Medical marijuana and cannabis have been hot topics for discussion among lawmakers, medical professionals, and patients alike. While some states have legalized marijuana for both recreational and medical use, others are still in the process of implementing these changes. Mississippi is one such state that has recently passed laws for medical marijuana use. But, the question on everyone’s minds is – when will Mississippi dispensaries open?
What Medical Conditions Qualify for Medical Marijuana in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, medical marijuana can only be obtained with a recommendation from a certified physician. Patients with one or more of the following conditions are eligible for medical marijuana:
- Cancer
- Epilepsy or seizures
- Parkinson’s disease
- Huntington’s disease
- Muscular dystrophy
- Multiple sclerosis
- Cachexia or wasting syndrome
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
In addition, patients with a terminal illness, intractable pain, or a medical condition that causes seizures, muscle spasms, or severe nausea are also eligible for medical marijuana in Mississippi.
When Will Dispensaries Open?
Although Mississippi has legalized medical marijuana, dispensaries have yet to open. The deadline for the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) to create the governing rules for a medical marijuana program was July 1, 2021. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the process has been delayed.
The Mississippi Board of Health will also have to approve the rules and regulations before they can be implemented. Once the rules are established and dispensaries can begin applying for licenses, it may still take time for them to get up and running. Given the circumstances, it is hard to predict when Mississippi dispensaries will open, but it could be by the end of 2021 or early 2022.
Health Benefits of Medical Marijuana
The legalization of medical marijuana in Mississippi can have a positive impact on individuals suffering from various conditions. Medical marijuana has been proven to aid in managing symptoms of the following conditions:
- Cancer-related pain
- Epilepsy
- Muscle spasms and stiffness in multiple sclerosis
- Chronic pain
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- PTSD
- Glaucoma
- Appetite loss
Medical marijuana has also shown promise in treating anxiety, depression, and addiction. Cannabinoids, the active compounds found in cannabis, have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties that can help alleviate symptoms of certain neurological disorders.
It is worth noting that medical marijuana is not a cure-all and should not be viewed as such. It should be used as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan under the guidance of a medical professional.