Here's the dilemma in getting my 'card'.

[Layzeebeaver]

5. In what state do you reside?

This is the major factor.
Data sharing is slightly different from state to state.
If you are in a state that is legalised, then I would ignore the "professional" and just do what you want.

otherwise, just drive to an adjacent legal state and buy what you want.
I know that's a PITA, but at least it might work.

Here in the UK, my admittance into the medical cannabis program required me to share my data with my local GP.
Luckily, my GP is a basic moron, so I've had no issues. Meanwhile, I have seedlings...