS - Frequently Asked QuestionS The Oregon Medical Marijuana Program (OMMP) receives many questions that are not answered in the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act (OMMA, 1998), Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS), Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR), or the application.  The information provided here, initially from the OMMP website, is an effort to help you understand the role of the OMMP, its benefits and limitations.   See OMMPs FAQs Page at: http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/ommp/top20.cfm 1) Can the OMMP refer me to a physician? No. The names of physicians who have submitted forms, letters, or chart notes for their patients are confidential, and the OMMP does not have a physician referral list.   See the MERCY Orgz list for resources in this area. 2) Where do I get the seeds or plants to start growing medical marijuana? The OMMP is not a resource for the growing process and does not have information to give to patients.   See the MERCY Orgz list for resources in this area. 3) What do I have to pay for an OMMP registry identification card? The fee for a NEW application is $100.00 OR $20.00 if you are on the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or if you are receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) monthly benefits. SSI is NOT the same as Social Security Disability (SSD). The fee for a RENEWAL application is $100.00 OR $20.00 if you are on the OHP or if you are receiving SSI monthly benefits. SSI is NOT the same as SSD. OHP: "Oregon Health Plan" means the medical assistance program administered by the Department under ORS chapter 414. Eligibility in the Oregon Health Plan is demonstrated by providing a current, valid eligibility determination statement from the Department's Office of Medical Assistance Programs. To qualify for a reduced fee, a copy of the patient's current eligibility statement must be provided at the time the patient submits an application. The Department will verify the patient's Oregon Health Plan eligibility with the Office of Medical Assistance Programs. SSI: "Supplemental Security Income" means the monthly benefit assistance program administered by the federal government for persons who are age 65 or older, or blind, or disabled and who have limited income and financial resources. Eligibility for Supplemental Security Income is demonstrated by providing a copy of a receipt of a current monthly benefit. To qualify for a reduced fee, a copy of a receipt of a current Supplemental Security Income monthly benefit must be provided at the time the patient submits an application. The Department will verify the patient's current Supplemental Security Income receipt of monthly benefits through the Department or with the Social Security Administration. See Oregon Administrative Rule 333-008-0020 for more information. 4) I do not have the money for the application fee. Is it a one-time payment? Can it be waived? Can I make installment payments? Will my insurance pay? Can I pay with my credit card? The answer to all these questions is "no". The fee must be paid in full with each new or renewal application. Make your check or money order payable to "OMMP". You may pay in person at the State Office Building cashier's office in Portland. 5) Why do I need to have a physician sign and date the form or send a chart note to the OMMP? Why can't I just provide my medical records? According to the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act (Section 4 (2)(a)), and OAR 333-008-0020(1)(a), a physician must state in writing that the patient has a qualifying debilitating medical condition and that medical marijuana may mitigate the symptoms or effects of that condition. The OMMP accepts medical records as long as they clearly state the physician is aware that medical marijuana is being used as a treatment and he or she believes the patient may benefit from the use of medical marijuana. The physician must sign and date the relevant portions of medical records you send to the OMMP. The OMMP contacts each physician during the application process to verify the patient is under the physician's care. A signed and dated "Attending Physician's Statement," copies of chart notes or medical records must be current within 3 months of the date of a person's new or renewal application. 6) Why are only MDs (Medical Doctors) and DOs (Doctors of Osteopathy) qualified to sign the "Attending Physician's Statement" of the application? Why not naturopaths, chiropractors, or nurse practitioners? Does the physician have to be licensed in Oregon? The Oregon Medical Marijuana Act states that an "attending physician" means a physician licensed under ORS chapter 677 (OAR 333-008-0010(1)). MDs and DOs are the physicians licensed under this chapter. The law also specifies that a physician must be licensed in Oregon. The OMMP verifies with the Board of Medical Examiners that each patient's attending physician has a valid license to practice medicine in Oregon and has no disqualifying restrictions. 7) Do I have to list a "grow site" address on my application (that is, the address where I plan to grow my medical marijuana)?? Yes. OAR 333-008-0020(1)(b) requires the patient to provide the OMMP with the address where his or her marijuana will be manufactured or produced--that is, a "grow site" address. The OMMP is aware that some patients do not plan to grow their medical marijuana and at the time of making a new or renewal application, may not yet have a designated primary caregiver and/or may not be certain where their grow site will be. For this requirement, the OMMP offers patients two options. First, the patient knows the physical address where his or her medical marijuana will be grown and provides this address to the OMMP on the application form. Second, the patient is not certain where his or her medical marijuana will be grown and provides the physical address where the medical marijuana will most likely be grown. A PO Box is not permitted as a grow site address. You and your caregiver are not protected from criminal laws if: (1) your grow site address is not registered with the OMMP; (2) you provide the OMMP with incorrect grow site address information; or (3) you fail to inform the OMMP of any change in grow site information within 30 days of any such change (ORS 475.316). 8) What if other people are at my grow site besides my primary caregiver and me. Are these other people protected from civil and criminal penalties? There is a section on the back of the application forms for you to list the names and dates of birth of any other persons who may be at the grow site, other than the patient and/or the designated primary caregiver. The OMMP will include this information in the patient's file and will verify these other names with law enforcement personnel only if an officer asks about a specific name(s) of a person who may be at a grow site. You are not required to list the names and dates of birth of other persons who may be at the grow site; this information is optional. OTHER PERSONS WHO MAY BE AT THE GROW SITE ARE NOT PROTECTED FROM CIVIL OR CRIMINAL PENALITIES! 9) Do I have to tell my landlord that I am a patient in the OMMP? Can my landlord evict me if I am a patient in the OMMP and have my grow site in my rental housing? Can I live in subsidized housing and be a patient in the OMMP? It is up to you to decide whether or not to tell your landlord that you are a patient in the OMMP. Nothing in the OMMA specifically addresses whether or not you can be evicted because you are a patient in the OMMP, even if you have only the amount of medical marijuana allowed by law. Nothing in OMMP laws specifically addresses whether or not a person can be an OMMP patient and live in subsidized housing. If you have questions about these important issues, the OMMP recommends you talk to your personal attorney to learn about your rights and protections. 