Kentucky’s cannabis program challenges physicians
Medical marijuana cards are the official authorization for individuals residing in states where cannabis has been legalized. With one of these coveted IDs, individuals can shop at dispensaries and assure law enforcement that they're obtaining medication legally. This helps ease anxiety of those seeking to obtain medical marijuana.
A sample medical marijuana card issued by the state of California
When Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear issued an executive order legalizing medical marijuana last November, it did not include any explicit provision for state-issued marijuana cards or registration. The order, which came into effect on January 1st, stated that patients must have a "written certification" from a physician, indicating that they have one of the 21 qualifying conditions. This certification essentially works the same way that a medical marijuana card does in other states.
The executive order requires certification to include the doctor's contact information, professional license number, and a statement confirming a bona-fide relationship with the patient. However, it does not provide further guidance on the document. In addition, the certification does not function as a prescription and does not have to mention marijuana specifically.
Due to the lack of regulation and the uncertain legal status of medical marijuana in Kentucky, doctors and healthcare systems are left to navigate on their own. This has caused a variety of responses to the executive order.
Due to the uncertain legal status of medical marijuana in Kentucky, healthcare providers have been advised to inform patients who request certification of the potential risks involved in seeking medical marijuana. These risks include the fact that marijuana possession is still technically illegal federally, and that patients may face consequences from drug tests or in situations such as child custody cases.
The executive order grants exemptions from legal consequences for medical marijuana possession up to eight ounces, as long as individuals have documentation confirming its purchase in another state and their physician has provided written certification.
Our Kentucky medical marijuana doctors can help you get legal!
As healthcare providers struggle to understand and implement the executive order, patients seeking medical marijuana are also facing challenges. Advocates for medical marijuana in Kentucky have expressed concerns that the absence of a standard medical marijuana document and the pardoning aspect of the executive order could lead to legal difficulties for those who are trying to access medical cannabis in a legitimate manner.
To navigate these challenges, doctors may need to stay informed about the latest developments in medical marijuana research and legislation, seek guidance and training from medical organizations and cannabis-specific resources, and collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure that patients receive the best care possible.
Are you a resident of Kentucky living with one of the 21 qualifying conditions for medical marijuana? Don't navigate the uncertain legal landscape alone. At Kentucky Cannabis Clinic, our experienced medical marijuana doctors are here to help you understand the executive order, evaluate your eligibility, and guide you through the certification process. With our help, you can safely and legally access the relief that medical marijuana can provide. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards a better quality of life!