In an educational video hosted by Assisting Hands of Potomac, internal medicine physician Dr. Matthew Mintz shared his experience incorporating medical cannabis into his primary care practice. With over 25 years in medicine, including two decades at George Washington University, Dr. Mintz now runs a concierge practice in Bethesda, Maryland, where he takes a patient-centered approach to care. After observing meaningful improvements in patients suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, and depression, he became a certified provider of medical cannabis and CBD treatments, particularly for older adults.

Dr. Matthew Mintz on Why Seniors Are Turning to CBD

Many of Dr. Mintz’s patients are seniors looking for alternative ways to manage complex symptoms. From stage IV cancer to severe arthritis, these individuals are often seeking relief when traditional medications fall short. Dr. Mintz emphasizes that most patients aren’t looking to “get high,” they want to sleep better, reduce pain, or ease anxiety. Because the cannabis industry is still federally restricted, research is limited. Yet, the real-world results he’s seen have led him to fully integrate cannabis certification and personalized treatment plans into his practice.

Education, Not Just Certification

Unlike many providers who simply certify patients for cannabis access, Dr. Mintz takes a more hands-on role. “I give patients specific recommendations: what to take, how much, how to take it, and where to get it,” he explains. This approach helps patients avoid relying solely on dispensary staff for medical guidance, which he notes can vary widely in training and expertise. He believes patients deserve direction grounded in clinical experience.

“I give patients specific recommendations: what to take, how much, how to take it, and where to get it.”

— Dr. Matthew Mintz, Principal Investigator at DelRicht Research

Understanding CBD, THC, and the Full Plant Spectrum

Dr. Matthew Mintz outlines that cannabis contains over 500 biologically active compounds, with CBD and THC being the most well-known. While THC is helpful for pain, sleep, and anxiety, CBD is more effective for inflammation and doesn’t produce a high. Additionally, terpenes, naturally occurring compounds that give plants their aroma, also play a role in therapeutic effects. The unique combination of cannabinoids and terpenes in each strain allows cannabis to be tailored to a patient’s needs, such as targeting depression, anxiety, or sleep disturbances.

Methods of Delivery and Safety Considerations

From edibles and tinctures to vapes and topicals, Dr. Mintz guides patients on delivery methods based on their symptoms and preferences. For example, vapes act quickly for acute symptoms but wear off faster, while edibles offer long-lasting relief. Importantly, he discourages smoking cannabis and only recommends medical-grade products from licensed dispensaries due to safety, consistency, and regulation.

Barriers and the Future of Medical Cannabis

While patients in Maryland must register with the state and receive certification, Dr. Mintz notes that the process can be particularly difficult for older adults unfamiliar with online systems. He hopes to see broader insurance coverage and federal policy changes that allow for more rigorous research into cannabis’ full potential, especially in areas like cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and chronic inflammation.

As interest in CBD and medical cannabis grows among seniors, Dr. Mintz offers a compassionate, evidence-informed pathway to explore these therapies responsibly.

Learn more from Dr. Matthew Mintz’s interview with Assisting Hands of Potomac.

DelRicht Research is proud to spotlight physician and principal investigator voices helping expand safe, informed use of emerging treatment options across all patient populations.