10) Do I have to tell the OMMP if I change my mailing address, add or remove a designated primary caregiver, or change my grow site address? The answer to all these questions is "yes". You are required to tell the OMMP in writing of any such changes within 30 days of the change. The OMMP does not accept changes of information over the telephone. The OMMP only accepts written changes about the patient's address, designated primary caregiver, or grow site from the registered patient. You may send your changes to the OMMP by mail, by fax, or in person. At this time, if you make a change after your registry identification card has been issued, the OMMP will not issue a new card to you. You will get written confirmation from the OMMP that the change was received. Your changes will be made in our computer database and will be put in your file. You will be protected from civil and criminal penalties for these changes. 11) What happens to my application once I mail it? What if I don't send in all the required parts of my application? The OMMP will review your application to make sure it is complete and all parts are current. If your application is complete, you will get a "complete letter" from the OMMP letting you know your registry identification card will be issued within 30 days after the OMMP receives verification from your attending physician. On the same day the OMMP sends you a "complete letter," we mail a "verification letter" to your attending physician. The purpose of this letter is to verify that you are a patient of this physician, and for a new application, that you are affected by a debilitating medical condition covered by the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act, and that medical marijuana may reduce the symptoms of your condition. If you are renewing your application, the verification letter to your attending physician is to verify that you are his or her patient. If you don't send in all the required parts of your application, the OMMP will send you an "incomplete letter" telling you what parts of your application are missing. The incomplete letter gives you 14 days from the date of the letter to get the missing parts to the OMMP and tells you the terms under which your application may be denied. When you get all missing parts of your application to the OMMP, you will be sent a "complete letter" and the OMMP will verify your status with your attending physician. 12) Do I need to keep a copy of my application and any other information I send to the OMMP? Yes! You are strongly urged to keep copies of everything you send to the OMMP at any time now or in the future. For example, the copy of your application is your proof of protection until you are issued a registry identification card. 13) Why can't I go to a pharmacy to fill a prescription for medical marijuana? Pharmacies can only dispense medications "prescribed" by licensed medical practitioners. The federal government classifies marijuana as a Schedule I drug, which means licensed medical practitioners cannot prescribe it. The Oregon Medical Marijuana Act allows patients to grow their own medical marijuana for private use. 14) Is the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act recognized by other states? Can I travel to another state with medical marijuana and my OMMP registry identification card and not be arrested or charged with civil or criminal penalties? At this time, the OMMP is not aware of any "reciprocity" agreements with any other states to honor the Oregon law. This includes even those states that have medical marijuana laws of their own, such as Washington and California. At this time, the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act is only recognized within our State 15) Is my confidentiality protected? Yes.  The OMMP does not give out lists of patients or physicians.   Law enforcement personnel may call the OMMP only to verify a specific name or address of a patient or caregiver.  The OMMP will tell law enforcement staff if the patient, caregiver, or address in question is registered, or if an application is in process.   The OMMP will disclose patient information to others only at the specific written request of the patient.  OMMP computer files are secure and paper files are kept locked when not in use. Read more 16) What should I tell my employer if I am subjected to a drug test? The Oregon Medical Marijuana Act states that employers are not required to accommodate employees who use medical marijuana. It is up to you to decide whether or not to tell your employer that you are a patient in the OMMP. The OMMP has heard that several employers treat medical marijuana like any prescription drug that might impair ability; however, this is not true in all situations. A patient may contact the OMMP in writing to ask the Program to release information about the patient's registration to an employer. 17) It is time to renew my card and my physician's clinic has adopted a policy of not signing "Attending Physician's Statements". A renewal application does not require a statement from a physician regarding the use of medical marijuana; however, a renewal does require the patient to demonstrate that his or her debilitating medical condition continues. You can submit a copy of relevant portions of your medical records made by your physician within 3 months of your application date. The records must be signed and dated by the physician. The OMMP urges patients to work closely with their attending physicians throughout the application process. 18) I live within 1000 feet of a school, AKA a "drug free zone". Can I still grow and/or possess my medical marijuana there? The Oregon Medical Marijuana Act (OMMA) does not address this issue. For questions about laws other than the OMMA, please contact your local law enforcement agency for guidance. 19) Can I have someone else sign and date my application (a "proxy") if I am physically unable to do so? Yes, as long as the individual signing your application identifies him or herself as your proxy next to his or her signature on your application. 20) How are the laws and rules of the OMMA enforced? The OMMP enforces the registration process-making sure applications are complete before issuing a registry identification card, denying incomplete or fraudulent applications, and suspending cards if persons commit violations of the OMMA. The OMMP verifies the names and addresses of patients, caregivers, and grow sites with local and state law enforcement personnel if they call the OMMP requesting such information. Local and state law enforcement agencies enforce the OMMA around the State-that is, they may check to see if patients or caregivers possess or are growing the amount of medical marijuana allowed by law. Local and state law enforcement personnel may take any action they believe is necessary to enforce the criminal laws of the State, including violations of the OMMA. Local and state law enforcement actions may vary from county-to-county and district-to-district. The OMMP has no authority to direct the activities of local and state law enforcement agencies. See the latest OMMP FAQs at: http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/ommp/top20.cfm

