Medical Cannabis Registration Update for Illinois

Approximately 6,300 citizens have started the patient registration process for the Illinois Medical Cannabis Pilot Program since the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) began accepting applications on September 2.  Of those, IDPH has received approximately 800 complete applications.  IDPH began issuing approval and denial letters two weeks ago.

“We are encouraged to see people registering for the Medical Cannabis Pilot Program, which will provide patients much-needed relief from dozens of debilitating medical conditions,” said Bob Morgan, statewide project coordinator for the Illinois Medical Cannabis Pilot Program.  “We will continue to process applications so that registered patients and caregivers will have access to medical cannabis as soon as it becomes available.” 

The most frequent debilitating medical conditions physicians have certified include cancer, severe fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries.

Applications are being accepted both electronically and through the mail.

Qualifying patients whose last names begin with A – L have two months (September 2 – October 31) to submit their applications.  Patients whose last names begin with M – Z may submit an application from November 1– December 31.  Applications can be submitted electronically at  https://medicalcannabispatients.illinois.gov/ , or sent to: Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Medical Cannabis, 535 W. Jefferson Street, Springfield, IL  62761-0001.

Patients’ certifying physicians must send certification forms to the address above. 

Once IDPH receives a complete application, which includes the physician certification form and background check information, IDPH will issue approvals within 30 business days.  Registration cards will be mailed before dispensaries open. Applicants who submit incomplete applications will be notified through the mail and given 21 days to submit any additional documents. Patients who have been denied will be notified in writing as to why their application was denied.

More information about the patient application process can be found online at  http://mcpp.illinois.gov/ in the Frequently Asked Questions section.

For any questions regarding patient and caregiver registration, please contact the DPH Division of Medical Cannabis at (855) 636-3688 or  DPH.MedicalCannabis@illinois.gov.