Qualifying patients and their caregivers registered with the Medical Marijuana Program can purchase medical marijuana products at medical marijuana dispensary facilities and hybrid retailers. Advantages of being registered with the Medical Marijuana Program include:
- Cost savings
- Medical cannabis is medication and not subject to sales taxes.
- Financial assistance is available at dispensary facilities for those in need.
- Effective July 1, 2023, the Department will no longer charge qualifying patients or their caregivers a fee to register with the Medical Cannabis Program.
- More locations
- Registered qualifying patients and their caregivers have exclusive use of dispensary facilities.
- They can also buy medical cannabis products at hybrid retailers, where they will have priority entry over Adult-Use Cannabis consumers.
- In addition, qualifying patients and their caregivers can purchase adult-use cannabis products (subject to applicable taxes and up to 1 ounce per transaction) as adult-use consumers from licensed hybrid retailers and retailers.
- Allowed to carry larger quantities
- Qualifying patients and their caregivers may carry up to 5 ounces of cannabis flower or its equivalent. Adult-Use Cannabis consumers may only carry up to 1.5 ounces, but may have up to 5 ounces of cannabis in a locked glove box or locked container in their home.
- Greater variety
- There are no potency restrictions in the Medical Cannabis Program. There are potency limits for some Adult-Use Cannabis products including flower, edibles, pre-rolls and concentrates.
- Medical product options include nebulizers, transdermal patches, syringes, nasal sprays, suppositories, and delivery devices used to administer cannabis subcutaneously, intramuscularly or intravenously. These products are not permitted in the Adult-Use Cannabis market.
- Qualifying patients under 21 years of age
- Qualifying patients who are 18 years of age and older or who are minors may become certified in the Medical Cannabis Program to purchase medical cannabis products.
- Only adults aged 21 years and older may purchase cannabis and cannabis products through the Adult-Use Cannabis market.