Frequently Asked Questions
TriVerde Health & Wellness
Frequently Asked Questions
TriVerde Health & Wellness helps qualified Florida patients with medical marijuana certification, renewals, transfers, state card assistance, education, route changes, and ongoing support.
Our goal is simple: make the process easier, clearer, and more comfortable. We are physician-led, senior-friendly, veteran-friendly, Pride-inclusive, and focused on old school full-service care.
This FAQ is educational and is not legal advice. Florida medical marijuana rules can change, and each patient must be evaluated individually by a qualified physician.
Florida Medical Marijuana Card Questions
What does TriVerde Health & Wellness do?
TriVerde helps qualified Florida patients with medical marijuana certification, renewals, transfers, state card assistance, route education, renewal reminders, and ongoing white-glove support.
We do not sell cannabis, and we are not owned by a dispensary. Our role is to help patients understand the medical certification process, the state card process, the Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry, and the next steps after approval.
Where is TriVerde located?
TriVerde Health & Wellness is located in downtown St. Petersburg:
31 Beach Drive SE, Suite 31
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Call or text: 727-322-4588
Website: www.TriVerde.com
Do I need to live in Florida to qualify?
Yes. To qualify for the Florida medical marijuana program, a patient must be a permanent Florida resident or a qualifying seasonal Florida resident, be diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition by a qualified physician, be entered into the Medical Marijuana Use Registry, and obtain a Medical Marijuana Use Registry identification card.
Can seasonal residents or snowbirds qualify?
Yes. Seasonal Florida residents may qualify if they meet Florida residency requirements and can provide the required proof of Florida residency. This is especially important for snowbirds and part-time Florida residents who spend part of the year in Florida and part of the year in another state.
TriVerde can help seasonal residents understand what proof may be needed before the appointment and during the state card process.
What medical conditions qualify in Florida?
Florida law lists qualifying medical conditions that include cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV, AIDS, PTSD, ALS, Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to those listed, terminal conditions, and chronic nonmalignant pain.
Can anxiety, arthritis, back pain, insomnia, migraines, or other conditions qualify?
Possibly. Florida allows a qualified physician to evaluate certain medical conditions that are of the same kind or class as, or comparable to, the listed qualifying conditions. Many patients come to TriVerde with symptoms such as chronic pain, anxiety-related symptoms, sleep difficulty, inflammation, migraines, or other quality-of-life concerns.
The physician must review your medical history and determine whether you qualify under Florida law. TriVerde cannot guarantee qualification before the physician evaluation.
Do I need medical records?
Medical records are helpful, but we understand that not every patient has easy access to them. Helpful information may include diagnosis history, physician notes, imaging reports, medication lists, surgical history, pain-management records, mental-health records, or records showing chronic symptoms.
TriVerde will guide you on what information is useful before your visit. The physician must complete a medical history review and determine whether your condition qualifies.
Is my first visit in person?
Yes. Florida requires an in-person physical examination before a physician may issue an initial medical marijuana certification. The physician must be physically present in the same room as the patient for the initial certification.
Can renewals be done by phone or telehealth?
Yes, in many cases. Florida allows renewal examinations by telehealth after a qualified physician has already issued a certification to that patient following an in-person physical examination. This is one reason many established TriVerde patients appreciate our renewal support.
If I transfer to TriVerde from another doctor, can my first TriVerde visit be by phone?
No. If you are changing qualified physicians, the new physician must conduct an in-person physical examination first. After that in-person visit with the new physician, future renewals may be eligible for telehealth.
State Card and Registry Questions
What is the difference between the physician certification and the state card?
Your physician certification is the doctor’s authorization entered into the Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry. Your state card is the Medical Marijuana Use Registry identification card issued through the Florida Department of Health Office of Medical Marijuana Use, often called OMMU.
Both pieces matter. TriVerde helps patients understand and track both timelines: the physician certification timeline and the annual state card timeline.
How long does the physician certification last?
A qualified physician may issue up to three 70-day supply limits for medical marijuana, which is commonly referred to as a 210-day certification. Smoking orders are handled in 35-day supply limits.
How long does the Florida state card last?
The Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry identification card is renewed annually. The expiration date appears on the front of the card. Patients and caregivers may begin the renewal process within the 45-day window before the card expires.
How much is the state card fee?
