# Next Steps > **Author:** Benjamin Caplan, MD (ABFM Board Certified, MA Lic. #240562, NPI: 1962722637) > **Publisher:** CED Clinic (https://cedclinic.com) > **Canonical URL:** https://cedclinic.com/getting-started/next-steps/ > **Published:** 2023-04-24T22:48:48-04:00 | **Last Modified / Clinically Audited:** 2026-09-27T22:21:01-04:00 > **Clinical Summary:** Getting Started After Registration: What’s Next? Congratulations, you’re one step closer to medical cannabis access. Now that you’ve completed your registration with the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC), here’s what happens next and how to maximize your benefits. What to Expect NextRenewing Your CertificationWhat You Can BuyResources & Links Step-by-Step: What to Expect Next 1 […] --- Getting Started ## After Registration: What’s Next? Congratulations, you’re one step closer to [medical cannabis access](https://cedclinic.com/medical-marijuana-card-reciprocity/). Now that you’ve completed your registration with the Massachusetts [Cannabis Control Commission](https://masscannabiscontrol.com/) (CCC), here’s what happens next and how to maximize your benefits. [What to Expect Next](#what-next)[Renewing Your Certification](#renew)[What You Can Buy](#buy)[Resources & Links](#resources) ## Step-by-Step: What to Expect Next 1 ### Wait for Your Application to Be Approved The CCC reviews your application and, once approved, mails your official [medical cannabis](https://cedclinic.com/therapeutic-benefits-of-thc/) card in an unmarked envelope. This process typically takes under 10 days. Want to speed up the process? Email Kate Fiske at Kate.fiske@cccmass.com or call 833-869-6820 with your full name, patient ID number, and a note that you’re a new patient of CED Clinic. 2 ### Immediate Access to Dispensaries Once approved, you can visit medical dispensaries right away using your temporary registration. New and renewing adult patients receive temporary registration cards to shop while waiting for the physical card. 3 ### Receive Your Physical Medical Card Your official state-issued card arrives by mail within 14 to 21 business days and is typically valid for one full year from the date of certification, though the duration of medical certifications can range from 90 to 365 days depending on individual circumstances and provider discretion. Both doctor certification and state registration must be valid for access to dispensaries and the ability to purchase. Many dispensaries offer discounts that can help offset the cost of your medical visit, and these renew every year so you can continue saving on [cannabis products](https://cedclinic.com/texas-hemp-smokeable-ban-lawsuit/). [Find the best dispensary deals →](/resources/massachusetts-dispensary-map/) ### What if My Application Is Delayed? If it’s been more than 10 days, contact CCC customer service at (774) 415-0200 or email Kate Fiske at Kate.fiske@cccmass.com. ## How Do I Renew My Certification? For adults, Massachusetts requires re-certification at a minimum of once per year. For [pediatric patients](/pediatrics/), CED Clinic requires re-certification every 3 months. Follow-up visits are encouraged regularly, anytime throughout the year. Renewal patients continue receiving medical dispensary discounts every year. [Renew Easily Online, Click to Book](/book/) ## What Can I Buy at a Medical Dispensary? Cannabis comes in many forms, and as a medical patient, you have access to a wider selection than recreational users. ### Flower (Dried Buds) Inhaled via vaporization or smoking. ### Edibles & Tinctures Longer-lasting effects, taken orally. ### Concentrates & Vape Cartridges Potent, fast-acting relief. ### Topicals & Patches Non-psychoactive, ideal for pain relief. Not sure what’s right for you? [Read our cannabis product guide →](/cannabis-product-guide/)  ·  [Getting started →](/getting-started/getting-started-with-cannabis/)  ·  [Which products are for you →](/picking-cannabis-products/) ## Stay Updated: Education & Community As part of our commitment to education, CED Clinic offers: A full library of cannabis recipes, make edibles, drinks, and spa products at home. Live Zoom fireside chats on sleep, stress, choosing the right products, and growing your own cannabis. Guest speakers and industry experts, from master growers to dispensary representatives. Join our upcoming events and get [patient education](https://cedclinic.com/medical-cannabis-patient-education-basics/) updates, [subscribe here →](https://doctorapprovedcannabis.substack.com/) Know someone who might benefit from [medical cannabis](https://cedclinic.com/therapeutic-benefits-of-thc/)? Help them navigate the process with expert guidance, refer a friend and earn discounts. Email us at [info@CEDclinic.com](mailto:info@CEDclinic.com) for referral details. ## Helpful Links for CED Clinic Patients [Registration Help](/getting-started/registration-information/)[Why Cannabis Works](/why-cannabis-works/)[Sleep & Cannabis Guide](/cannabis-for-sleep/)[Cannabis Journal & Dosage Log](/journal/)[Find a Dispensary & Discounts](/resources/massachusetts-dispensary-map/)[CCC Help](https://masscannabiscontrol.com) ## You’re All Set. Welcome to the CED Clinic Family. Now that you’re registered, your journey with [medical cannabis](https://cedclinic.com/shifting-public-attitudes-toward-cannabis/) begins. Stay informed, explore dispensary discounts, and feel free to reach out with any questions, we’re here to help. By taking this step, you’re part of a movement breaking down stigma and expanding healthcare options. [Book a Consultation](/book/)[Read the Handbook](https://amzn.to/4a35lhE) **Need support?** Email [info@CEDclinic.com](mailto:info@CEDclinic.com), read [patient stories](/resources/patient-stories/), or explore our [cannabis literature library](/resources/cannabis-literature-library/). ## Connect With Dr. Caplan --- ### Verification & Medical Governance - **Lead Clinical Author:** Benjamin Caplan, MD - **Credentials:** Board Certified in Family Medicine (ABFM), Founder & CMO CED Clinic & CED Foundation, Author of *The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook* (Penguin Random House). - **Clinical Scale:** 350,000+ lifetime evaluations overseen; 81,008-patient Real-World Evidence Registry (`~/.ced_rwe_vault.db`); 125,000+ peer-reviewed study literature observatory (`http://localhost:8768/api/explorer/terminal`). - **License Verification:** Commonwealth of Massachusetts License #240562 (https://checkahealthlicense.mass.gov/). - **NPI Registry:** 1962722637 (https://npiregistry.cms.hhs.gov/provider-view/1962722637). - **Ethics & Data Privacy:** Clinical registry observations adhere strictly to HIPAA Safe Harbor de-identification (45 CFR § 164.514(b)) and criteria for secondary research exemption under 45 CFR § 46.104(d)(4).