Medical cannabis is now legal in Kentucky, but hospitals, including Owensboro Health facilities, cannot store, dispense, or allow its use on-site. Patients with qualifying conditions can obtain a written certification from a physician and register for a state-issued medical cannabis card, but they will not be permitted to use medical cannabis as part of their treatment while hospitalized.
As of January 1, 2025, other people with situations such as cancer, chronic pain, convulsive disorders, sclerosis, PTSD and chronic nausea can acquire the doctor’s hash from state license dispensaries.
Owensboro Health worked heavily with state officials to comply with the new law while prioritizing patient safety. Jason Collins, CEO of Owensboro Health Pharmacy, has led efforts to expand policies and educate patients, providers and the network about the effect on the law.
“We neither inspire nor discourage the use of medical cannabis,” Collins said. “Our role is for our providers to make the most productive decisions for their patients while making sure everyone understands the legal and medical framework. “
According to the law, patients will first have a qualified supplier in the user to download the Hashish Medical Certification. Subsequently, you can log in to the official state website, Kymedcan. ky. gov, to achieve a medical hashish virtual card. The law does not classify the medical hashish as a prescribed medication, which means that pharmacies, adding those of hospitals and clinics, cannot distribute it. On the other hand, patients will have to buy products of approved dispensaries in the designated counties.
Collins emphasized that while medical cannabis is now legal at the state level, it remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. This means hospitals, including Owensboro Health facilities, cannot store, dispense, or allow its use on-site. Patients admitted to the hospital will need to use alternative treatments while receiving care.
“If a patient brings medical cannabis to the hospital, it will be treated as contraband,” Collins said. “We want to ensure patients understand this in advance to avoid confusion or frustration.”
Aher not unusual erroneously, Colins Ed, is that the law legalizes the entire bureaucracy of the use of hashish. The marijuana that marijuana remains prohibited, and only expresses bureaucracy, such as gammies and infused teas, are allowed by medical use.
While the medical hashish becomes more widely available, Owensboro Health expects more patients to look for program information. Collins encourages who is contemplating the medical hashish at the stop at Kymedcan. ky. gov to locate qualified suppliers and perceive the needs of the program.
“This law is evolving quickly, and it’s important for both patients and providers to stay informed,” Collins said. “We are committed to helping our community navigate these changes with accurate information and a focus on patient care.”