The state application fee is separate from TriVerde’s physician fee. The state fee is paid to the Florida Department of Health/OMMU. Online payment may include a convenience fee.
How long does state approval take?
Online applications often take approximately 10 business days for state approval, although timing can vary. Paper applications may take longer because of mailing and processing time.
What if I need help with the state card application?
That is part of TriVerde’s white-glove support. We help patients understand the state process, renewal timing, proof of residency, payment steps, and common issues that can delay approval.
What if the state cannot verify my Florida residency?
Sometimes the state system cannot automatically match a patient’s information through the Florida driver license or ID system. If that happens, additional proof of residency may be needed. TriVerde can help you understand what the state is asking for and what documents may help resolve the issue.
Appointment and Service Questions
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring:
· A valid Florida driver license or Florida ID, or seasonal residency documents if applicable.
· Any relevant medical records, medication list, diagnosis history, imaging reports, or physician notes.
· Your phone and email access for state and registry steps.
· Your questions.
· A caregiver, spouse, adult child, or trusted support person if you would like help.
How long does an appointment take?
Most visits are efficient, but we do not want patients to feel rushed. New patient visits include review, physician evaluation, education, and next-step guidance. Renewal visits are often shorter, especially when the patient is already established.
Do I see a real physician?
Yes. TriVerde is physician-led. Your certification decision is made by a qualified physician.
Do you help with renewals?
Yes. TriVerde helps patients track both the physician certification renewal and the annual state card renewal. These are two different timelines, and many patients accidentally confuse them. We help monitor both.
Do you help with transfers from another clinic?
Yes. If you are already in the Florida medical marijuana program and want to transfer to TriVerde, we can help. A transfer to a new qualified physician requires an in-person examination first, but future renewals may be eligible for telehealth.
Do you help seniors?
Yes. Many TriVerde patients are older adults who want clear guidance, a slower pace, education, and help with the state process. We are comfortable helping seniors, caregivers, spouses, adult children, and family members understand the steps.
Do you help veterans?
Yes. TriVerde welcomes veterans and understands that many veterans seek medical cannabis education for pain, sleep, PTSD-related symptoms, anxiety, inflammation, and quality-of-life concerns. Qualification is still determined by the physician under Florida law.
Are you Pride-inclusive?
Yes. TriVerde welcomes LGBTQ+ patients, spouses, partners, caregivers, and chosen family. Our goal is to provide respectful, private, and judgment-free care.
Medical Cannabis Education Questions
What is the endocannabinoid system, or ECS?
The endocannabinoid system, often called the ECS, is a natural signaling system in the body. It helps regulate many functions, including pain, mood, appetite, sleep, memory, inflammation, and balance within the body.
Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids. The best-known cannabinoids are THC and CBD. These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in different ways. THC is the main intoxicating compound in cannabis. CBD is not intoxicating in the same way and may be used in different product ratios depending on the patient’s goals and physician guidance.
Why does TriVerde educate patients about the ECS?
Many patients come to medical cannabis with little or no experience. Understanding the ECS helps patients see medical cannabis as more than just smoking marijuana. It is a medical program involving cannabinoids, routes of administration, product types, timing, dosing, safety, and individual response.
TriVerde helps patients ask better questions, understand product labels, communicate with dispensary staff, and use their physician certification more confidently.
What are cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are active compounds found in the cannabis plant. The most familiar are:
· THC - the primary intoxicating cannabinoid.
· CBD - a non-intoxicating cannabinoid commonly used in different ratios with THC.
· Minor cannabinoids - such as CBG, CBN, CBC, THCV, and others, which may appear in certain products.
Different products may contain different ratios of THC, CBD, minor cannabinoids, and terpenes.
What are terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis and many other plants. They help create the smell and flavor of different cannabis products and may contribute to the overall patient experience.
Common terpene names patients may see include myrcene, limonene, pinene, linalool, beta-caryophyllene, terpinolene, and humulene.
Patients should not choose products based only on a name such as indica or sativa. Product experience can also depend on THC/CBD ratio, terpene profile, route, dose, tolerance, timing, medications, and the patient’s own body chemistry.
What is the difference between indica, sativa, and hybrid?
Dispensaries often use the terms indica, sativa, and hybrid to help patients describe general product categories.
