Kentucky Medical Marijuana Dispensary Updates

Kentucky officially launched its medical marijuana program in January 2025, and the rollout is well underway. While some sources continue to speak of the program as “upcoming,” make no mistake, it’s active, operational, and now welcoming patients. With in-person appointments available at clinics, eligible residents can now begin the process of getting their Kentucky medical marijuana card and prepare for dispensaries to open in the near future.

Although dispensaries have not yet opened, patients can still take the first step by visiting a certified physician to receive a written recommendation - that’s where we come in! Once approved, patients can submit their paperwork to the state and receive their official card. This proactive approach ensures that when dispensaries do open their doors, cardholders will be ready to legally purchase and possess medical marijuana.

Where to Start

To qualify for medical marijuana in Kentucky, patients must have one of the state’s approved medical conditions and attend an in-person consultation with a licensed practitioner. Our Louisville and Lexington offices are now seeing patients and helping them navigate the medical marijuana program. Once a physician provides a written recommendation, patients submit the certification to the state and receive their medical marijuana card. Our patient support team is available to help you with every step of the process, including the state submission.

This card will allow them to legally possess up to 8 ounces of marijuana. While dispensaries are not open yet, completing this process early means you’ll be among the first allowed to purchase once the first retail locations begin operations.

For full details, including the list of qualifying conditions and our clinic locations, visit our website. We’ll continue to keep patients informed as more dispensaries are licensed and open across the state.

Who Qualifies for Medical Marijuana in Kentucky?

To be eligible for a Kentucky medical marijuana card, patients must be at least 18 years old and have one or more of the state’s qualifying conditions. These include:

• Cancer

• Chronic pain

• Epilepsy

• Multiple sclerosis

• PTSD

• Chronic nausea

In addition to meeting one of these conditions, patients must also be Kentucky residents and provide documentation verifying their diagnosis. Minors may also qualify, if they have a qualified caregiver. 

This physician-led process ensures that marijuana is being used appropriately to manage conditions where traditional medicine has fallen short, giving patients more control over their health and quality of life.

Why You Should Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Now

Even though dispensaries aren’t open yet, now is the time to get your medical marijuana card. Being an early applicant puts you ahead of the line, giving you priority access to licensed dispensaries the moment they open. You’ll already be approved, registered, and ready to purchase, skipping delays and avoiding last-minute rushes once product availability increases.

In addition, having a medical card:

• Protects you from legal penalties for possession of up to 8 ounces

• Gives you access to medical-only dispensary discounts

• Ensures priority access to marijuana products when supply is limited

• Establishes a long-term relationship with a licensed provider

Unlike recreational programs in other states, Kentucky’s system is focused entirely on patient care, and the approval process is designed to verify medical need, not just recreational interest. For those managing chronic medical conditions, medical marijuana offers a therapeutic option with fewer side effects than many pharmaceutical alternatives.

What to Expect When Dispensaries Open

Dispensaries are not yet operational in Kentucky, but licenses are being issued and construction is already underway in multiple counties. Once these locations open, patients with valid medical marijuana cards will be able to purchase state-approved marijuana products, including:

• Raw plant material

• Tinctures

• Edibles

• Oils 

• Vapes

It’s important to note that smoking marijuana remains prohibited under Kentucky’s medical marijuana law, but vaporizing, ingesting, or applying marijuana products topically will be allowed.

We’ll keep our website updated with dispensary addresses, opening dates, and any additional guidance as more information becomes available. In the meantime, patients are encouraged to complete the certification process and secure their cards.

The Role of Medical Marijuana in Kentucky’s Future

Kentucky’s medical marijuana program is rooted in compassion and built to prioritize patient care. It provides a legal, regulated path to relief for individuals facing serious and life-altering health conditions, offering a modern, patient-focused alternative to traditional treatment methods.

As more Kentuckians become aware of the program and take steps to get certified, the state’s network of clinics and dispensaries will continue to expand. Those who act early will not only gain timely access to medical marijuana but also become part of a growing movement focused on safe, responsible, and empowering healthcare choices.

The program is no longer a future goal, it’s here, it’s active, and it’s helping patients today. Whether you’re in Louisville, Lexington, or elsewhere across the state, now is the time to take that first step. Get your medical marijuana card, stay informed, and be ready when dispensaries open their doors. Your path to legal relief starts now.

Get Access to Medical Marijuana in Kentucky

Medical marijuana is here, Kentucky, and we’re booking appointments now!

You can schedule your appointment to see our doctor at our Louisville or Lexington office. Schedule your appointment today to get your marijuana card and be the first to access dispensaries as soon as they open!

Don’t wait—secure your spot and start your journey toward relief. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on the program and dispensaries!