I went to Dr. Cynthia Stoddard in Seattle. Her office is across from Red Burger. Very nice doctor, welcoming staff, answered all questions and set me up with my permit. For most doctors, you need two "Chart notes" regarding your qualifying condition. I submitted my MRI reports and that was enough, requested them from the imaging department where I had them done, they were faxed, so my regular doctors are not involved.
I am more comfortable with a doctor whose reputation is not solely based around marijuana permits, and Doctor Stoddard isn't "only" a MMJ doctor, her practice is psychiatry and neurology.
As far as being a "card holder" NO THANKS!! You don't have to have a card, only a permit to be legal. Personally, I don't want to be on anyone's "registry" HIPPA privacy laws cover this doctor visit as it does anyone's, nobody has the right to your information unless you give the doctor permission to disclose it. My permit is hanging on my wall, I am legal. I also carry a copy of my paperwork with me. The only people that know are myself and my doctor, unless I choose to tell someone else.
I recommend calling her office and talking with Daryl, he will make sure you get any forms you need and help with getting your records. After two weeks of waiting for the imaging department to fax my records, Daryl called them and they were there the next day....he is good. 206-782-6463 appointments are made for Fridays.
They provided me with "Designated providers" paperwork and gave me a list of local providers I could use.
As far as the law? Obama said "don't mess with medical marijuana" and King County has a mandate saying it is the lowest priority, Seattle has a "no bust" policy for medical marijuana. Other areas are not as friendly, but if you stay within your guideline....15 plants at any stage of growth, and no more than 24 oz on hand, you should be fine.
Do know, if you are busted...your doctor will have to defend you, and the jury decides if you really qualify...not fair, but that is the way it is. From what I have read during research, you have to mess up to get in trouble...more than 15 plants etc. so just keep your nose clean.
$200 has been the going price for some time, I see advertisements now for cheaper, but I think you get what you pay for. IBS is a qualifying condition. These doctors...whomever you pick, want your money and will try to help you get your permit, it's just a matter of finding someone you feel comfortable with and that you have confidence in defending you if need be.