Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has recently signed a groundbreaking bill that brings convenience and flexibility to the state’s medical marijuana patients. The bill, known as HB-387 or “Medical Use of Marijuana,” allows the state’s 828,000 patients to use telehealth services for their doctor visits.
Under the new law, patients who are renewing their medical marijuana recommendation will have the option to meet with their doctors online instead of having to make in-person visits. Previously, patients were required to visit their doctors every 210 days, which could be quite burdensome. However, new patients will still need to have an initial evaluation in person. New recertifications, meaning patients who switch their doctor, also have to come in in-person.
The rule change comes as a result of advocacy efforts following the expiration of a pandemic-era emergency order that permitted telehealth services for medical marijuana patients. Many patients found the frequent in-person visits to be inconvenient and time-consuming. With the new law, patients will be able to renew their medical cannabis cards more easily, streamlining the process and providing greater convenience.
The law will officially take effect on July 1, offering a significant boost to patients’ access to medical marijuana care across the state of Florida. This progressive step showcases Florida’s