On November 6, 2018 Missouri voters approved the medical use of marijuana for people with serious illness and medical conditions. Unfortunately, it will be several months before patients can apply for a medical marijuana card and more than a year before they can obtain medical marijuana from a dispensary. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) currently estimates that medical marijuana won’t be available for purchase from a dispensary in Missouri until early 2020.



Why the delay?

Several processes need to be in place before patients can access medical marijuana. DHSS needs to begin taking applications for medical marijuana cards – but this application and the process for reviewing and approving them needs to be created before anyone can start applying. They plan to start taking applications by July 4, 2019.



In addition, growers, manufacturers, and dispensaries also need licensing which requires applications and approvals too. They’ll also need time to set up shop so that patients have somewhere to go to make their purchases.



What are the steps for getting a medical marijuana card?

Many of the details on how to approve and distribute both medical marijuana cards and the medical marijuana itself are still being ironed out. It is expected that patients will need to take the following steps:

Anyone seeking a medical marijuana card will first need to visit a state-licensed physician to obtain certification. Missouri Medical Marijuana will have a list of these doctors soon, so please sign up to be notified. Once the application window has opened (July 4, 2019), you’ll need to submit an application to the Missouri DHSS. An online application is expected. If you’re approved, you’ll receive your medical marijuana card within 30 days of application at a cost of $25. This card will allow you to purchase medical marijuana at a state-licensed dispensary. Pharmacies, doctors’ offices, and clinics will not supply medical marijuana to patients.

So what now?

Sign up at Missouri Medical Marijuana to receive updates on doctors participating in the medical marijuana program and providers and dispensaries for medical marijuana in Missouri as it becomes available. DHSS also provides more details about this process and is also taking inquiries directly at MedicalMarijuanaInfo@health.mo.gov.