Traditionally, indica is often associated with relaxation, body comfort, evening use, and sleep support. Sativa is often associated with alertness, daytime use, mood, creativity, or focus. Hybrid means the product may combine characteristics of both.
However, these labels are not perfect. Modern cannabis products are often hybrids, and a patient’s experience may depend more on cannabinoid ratio, terpene profile, route, dose, tolerance, timing, and personal response than the label alone.
How should a new patient think about indica, sativa, or hybrid products?
A simple starting point is:
· Daytime goals: patients often ask about products described as sativa-leaning or balanced hybrid.
· Evening goals: patients often ask about products described as indica-leaning or relaxing hybrid.
· Pain or inflammation goals: patients may ask about THC/CBD ratios, topical products, oral products, and terpene profiles.
· Sleep goals: patients often ask about evening products, lower starting doses, and timing.
· Anxiety-sensitive patients: patients may want to ask about lower THC, CBD-containing products, slow titration, and avoiding overly stimulating products.
TriVerde does not sell cannabis and does not push one dispensary or product. We help patients understand how to ask better questions and how to start low, go slow, and observe their response.
What are routes of administration?
Routes of administration are the approved ways a patient may use medical cannabis. The physician enters the authorized routes into the Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry as part of the physician certification.
Common routes may include:
· Oral - capsules, tablets, tinctures, oils, or edibles.
· Sublingual - products placed under the tongue, often tinctures.
· Inhalation - vaporized products, when authorized.
· Smoking - flower for smoking, when authorized and medically appropriate.
· Topical - creams, gels, lotions, balms, or patches applied to the skin.
· Edibles - commercially produced food items made with marijuana oil by a licensed Florida MMTC.
· Suppository - products inserted rectally or vaginally, when available and appropriate.
Why do routes matter?
Routes matter because different routes may feel different, work at different speeds, and last for different amounts of time. For example, inhaled products may have a faster onset, while oral or edible products may take longer to start and may last longer. Topicals may be used differently than inhaled or oral products.
Because patients respond differently, route education is an important part of safe and comfortable medical cannabis use.
What if my route is missing?
If a route is missing from your Registry order, a dispensary may not be able to dispense that product type to you. Contact TriVerde and we can review whether a route change request should be discussed with the physician.
Can TriVerde change or add routes?
Yes, when medically appropriate and authorized by the physician. TriVerde can help established patients understand route options and communicate route needs to the physician.
Where do patients shop after approval?
After the physician certification is entered and the state card process is active/approved, patients shop at licensed Florida Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers, also called MMTCs or dispensaries.
Medical marijuana in Florida may only be purchased from licensed MMTCs. TriVerde does not sell cannabis, and patients are not required to use any specific dispensary.
Can I shop at any Florida dispensary?
Yes. Once active in the Registry and eligible to purchase, patients may shop at any licensed Florida MMTC/dispensary. Patients often compare dispensaries based on location, product availability, pricing, discounts, delivery options, staff education, and comfort level.
Does TriVerde recommend one dispensary over another?
No. TriVerde does not sell cannabis and does not require patients to use any specific dispensary. We can help patients understand how to locate licensed MMTCs and how to ask informed questions when they arrive.
What should I ask at the dispensary?
Good questions include:
· Which products match the route my physician authorized?
· Is this product better suited for daytime or evening use?
· What is the THC and CBD amount per dose?
· What terpenes are listed?
· How long does this product usually take to start working?
· How long might it last?
· Is this a good starting dose for a new or sensitive patient?
· Do you have senior, veteran, first-time patient, or hardship discounts?
· Do you offer delivery?
Can dispensaries deliver?
Some Florida MMTCs offer delivery depending on the company, location, product availability, and current policies. Patients should check directly with the licensed MMTC.
What should I bring when shopping?
Patients should bring:
· A valid Florida driver license or ID.
· Their Medical Marijuana Use Registry identification card or state approval information.
· Phone and email access if needed.
· A list of symptoms or wellness goals.
· A list of products they have tried before, if any.
· Questions for the dispensary staff.
Can a caregiver shop for a patient?
Yes, if the caregiver is properly registered and authorized in the Medical Marijuana Use Registry. Many patients rely on a spouse, adult child, trusted friend, or caregiver for support.
RFE and Route Support Questions
What is an RFE?
RFE means Request for Exception. In Florida, a qualified physician may request an exception to certain daily dose limits, smoking limits, or possession limits when medically appropriate. The request must be submitted electronically and include required medical information.
Can TriVerde help with an RFE?
Yes. If you believe your current limits are not meeting your medical needs, TriVerde can help you understand whether an RFE discussion with the physician may be appropriate. An RFE is not automatic and must be reviewed by the physician.
Why might a patient need route or RFE support?
Some patients discover that a route is missing, a product type is not available under their current order, or the standard limits do not meet their medical needs. TriVerde helps patients understand the issue and determine whether it should be reviewed by the physician.
Safety and Legal Questions
Can I grow my own medical marijuana in Florida?
No. Florida does not allow qualified patients or caregivers to cultivate marijuana. Medical marijuana must be purchased from licensed Florida MMTCs.
Can I use medical marijuana in public?
No. Florida law restricts medical marijuana use in public places, vehicles, aircraft, boats, school buses, school grounds, and certain workplaces. Patients should use medical cannabis responsibly and privately, and should follow Florida law and facility policies.
Can I drive after using medical marijuana?
Do not drive impaired. Medical marijuana may affect coordination, motor skills, reaction time, and judgment. A Florida medical marijuana card does not protect anyone from impaired driving laws.
Do I need to keep products in the original packaging?
Yes. Patients should keep medical marijuana in its original packaging and follow all state rules regarding possession, use, and transport.
Can my employer still have a drug-free workplace policy?
Yes. Florida’s medical marijuana law does not limit an employer’s ability to maintain or enforce a drug-free workplace policy. It also does not require an employer to accommodate medical marijuana use in the workplace.
Is my medical marijuana information private?
Your medical information is handled through appropriate medical and registry systems. The Florida Medical Marijuana Use Registry is used by physicians, patients, caregivers, MMTCs, and authorized entities to verify authorization and dispensing.
Is medical marijuana legal federally?
Medical marijuana is available in Florida under Florida law. Marijuana remains illegal under federal law. Patients should consider this when dealing with federal property, employment policies, travel, housing, firearms, and other legal issues.
Smoking and Product Limit Questions
Is smokable medical marijuana allowed in Florida?
Yes, for qualified patients when the physician determines that smoking is an appropriate route and the required documentation and consent steps are completed.
How much smokable medical marijuana can be dispensed?
Florida generally limits dispensing to no more than one 35-day supply of marijuana in a form for smoking within any 35-day period. A 35-day supply may not exceed 2.5 ounces unless an exception is approved by the Department.
How much smokable marijuana can a patient possess?
Florida generally limits patient possession of smokable marijuana to the greater of 4 ounces or an amount approved by the Department through an exception.
Can patients under 18 receive smokable medical marijuana?
Florida places special restrictions on smokable marijuana for patients under 18. A patient under 18 may not receive a smoking certification unless specific legal requirements are met, including a terminal condition and required physician concurrence.
Caregiver Questions
What is a caregiver?
A caregiver is a person registered in the Medical Marijuana Use Registry to assist a qualified patient with the patient’s medical use of marijuana.
Who can be a caregiver?
A caregiver generally must be at least 21 years old, be a Florida resident, agree in writing to assist the patient, be registered in the Registry, complete required caregiver training, and meet state requirements.
Can a patient also be a caregiver?
In some situations, yes, but the caregiver must meet state requirements and be properly registered.
Can TriVerde help family members understand the caregiver process?
Yes. Many patients rely on a spouse, adult child, trusted friend, or caregiver for support. TriVerde can help explain the general process and point families toward the appropriate state steps.
TriVerde White-Glove Service Questions
What does white-glove service mean?
White-glove service means we try to make the process easier from start to finish. That may include appointment guidance, forms, state card assistance, renewal reminders, route education, transfer help, and ongoing support.
Why do patients choose TriVerde?
Patients choose TriVerde because they want more than a quick certification. They want education, reminders, personal service, physician-led care, and a team that helps them understand both the medical and state registry process.
Do you help after the appointment?
Yes. We continue helping patients after the visit with state card questions, renewal timing, route questions, transfer support, and general guidance.
What if I am nervous or new to medical cannabis?
That is very common. Many patients are brand new and want to understand how the program works. We take pride in helping people feel comfortable, informed, and not rushed.
How do I schedule?
Call or text TriVerde at 727-322-4588.
You may also visit www.TriVerde.com.