Medical Cannabis Evaluations

To promote safe use, Melissa Schlothauer, PMHNP-BC provides medical cannabis evaluations in accordance with Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) regulations. This page is designed to help you understand the evaluation process, what to expect, and how medical cannabis may be considered as one part of an overall treatment plan when appropriate.

What is a medical cannabis evaluation?

A medical cannabis evaluation is a clinical assessment conducted by a licensed practitioner to determine whether you have a qualifying condition under Maryland law and whether medical cannabis may be appropriate to consider within your broader care plan.

Medical cannabis is never viewed as a stand-alone solution, but rather as one possible tool among many that may support symptom relief and overall well-being.

Cost of the evaluation

Medical cannabis evaluations are not covered by insurance.

  • Standalone medical cannabis evaluation: $115

  • Milestone patients: No additional fee beyond your regular visit

Our approach

At The Milestone Center, we integrate medical cannabis thoughtfully into comprehensive mental health and medical care.

Please note that medical cannabis evaluations are not covered by insurance and must be paid out-of-pocket at the time of the visit. This is because the evaluation is a state-regulated certification service rather than a medical service that can be billed to insurance.

If you are already an established patient at The Milestone Center, you may simply discuss whether medical cannabis is an appropriate option during your regular appointment.

What the evaluation includes

Your visit will include:

  • Review of medical and mental health history

  • Discussion of current symptoms and past treatments

  • Education regarding potential risks, benefits, and limitations

  • Careful review of medication interactions and safety considerations

  • Determination of whether you meet Maryland’s qualifying criteria

A certification is not automatic and is based on clinical judgment and Maryland regulations.

Important safety considerations

Medical cannabis is not appropriate for everyone. Special consideration is given to:

  • History of psychosis or bipolar disorder

  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding

  • Substance use history

  • Medication interactions

  • Age and developmental factors

Your safety and long-term well-being are always the priority.

Steps to becoming a medical cannabis patient in Maryland

Before your appointment, you must register with the Maryland Cannabis Administration as a patient.

Step 1

Register as a patient with the MCA here:
👉 https://mmcc.maryland.gov

Step 2

Schedule your evaluation with our office.

Step 3

If a certification is issued, you may visit any licensed Maryland dispensary.

We do not sell cannabis products or direct patients to specific dispensaries. Guidance is provided regarding general safety and responsible use.

Request an evaluation

If you would like to request a medical cannabis evaluation, please click below and complete the secure appointment request form and our office will contact you to schedule.

We are committed to providing careful, thoughtful, and respectful care for every individual we see.

Notes on Cannabis Education

Cannabis contains many compounds, including cannabinoids like THC and CBD and aromatic terpenes that contribute to aroma, flavor, and potentially different effects. Research suggests that these compounds can interact synergistically; sometimes referred to as the entourage effect.

It’s important to approach cannabis education with reliable information rather than marketing claims. Learning how to read product labels, check third-party lab results, and understand cannabinoids and terpenes can help you make more informed decisions if you choose to use medical cannabis.

Cannabinoids & Terpenes Basics

How to Choose & Understand Products

  • Cannabis Shopping Guide for First-Timers (Realm of Caring) — Tips on reading product labels, understanding lab tests (like COA reports), and choosing responsibly. Cannabis Shopping Guide for First‑Timers

  • Cannabis Strains: Types, Effects, and What to Know (Recovered.org) — A balanced education on how different cannabinoids and terpene profiles relate to effects and experience. Cannabis Strains: Types & Effects

Suggested Reading (deeper dive)

  • The Cannabis Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to Cultivation & Consumption — A comprehensive patient-friendly book on plant biology, cannabinoids, and terpene science.

  • The Big Book of Terps — Detailed resource on terpenes and their roles in cannabis profiles (for more curious learners).

Notes on Cannabis Use and Support

Cannabis use is common, and while many people use it without significant problems, some individuals may develop a cannabis use disorder, where use becomes difficult to control and interferes with goals or relationships. Resources below can help with education, support groups, and treatment if use feels problematic.

Additional Resources

Maryland Medical Cannabis Information

Substance Use & Addiction Support

  • SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) — National resources on substance use disorders, treatment options, and recovery support. SAMHSA – Behavioral Health & Substance Use Resources

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Free, 24/7 confidential support for crisis situations (call or text 988) and help navigating care.

Cannabis Use & Cannabis Use Disorder Resources

Local & Maryland Treatment Options

Click to request a medical cannabis evaluation
Click to request a medical cannabis evaluation