As of 2017, medical cannabis is legal in Maryland for patients with specific medical conditions. Once you qualify for medical cannabis and have your medical card, you are free to visit area dispensaries. Don't be intimidated; consider these tips the first time that you visit a medical cannabis dispensary:

-          Engage your bud-tender. Talk to and engage the bud-tender; benefit from their extensive knowledge on strains, products, and pricing. Also, it is customary to tip them.

-          Don't try to haggle. If you try to haggle the pricing with your bud-tender, you will likely be escorted out the door. The prices are not up for debate.

-          Come prepared. Come prepared bring your current photo ID and medical card. You won't be let in the door without these items.

-          Carry cash. Bring cash for your purchases. Don't expect the dispensary to take credit or debit cards, as many do not. They also may not have an ATM on-site or nearby.

-          Shop around. Don't assume all dispensaries charge the same. Ask about any specials or promotions. If cost is important to you, price-shop and do your homework to find the best price for what you need.

-          Stay alert. When coming and going from the dispensary, keep an eye on your surroundings. Some less-than scrupulous individuals could be staking-out area dispensaries for inattentive consumers that are exiting the premises. Don't make yourself a target.

-          Try your bud-tender's recommendations. Go ahead and try something new. How will you know if it helps if you don't try it? Take the bud-tender's advice, as they do know what they are talking about.

-          Take your time. It is easy to become overwhelmed the first couple times you visit a cannabis dispensary. Take your time and don't be afraid of walking away to consider your options more carefully. After all, it is your money and your medicine.

You should feel comfortable and secure when visiting and patronizing your dispensary; look around to see what kind of security is visible. If you run into an issue either inside or outside the establishment, make sure to report it to the dispensary management.

Are you a dispensary newbie? Use these tips to get past the first visit and become a seasoned patron of the area's medical cannabis dispensaries. In no time, you will find your favorite location and become a valued patient and loyal customer.

Contact a dispensary near you to learn more.