I pointed again to my lower back and asked if there were a disc that low.
He said he knew nothing about back problems.
"I'm a gynecologist," he said.
I see.
He asked if I could have my primary care doctor fax over a brief note about my back problem.
Sure, I said.
"There's no rush," the doctor said.
Without having laid a hand on me, he led me back out to the receptionist with the ball cap. I paid $150 for my 10-minute exam and was given my recommendation.
"This certifies that Steve Lopez was evaluated in my office for a medical condition, which in my professional opinion, may benefit from the use of medical marijuana."
Several more patients were waiting their turn.
Me? I had some shopping to do, and several hundred stores to choose from.
Check back here Sunday, and I'll let you know how it went.
steve.lopez@latimes.com
