In the state of Utah, medical cannabis is still in its infancy. The 41,419 people who have registered as patients represent only a fraction of those who could benefit from the program. What does this mean for those who live in or visit these states? It means that if you have chronic pain, epilepsy, or any other condition that could be treated with medical marijuana (but is not on their list), then you will have to travel elsewhere to get your medicine. The reason for this lack of access has mostly been attributed to cost and accessibility issues within the state itself – there are no dispensaries or clinics where patients can go see a doctor and receive an ID card while they’re at it. But now, even Colorado residents cannot legally purchase cannabis oil in their home state.
Using medical cannabis in Utah is expensive, hard to access, and costly
Medical cannabis has been legalized in Utah for over a year and the program is still enduring growing pains. The state of Utah allows people with certain illnesses to use it as treatment, and they are limited to two ounces per month. This program is great for those who have chronic conditions like PTSD or cancer, but there are still some drawbacks to this relatively new law. One way the lack of insurance coverage impacts patients is by making them pay out-of-pocket for their medical visits. Without insurance, an initial appointment can cost anywhere from $200-$450 depending on the Qualified Medical Provider or Medical Marijuana Clinic.
While it cost only $5-$15 depending on your patient status (first time VS renewal) to be issued a new card by the state, the adjoining clinic visits were often a different, pricier story. Many patients found themselves feeling duped to be asked for money again so soon by their Medical Cannabis clinics. I’m sure I can speak for all of us when I say I’m glad that’s in the past. Kudos to UDOH.
UDOH took a step in the right direction by doing away with the initial 90-day card requirement. Previously, patients were required to have their Medical Cannabis Card renewed just 90 days after they had received it. This often resulted in patients paying more money in-clinic visits than what the card itself cost.
Thankfully, this is no longer the case, and patients now have a little more breathing room when it comes to renewing their cards. Kudos to UDOH for making this change!
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Utah Medical Cannabis Program to see greener pastures
In the past few years, a lot has changed in regards to cannabis laws. What was once taboo and illegal is now mainstream and legal in many states. However, this new era of acceptance for the plant isn’t perfect. There are still several flaws that need attention from legislators. One major flaw is how difficult it can be for patients who live outside of major cities to find dispensaries or even doctors who prescribe medical marijuana.
It’s no secret that medical cannabis can help a lot of people, but what you might not know is how much it could help you specifically. That’s because there are so many different strains and delivery methods out there that the right one for your needs may not be obvious at first glance.
It can take some trial and error to find the medication that will work best for you. But don’t worry–we’re here to make the process as easy as possible.
To learn more or if you’d like to book your appointment, visit: https://greenteamdoctors.com/utah/
Get in touch with us!
Green Team Doctors | Utah Certified Qualified Medical Providers (QMP)
6975 South Union Park Avenue, Suite 600, Office 679
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84047
(801) 382-9006
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