FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky is set to launch an online platform designed to connect patients with medical providers as the state gears up for the implementation of its medical cannabis program in 2025, according to Governor Andy Beshear during a recent announcement.
As of now, a total of 154 doctors and advanced practice registered nurses have been authorized to practice in the medical cannabis field, and this number is steadily increasing, as stated by Beshear. The official start of the medical cannabis program is slated for January 1.
To assist patients in locating nearby practitioners, the online directory is anticipated to be available starting December 1. The portal will be updated to include additional medical providers as they receive their authorization to take part in the program. The directory can be accessed through the state’s official medical cannabis website.
Beshear emphasized the urgency of launching the program efficiently, “All of this is an attempt to have the program up and running as quickly as we can,” he remarked during a press conference held at the statehouse.
A strong advocate for the legalization of medical marijuana in Kentucky, the Democratic governor has overseen the establishment of a comprehensive framework for the program. After multiple challenges faced by its supporters, the Republican-led legislature passed a law last year allowing access to medical cannabis for individuals impacted by specific serious health conditions.
To be eligible for medical marijuana, patients must have a qualifying medical condition and must secure a written certification from a licensed medical practitioner, which is a critical step for obtaining a medical cannabis card. Conditions included in the list of qualifying ailments are cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, epilepsy, chronic nausea, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
“Medical cannabis is about health care,” remarked Beshear. “The purpose of this program is to help Kentuckians who are suffering, like our veterans suffering from PTSD.”
Medical providers will be able to start seeing patients on December 1 and will have the authority to issue necessary written certifications.
In related news, the first lottery aimed at selecting applicants for medical cannabis dispensary licenses is scheduled for Monday, with a second lottery to take place on December 16. The state has already granted 29 licenses to cultivators, safety compliance facilities, and processors in preparation for the program’s rollout.