CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The state Office of Medical Cannabis (OMC) expects the first products for approved patients to be available some time this fall.
State Health Officer Dr. Ayne Amjad said the build-out of the facilities in connection with the program continues. It takes cannabis plants 3-4 months to reach harvest stage.
The OMC recently announced it is giving more time to those who have or will register for a medical cannabis card.
The state originally said the cards would be good for a year but that can now be extended, Amjad said.
“We want people to register early so our dispensaries can get an idea of how many patients in West Virginia are wanting to have medical cannabis available,” Amjad said.
She said past uncertainty of when the program was going to begin also likely has held down registration numbers because residents knew their cards would only last a year.
“We know patients maybe weren’t doing that (signing up) because they weren’t sure. We think offering these incentives will make patients more comfortable that they won’t have to spend more money going back to the doctor (to be certified),” Amjad said.
If a person registers for a card by June 30 they will get a total of three years for the card (1 year original + 2 years extension).
Those who register by Sept. 30 will get a total of two years on the card (1 year original + 1 year extension).
Those who register after Oct. 1 will receive a card good for one just one year.
Amjad said state wants to do all it can to help the patients who will be involved in the medical marijuana program.
“We know that insurance does not cover this and we have to be working with patients as much as possible and that’s what we want to do,” Amjad said. “The goal is help people and not hurt them in any way with extra costs and extra paperwork.”
A doctor must approve a person’s participation in the program. Eligible state residents can register for a card at www.medcanwv.org. The $50 card fee is waived for low-income residents.
According to the OMC, the state’s medical marijuana program will allow for the product in several forms including pill; oil; topical forms including gels, creams, or ointments; a form medically appropriate for administration by vaporization or nebulization; dry leaf or plant form; tincture; liquid; or dermal patch.