Regular cannabis use can cost people quite a lot of money. This crowd may spend hundreds monthly on pot. The cost for medical patients seems like it would rack up even quicker, but it is quite the opposite. There are a few ways that medical cannabis patients save money on weed compared to recreational users. A study conducted by MMJ.com indicates that this class of consumers saves hundreds yearly on pot.
“Many consumers don’t realize just how much they’re overpaying when purchasing cannabis recreationally,” John Progar, an MMJ.com expert said in a press release.
MMJ.com used in-house data to find that medical cannabis patients average $150 monthly on cannabis. These purchases equate to around $25 saved monthly when using a medical card. The math shows that patients in these states will save up to $312 annually on weed. The higher the taxation, the higher the savings for many medical cannabis patients. Washington imposes almost 50 percent tax in some cities, and patients in this state save up to $600 annually when shopping for verified products at medically endorsed dispensaries.
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How medical cannabis saves money
Individual states have enacted tax reform that exempts medical patients from the often stiflingly high taxes. Among the states where adult-use cannabis is legal, Delaware, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington have exemptions up to 100 percent for registered medical cannabis patients. In this session, one New Mexico lawmaker wants to extend these savings with House Bill 527.
The bill would force insurers to reimburse policyholders or authorized dispensaries on verified medical purchases. MMJ.com tracked the savings these efforts have garnered. In these times, some former patients may be considering a naturopath appointment for that medical card re-up. The appointment and sometimes registry with the state will cost a fee.
“Our research clearly shows that patients who maintain their enrollment in their state’s medical marijuana program can access their medication at a fraction of the cost that recreational consumers pay, “ Progar said in the release.
Keep in mind this research used data from one source, which leaves room for skewed results. With that in mind, the savings are enough for those with qualifying conditions to take a second look. Those who live where medical cannabis exemptions are lacking may consider writing their local lawmakers in hopes of inciting change by 2026. For everyone else, it’s time to start seeking out that one doctor in town to take medical weed appointments.
