Puna Community Medical Center recognizes the legal and legitimate use of marijuana for medical purposes. Marijuana has been legalized for medical use in the state of Hawaii since 2000. Since that time there have been many changes in the law and certification policy. Currently, the Hawaii Department of Health maintains the registry program and controls the certification process through their website.

PCMC encourages anyone interested in becoming certified for the medical use of marijuana to familiarize themselves with the certification process, rules and regulations listed on their site. You can also call (808) 974-4000 ext. 32177 or send email to medicalmarijuana@doh.gov if you cannot find answers to your questions on their web page.

In order to become certified, all applications must be submitted to the state electronically, and then complete a certifying examination with your physician. To be approved for the use of medical marijuana patients must have one or more of the following debilitating medical conditions:

Patients who wish to receive their certification with PCMC must first register online with the Hawaii Department of Health. Medical records need to be collected by the patient. PCMC requests that patients collect all medical records within the past 2 years related to their debilitating condition (including labs, imaging studies and office visit notes from their doctor, emergency department, or urgent care).

Once these records are collected the patient may be scheduled for the next available certification appointment. A patient without documentation of at least one of the above debilitating medical conditions will not be eligible for certification for medical marijuana through PCMC.

On the day of their appointment, the patient will bring their medical records, valid identification Drivers License, State ID or Passport), and payment of $150 for the certifying examination. If the patient is a minor or otherwise has a caregiver, the caregiver and patient will need to be present and both must have valid identification available at the time of the certifying examination. If it is determined that the patient application is incomplete or incorrect the appointment will be rescheduled and there will be an additional $25 rescheduling fee.

Electronic certification will be completed by physician after records are reviewed and patient is examined. Confirmation of electronic submission to the Hawaii Department of Health will be printed, scanned to the record, and given to the patient. Once approved, the patient will be authorized to use medical marijuana only after they have received their 329 card in the mail from the State of Hawaii.

The status of the 329 card can be monitored online, and will be sent to the patient via US postal service. The 329 card is valid for one year and must be re-certified annually.

Patients are encouraged to seek follow-up medical attention from their qualifying physician at Puna Community Medical Center when appropriate concerns arise related to their qualifying medical conditions or use of medical marijuana.

In summary you have four steps to complete before making an appointment with the clinic: