Kentucky entered a new era of healthcare on Jan. 1, when the commonwealth’s statute legalizing medical marijuana went into effect. But several questions remain, particularly for Kentuckians who are wondering how they can access medical marijuana to ease the discomfort of cancer, chronic pain, and other conditions.
That’s where Kentucky Medical Cannabis Programs can help. At the forefront of this movement is Kentucky Marijuana Card who offers a first step for Kentucky residents who are seeking approval to use medical marijuana. With dispensaries expected to open this fall, now is the perfect time to start the approval process. Their doctors can recommend eligible patients for medical marijuana treatment, helping them receive state approval and be prepared once dispensaries open their doors.
“Under state guidelines, patients can’t receive a medical marijuana recommendation from their regular physician. They need to see a certified marijuana doctor,” explains Nicki Warren, Director of Marketing at Kentucky Marijuana Card. “That’s where we come in. Our physicians meet with patients in person, as required by state regulations, to evaluate their qualifying condition and provide the necessary recommendation for new patients. The process is straightforward, confidential, and the first step toward legal access to medical marijuana.”
When Gov. Andy Beshear signed the state’s medical marijuana bill into law in 2023, he did it to help residents avoid the opioids that have led to a rash of addictions and deaths throughout Kentucky. Medical marijuana has proven effective for controlling chronic pain, according to Harvard Medical School, can be used to manage nausea, and is far less addictive than opioids.
Navigating state approval
The state has set six qualifying conditions for medical marijuana use: cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chronic nausea, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Patients with those conditions can be evaluated in person by physicians at a Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program, who may then recommend them for medical marijuana treatment. Patients then submit that written recommendation to the state to apply for their medical marijuana card, which, if approved, will typically arrive via email within 30 days.
Patients must be 18 years or older and have proof of Kentucky residency, such as a driver’s license or state identification card. Minors must have a designated caregiver, who is a state-approved parent or legal guardian at least 21 years old who is responsible for the patient’s healthcare decisions.
The medical marijuana doctors do not deal with marijuana itself—that will be supplied by state-licensed dispensaries once they open, likely this fall. According to state law, allowable forms of medical marijuana include edibles, oils, tinctures, vapes, and raw plant material, though the statute prohibits the consumption of raw plant material by smoking. Kentucky Marijuana Card can help patients navigate the state approval process, including tips on how to submit their recommendation.
“Anyone can come into our office and see our doctor, as long as they meet those state requirements,” Warren said. “And if you're not sure if you qualify, we tell people to still give us a call or come in for help. Many patients have anxiety or depression, and although those are not official qualifying conditions alone, they are often related to a qualifying condition like PTSD or chronic pain. We can help you figure that out.”
Five states, 300,000 patients
While the Bluegrass State may be new to medical marijuana, the company behind Kentucky Marijuana Card is not. They have been in business since 2018 and currently operate in five other states - Ohio, Virginia, West Virginia, Arkansas, and Louisiana. Having helped over 300,000 patients, they are a trusted and proven entity in an industry that can be rife with sketchy or fly-by-night operations.
“Medical marijuana is still relatively new and unfamiliar to many, and it often carries a certain stigma,” Warren explained. “That’s why we’ve developed a variety of educational resources to help inform and guide patients. Our Google reviews over the years reflect the positive impact medical marijuana has had on countless individuals. We also encourage patients to conduct their own research to better understand the potential benefits it may offer.”
Consulting with a certified marijuana doctor is the first step, and receiving a recommendation now allows patients to be ready when dispensaries open.
“We take great pride in having a dedicated team that supports patients throughout the entire process, from beginning to end,” Warren said.
Are you or a loved one suffering from a medical condition that may qualify for medical marijuana treatment? You can book online at KentuckyMarijuanaCard.com, by calling (502) 903-4055, or by emailing louisville@kentuckymarijuanacard.com.