( skip to End )  |   ( next )  |   Doctors   |     ( prev )  |   ( go to Top )  What are the requirements?   Finding a physician thats right for you.   Educating health care professionals and supporting doctors (as well as yours!) rights and responsibilites in the realtionship.   (legal) Analysis and documentation of the proper (BME) procedures and communication of the same.   (Medical) Information to educate your physician about cannabis as medicine.   The Oregon Medical Marijuana Act was adopted by voters at the November 3, 1998 general election (Ballot Measure 67).  The Act was amended by House bill 3052, passed during the 1999 legislative session. Download the administrative rules for printing (PDF format) by clicking here > OARS 333-008, or browse through the rules at the Oregon State Archives Website >   http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/rules/OARs_300/OAR_333/333_008.html. The Act intends: (1) To allow Oregonians with debilitating medical conditions who may benefit from the medical use of marijuana to receive the benefit of their doctor's professional advice regarding the possible risks and benefits of medical marijuana; (2) To allow Oregonians suffering from debilitating medical conditions to use small amounts of marijuana without fear of civil or criminal penalties when their doctors advise that such use may provide a medical benefit to them; and (3) To make only those changes to existing Oregon laws that are necessary to protect patients and their doctors from criminal and civil penalties, and are not intended to change current civil and criminal laws governing the use of marijuana for non-medical purposes. Reference - Dr. Marcus Conant, et al., v. McCaffrey et al.   This September 7, 2000, US District Court held that the US Government could not punish physicians for voicing their professional opinions based on their best medical judgment.   Go to: http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/ommp/conantmc.cfm Dr. Marcus Conant, et. al., v. John P. Walters, et. al.   This October 29, 2002, decision by the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld an earlier decision that the US Government could not punish physicians for voicing their professional opinions based on their best medical judgment (Conant v. McCaffrey, September 7, 2000).   The Court of Appeals decision upholds the First Amendments rights of physicians who recommend the use of medical marijuana for their patients.   Go to: http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/ommp/conantapeal.cfm a NOTE:   Nine years after the passage of the Compassionate Use Act of 1996 there has been an ongoing battle of the federal government to attempts to roll back California law.  Despite injunctive protection DEA operatives have been part of a continuing RICO to suborn Conant v. McCaffrey.   At least nine medical marijuana physicians have been the victims of Federal / State / Local actions with complaints to the Medical Board.  As one of the responents to this assault, my adverse finding is on appeal to Superior court.   I request the opportunity for us California physicians who are critical to the survival of CUA and Oregon physicians who are under similar assault on OMMA 1998 by medical board to present our cases to the conference.   Through continuing investigative journalism, Fred Gardner and Patrick McCartney should be part of the presentation who can document the continuing criminal justice conspiracy to suborn Calfornia law and federal injunctive relief. Tod Mikuriya, M.D. Society for Cannabis Clinicians drtod@mikuriya.com

