With dispensaries opening across Mississippi, the state’s medical cannabis program is in full operation, although challenges remain. Medical marijuana may not be a universal solution, but it offers hope for many Mississippians facing chronic pain. “Since I’ve been using medical cannabis, my quality of life has really improved,” shared cannabis patient Joshua Gee.
Individuals suffering from over two dozen qualifying conditions now have access to the program. “I’m grateful to the legislature for making this available to us patients,” stated Stephanie Gray, another cannabis patient. Yet, many patients find it difficult to locate assistance.
Challenges in Accessing Care
“At the end of January, we had over 10,000 patients searching our website for information about medical cannabis cards, practitioners, and dispensaries,” noted Angie Calhoun of the Mississippi Cannabis Patients Alliance. Although there are over 100 licensed practitioners in the state, patients often struggle to find one. “Practitioners need to actively promote their services, as many patients mistakenly believe that any practitioner can certify them for medical cannabis, which is not true,” Calhoun emphasized.
Per state law, practitioners must complete an eight-hour course and receive certification from the Mississippi State Department of Health before they can issue a cannabis card certification. Another significant obstacle for patients is affordability.
Cost Concerns
Calhoun highlighted that many patients have expressed concerns over high prices. Patients like Gee, who suffers from PTSD after serving in the Iraq War, feel the financial burden keenly. “I have three types of insurance, yet I still pay out of pocket,” he explained. Medical cannabis is not covered by private insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare.
Calhoun indicated that dispensaries are charging between $35 and $65 for a single unit. “On the higher end, that’s $30 a day for someone to use medical cannabis, which totals over $1,500 a month,” she remarked. Gee remarked, “It’s absurd. Many patients are unable to work due to disabilities, and I honestly don’t know how they can afford that.” Calhoun expressed concern that some patients might turn to illicit sources, posing health risks.
Calhoun urged dispensaries and brands to collaborate on strategies to lower prices for patients. Some anticipate that costs may decrease with the entry of larger out-of-state companies into the Mississippi market.
