What Conditions Qualify for Medical Marijuana Cards in Massachusetts in 2024?

In 2024, Massachusetts continues to recognize a range of serious health conditions that qualify individuals for medical marijuana cards. These conditions are typically ones that significantly impact a patient’s daily life and where traditional treatments may have been insufficient.

Recognized Debilitating Conditions

Patients may qualify if they are diagnosed with one or more of the following serious ailments:

  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) – Also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disease.
  • Cancer – Including all types that produce chronic pain or severe side effects from treatment.
  • Crohn’s Disease – An inflammatory bowel disease causing severe intestinal distress.
  • Hepatitis C – A viral infection causing liver inflammation, sometimes leading to serious health issues.
  • Multiple Sclerosis – A disease in which the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerves.
  • Parkinson’s Disease – A neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement.
  • HIV/AIDS – Viral diseases that weaken the immune system.

Additional Qualifying Conditions

In addition to the primary debilitating conditions, Massachusetts also recognizes several other health issues that can make patients eligible for medical marijuana use. These include:

  • Anxiety and Depression
  • PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
  • Seizures or Muscle Spasms
  • Anorexia or Cachexia – Often associated with weakness and wasting of the body.
  • Glaucoma – A condition that damages the eye’s optic nerve.
  • Insomnia – Severe or chronic sleep disturbances.
  • Sarcoma – A type of cancer that occurs in bones and soft tissues.
  • Severe Nausea
  • Arthritis – Inflammatory or degenerative condition affecting the joints.
  • ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
  • Chronic Pain – Persistent pain often resistant to other treatments.

Physicians may also recommend medical marijuana for other conditions not explicitly listed, provided they can justify the need in writing. This ensures that patients have access to treatment options best suited to their specific health needs.