( skip to End )  |   ( next )  |   Growing   |     ( prev )  |   ( go to Top )  Growing and otherwise obtaining medicine.

( skip to End )  |   ( next )  |   Networking   |     ( prev )  |   ( go to Top )  Networking with other Patients and related Organizations. Expectations. Selecting a CareGiver.

( skip to End )  |   ( next )  |   Application   |     ( prev )  |   ( go to Top )  Application of your medicine. Whether inhaled (smoked, vaporized), consumed (food or drink) or other (tictures, oils, etc.) Titrating your dosage.

( skip to End )  |   ( next )  |   CHANGE!   |     ( prev )  |   ( go to Top )  Tired of all this hassle? Make a change, take action. End the War! Advocacy and Activism. Legislation; Candidates and Initiatives. Action Items Help educate your circle of support about OMMA and the beneficial properties of marijuana and cannabis in general. Help with the implementation of the OMMP. For legal info - State laws, rules, statues, legal decisions, etc. - click > here <. --- How can I help implement OMMA? --- As an Individual … As a Patient - remember YOU represent the cause; Don't flaunt your medical marijuana usage. While you should feel free to talk openly about the therapeutic benefits of cannabis for yourself - and proudly display your banners, which give you an opportunity to educate - you should also be considerate and always discrete in obtaining and consuming your medicine. Medicating should be personal and you should handle it as you would any other medicine. This especially includes educating family and friends, most notably children. Situations where people may mistakenly consume (ie- unmarked brownies) or otherwise be affected by some aspect (ie- second-hand smoke) must be expected and proactively managed. See Caregiver/Patient Guidelines, above. As a Patient/Caregiver - tell everyone your anecdotal experience (what happen to your own body, or that of someone you cared for, in your own words) when medical marijuana was utilized as opposed to other drugs. Help educate your circle of support about OMMA and the medical properties of marijuana and in general. As a Concerned Citizen - Educate yourself fully and ACT. Research, network, follow up and learn as much as you can so you can effectively share the information with others that think they are opposed. Stay in the loop and be aware of legislative, organizational or business activities that may effect yourself and/or those you care about. Constantly write to legislators, media, businesses and organizations and let them know the good news. Organized efforts; joining us -or- forming your own (individual -or- group effort) other Organizations to consider … > see list. Join a local group of patients and caregivers. By keeping in the loop, you’ll be apprised of the latest developments in the field and alert you when a vote is scheduled and the need is crucial for a letter to your state or federal elected officials. You'll be informed of state and regional events where you can meet other advocates and help shape reform efforts. Members and associates are needed to carry out these efforts: Speaking before public interest and community groups. Postering and passing out flyers. Staffing information tables at public events and concerts. Letter-writing campaigns and phone trees. Producing benefit concerts - including musicians, nightclub managers, owners, booking agents and technical workers. Donating money, goods or services, e.g. photocopying, printing and design work. Launching a particular project for which you need the help of other volunteers and/or an organizations authorization to act in its name. The contacts listed on the MERCY Orgz list are a few of the activists and groups dedicated to the implementation of OMMA and welcome inquiries from those with questions or issues.  They provide one or more of the following services:  Doctor Referrals and Patient Networks;  either a caregiver (how to grow) or related Organization formed to help patients get their medicine.  They may have Doctor referrals or help on filling out forms as well as contact with current Patients.  Caveat emptor!  Each has it's own rules and regulations, please study & research thoroughly before committing resources.

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|    Home   |   About   |   Contact   |   Donate   |   GuestBook   |   Action   |   Library   |   OMMA   |   Biz   |   Links   |   News   |   Legislation   |   Events   |   Calendar   |   Orgz   | Comments, questions and suggestions? To communicate ideas, changes or requests for further information about these pages -or- for compliments, complaints or to report broken links with the web site in general, you can eMail the Webster.   Also, feel free to visit the Guestbook and leave a note. You are visitor # 42391!     (since 8/11/2002)  Thanx for stopping by. Tell your friends. Tell your enemies!   This page ( /omma.html ) was last modified on:  Monday, 09-Aug-2010 17:28:03 PDT

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