Dear Fedora,
Thank you for taking the time to write to me about your experience trying to obtain a Medical Marijuana Physician's Verification Form from a doctor at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital.
With regards to the form itself, you are correct that it is not a prescription but rather a statement of perceived benefit from a physician. Physicians cannot be compelled to complete the Verification Form under any circumstances. In some cases they are not allowed per policy or in other cases they do not feel that it is appropriate for the individual in question. You may find your request granted for a Medical Marijuana Physician's Verification Form through the attention of another physician or hospital.
As you may know, I signed Act 65 into law in June of this year, which establishes a framework for registering up to four nonprofit marijuana dispensaries in the state and expands the list of people who may certify the medical condition of a patient to include physician's assistants and advanced practice registered nurses that passed when I signed Act 65 into law. I support increasing access for those who need marijuana to cope with chronic pain, and I appreciate hearing your perspective as a patient.
The Vermont Legislature is responsible for determining the list of illnesses for which medical marijuana may be legally prescribed by medical providers in our state. There is currently a dialogue within the legislature about adding Post Traumatic Stress Disorder to the list of approved illnesses, and I encourage you to reach out to your local representatives about varicocele should you feel it eligible for consideration. The Vermont Department of Public Safety is also involved in the medical marijuana legislation, in operations and in recommendation to the Legislature, and their office is equipped to consider your specific suggestions. You can feel free to contact the office of Commissioner Keith Flynn of the Department of Public Safety at xxx-xxx-xxxx for further discussion, and please don't hesitate to contact my office again if I can be of further assistance.
Sincerely,
Peter Shumlin
Governor
109 State Street, Pavilion
Montpelier, Vermont 05609