July 22, 2020
Patients and Friends:
I hope this update finds you feeling well. As always, we strive to keep you up-to-date on information regarding the state's medical-marijuana program and any stated policy changes, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and our continued ability to provide online evaluation appointments. Our capacity to provide online evaluations has been a significant benefit to many of our patients, particularly the elderly, and those hospitalized or in hospice. We encourage you to reach out to us if you have any questions about the state's medical-marijuana program requirements, or if you need assistance with your online appointment. Thank you for your continued trust in us! Below are a few updates and considerations I want to pass along.
Ohio Program Updates
The Ohio State Board of Pharmacy recently updated the expiration date for medical marijuana patients with a terminal diagnosis. Previously, terminal medical marijuana patients were only provided with a six-month recommendation. However, the new process approved by the state will allow terminal patients to receive more refills than before. These patients will also no longer require a six-month renewal appointment prior to their medical card expiring. Additionally, cachexia, or wasting syndrome, was recently added to the list of eligible conditions. This diagnosis is the first condition added since the Ohio medical marijuana program first launched.
Something to Consider
Many patients require assistance to make a purchase at a dispensary, whether in the form of a car ride, wheelchair, or walker assistance. Or, maybe you simply cannot make it to the dispensary on your own. Ohio's medical-marijuana program allows patients to add caregivers to their medical marijuana card accounts. Please click here to find out how to become a caregiver, or add a caregiver to your card.
Thank you and be well,
Frederick A. Slezak, MD MBA
Medical Director, Ohio Marijuana Card
If you are a qualifying patient who is suffering from one of the qualifying conditions and is seeking medical marijuana treatment, schedule a telemedicine evaluation, and gain access to Ohio dispensaries. You can schedule your appointment by calling us at 866-457-5559 or book your appointment online.