Medical cannabis patients in Pennsylvania can purchase flower under the state’s MMJ program starting today, according to a press release from the office of Gov. Tom Wolf.
A total of 16 dispensaries in Scranton and Williamsport started offering dry flower products on Wednesday; the product will launch in Edwardsville and State College next week, bringing the total number of dispensaries with flower products up to 28.
Previously, patients could only purchase cannabis-infused oil or pills as medicine.
“The dry leaf form of medical marijuana provides a cost-effective option for patients, in addition to the other forms of medication already available at dispensaries. It’s important to note that not all dispensaries will have this medication on Aug. 1 and patients can visit our website at www.medicalmarijuana.pa.gov to see when their local dispensary will have it available. It’s also important to talk with your doctor or the medical professional at the dispensary to see if the dry leaf form of medical marijuana is an option for you. Dispensaries will continue to have other forms of medical marijuana, such as oils, pills, topicals, etc. available.” — Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine, in the press release
Dr. Levine also warned that the flower products are “available for vaporization only.”
“It is illegal to smoke the medication. Please make sure that when transporting your medication, you keep it in the original container and have your medical marijuana ID card with you.” — Dr. Rachel Levine, in the release
There are more than 52,000 patients registered with Pennsylvania‘s medical cannabis program, but just 30,000 have actually received identification cards and are able to shop at dispensaries.