can a doctor report an underage patient for smoking pot

by Amos Renner 7 min read

Minor differences: Rules for underage medical marijuana patients

35 hours ago  · In Washington, patients must be at least age 18, have an authorization form from a doctor, and a valid photo ID. You do not need a designated provider to be entered into the Medical Marijuana ... >> Go To The Portal


No. Your doctor isn’t legally allowed to report drug use to the police. The only situations in which doctors can break confidentially is if there’s concern about someone seriously harming themselves or others.

Full Answer

Who can give medical marijuana recommendations for minors?

Medical doctors, physician assistants, osteopathic physicians and naturopathic physicians are among those allowed to provide authorization. In some cases, physicians may be reluctant to provide these recommendations, as they still don’t know the full effects of minors using marijuana.

Can a physician smoke weed?

In states like California, anyone—including a physician—can walk into a dispensary, present their driver’s license, and buy various iterations of indica and sativa, the two main strains of cannabis. But most people can’t imagine their physicians smoking pot.

Can doctors smoke marijuana in California?

Fortunately, the California Medical Board went out on a limb and answered our questions (Spoiler: As with alcohol, physicians can smoke marijuana as long as they are not impaired while seeing patients, driving, and so forth). MDLinx: Does the Board have a formal policy regarding marijuana use by physicians?

Should teens be allowed to smoke marijuana?

In general, many teens will try marijuana and never experience major legal or health problems. Those who frequently smoke the drug put themselves at risk for future problems with marijuana and other drugs. They also increase their chances of experiencing academic, legal and social problems.

Can the doctor tell your parents if you smoke?

According to the laws in the State of California, your doctor or nurse cannot tell your parents or guardians anything about your exam if you're seen for any confidential services.

Will I get in trouble for telling my doctor I smoke?

If you do tell your doctor, can you get in legal trouble? Is your doctor allowed to report you to the authorities? No. Your doctor isn't legally allowed to report drug use to the police.

What happens if I tell my doctor I smoke?

You'll be fine. Be honest with your doctor and prepare for less-than-positive responses. Even if your doctor responds with disdain, you have a right to confidentiality and a right to receive medical care with all of the factors in mind.

What smoking pot does to a teenage brain?

Studies have shown that the use of marijuana is associated with reduced cognitive function in teens. One study found that teens who regularly use marijuana lose an average of 5.8 IQ points by the time they reach adulthood.

What should you not tell your doctor?

The 10 Worst Things Patients Can Say to PhysiciansAnything that is not 100 percent truthful. ... Anything condescending, loud, hostile, or sarcastic. ... Anything related to your health care when we are off the clock. ... Complaining about other doctors. ... Anything that is a huge overreaction.More items...•

Why do doctors ask if you smoke?

ANSWER: There are very important reasons to know a person's smoking history, especially when someone is about to undergo surgery. Current smokers should know that quitting well before surgery can reduce risks of surgical complications. The anesthesiologist can be extra-vigilant for breathing issues.

Do doctors report smoking to insurance?

Your doctor can't tell your health insurance that you smoke. Revealing information about your health without your consent would violate HIPAA. However, if you lie to your health insurance provider about smoking, you may be committing insurance fraud.

Can your doctor tell if you vape?

Medical tests can detect nicotine in people's urine, blood, saliva, hair, and nails. Nicotine is the addictive substance in tobacco, cigarettes, and vapes or e-cigarettes. When someone smokes a cigarette, their body absorbs up to 90 percent of the nicotine.

Can doctors tell if you smoke nicotine from a blood test?

Blood. Blood tests can detect nicotine as well as its metabolites, including cotinine and anabasine. Nicotine itself may be present in the blood for only 48 hours, while cotinine may be detectable for up to three weeks. After blood is drawn in a lab, results can take from two to 10 days.

What do you do when you catch your child smoking?

If you catch your teen smoking or vaping, avoid threats and ultimatums. Ask a few questions and find out why your child is smoking or vaping; they may want to be accepted by a peer group or want your attention. Talk about what changes can be made in your teen's life to help them stop smoking.

How long does it take for cannabinoid receptors to return to normal?

Research states that brain receptors called cannabinoid 1 receptors start to return to normal after 2 days without marijuana, and they regain normal functioning within 4 weeks of stopping the drug.

What happens when you eat an edible and go to sleep?

Can edibles make you sleep? Absolutely! It's perfect for sleep and for those who require long-lasting effects. Plan to eat your edible at least 30 minutes before going to sleep, some people require up to two hours before it's fully absorbed and feeling the full effects.