Some certifying providers in Massachusetts see patients by telehealth, and some do not. The rule is in 935 CMR 501.010, and the Commission explains it on its FAQ pages. This page quotes what each says, shows where the two differ in wording, and tells you the one thing to do: ask your provider whether they offer it.

What the regulation says

935 CMR 501.010(8)(a) says a Clinical Visit may occur in-person or by telehealth means. For the visit that leads to an initial Certificate of Registration, the text reads:

"A Clinical Visit for issuing an initial Certificate of Registration must be conducted in-person or, upon request of the patient, via a telehealth visit that includes a synchronous face-to-face encounter between the Certifying Healthcare provider and patient."

The regulation then explains: "Synchronous telehealth happens in live, real-time settings where the patient interacts with a provider, usually via phone or video." A provider who uses telehealth has to deliver the service with the same standard of care and follow the same licensure and registration rules as for in-person visits, and any added rules the Commission sets. The regulation also bars a certification from being submitted before a Clinical Visit.

What the Commission FAQ says

The Commission FAQ for certifying providers asks, "Can I hold an initial patient Certificate of Registration Appointment via telehealth?" and answers: "No. In general, Certifying Healthcare Providers must conduct an initial Clinical Visit with Qualifying Patients." It adds that the Commission is considering waivers to this requirement. For visits after the initial in-person certifying visit, it says telehealth is permitted if the provider has obtained a waiver from the Commission.

In its patient answers, the Commission says patients can register or renew their certification by telehealth if their certifying provider offers that service and has an approved waiver from the Commission to do so. It adds that, under the current Commission order and regulations, some certifying providers may offer telehealth appointments to become certified or to renew. Its advice: for the best answer, ask your provider directly.

Where the two read differently

The regulation text lets a patient request a live telehealth visit for the first certification. The provider FAQ answers "No. In general" for the first visit and talks about waivers, and the patient FAQ ties telehealth to a provider that offers it and holds an approved waiver. This page does not decide which reading controls, and it does not know what any provider offers. The practical step is the same either way: ask the provider.

What to do

The Commission keeps no public list of certifying providers, so it cannot tell you who offers telehealth. AC does not recommend any certifying provider.

After certification

Telehealth only covers the provider visit. Registration is separate and is done in the Commission online system, which is free. See the page on certification, registration and the card.

Can I get my first certification by telehealth?

The regulation allows a first Clinical Visit by telehealth on the patient's request if it includes a live face-to-face encounter by phone or video. The Commission FAQ says it depends on your provider. Ask the provider.

Can I renew my certification by telehealth?

The Commission says patients can renew their certification by telehealth if their provider offers it and has an approved waiver. Ask your provider.

Does the Commission list providers who use telehealth?

No. The Commission says it is prohibited from sharing the identity of any registered certifying provider.

Does telehealth change what I do with the Commission?

No. After certification you register or renew online with the Commission the same way. The state charges no fee for that.

More for patients

Sources

Read on October 31, 2026. The state can change its rules, so confirm on its pages before you act.

This page explains how a state program works. It is not medical or legal advice, and it makes no claim about what marijuana does for any health condition. Ask a health professional about your health.

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