Alabama medical patients who qualify are just days away from purchasing medical cannabis According to state officials and dispensary owners, patients can only access medical cannabis with a doctor’s prescription. Callie’s Apothecary is likely to be the very first dispensary for medical cannabis to open within the state.
Dispensary and program start-up
Vince Schilleci of Callie’s Apothecary stated that product testing and delivery are pending before the Montgomery store opens. Alabama Reflector reported that the order was placed, but it is unclear when the products will be delivered due to shipping complications and state requirements.
Alabama, when fully implemented, will be home to 12 dispensaries, all managed by four licensed firms. Schilleci stressed the importance of efficient, compassionate service to patients.
Obtaining a license and legal challenges
John McMillan, Director of the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC), confirmed that three companies—CCS of Alabama, LLC, GP6 Wellness, LLC, and RJK Holdings, LLC—currently hold licenses and anticipate opening their storefronts this summer. Yellowhammer Medical Dispensaries, LLC, is most likely to win a 4th license, which remains subject to ongoing legal proceedings.
Legal challenges have caused delays in the implementation of Alabama’s medical cannabis law. It was enacted 2021. Several firms have filed lawsuits against AMCC over the licensing process. They claim discrimination. In August, the case of five parents who complained about delays with patient access in July was also dismissed.
Regulations on Patient Access to Products
Alabama’s 2021 medical cannabis law allows registered physicians to recommend marijuana for 15 different medical conditions. The conditions covered include Parkinson’s Disease (PTSD), cancer, Parkinson’s Disease and chronic pain.
The approved product forms include tablets, tinctures patches oils and gummies in peach flavour. The current regulations prohibit the use of raw plant material or smokable products.
- Patient Registration: To buy products, patients with conditions that qualify must register at the AMCC and obtain physician approval. On Monday, the AMCC had 181 registered patients.
- Physician Certification: As of Thursday, the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners has certified 43 doctors to prescribe medical cannabis.
- Dispensary Procedure: To enter the storefront, patients will need to present their “cannabis card” that they will receive from their physician. The patient will sign in, enter the pharmacy-like area and receive advice from staff.
Disclaimer: This article contains only general information and is not intended to be a medical recommendation. Hemp Gazette makes no medical diagnoses or recommendations. Before making decisions about your health, or any condition that may affect it, always consult with a medical professional. The Therapeutic Goods Administration in Australia (TGA) has not evaluated any statements regarding the therapeutic use of cannabis or hemp-derived products. TGA regulates the access to medical cannabis in Australia.